An iconic Wisconsin vacation destination — especially for families — in the state’s heartland, Wisconsin Dells touts two dozen water parks, earning it a reputation as the “Waterpark Capital of the World.” And while the water parks are undoubtedly the most popular draw to this area, there are plenty of other things to explore in Wisconsin Dells (which also encompasses the village of Lake Delton) — from hiking and boat tours to museums and shows.
Where you choose to stay will depend on the type of experience you want to have. Some of the Wisconsin Dells water park hotels are immense, with endless indoor and outdoor water features, amusements, restaurants and choices for accommodations. Other resorts feature quiet lakeside settings where you can take a break from the commotion.
Read on to choose the best Wisconsin Dells resort for your group.
The Best Wisconsin Dells Water Park Hotels and Resorts
Great Wolf Lodge Wisconsin Dells
The indoor water park at Wisconsin Dells’ Great Wolf Lodge offers thrills for travelers of all ages. The park has hot springs for families and an adults-only space. There are also kiddie pools, splash activities, a lazy river and several waterslides, including a twisting, turning 200-foot-long mountain slide. For even more fun, take time to explore the interactive four-story water fort treehouse, Fort Mackenzie. Travelers praise the resort and its water park as a great choice for younger kids; they also say that some attractions and waterslides can be closed or have limited hours, so it’s best to check before you go.
When you head for dry land at Great Wolf Lodge, plenty of other activities await you. MagiQuest, a live-action game, takes kids on an adventure around the lodge, where they’ll complete quests to become a Master Magi. The resort also features an arcade, a Build-A-Bear Workshop and Oliver’s Mining Sluice, where you can pan for gemstones. When it’s time to dine, on-site restaurant options serve up wood-fired grill dishes like steak, ribs, pizza, pasta, burgers and more. If you want to stay overnight at the lodge, you can book a variety of standard or themed suites that can accommodate between two and eight people: These include a Wolf Den Suite designed like a cave and a Kid Cabin Suite with a cabin-themed sleeping space.
Address: 1400 Great Wolf Drive, Baraboo, WI 53913
Kalahari Resorts Wisconsin Dells
As one of the largest indoor water parks in Wisconsin, Kalahari Resorts offers guests 125,000 square feet of splash-filled family fun. The indoor water park resort features a FlowRider wave simulator, a tandem tube slide, indoor and outdoor spas, a lazy river, a swim-up bar, and more. Thrill-seekers will want to take a ride on Master Blaster, the 570-foot water coaster, and the Screaming Hyena, a 60-foot body slide water ride that runs through the roof. Tanzanian Twister is another not-to-be-missed adventure with up to 40 mph twists and turns through a funnel flume that ends with a free fall as you splash into the pool below. In the summer months, you can head outside to the Zambezi Outdoor Waterpark for more wet and wild fun.
If you prefer to stay dry, Tom Foolerys Adventure Park sprawls across 100,000 square feet filled with indoor activities and attractions, including climbing walls, laser tag, black light mini-golf and rides such as the pendulum-like G-Force One. Accommodation options span standard hotel-style rooms, three-bedroom suites with living and kitchen areas, and even waterfront homes. When it comes to restaurants, choices range from casual eateries and brew pubs to seafood spots and steakhouses. There’s also a piano bar, which made its debut in 2022. Reviewers say the resort rooms are very nice and note there are more activities than they had time for in just one trip.
Address: 1305 Kalahari Drive, Baraboo, WI 53913
[Read: The Top Indoor Amusement Parks in the U.S.]
Chula Vista Resort, Trademark Collection by Wyndham
Chula Vista Resort is home to one of the few uphill water coasters in the U.S. Its more than 200,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor water park fun also include Rainbow Rapids, a ride that features a kaleidoscope of colors for riders to view as they twist and turn their way down. Other highlights include a zip line park, a bungee ejection seat ride, an 18-hole golf course, a world-class spa and one of the best steakhouses in America: Kaminski’s Chop House.
This Wisconsin Dells water park hotel offers a wide selection of accommodation options, including guest rooms and resort rooms inspired by the late H.H. Bennett — a photographer who beautifully captured the local landscape. The resort also has vacation homes, scenic and loft villas (with space for up to six guests), and condominiums; the latter provide more privacy, kitchen areas and river views in some units. Guest reviews are mixed on the resort’s accommodations, with some noting they could use an update.
Address: 1000 Chula Vista Parkway, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965
Wilderness Resort
Regarded as the largest water park resort in the U.S., Wilderness Resort boasts four indoor and four outdoor water parks. The themed indoor water parks include Klondike Kavern, Wild WaterDome and the Wild West Waterpark, where you can brave new dueling waterslides. You’ll also find Cubby’s Cove Indoor Waterpark at Wilderness on the Lake and a swim-up bar for the adults at Wild WaterDome. Head outside for more water fun on the lazy river at New Frontier Waterpark in the summer months and check out the 3-plus acres of adventure at Lost World Waterpark. The fun doesn’t stop there as the resort also offers an aerial experience with a 65-foot-tall fly-ride simulator, go-karts, laser tag, a sky ropes course, bumper boats, escape rooms and more. When you’re hungry and thirsty, one of the 24 dining and beverage options can satisfy your cravings.
This sprawling 600-acre resort offers several lodging options for your visit as well, including standard hotel rooms and condominiums at the Wilderness Hotel and connecting Glacier Canyon Lodge. You can also opt to stay in fully furnished condominiums at Wilderness on the Lake. Individual cabins, villas and accessible accommodations are additional on-site offerings. Travelers say there’s plenty to do at Wilderness Resort, but some warn the indoor water parks can get very crowded.
Address: 511 E. Adams St., Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965
Grand Marquis Waterpark Hotel
If you’re traveling with younger children, this resort offers both indoor and outdoor pools, and water activities ideal for kids 11 and younger. Indoors, parents can take a dip in the pool or the hot tub while the youngsters soar down waterslides in the water park. Meanwhile, the Olympic-size pool outdoors features a waterfall and a 30-foot dinosaur slide for the kids. There’s also an ADA-compliant pool lift at the outdoor pool. For accommodations, you can book standard guest rooms or splurge on a suite, some of which can sleep up to six people.
The resort offers special offseason pricing and free passes to Noah’s Ark Waterpark between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Guests also receive a savings voucher, with discounts on attractions like Knuckleheads Trampoline Park and Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf. Many past hotel guests say their kids enjoy the pools, but some also mention that the rooms could use some remodeling.
Address: 840 Wisconsin Dells Parkway S., Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965
The Best Wisconsin Dells Hotels and Resorts Without Water Parks
Birchcliff Resort
Located about 2 miles north of downtown Wisconsin Dells, Birchcliff Resort sits close to the water parks and fun. Even still, it offers a quiet respite along River Road, adjacent to the Dells of Wisconsin River State Natural Area. The resort grants beach access along the banks of the Wisconsin River, reachable via a 3/4-mile hike. Birchcliff houses a heated outdoor pool (that opens on Memorial Day for the season), a petting zoo with billy goats, and a recreational room with darts and ping pong tables — plus it hosts nightly community campfires. A basketball court, horseshoe pits, shuffleboard courts and a children’s playground round out some of the popular amenities here.
Most travelers say the property offers a peaceful and relaxing getaway for families. Guests can choose from various rustic cabin accommodations, including a group lodge with six bedrooms that will sleep up to 22 people.
Address: 4149 River Road, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965
Cliffside Resort & Suites
Situated atop a sandstone cliff overlooking Lake Delton, this quiet 42-room property makes for a peaceful getaway from the action and excitement of the Dells. The family-owned and -operated resort has unique architectural and carved wood details that pay homage to the family’s Polish heritage, and most of the rooms offer lake views and balconies. Cliffside Resort also has adjoining rooms for families.
Amenities at the resort include lakeside heated indoor and outdoor pools, picnic areas with barbecue grills, and bonfire pits where you can stargaze at night. The on-site pier allows you to cast a fishing line or dock a boat, and the resort also offers a beach, paved biking and walking paths, a game room with pool tables, and other amenities. What’s more, guests of Cliffside receive complimentary water park passes for Noah’s Ark Waterpark in the summer season, along with coupons for dining and the area’s attractions. Guest reviews are positive, with visitors calling Cliffside Resort a quiet hidden gem and complimenting the property’s natural beauty.
Address: 351 Canyon Road, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965
River’s Edge Resort
Situated about 2 miles from downtown and along the Wisconsin River, River’s Edge Resort is a quiet respite from the Dells’ water parks and attractions. Most of the property’s units are constructed with logs inside and out, and all but two have countertop ranges so you can prepare some meals at the resort. Other amenities in the units include refrigerators, microwaves, coffee pots, toasters, complimentary Wi-Fi access and basic cable.
There’s a wide selection of accommodations, with river view units, poolside apartments, and individual homes and cottages to choose from. Weekly rentals include the use of a canoe, rowboat or kayak. For a relaxing afternoon at the resort, you can take a tube trip along the river or go for a swim in one of two heated pools. Travelers can also rent a pontoon boat or go fishing. When it’s time to dine and imbibe, head over to the rustic bar and grill — it features a 4,000-gallon fish tank and a 100-year-old oak tree that sits in the middle of the bar. Recent guests comment that the fishing is great, the resort is cozy and the food is good.
Address: 20 Rivers Edge Road, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965
Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Camp — Resort
This seasonal camp resort (open May through September) comprises 246 affordable electric campsites and 51 rental units, including larger cabins for a family getaway. You can even book a yurt for a unique glamping experience. The resort offers package pricing that includes tickets to Noah’s Ark Waterpark, Tom Foolerys Adventure Park and Timbavati Wildlife Park. You can also request a shopping package with gift cards to the Outlets at the Dells mall.
Resort amenities at the property include water playgrounds with a Jellystone Park theme, outdoor pools, wagon rides, sand volleyball, horseshoes, mini-golf, a snack bar and a poolside bar. A fully stocked camping store, laundry facilities and restrooms with showers round out the on-site offerings. If you’re planning a summer trip, don’t miss the resort’s special themed events — like Snow in July Christmas Week, Hawaiian Luau Party Week and Mardi Gras Carnivale Week. While many visitors to the resort appreciated the variety of kid-friendly activities, some guests did comment that it’s very loud, especially at night, since it’s located close to the interstate.
Address: S1915 Ishnala Road, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53913
Meadowbrook Resort
This Northwoods adventure water theme resort sits on 12 acres of wilderness-like land and offers one-, two- and three-bedroom cabins and lodge suites with kitchens. If you prefer a hotel-type setting, plan to stay in the Tall Timber Lodge. This property is reminiscent of the historic timber lodges in U.S. national parks and has rooms and suites that accommodate between four and 10 people. On-site activities for young children at the indoor and outdoor Timber Camp Water Adventure Playland include the Hollow Tree Swimmin’ Hole, which is a shallow activity pool with tree slides and bubbling geysers. There’s also the kiddie Tip-a-Canoe Slide and a Baby Bears Bubbling Brook for the little ones. In addition, kids enjoy the nightly bonfires and making s’mores.
While the youngsters play, adults can kick back, relax and sunbathe on the deck by the outdoor pool. Wi-Fi is complimentary throughout the resort. Meadowbrook Resort also offers packages that include admission to a selection of Wisconsin Dells’ various indoor and outdoor water parks. Recent travelers appreciated the charming cabin ambiance at this resort.
Address: 1533 River Road, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965
Spring Brook Vacation Home Resort
This 360-acre family vacation home resort has rental properties for short stays or extended getaways, including individual homes, condominiums and hotel suites. For hotel room options, there are two buildings that feature double queen- or king-sized bed accommodations, and accessible rooms are available on the first floor. All rooms have an open design with a living room, a private deck, a kitchenette, a flat-screen television and an upgraded bathroom. Travelers remark that the accommodations are clean and well-equipped.
Resort amenities are available to all guests and include indoor and outdoor pools, a kids splash pad and pool area, playgrounds, outdoor lounge spaces, a fitness room, and a community golf course. The property’s restaurant, the Spring Brook Sports Bar & Grill, serves casual fare like burgers and salads alongside steaks and seafood. Stop in for a Friday fish fry or Saturday prime rib specials if you’re in town for the weekend. The venue also features live music, DJs spinning tunes and karaoke nights. Before booking your reservation, check out the resort package pricing that includes tickets to two of the nearby water parks.
Address: 242 Lake Shore Drive, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965
Baker’s Sunset Bay Resort
This resort property, located along Lake Delton, provides a peaceful family getaway that’s still close to all the excitement and attractions of the Dells. Amenities at Baker’s Sunset Bay Resort include a large sandy beach where you can relax and take a dip in the water. There are also complimentary kayaks to take out on the lake, indoor and outdoor pools, and a dry sauna and hot tub. You can even bring your dog along to join in the fun as the property is pet-friendly. Lakeside and beachfront rooms, suites and duplexes are available, and the accommodations can sleep between two and 16 guests. The resort also offers spacious condominiums for larger families or groups.
An added perk is that all guests of the resort receive a complimentary one-day pass to Knuckleheads Trampoline Park. This entertainment complex features a large indoor trampoline area plus bumper cars, cosmic bowling, virtual reality games and an arcade. Back at Sunset Bay, live entertainment charms guests five nights a week in the summer. Campfire Kevin sings and plays guitar Tuesday, Thursday and Saturdays nights. And on Sundays and Mondays, resort patrons can head over to the beach to watch incredible pyrotechnic feats by Xavier the Firespinner. Guests of the resort enjoy the rooms and on-site amenities, and many call the staff friendly and helpful.
Address: 921 Canyon Road, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965
Sundara Inn & Spa
Sundara Inn & Spa offers the ultimate relaxing and tranquil getaway worlds away from the water parks and attractions of downtown. This property, situated in an 80-acre pine forest, is a traveler-approved resort hotel in the Midwest. If you’re here to recharge your body and mind, set aside 30 minutes to experience the five-step purifying bath ritual, especially before a spa treatment. You can also try the 45-minute salt or “halotherapy” treatment. Some specialty treatments include a Vichy shower, such as the detoxifying thermal mud wrap. Other services or massages may consist of calming soaks or baths as part of the treatment.
If you’re on a wellness journey, the resort offers a full calendar of activities with daily yoga classes (for all levels), aqua yoga, meditation and chakra. There are also culinary classes and skin care sessions. In the winter months, visitors may want to head outdoors for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and other active pursuits. A full range of accommodations spans spa-like suites with pool or hillside views to private villas and suites with either golf course or woodland views. Travelers rave about the rooms, the overall atmosphere and the spa at Sundara Inn.
Address: 920 Canyon Road, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965
Natura Treescape Resort
This property, located on the Wisconsin Dells Parkway, is close to the Dells’ major attractions and water parks. Natura Treescape Resort features the first natural water park lagoon, with 250,000 gallons of naturally filtered crystal clear water. The natural lagoon also includes a 12-foot waterfall, a stone grotto, a lazy stream and a white sand beach. Guests of the resort can choose between campsites, guest rooms and standard cabins for accommodations — but for lots of family fun, book a treehouse cabin. It’s equipped with a queen-sized bed for the grown-ups and bunk beds for the kids. Some travelers comment that the rooms are not as they appear in the online photos and that the walls are thin; others note that Natura is a good budget-friendly option for families if you don’t mind no-frills accommodations.
Amenities at the property include three indoor pools, an outdoor pool, hot tubs, saunas, a basketball court, picnic and grill areas, and use of the boat dock and private deck on the Wisconsin River. There are also additional perks with a stay, such as complimentary Wi-Fi, coffee and tea in the room, free daily admission to Timbavati Wildlife Park, and discounts on local attractions. When it comes to dining, plan to have dinner on-site at Hot Rocks, the hotel’s Tiki-inspired restaurant: It uses 750-degree hot stones to prepare main dishes like steaks and seafood.
Address: 400 County Road A, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965
Island Pointe Resort
Along the shores of Lake Delton, Island Pointe Resort is another quiet respite that offers year-round cabin rentals, fresh air and memorable sunsets. The property, set on 15 pine-filled acres, has two private beaches, a heated outdoor pool, a playground and a picnic area. Six red cabins sleep between four to six people and are equipped with either kitchenettes or full kitchens plus wood-burning fireplaces. The property’s five larger cabins provide more space and can accommodate five to eight guests. There are also five villas (with various amenities) that sleep up to eight people.
Guest reviews say the resort is a perfect place for a family vacation or reunion. Those who make reservations May through September receive savings coupons with 25% discounts to nearly a dozen of the Dells’ attractions, including Jet Boat Adventures, Upper Dells Boat Tours and Tom Foolerys Adventure Park.
Address: 1251 Canyon Road, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965
Sandrift Resort
This rustic, family-oriented resort also sits along the shoreline of Lake Delton. The lakeside Sandrift Resort’s lodging units include kitchenettes or full kitchens, full baths, and cable television; they sleep between two and six guests. On-site amenities range from a fishing pier and boat dock to complimentary rentals of canoes, paddleboats and rowboats. Sandrift Resort also boasts a picnic area with grills, a pizza oven, a sand volleyball court, swings, horseshoes, and other games like bocce ball and golf toss. Younger kids will appreciate the two-story play fort. You can also hang out on the beach, swim in the lake or relax on the lakeside deck. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available in the common areas.
Most travelers say that, while Sandrift is not a modern facility, the family-friendly activities are superb and the owners are friendly and gracious. Guests of the property receive a coupon book that gives you up to 35% off admission to 13 local attractions. The hotel also partners with Mt. Olympus Water & Theme Park for access to its water park and theme park rides.
Address: 1080 E. Hiawatha Drive, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965
Aloha Beach Resort & Suites
Located on Lake Delton, this beachside resort features tropical-inspired rooms that range from motel-style accommodations with two double beds to family suites with three queen-sized beds. You can also opt for one of the Jacuzzi suites with king beds or choose from select rooms with lake view balconies. Amenities at the property include indoor and outdoor pools and hot tubs, bonfire pits, a sauna, boat docks, a Tiki shelter, a game room and free Wi-Fi access. The floating agility and obstacle course is a kid-approved favorite. Guests also have VIP access to Natura Lagoon at the resort’s sister property, plus 10% discounts at Hot Rocks restaurant and The Vue Resort. What’s more, Aloha Beach Resort offers complimentary admission to nearby Timbavati Wildlife Park, where you can view more than 400 animals of 70 different species.
Address: 1370 E. Hiawatha Drive, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965
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17 Top Wisconsin Dells Resorts for Families and Adults originally appeared on usnews.com
Update 12/09/22: This article was published at an earlier date and has been updated with new information.
