A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Wisconsin Dells vs. Juneau for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Wisconsin Dells or Juneau?

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

Should I visit Wisconsin Dells or Juneau? 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 lighthearted, high energy, and fun-filled city. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and nightlife.

Juneau

Juneau is a breathtaking, historic, and scenic city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Wisconsin Dells and Juneau: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less hiking options
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Wisconsin Dells or Juneau?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Juneau than Wisconsin Dells, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Juneau is better known for its museums, food, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Wisconsin Dells is more popular for its nightlife and resorts. Wisconsin Dells is more touristy than Juneau and is known for its many waterparks and unapologetically playful atmosphere. Juneau is well known for its wildlife, natural beauty, and Gold Rush in 1880. Also, Juneau is famous for the Mendenhall Glacier.

How is Wisconsin Dells different from Juneau?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Wisconsin Dells
Juneau

Juneau is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for its historical sights.

Juneau offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Many museums focus on the history in the area, including the Gold Rush and the mining industry. You can visit several historic mines as well as the Last Chance Mining Museum. Other museums around town include the Juneau-Douglas City Museum, the Walter Soboleff Building, and the Alaska State Museum.

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 Juneau? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Wisconsin Dells
Juneau

Juneau 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 Juneau. The seafood is superb and visitors will regret if they miss out on the salmon, halibut, and crab. There are many local restaurants and local chefs serving up the freshest caught fish. For the best seafood, head to the waterfront, and if you're looking for something other than seafood, the downtown is where you'll want to be.

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 Juneau Better for Nightlife?

Wisconsin Dells
Juneau

Wisconsin Dells is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. However, Juneau is not a good city for its evening party scene.

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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Juneau. There are a couple of bars and breweries, but most people relax in the evening.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Juneau Better for Resorts?

Wisconsin Dells
Juneau

Wisconsin Dells is a popular place for its resorts. However, Juneau is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Wisconsin Dells makes a nice vacation spot. Many of the waterparks in the area have affiliated resorts that offer family-friendly entertainment.

Juneau is not a resort destination.


Is Wisconsin Dells or Juneau Better for Hiking?

Wisconsin Dells
Juneau

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

People visit Juneau specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. You'll find more than 250 miles of hiking trails in the area, and this really is the best way to experience Alaska. The area is known for its wildlife, but there are also glacier hikes, meadows, mountains, and more. In downtown Juneau there's the Perseverance Trail, the Granite Creek Trail, and the Mount Roberts Trail. From the Mendenhall Visitor Center there's the East Glacier Loop Trail, the West Glacier Trail, and the Nugget Falls Trail. There are also trails on Douglas Island and many options just outside of town.

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 Juneau?

Wisconsin Dells
Juneau

Juneau is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for its shopping areas.

Juneau is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There's a mix of contemporary art and traditional artisan crafts. You'll find gift shops and art galleries around, particularly downtown and in the Mendenhall Valley business district. Visitors often enjoy buying art, wood carvings, jewelry, pottery, quilts, or dolls.

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 Juneau Better for Families?

Wisconsin Dells
Juneau

Wisconsin Dells is an amazing city to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Juneau is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Juneau. Its is filled with adventure that the whole family will enjoy. There's whale watching, dog sled tours, helicopter rides, hiking, and the Goldbelt Mount Roberts Tramway. This bucket-list destination will have an impact on kids and adults alike.


Is Wisconsin Dells or Juneau Better for Couples?

Wisconsin Dells
Juneau

Juneau is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Wisconsin Dells is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Juneau makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Couples who enjoy exploring and adventuring will be in awe of this destination. Glacier trekking, superb gardens, and romantic helicopter rides will leave you feeling like a contestant on "The Bachelor". There are also opportunities for romantic evenings out and cozy hotels where you can stay in.

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 Juneau Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Wisconsin Dells
Juneau

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

Juneau is a great city to visit for backpackers. It's a popular destination with budget hotels and even a hostel or two.

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

Wisconsin Dells
Juneau

Juneau is a city 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 Juneau. You can only reach Juneau by boat or plane and there are three bus routes through town.

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


Is Wisconsin Dells or Juneau a more walkable city?

Wisconsin Dells
Juneau

Juneau is a great destination for its high level of walkability. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

Juneau is a very walkable city. The downtown is very walkable and many places can be reached within a reasonable walk.

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 Juneau Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Juneau or Wisconsin Dells?

How long in Wisconsin Dells or Juneau?

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

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

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


  • How many days in Wisconsin Dells or Juneau? Ideal Length of Stay
    Wisconsin Dells 2-4 
    Juneau 2-3

One day in Wisconsin Dells or Juneau?

Many travelers enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting the destination of Wisconsin Dells. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The breathtaking destination of Juneau offers shopping 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 Juneau?

Wisconsin Dells is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

The city of Juneau offers museums and food. 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 Juneau?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Wisconsin Dells. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Juneau 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 city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Wisconsin Dells or Juneau?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the lighthearted destination of Wisconsin Dells. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Many people enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting Juneau. 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.


Which place is cheaper, Juneau or Wisconsin Dells?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Wisconsin Dells is $142, while the average daily cost in Juneau is $160. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Wisconsin Dells and Juneau in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Wisconsin Dells $70
    Juneau $88
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Wisconsin Dells $140
    Juneau $176
Compare Hotels in Wisconsin Dells and Juneau

Looking for a hotel in Wisconsin Dells or Juneau? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Wisconsin Dells


Hotels in Juneau


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Wisconsin Dells Hotel Prices and Juneau Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Wisconsin Dells $35
    Juneau $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Juneau

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Juneau:

  • Private Arrival Transfer from Juneau Airport (JNU): $48
  • Private Departure Transfer to Juneau Airport (JNU): $48

Is it cheaper to fly into Wisconsin Dells or Juneau?

Prices for flights to both Juneau and Wisconsin Dells change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Wisconsin Dells $43
    Juneau $49

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Wisconsin Dells $46
    Juneau $17

Tours and Activities in Wisconsin Dells

Here are a few actual costs in Wisconsin Dells for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • City and History Trolley Tour in Wisconsin Dells: $24

Typical Entertainment Prices in Juneau

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Juneau are as follows:


  • 1 Day Bike Rental
    $25
  • Admission to Alaska State Museum
    $5.00
  • Glacier Gardens
    $22

Tours and Activities in Juneau

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Juneau are as follows:

  • Juneau, The Last Frontier Self Guided (Smart Phone App/GPS) Audio Walking Tour: $6.75
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $14
  • Juneau Underground Gold Mine and Panning Experience: $79
  • Historic Gold Mining and Panning Adventure: $99
  • From Whale Watching Cruise with Snacks: $132
  • Historic Gold Panning Adventure & Salmon Bake: $139
  • Whale Watching Adventure in Juneau: $154
  • eBikes Alaska - Rainforest Adventure: $160
  • Whale Watching and Wildlife Cruise with Local Guide: $177
  • 3.5 Hour Crowd-Skipping Whale Tour in Juneau Alaska: $189
  • Juneau Whale Watching Adventure: $189
  • Five-Star Juneau Pedicab Private Tour: $200

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Wisconsin Dells $9.14
    Juneau $16


When comparing the travel costs between Wisconsin Dells and Juneau, we can see that Juneau 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 Juneau Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Wisconsin Dells or Juneau?

Juneau has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Wisconsin Dells. When comparing the sizes of Wisconsin Dells and Juneau, 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 Juneau?

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 Juneau in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Wisconsin Dells and Juneau. The summer months attract visitors to Wisconsin Dells because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Juneau this time of year.

Wisconsin Dells is much warmer than Juneau in the summer. The daily temperature in Wisconsin Dells averages around 74°F (24°C) in July, and Juneau fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

In Wisconsin Dells, it's very sunny this time of the year. Wisconsin Dells usually receives more sunshine than Juneau during summer. Wisconsin Dells gets 309 hours of sunny skies, while Juneau receives 179 hours of full sun in the summer.

Juneau receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Wisconsin Dells usually receives less rain than Juneau. Wisconsin Dells gets 3 inches (76 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Wisconsin Dells 74°F (24°C) 
    Juneau 56°F (13°C)

Should I visit Wisconsin Dells or Juneau in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Wisconsin Dells as well as Juneau. The hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Wisconsin Dells this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Juneau for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Wisconsin Dells is much warmer than Juneau. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Wisconsin Dells in October average around 52°F (11°C), and Juneau averages at about 42°F (6°C).

In the autumn, Wisconsin Dells often gets more sunshine than Juneau. Wisconsin Dells gets 171 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Juneau receives 69 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Juneau. Wisconsin Dells usually gets less rain in October than Juneau. Wisconsin Dells gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 7.8 inches (199 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Wisconsin Dells 52°F (11°C) 
    Juneau 42°F (6°C)

Should I visit Wisconsin Dells or Juneau in the Winter?

Both Juneau and Wisconsin Dells are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Wisconsin Dells for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Juneau in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Juneau can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Wisconsin Dells. In January, Wisconsin Dells is generally much colder than Juneau. Daily temperatures in Wisconsin Dells average around 19°F (-7°C), and Juneau fluctuates around 24°F (-4°C).

Wisconsin Dells usually receives more sunshine than Juneau during winter. Wisconsin Dells gets 141 hours of sunny skies, while Juneau receives 87 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Juneau. In January, Wisconsin Dells usually receives less rain than Juneau. Wisconsin Dells gets 1 inches (25 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 4.6 inches (116 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Wisconsin Dells 19°F (-7°C) 
    Juneau 24°F (-4°C)

Should I visit Wisconsin Dells or Juneau in the Spring?

Both Juneau and Wisconsin Dells during the spring are popular places to visit. Furthermore, most visitors come to Juneau for the natural beauty during these months.

Juneau can be very cold during spring. Wisconsin Dells is much warmer than Juneau in the spring. The daily temperature in Wisconsin Dells averages around 49°F (10°C) in April, and Juneau fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

It's quite sunny in Wisconsin Dells. In the spring, Wisconsin Dells often gets more sunshine than Juneau. Wisconsin Dells gets 208 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Juneau receives 185 hours of full sun.

Wisconsin Dells usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Juneau. Wisconsin Dells gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Wisconsin Dells 49°F (10°C) 
    Juneau 40°F (4°C)

Typical Weather for Juneau and Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells Juneau
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 19°F (-7°C) 1 inches (25 mm) 24°F (-4°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm)
Feb 24°F (-5°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
Mar 36°F (2°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 33°F (0°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Apr 49°F (10°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm) 40°F (4°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
May 60°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 47°F (8°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Jun 70°F (21°C) 3 inches (76 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm)
Jul 74°F (24°C) 3 inches (76 mm) 56°F (13°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Aug 72°F (22°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 55°F (13°C) 5.3 inches (135 mm)
Sep 63°F (17°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm) 49°F (10°C) 7 inches (179 mm)
Oct 52°F (11°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 42°F (6°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm)
Nov 39°F (4°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm) 32°F (-0°C) 4.9 inches (123 mm)
Dec 25°F (-4°C) 1.6 inches (41 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm)