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

Should you visit Wisconsin Dells or Hilo?

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

Should I visit Wisconsin Dells or Hilo? 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 high energy, fun-filled, and lighthearted city. It's also popular because of the hiking, nightlife, and food.

Hilo

Hilo is a mellow, friendly, and authentic town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the hiking, museums, and food.

Wisconsin Dells and Hilo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Wisconsin Dells or Hilo?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hilo. Although Wisconsin Dells and Hilo are both popular with visitors, Hilo has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Hilo is more popular for its museums, food, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Wisconsin Dells is known for its nightlife and resorts. Wisconsin Dells is more touristy than Hilo and is popular for its many waterparks and unapologetically playful atmosphere. Hilo is popular for its nearby rainforests, waterfalls, and green gardens. It is also home to Akaka Falls State Park.

How is Wisconsin Dells different from Hilo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Hilo 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 Hilo?

Hilo is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for its historical sights.

Hilo offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Top museums in and around town include the Lyman Museum, the Pacific Tsunami Museum, Imiloa Astronomy Center, and Mokupapapa Discovery Center.

While most people don't head to Wisconsin Dells specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. 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.

Is the Food Better in Wisconsin Dells or Hilo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hilo 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 Hilo. This is the largest city on the island and you'll find a restaurant scene that caters to both locals and tourists. There are a number of local dishes that you can try such as Pla Rad Prik (a Thai fish dish), mushroom pot pie, and crab and avocado melt.

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 Hilo Better for Nightlife?

Wisconsin Dells is a great city for its evening party scene. However, Hilo is not known for nightlife.

The nightlife in Wisconsin Dells has something for everybody. 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.

Most people don't head to Hilo specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's a town that goes to bed early, but there are some local bars that have a chill and relaxing atmosphere.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Hilo Better for Resorts?

Wisconsin Dells is a popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Hilo is not known for its resorts.

Wisconsin Dells has a few great resort options. Many of the waterparks in the area have affiliated resorts that offer family-friendly entertainment.

Hilo has a few resort options worth checking out. You'll find more hotels than resorts in town.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Hilo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hilo is a town with a few options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Wisconsin Dells is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Hilo has a few snorkeling spots. Richardsons Ocean Park is the best snorkeling spot nearby but, in general, the water near town has poor visibility because of the frequent rain.

Wisconsin Dells is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Hilo Better for Beaches?

Hilo is a popular place for the beache. However, Wisconsin Dells is not a beach destination.

Hilo is a good option for a beach vacation. The town isn't really known for its beaches but there are some decent options if you want to stay nearby and hit the coastline. Beaches in the area include Coconut Island, Reeds Bay Beach Park, and Onekahakaha Beach Park.

Wisconsin Dells is not a beach destination.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Hilo Better for Hiking?

Hilo is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Wisconsin Dells is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

People visit Hilo specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. You'll find incredible hikes in the area to many impressive waterfalls. There are also coastal trails and hikes to spectacular viewpoints.

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 Hilo?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Hilo and Wisconsin Dells.

If you're looking to go shopping, Wisconsin Dells has some nice offerings. You'll find shopping malls and shopping centers, as well as gift shops in the area.

Hilo has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. You can pick up anything you need in town, just head to Hilo Shopping Center.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Hilo Better for Families?

Wisconsin Dells is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Hilo is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Wisconsin Dells is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Hilo is a very family-friendly place to visit. The town has an authentic and unpretentious vibe that is fun for families. There are low key beaches, farmer's markets, local museums, and nearby hiking. If you want to stay away from the larger resorts and see a more local side to Hawaii, then this is a great option.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Hilo Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Hilo frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples will enjoy visiting Liliuokalani Gardens, taking sunset cruises, and sampling the local cuisine. The town also makes a good base for hiking and exploring the beaches on the island.

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 Hilo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Hilo is a great town to visit for backpackers. The town has several local hostels that many backpackers prefer for their authentic and mellow atmospheres.

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 Hilo Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Hilo is a town 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 Hilo. The Hele-On is a bus service that connects Hilo to Kona with north and south routes.

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

Is Wisconsin Dells or Hilo a more walkable city?

Hilo is a popular place for its high level of walkability. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

Hilo is a somewhat walkable place. The downtown is a nice place to take a stroll, but if you want to get out of town, and you really should, then you'll need a car.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Hilo or Wisconsin Dells?

How long in Wisconsin Dells or Hilo?

Both Wisconsin Dells and Hilo have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Hilo than in Wisconsin Dells. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Wisconsin Dells, and 3-7 days is enough time in Hilo.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hilo 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 Hilo.

One day in Wisconsin Dells or Hilo?

Visitors enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting the destination of Wisconsin Dells. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

The mellow destination of Hilo offers food and museums. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. 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 Hilo?

Wisconsin Dells is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The town of Hilo offers museums and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Wisconsin Dells or Hilo?

You'll find food and nightlife around the lighthearted destination of Wisconsin Dells. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Hilo is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. This town offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Wisconsin Dells or Hilo?

The fun-filled city of Wisconsin Dells offers nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

The mellow town of Hilo offers museums and food. Hikers are also drawn to this area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. For many, it makes a great getaway for one week. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

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 comparing the travel costs between Wisconsin Dells and Hilo, we can see that Hilo is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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 Hilo Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Wisconsin Dells or Hilo?

Hilo has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Wisconsin Dells. When comparing the sizes of Wisconsin Dells and Hilo, 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 Hilo?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Wisconsin Dells or Hilo in the Summer?

Both Hilo and Wisconsin Dells during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Wisconsin Dells because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Hilo this time of year.

In the summer, Wisconsin Dells is around the same temperature as Hilo. Typically, the summer temperatures in Wisconsin Dells in July average around 74°F (24°C), and Hilo averages at about 76°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Wisconsin Dells. In the summer, Wisconsin Dells often gets more sunshine than Hilo. Wisconsin Dells gets 309 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilo receives 169 hours of full sun.

Hilo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Wisconsin Dells usually gets less rain in July than Hilo. Wisconsin Dells gets 3 inches (76 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Wisconsin Dells or Hilo in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Wisconsin Dells and Hilo. The hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Wisconsin Dells this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hilo for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Wisconsin Dells is generally much colder than Hilo. Daily temperatures in Wisconsin Dells average around 52°F (11°C), and Hilo fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

Wisconsin Dells usually receives more sunshine than Hilo during autumn. Wisconsin Dells gets 171 hours of sunny skies, while Hilo receives 138 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Hilo receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Wisconsin Dells usually receives less rain than Hilo. Wisconsin Dells gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Wisconsin Dells or Hilo in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Wisconsin Dells as well as Hilo. Many travelers come to Wisconsin Dells for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Hilo in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Wisconsin Dells. Wisconsin Dells is much colder than Hilo in the winter. The daily temperature in Wisconsin Dells averages around 19°F (-7°C) in January, and Hilo fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

In the winter, Wisconsin Dells often gets less sunshine than Hilo. Wisconsin Dells gets 141 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilo receives 158 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Hilo. Wisconsin Dells usually gets less rain in January than Hilo. Wisconsin Dells gets 1 inches (25 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Wisconsin Dells or Hilo in the Spring?

Both Hilo and Wisconsin Dells are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, most visitors come to Hilo for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Wisconsin Dells is much colder than Hilo. Typically, the spring temperatures in Wisconsin Dells in April average around 49°F (10°C), and Hilo averages at about 73°F (23°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Wisconsin Dells. Wisconsin Dells usually receives more sunshine than Hilo during spring. Wisconsin Dells gets 208 hours of sunny skies, while Hilo receives 134 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hilo. In April, Wisconsin Dells usually receives less rain than Hilo. Wisconsin Dells gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 15.6 inches (395 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Hilo and Wisconsin Dells