Wisconsin Dells manages to be all things at once: a place of natural beauty, a terrific family vacation destination and a delightfully retro collection of roadside attractions.
Mt. Olympus Water & Theme Park: A Must-Visit Wisconsin Dells Attraction
With more than 20 indoor and outdoor water parks, Wisconsin Dells is known as the Water Park Capital of the World. Mt. Olympus Water & Theme Park rises above the rest as the largest and most action-packed option, with its playful take on Greek and Roman mythology.
Mt. Olympus Water & Theme Park is home to record-breaking attractions like The Rise of Icarus, the world’s tallest waterslide, Medusa’s Slidewheel, which spins riders through a rotating water coaster experience, and Triton’s Challenge, where guests can race side by side. Beyond the water attractions, the indoor theme park features kiddie rides, bumper cars, a rock-climbing wall and a classic arcade for all ages.
While the outdoor parks operate seasonally, Mt. Olympus keeps the fun going year-round with its indoor water park and theme park, making it one of the best things to do in the Dells no matter the weather.
Tour The Dells By Water: A Front-Row Seat To Natural Beauty
One of the best ways to experience the Dells is from the water. There are several tour options that navigate the scenic stretch of river from Duck boats to high-speed thrill rides.
We opted for a classic two-hour boat tour that explored the twists and turns at a relaxed pace. Along the way, the tour included multiple stops to get up close with the area’s dramatic rock formations and natural landmarks. The highlight for many is the famous Stand Rock dog jumping exhibition. And yes, the dog really does leap from Stand Rock to shore and back again, a tradition that never fails to impress.
The Rick Wilcox Magic Theatre: A Classic Dells Tradition For All Ages
The Rick Wilcox Magic Show is a Wisconsin Dells tradition and suitable for all ages, charming and fun. The final trick is the standout moment, featuring what appears to be a working helicopter on stage. Real or staged, it is amazing.
Classic Roadside Attractions: A Nostalgic Side Of The Dells
Many of the attractions in the Dells date back to the 1950s, the golden age of American roadside attractions. While these kitschy landmarks have faded in most places, they are very much alive and well here.
You will spot a giant flamingo advertising its namesake hotel, a partial Roman Colosseum welcoming visitors to Mt. Olympus Water Park and a massive Trojan horse promoting another nearby water park. I love this kind of over-the-top roadside charm. Main Street leans fully into it too, lined with unapologetically trinket-filled shops, candy shops and antique stores.
We capped it off with a meal at Moosejaw Pizza and Brewing Company, which delivers orders in cars topped with a full-size moose. It is exactly as much fun as it sounds.
Where I Stayed: Bluegreen Odyssey Dells
I stayed at the Bluegreen Odyssey Dells using an RCI® booking and found it to be a comfortable and convenient home base. The resort offers 1- and 2-Bedroom Suites with full kitchens and balconies, and some rooms also include a whirlpool spa.
During my stay, the rooms were clean, spacious and well-maintained. The staff was genuinely friendly, and coffee was available downstairs each morning, which was a nice bonus. The stay also included free admission to Mt. Olympus Water & Theme Park. There is an indoor corridor connecting the Odyssey to the park’s indoor entrance, although the walk can be a bit long depending on where your room is located.
How To Get There: A Scenic Wisconsin Road Trip
Getting to the Dells requires a road trip, even if you fly into Milwaukee or Madison. That said, the drive is part of the experience, winding through small towns and viewing Wisconsin's natural beauty.
I had never visited this part of the country before, and I found the drive a pleasant surprise. For this New Englander, the scenery and sense of space made the journey feel less like a commute and more like an introduction to the region.
Why Wisconsin Dells Delivers Beyond The Summer Season
The Wisconsin Dells is an excellent choice for a family getaway, but it also appeals to travelers drawn to the natural beauty of the Land of Lakes. We visited in early spring, when only the indoor water parks were open, and still found plenty to do, from scenic tours to classic attractions.
It is also a smart destination for timeshare travelers. Whether using Hilton Points at Great Wolf Lodge, or RCI points at Bluegreen Vacations® or other RCI resorts in the Dells, the area delivers strong value, variety and year-round appeal.
Key Takeaways
A Year-Round Water Park Destination: Wisconsin Dells offers indoor and outdoor attractions beyond summer.
Classic Dells Experiences Endure: Boat tours, roadside attractions and live shows define the area’s charm.
Fun for Families and Explorers: The Dells blends family-friendly activities with natural scenery and nostalgia.
A Scenic Journey Adds Appeal: The drive through Wisconsin’s small towns enhances the experience.
FAQs
Q: What makes Wisconsin Dells unique compared to other water park destinations?
A: Wisconsin Dells combines large-scale water parks with classic boat tours, roadside attractions and long-standing live entertainment.
Q: What can visitors do in Wisconsin Dells outside of water parks?
A: Visitors can take scenic river tours, explore Main Street shops, see live shows and enjoy nostalgic roadside attractions.
Q: Is Wisconsin Dells enjoyable during the off-season?
A: Indoor water parks, live entertainment and attractions make the Dells appealing even in early spring, fall and winter.
Q: Why is Wisconsin Dells a good option for timeshare travelers?
A: The area offers multiple resorts that accept Hilton and RCI points, providing flexibility, value and year-round options.
