Wisconsin Dells Parkway The Strip - aerial view of train railway
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Wisconsin Dells Parkway The Strip

4.8
·58 reviews·Wisconsin Dells, United States

A vibrant stretch of classic Americana, packed with quirky attractions, unique shops, and family fun.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer weekdays

Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe

CrowdMedium
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Wisconsin Dells Parkway The Strip - aerial view of train railway

Wisconsin Dells Parkway The Strip

Best Time

Summer weekdays

Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant stretch of classic Americana, packed with quirky attractions, unique shops, and family fun.

4.8
(58 reviews)

"One of the best places in the U.S.! Still has that old school charm with small shops..."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Embrace the Quirky

Don't expect high-brow; expect fun! Dive into the unique attractions and embrace the kitschy charm.

👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential

You'll be doing a lot of walking along The Strip, so pack comfy shoes for exploring.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ripley's Believe It or Not!

Ripley's Believe It or Not!

Explore bizarre artifacts and oddities that will spark your curiosity and disbelief. A must-see for the adventurous!

Mirror Maze Mayhem

Mirror Maze Mayhem

Get lost and laugh your way through a disorienting maze of mirrors. Fun for all ages and a classic Dells experience.

Downtown Gift Shops & Souvenirs

Downtown Gift Shops & Souvenirs

Browse a treasure trove of unique gifts, hot sauce, jerky, and t-shirts. Find the perfect memento of your Dells adventure.

Wisconsin River Boat Tours

Wisconsin River Boat Tours

Enjoy scenic views and learn about the area's natural beauty on a relaxing boat tour. A classic Dells activity.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Quirky Charm

Wisconsin Dells Parkway, often called 'The Strip,' is a vibrant hub of family-friendly attractions, unique shops, and classic roadside Americana. Prepare for a sensory overload of fun, from quirky museums to souvenir shops. It's a place that doesn't take itself too seriously, offering a delightful escape for all ages. TikTok

Timing is Everything

While The Strip is lively year-round, summer and fall weekends see the highest crowds. Consider visiting during weekdays or shoulder seasons for a more relaxed experience. Winter offers a different, quieter charm with festive lights and fewer crowds. TikTok

Best Times

When
Summer weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Crowd
Medium
When
Fall weekends
Why
Beautiful foliage, festive atmosphere
Crowd
High
When
Winter evenings
Why
Magical lights, cozy charm
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Welcome to Downtown Wisconsin Dells! #lovethedells #downtowndells #explorewisconsin #favoritespot
@waterparkcapital
1K likes • 59.9K views

🎯 Embrace the Quirky

Don't expect high-brow; expect fun! Dive into the unique attractions and embrace the kitschy charm. TikTok

👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential

You'll be doing a lot of walking along The Strip, so pack comfy shoes for exploring. TikTok

An adventure in downtown Wisconsin Dells can be described as many things: quirky, sweet, thrilling, cozy, surprising, and most importantly, fun! #lovethedells #wisconsindells #daytrip #familyfun #thingstodo #travel
@waterparkcapital
2K likes • 70.5K views
📍The VUE - A Boutique Hotel The views and vibes at this hotel are simply unmatched for those who love the Wisconsin River. #lovethedells #wisconsindells #traveltok #uniquehotel #familyfun #roomtour
@waterparkcapital
133 likes • 9.7K views

💰 Budget for Souvenirs

The shops are packed with tempting memorabilia and unique finds. Reddit

📸 Capture the Fun

Bring your camera or phone to snap photos of the unique sights and your family's adventures. TikTok

Great Summer Getaway #wisconsin #wisconsindells #wisdells #downtown #downtowndells
@jl1594
42 likes • 1.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Embrace the Quirky

Don't expect high-brow; expect fun! Dive into the unique attractions and embrace the kitschy charm. TikTok

👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential

You'll be doing a lot of walking along The Strip, so pack comfy shoes for exploring. TikTok

💰 Budget for Souvenirs

The shops are packed with tempting memorabilia and unique finds. Reddit

📸 Capture the Fun

Bring your camera or phone to snap photos of the unique sights and your family's adventures. TikTok

🗺️ Plan Your Attractions

With so much to see, consider pre-booking popular attractions or tours. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.8
(58 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Wisconsin Dells Parkway for its abundance of family-friendly attractions, unique shops, and lively atmosphere, making it a perfect weekend getaway. The variety of entertainment, from quirky museums to boat tours and mini-golf, ensures there's something for everyone. While some find the sheer volume of attractions overwhelming, most agree it's a must-visit destination for its classic roadside charm and fun-filled experiences.

"I love Dells ! This is perfect spot for weekend getaway. Downtown have veriaty of gift stores and restaurants. It's clean and safe, with a lot of benches to rest. Boat tours and mini golf are great ways of spending quality time on beautiful, sunny day, but they have also many different attractions such as funny museums, laser tags, zipping and many, many more. I definitely recommend to visit at least once !"

Paulina Kupiec

"There is a lot of interesting shop and amazing souveiners.
The MIRROR MAZE was so funny and the torture museum was interesting."

Katy Katy

"One of the best places in the U.S.! Still has that old school charm with small shops like cheese shops, hot sauce store, jerky shop, t-shirt & memorabilia shops, etc. Also Ripleys and Magic Quest. You can bowl late night and/or stroll the local tap houses & bars. Beautiful surroundings with the Lake right at your fingertips and plenty of water tours to enjoy. You absolutely must visit sometime to understand the full scope of how amazing this place is!"

Mikey B.

What People Like

Abundance of attractions
Unique shops and souvenirs
Family-friendly atmosphere

What People Dislike

Can be crowded
Overwhelming options

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Wisconsin Dells Parkway is easily accessible by car via I-90/I-94. Numerous signs will guide you to the main strip. Parking can be found along the Parkway, though it may fill up during peak times. TikTok+1

While there isn't extensive public transit directly on The Strip, local trolley tours and ride-sharing services are available for getting around the main attractions. TikTok

Walking is a great way to experience the atmosphere of The Strip, especially during warmer months. For longer distances, consider a trolley tour or ride-sharing. TikTok

Yes, there are various parking lots and street parking available along The Strip. Some attractions may have their own dedicated parking. Be prepared for it to fill up quickly on busy days. TikTok

Yes, The Strip is a popular day trip destination. It's about a 2-hour drive from Milwaukee and Madison, and a 3-4 hour drive from Chicago. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

For popular attractions like Ripley's Believe It or Not! or Wizard Quest, booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak season, to avoid disappointment. TikTokReddit

Most shops and attractions on The Strip operate from late morning to evening, with hours extending later during the summer. Winter hours may be reduced. TikTok

While many attractions have an admission fee, simply strolling along The Strip, window shopping, and enjoying the atmosphere is free. Some seasonal events may also be free. TikTok

Some attractions offer combo deals or passes that can save money if you plan to visit multiple sites. Check individual attraction websites or local tourism sites for deals. TikTok

Look for coupons in local visitor guides, check online deal sites, or inquire about package deals when booking accommodations. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The Strip is famous for its family-friendly attractions, including quirky museums (Ripley's, Mirror Maze), mini-golf, arcades, escape rooms, and boat tours. TikTokReddit+1

Absolutely! The Dells is a prime family destination with numerous attractions designed for kids of all ages. Wizard Quest is highly recommended for families. TikTokReddit

Ripley's Believe It or Not!, the Mirror Maze, and exploring the unique gift shops are highly recommended. Boat tours offer a scenic break. TikTokReddit

Yes, The Strip boasts a variety of shops selling everything from cheese and hot sauce to t-shirts and memorabilia. It's a great place for souvenirs. Reddit

The vibe is energetic, fun, and a bit quirky, reminiscent of classic roadside attractions. It's a place that embraces its unique character. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

You'll find a wide range of dining, from casual diners and pizza places to themed restaurants and cafes. Monks is a popular spot for burgers. TikTokReddit

Yes, many restaurants cater to families with kid-friendly menus and a casual atmosphere. Courtyard Cafe is a good breakfast spot. TikTok

Look for cheese shops and places offering local jerky and other Wisconsin treats. Reddit

Monks is frequently mentioned for its burgers, and Courtyard Cafe is a popular breakfast choice. Many other casual eateries line the Parkway. TikTokReddit

Absolutely! You'll find ice cream shops, candy stores, and fast-casual options perfect for a quick snack while exploring. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The unique architecture of attractions like Ripley's, the vibrant storefronts, and the scenic Wisconsin River offer great photo opportunities. TikTok+1

During peak times, crowds can make it challenging to get unobstructed shots. Visiting on weekdays or early mornings can help. TikTok

Look for the quirky signage, unique statues, and the general lively atmosphere of the Parkway. The Vue hotel offers river views. TikTok

Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) offers beautiful light. Evening also provides a magical ambiance with the lights of the attractions. TikTok

Photography policies vary by attraction. It's best to check signage or ask staff before taking extensive photos inside museums or exhibits. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Wisconsin Dells Parkway is practically built for family fun! The sheer number of kid-friendly attractions, from Ripley's Believe It or Not! to the Mirror Maze and countless mini-golf courses, ensures non-stop entertainment. TikTok+1 Many Redditors highlight Wizard Quest as a standout activity that appeals to both children and adults, offering a magical and engaging experience. Reddit Plan for plenty of walking and be prepared for the vibrant, sometimes overwhelming, atmosphere. Consider purchasing attraction passes to save money if you plan on visiting multiple sites. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

While Wisconsin Dells can be an expensive destination, there are ways to enjoy The Strip on a budget. Simply strolling along the Parkway, window shopping, and soaking in the atmosphere is free. TikTok Look for coupons in local visitor guides or online for discounts on attractions and dining. TikTok Consider packing your own snacks and drinks to save on impulse purchases. Visiting during the shoulder seasons or weekdays can also lead to lower accommodation prices. TikTok

couples

While known for family fun, The Strip offers a quirky and entertaining escape for couples too. Enjoy a fun-filled day exploring unique attractions like Ripley's or getting lost in a mirror maze together. TikTok A romantic boat tour on the Wisconsin River offers scenic views and a more relaxed pace. Reddit In the evening, explore the local tap houses and bars for a taste of local nightlife. Reddit Consider a stay at a boutique hotel like The Vue for a more upscale riverfront experience. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Attractions

Wisconsin Dells Parkway is packed with a dizzying array of attractions, from the famously bizarre at Ripley's Believe It or Not! to the disorienting fun of the Mirror Maze. TikTok Many visitors rave about Wizard Quest, calling it a must-do for both kids and adults, highlighting its unique blend of fantasy and challenge. Reddit The sheer variety means there's something for every taste, whether you're into mini-golf, escape rooms, or interactive museums. Planning ahead can help maximize your time, as popular spots can get busy. TikTok

Beyond the main attractions, don't overlook the classic Dells experiences like boat tours on the Wisconsin River. These offer a different perspective of the area's natural beauty and are a relaxing counterpoint to the bustling Parkway. Reddit For those seeking a unique stay, hotels like The Vue offer modern river views and a boutique experience. TikTok The key is to embrace the playful, sometimes kitschy, spirit of the Dells and dive into the fun. TikTok

Shopping and Dining Delights

The Strip is a shopper's paradise for those who love unique souvenirs and local treats. You'll find everything from cheesy t-shirts and quirky memorabilia to specialty shops selling hot sauce, jerky, and local Wisconsin cheeses. Reddit It's the kind of place where you can easily spend hours browsing and discovering hidden gems. The atmosphere is lively, with shops lining both sides of the Parkway, inviting exploration. TikTok

When hunger strikes, the dining options are as diverse as the attractions. Casual diners, pizza joints, and themed restaurants abound, catering to families and groups. TikTok Monks is a frequently recommended spot, particularly for its hearty burgers, while Courtyard Cafe is a go-to for breakfast. TikTokReddit Don't miss the chance to sample local Wisconsin specialties, making your culinary journey as memorable as your sightseeing. Reddit

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