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

Should you visit Wisconsin Dells or Maui?

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

Should I visit Wisconsin Dells or Maui? 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.

Maui

Maui is a breathtaking, stunning, and idyllic island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Wisconsin Dells and Maui: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Wisconsin Dells or Maui?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Maui than Wisconsin Dells, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Maui is better known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Wisconsin Dells is more popular for its food and nightlife. Wisconsin Dells is well known for its many waterparks and unapologetically playful atmosphere. Maui is well known for its beach-filled coastline, world-class snorkeling and scuba diving, dramatic landscapes, and paradise environment. Also, Maui is famous for Haleakala National Park.

How is Wisconsin Dells different from Maui?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the respectable sights and museums in both Wisconsin Dells and Maui.

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 Maui specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Most people prefer not to spend their time inside or at a museum, but for a rainy day you can check out the Maui Ocean Center.

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

Wisconsin Dells is a popular place for its restaurant scene. However, Maui is a island with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Wisconsin Dells. 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.

Maui may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Like the other Hawaiian islands, food is expensive and of varying quality here, but the food scene continues to grow and improve. There are eclectic food trucks where you can try local flavors. There's also plenty of fresh tropical produce like mangos, avocadoes, and coconuts. Seafood is common on many menus as well.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Maui Better for Nightlife?

Wisconsin Dells is a great destination for nightlife and partying. However, Maui is a island with minimal options for its evening party scene.

The people in Wisconsin Dells know how to have a good time. 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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Maui The island is not known for its nightlife, but the limited activities that do exist you'll find in Kaanapali and Lahaina.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Maui Better for Resorts?

Maui is a great destination for its resorts. Also, Wisconsin Dells is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

Maui is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There are a number of nice resorts, but there are also VRBOs, condos, and local hotels where you can stay. High-end luxury resorts on the island include The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua and Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort. There are also more reasonable priced resorts without all of the glitz and glam.

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

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

Maui is a great destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Wisconsin Dells is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Maui. The island has excellent snorkeling and scuba diving. You can really find it anywhere on the island, but some places are more crowded than others. Some of the best beaches for snorkeling include Honolua Bay, Slaughterhouse (Mokuleia Bay), DT Fleming Beach, and Kapalua Bay.

Wisconsin Dells is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Maui Better for Beaches?

Maui is a world-class destination for the beache. However, Wisconsin Dells is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Maui. The island has stunning beaches and more miles of swimmable beach than any of the other Hawaiian islands. One of the best swimming beaches is Kapalua Beach, but other favorite beaches include Makena Beach State Park, Ka'anapali Beach, Baldwin Beach Park, and Wai'anapanapa State Park.

Wisconsin Dells is not a beach destination.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Maui Better for Hiking?

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

People visit Maui specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. There are many diverse hikes on the island that pass through different landscapes and ecosystems. Hikes range from easy to challenging and are of varying length. Some of the favorites include 'Iao Valley State Park, Haleakala's Sliding Sands Trail (in Haleakala National Park), and The Pipiwai Trail.

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 Maui?

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

Maui offers some nice shopping areas. There are many shopping centers where you'll find souvenirs, Hawaiian clothing, and even handmade crafts. If you forgot something from home, you'll also find many of the major chains that are common on the mainland.

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 Maui Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Wisconsin Dells or Maui.

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.

Maui is one of the most popular family destinations. It is one of the best of the Hawaiian islands to explore with kids. There's plenty of snorkeling, outdoor adventure sports, and hiking that are great for kids of all ages. There are some kid-friendly beaches where kids can play in the water. There's also the Maui Ocean Center, Ali'i Kula Lavender Farm, and 'Iao Valley State Park.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Maui Better for Couples?

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

Maui makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Couples will enjoy the outdoor sports, excellent snorkeling and diving, and beautiful waterfalls that make for a romantic getaway. There are world-class resorts and breathtaking scenery that attract honeymooning couples from around the globe.

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

Maui is a island 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 Maui. The island does have a bus system with 14 routes, but most visitors prefer to have their own transportation to get around.

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

Is Wisconsin Dells or Maui a more walkable city?

Wisconsin Dells is a city with a few options for its high level of walkability. However, Maui is a island with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

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.

Maui is not a very walkable city. The island is large enough that you'll want to have access to a car if you hope to explore it in its entirety.

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

Should I spend more time in Maui or Wisconsin Dells?

How long in Wisconsin Dells or Maui?

Both Wisconsin Dells and Maui have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Maui 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 Maui.

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

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

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

One day in Wisconsin Dells or Maui?

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 breathtaking destination of Maui offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Maui?

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 island of Maui offers shopping and scuba diving and snorkeling. 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 Maui?

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.

Maui is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This island 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 Maui?

The high energy 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 breathtaking island of Maui offers shopping and scuba diving and snorkeling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Wisconsin Dells and Maui, we can see that Maui 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 Maui would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Maui 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 Maui Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Wisconsin Dells or Maui?

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 Maui in the Summer?

Both Maui and Wisconsin Dells are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. 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 Maui this time of year.

Wisconsin Dells is cooler than Maui in the summer. The daily temperature in Wisconsin Dells averages around 74°F (24°C) in July, and Maui fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

It's quite sunny in Maui. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Wisconsin Dells. Wisconsin Dells usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Maui during summer. Wisconsin Dells gets 309 hours of sunny skies, while Maui receives 290 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Wisconsin Dells usually receives more rain than Maui. Wisconsin Dells gets 3 inches (76 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 0.4 inches (10 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Wisconsin Dells or Maui in the Autumn?

Both Maui and Wisconsin Dells during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Wisconsin Dells this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Maui for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Wisconsin Dells is much colder than Maui. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Wisconsin Dells in October average around 52°F (11°C), and Maui averages at about 78°F (26°C).

In Maui, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Wisconsin Dells often gets less sunshine than Maui. Wisconsin Dells gets 171 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Maui receives 245 hours of full sun.

Wisconsin Dells usually gets more rain in October than Maui. Wisconsin Dells gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Wisconsin Dells or Maui in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Wisconsin Dells and Maui. Many travelers come to Wisconsin Dells for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Maui in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Wisconsin Dells. In January, Wisconsin Dells is generally much colder than Maui. Daily temperatures in Wisconsin Dells average around 19°F (-7°C), and Maui fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Maui this time of the year. Wisconsin Dells usually receives less sunshine than Maui during winter. Wisconsin Dells gets 141 hours of sunny skies, while Maui receives 217 hours of full sun in the winter.

Maui receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Wisconsin Dells usually receives less rain than Maui. Wisconsin Dells gets 1 inches (25 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Wisconsin Dells or Maui in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Wisconsin Dells as well as Maui. Also, most visitors come to Maui for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Wisconsin Dells is much colder than Maui in the spring. The daily temperature in Wisconsin Dells averages around 49°F (10°C) in April, and Maui fluctuates around 74°F (24°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Maui. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Wisconsin Dells this time of the year. In the spring, Wisconsin Dells often gets less sunshine than Maui. Wisconsin Dells gets 208 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Maui receives 231 hours of full sun.

Wisconsin Dells usually gets more rain in April than Maui. Wisconsin Dells gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Maui receives 1.8 inches (47 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Maui and Wisconsin Dells