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

Should you visit Wisconsin Dells or Sedona?

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

Should I visit Wisconsin Dells or Sedona? 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. Visitors also love the food, hiking, and nightlife.

Sedona

Sedona is a scenic, striking, and desert town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Wisconsin Dells and Sedona: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Wisconsin Dells or Sedona?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Sedona than Wisconsin Dells, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Sedona is better known for its museums, food, resorts, historical sights, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Wisconsin Dells is more popular for its nightlife. Wisconsin Dells is more touristy than Sedona and is popular for its many waterparks and unapologetically playful atmosphere. Sedona is well known for its stargazing, desert setting, and yoga retreats. Also, Sedona is famous for Red Rock Crossing Park.

How is Wisconsin Dells different from Sedona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Wisconsin Dells
Sedona

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

Sedona offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The Sedona Heritage Museum offers a glimpse into the history and culture of the area. There are also many galleries around town.

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 Sedona? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Wisconsin Dells
Sedona

Sedona 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 Sedona. It's grown into a foodie destination with local restaurants that pride themselves on using local ingredients. Mexican food is common but you'll also find cafes, classic American food, and other international options.

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 Sedona Better for Nightlife?

Wisconsin Dells
Sedona

Wisconsin Dells is great for nightlife and partying. Also, Sedona is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its evening party scene.

Many people head to Wisconsin Dells for the nightlife scene. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Sedona. There are bars, live music venues, and even a casino in town. Breweries are popular and there are also upscale wine bars.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Sedona Better for Resorts?

Wisconsin Dells
Sedona

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

Sedona is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Upscale resorts with spas, pools, and other amenities offer the perfect backdrop for a desert vacation.

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 Sedona Better for its Old Town?

Wisconsin Dells
Sedona

Sedona is a popular place for its old town. However, Wisconsin Dells does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Sedona to see the old town. Traditional architecture and historic charm give downtown Sedona a lot of character.

Wisconsin Dells does not have a historic old town.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Sedona Better for Hiking?

Wisconsin Dells
Sedona

Sedona 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 Sedona. It's red rock cliffs offer the perfect setting for dramatic hikes and breathtaking views. The colors are most impressive at sunrise and sunset and some of the most famous landmarks include Airport Mesa, Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock and Boynton Canyon.

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 Sedona?

Wisconsin Dells
Sedona

Sedona is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Sedona make it a world-class shopping destination. It's filled with local artisan shops and art galleries that highlight the region's beauty. Head to Uptown Sedona for some of the best boutiques. You should also check out the Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village, the Sedona Art Center, and Hozho Distinctive Shops and Galleries.

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 Sedona Better for Families?

Wisconsin Dells
Sedona

Wisconsin Dells is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Sedona 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.

Sedona is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There are impressive parks and fun outdoor activities for the whole family. Head to Slide Rock State Park where your kids can enjoy a natural waterslide. There's also the Out of Africa Wildlife Zoo as well as a canyon railroad.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Sedona Better for Couples?

Wisconsin Dells
Sedona

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

Sedona makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Stargazing in the evening or picnicking in a park during the day. There are countless romantic activities that couples can enjoy. The area is filled with striking natural beauty that is at its best during sunset. Couples will also enjoy fine dining and a variety of outdoor activities.

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 Sedona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Wisconsin Dells
Sedona

Sedona is a popular place for backpackers. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Sedona. You'll find campgrounds, RV parks, and motels in the area, but no real hostels.

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

Wisconsin Dells
Sedona

Sedona 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 Sedona. Verde Shuttle offers shuttle routes through town.

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

Is Wisconsin Dells or Sedona a more walkable city?

Wisconsin Dells
Sedona

Sedona 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.

Sedona is a somewhat walkable place. If you stay in Uptown Sedona, then the area is walkable, but if you're planning to stay further away then you'll need to have 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 Sedona Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sedona or Wisconsin Dells?

How long in Wisconsin Dells or Sedona?

In either Wisconsin Dells or Sedona, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Sedona than Wisconsin Dells because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Wisconsin Dells, and 3-5 days is enough time in Sedona.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Wisconsin Dells or Sedona? Ideal Length of Stay
    Wisconsin Dells 2-4 
    Sedona 3-5

One day in Wisconsin Dells or Sedona?

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.

Sedona is a small town with plenty to do. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. It's no surprise that shopping 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 Sedona?

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.

Sedona might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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 Sedona?

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.

Sedona is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It's no surprise that shopping 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 Sedona?

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.

Since Sedona is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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, Sedona 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 Sedona is $165. 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 Sedona in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Wisconsin Dells $70
    Sedona $93
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Wisconsin Dells $140
    Sedona $186
Compare Hotels in Wisconsin Dells and Sedona

Looking for a hotel in Wisconsin Dells or Sedona? 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 Sedona


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 Sedona Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Wisconsin Dells $35
    Sedona $40

Is it cheaper to fly into Wisconsin Dells or Sedona?

Prices for flights to both Sedona 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
    Sedona $48

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Sedona

For Sedona, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • The VIP Experience, Chuck Wagon Dinner and Show Tickets: $119
  • Sedona/Flagstaff: Grand Canyon Day Trip with Dinner & Sunset: $241
  • Cooking class and candlelit dinner with a view: $251

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Wisconsin Dells $46
    Sedona $19

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
  • Haunted Downtown Tour of Baraboo: $16
  • Haunted History Trolley Tour in Wisconsin Dells: $25

Typical Entertainment Prices in Sedona

For Sedona, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Red Rock Fantasy Light Show (for 2)
    $10

Tours and Activities in Sedona

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Sedona.

  • Self-Guided Driving Tour with GPS Audio Guide App: $8.99
  • Sedona & Red Rock State Park: Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $15
  • Jerome Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Grand Canyon & Self-Guided Driving Tour Bundle: $25
  • From Boynton Canyon Trolley Tour: $25
  • Jerome Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Out of Africa Wildlife Park Admission Ticket: $43
  • Feel the Sedona Vortex Mindfulness Game and Adventure: $45
  • Sedona Hi-Points Luxury Van Tour: $46
  • The Best Private Vortex and City Tour of Sedona: $50
  • Hi-Points Tour in Luxury Van: $50
  • The Magic of Sedona Highlights Tour: $63

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Wisconsin Dells $9.14
    Sedona $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Sedona

Also in Sedona, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Elevated Social Wine Tours of Sedona's Vineyards : $85
  • Bliss Sedona’s Most Luxurious Wine Tour with Lunch Included: $115
  • All inclusive Sedona Join in Wine Tour 200+ 5 star reviews!: $179
  • Tastings Included! EXPRESS PRIVATE ELEVATED WINE TOUR: $199
  • Pedal and Paddle Wine Tour in Arizona: $235
  • Private Wine Tour in Sedona, Arizona: $295


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


Which is Bigger, Wisconsin Dells or Sedona?

Sedona has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Wisconsin Dells. When comparing the sizes of Wisconsin Dells and Sedona, 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.