A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Wisconsin Dells vs. Columbia River Gorge for Families, Food, Nightlife, and Hiking

Should you visit Wisconsin Dells or Columbia River Gorge?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Wisconsin Dells or Columbia River Gorge? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a fun-filled, lighthearted, and high energy city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and hiking.

Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge is a natural, beautiful, and scenic region. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Wisconsin Dells and Columbia River Gorge: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Wisconsin Dells or Columbia River Gorge?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Columbia River Gorge. Although Wisconsin Dells and Columbia River Gorge are popular destinations, Columbia River Gorge has more sights and attractions for tourists. Columbia River Gorge is very popular for its food, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Wisconsin Dells attracts visitors for its nightlife and resorts. Wisconsin Dells is more touristy than Columbia River Gorge and is known for its many waterparks and unapologetically playful atmosphere. Columbia River Gorge is famous for its hiking, biking, and high number of waterfalls. It is also well known for Vista House at Crown Point.

How is Wisconsin Dells different from Columbia River Gorge?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Columbia River Gorge and Wisconsin Dells. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Wisconsin Dells or Columbia River Gorge?

Plenty of people visit the reasonable sights and museums in both Wisconsin Dells and Columbia River Gorge.

Wisconsin Dells offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of art galleries in the area, but most visitors spend the majority of their time at the theme parks and waterparks.

While most people don't head to Columbia River Gorge specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a couple of local museums in the area, but most visitors spend their time exploring the region's natural beauty.

Is the Food Better in Wisconsin Dells or Columbia River Gorge? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Columbia River Gorge is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Wisconsin Dells is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Columbia River Gorge. You'll find many great restaurants in the area that serve local dishes that make use of the region's agricultural scene.

Wisconsin Dells is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Pizza, pasta, burgers, and steak in a family-friendly atmosphere are the most common options in the area. There are also a few fine dining restaurants as well as pubs and brunch places to choose from.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Columbia River Gorge Better for Nightlife?

Wisconsin Dells is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Columbia River Gorge is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for nightlife and partying.

Wisconsin Dells offers plenty to do in the evening. In the evening the fun-filled atmosphere takes on a different vibe. There are bars, clubs, casinos, and shows that keep things lively throughout the evening.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Columbia River Gorge. Local breweries, wineries, and bars offer a relaxing setting with a local vibe.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Columbia River Gorge Better for Resorts?

Wisconsin Dells is a nice place to visit for its resorts. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a resort destination.

Wisconsin Dells has a handful of resorts to choose from. Many of the waterparks in the area have affiliated resorts that offer family-friendly entertainment.

Columbia River Gorge is not a resort destination.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Columbia River Gorge Better for Hiking?

Columbia River Gorge is a great destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Wisconsin Dells is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Columbia River Gorge. There are world-class hikes that take you to iconic waterfalls, breathtaking viewpoints, and along scenic waterways.

Many people include a hike when visiting Wisconsin Dells. Visitors often forget that this was originally a destination for its natural beauty. There are still many hiking trails in the area with some of the favorites found at Mirror Lake State Park, Rocky Arbor State Park, and Chimney Rock Private Park.

Is the Shopping Better in Wisconsin Dells or Columbia River Gorge?

Columbia River Gorge is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for its shopping areas.

Columbia River Gorge offers some nice shopping areas. Art galleries feature local artwork and artisan crafts. There are photography shops and other venues that sell items highlighting the region's beauty.

Wisconsin Dells has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. You'll find shopping malls and shopping centers, as well as gift shops in the area.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Columbia River Gorge Better for Families?

Wisconsin Dells is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Columbia River Gorge is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Wisconsin Dells is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. While it used to be known for its impressive sandstone formations along the Wisconsin River, today it has a more touristy atmosphere with theme parks and amusement parks. It's also become known as the "Water Park Capital of the World", and it won't disappoint. There are both indoor and outdoor waterparks as well as train rides, boat rides, and plenty of family-friendly restaurants.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Columbia River Gorge is very family-friendly. Kids will love exploring the waterfalls and mountains as much as the adults do. There are kid-friendly hikes as well as bakeries and restaurants with many kid options.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Columbia River Gorge Better for Couples?

Columbia River Gorge is a great destination for its romantic activities. Also, Wisconsin Dells is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Columbia River Gorge frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples will love the romantic hikes and waterfalls. There are also beautiful scenic viewpoints and wonderful restaurants.

Wisconsin Dells is a good city for couples to visit. There are a number of resorts with spas and romantic atmospheres. There are also wineries and plenty of entertainment options in the area.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Columbia River Gorge Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Columbia River Gorge is a great destination for backpackers. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Columbia River Gorge is a great region to visit for backpackers. You'll find hostels and campgrounds in the area that are perfect for backpackers and budget travelers.

Wisconsin Dells is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. You'll find campgrounds in the area, but most places are very built up and don't have the natural setting that backpackers appreciate.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Columbia River Gorge Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Columbia River Gorge is a region with a few options for its public transit. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Columbia River Gorge. There are some buses, but don't rely on them to efficiently explore.

Public transit is quite limited in Wisconsin Dells. There's no real public transportation in the area.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Columbia River Gorge a more walkable city?

Wisconsin Dells is a moderate city for its walkability. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a good region for its high level of walkability.

Wisconsin Dells is generally not very walkable. While the downtown area is walkable, you really need a car to access everything that the area has to offer.

Columbia River Gorge is not a very walkable city. You really need a car to explore the area, but some visitors rely on a bike.

For even more information, also check out Is Wisconsin Dells Worth Visiting? and Is Columbia River Gorge Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Columbia River Gorge or Wisconsin Dells?

How long in Wisconsin Dells or Columbia River Gorge?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Wisconsin Dells and Columbia River Gorge. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Wisconsin Dells than in Columbia River Gorge. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Wisconsin Dells, and 2-3 days is enough time in Columbia River Gorge.

Families should spend more time in Wisconsin Dells than Columbia River Gorge. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Wisconsin Dells, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Columbia River Gorge than Wisconsin Dells. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Columbia River Gorge that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Columbia River Gorge than Wisconsin Dells if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Columbia River Gorge.

One day in Wisconsin Dells or Columbia River Gorge?

Many travelers enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting the destination of Wisconsin Dells. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

The natural destination of Columbia River Gorge offers food and shopping. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Wisconsin Dells or Columbia River Gorge?

Wisconsin Dells is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

The region of Columbia River Gorge offers shopping and nightlife. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Five days in Wisconsin Dells or Columbia River Gorge?

Many people visit Wisconsin Dells for five days. You'll find food and nightlife around the city of Wisconsin Dells. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Columbia River Gorge is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This region offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Wisconsin Dells or Columbia River Gorge?

The fun-filled destination of Wisconsin Dells offers nightlife and food. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Columbia River Gorge. Hikers are also drawn to this area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Wisconsin Dells and Columbia River Gorge, we can see that Columbia River Gorge is more expensive. And not only is Wisconsin Dells much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Wisconsin Dells would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Wisconsin Dells and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Columbia River Gorge would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Columbia River Gorge than you might in Wisconsin Dells.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Wisconsin Dells Expensive? and Is Columbia River Gorge Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Wisconsin Dells or Columbia River Gorge?

Columbia River Gorge has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Wisconsin Dells. When comparing the sizes of Wisconsin Dells and Columbia River Gorge, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Wisconsin Dells or Columbia River Gorge?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Wisconsin Dells or Columbia River Gorge in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Wisconsin Dells and Columbia River Gorge. Many travelers come to Wisconsin Dells for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Columbia River Gorge in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Wisconsin Dells is generally a little warmer than Columbia River Gorge. Daily temperatures in Wisconsin Dells average around 74°F (24°C), and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Columbia River Gorge this time of the year. In Wisconsin Dells, it's very sunny this time of the year. Wisconsin Dells usually receives less sunshine than Columbia River Gorge during summer. Wisconsin Dells gets 309 hours of sunny skies, while Columbia River Gorge receives 338 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Wisconsin Dells usually receives more rain than Columbia River Gorge. Wisconsin Dells gets 3 inches (76 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Wisconsin Dells or Columbia River Gorge in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Wisconsin Dells as well as Columbia River Gorge. Many visitors come to Wisconsin Dells in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Columbia River Gorge for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Wisconsin Dells is cooler than Columbia River Gorge in the autumn. The daily temperature in Wisconsin Dells averages around 52°F (11°C) in October, and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

In the autumn, Wisconsin Dells often gets more sunshine than Columbia River Gorge. Wisconsin Dells gets 171 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbia River Gorge receives 155 hours of full sun.

Wisconsin Dells usually gets less rain in October than Columbia River Gorge. Wisconsin Dells gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Wisconsin Dells or Columbia River Gorge in the Winter?

Both Columbia River Gorge and Wisconsin Dells are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Wisconsin Dells for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Columbia River Gorge because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Columbia River Gorge can be very cold. Wisconsin Dells can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Wisconsin Dells is much colder than Columbia River Gorge. Typically, the winter temperatures in Wisconsin Dells in January average around 19°F (-7°C), and Columbia River Gorge averages at about 40°F (4°C).

Wisconsin Dells usually receives more sunshine than Columbia River Gorge during winter. Wisconsin Dells gets 141 hours of sunny skies, while Columbia River Gorge receives 86 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Columbia River Gorge. In January, Wisconsin Dells usually receives less rain than Columbia River Gorge. Wisconsin Dells gets 1 inches (25 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Wisconsin Dells or Columbia River Gorge in the Spring?

Both Columbia River Gorge and Wisconsin Dells during the spring are popular places to visit. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to Columbia River Gorge this time of year.

In April, Wisconsin Dells is generally around the same temperature as Columbia River Gorge. Daily temperatures in Wisconsin Dells average around 49°F (10°C), and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

In Columbia River Gorge, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Wisconsin Dells. In the spring, Wisconsin Dells often gets less sunshine than Columbia River Gorge. Wisconsin Dells gets 208 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbia River Gorge receives 231 hours of full sun.

Wisconsin Dells usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Columbia River Gorge. Wisconsin Dells gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Columbia River Gorge and Wisconsin Dells