Enjoy the natural beauty and family fun of “The Waterpark Capital of the World” when you stay at a Wisconsin Dells vacation rental. Explore the area’s shops and restaurants, then pack up the family for day trips to the many lakes and rivers in the surrounding areas. Find a Wisconsin Dells vacation rental in these nine locations for easy access to a variety of entertainment opportunities the area offers.
1. Central Wisconsin Dells
Set up base in the center of town to keep restaurants and sightseeing opportunities within walking distance. Vacation rentals in downtown Wisconsin Dells include rooms ideal for couples or small families. While in town, check out Wizard Quest, which features a fantasy-themed maze with riddles to challenge the entire family. When you’re ready for some fun in the water, it’s just a short drive west to the area’s famed water parks.
2. West Wisconsin Dells
Attractions abound west of the Wisconsin River. In addition to water parks, West Wisconsin Dells is home to the Timbavati Wildlife Park, where your family can snap photos of tigers, monkeys, giraffes, and more wondrous creatures. Nearby the Wisconsin Deer Park includes a petting zoo, while Ghost Outpost provides spooky fun. After a day full of at the water slides or on an animal adventure, head back to your vacation rental in a local home for a barbecue.
3. Lake Delton
The amusement park fun continues in Lake Delton, which lies just southwest of Wisconsin Dells. The Olympus Water and Theme Park is one of the largest parks in the area. Mix up your days with a visit to Alligator Alley to get up close with some reptiles, or head to Adare Go Carts to let you kids hop behind the wheel. Satisfy your craving for fresh fish and the natural world by heading to Lake Delton for a relaxing break from the excitement of the amusement parks before heading back to your vacation rental in town to cook your catch.
4. East Wisconsin Dells
A vacation rental in East Wisconsin Dells puts a little distance between your home away from home and the crowds of West Wisconsin Dells and Lake Delton. However, it’s still just a short drive to downtown or the west side of the river, so you can keep your kids busy. Check out Mr. Marvel’s Wondertorium for amazing sights and performances, or enjoy an evening stroll in one of the local parks before driving down to nearby Big Sky Twin Drive-in Theater to catch the latest movie beneath the stars.
5. North Wisconsin Dells
Choose a vacation rental in North Wisconsin Dells for quick access to both the amusement parks and the natural splendor north of town, including Rocky Arbor State Park and the Dells of the Wisconsin River. Step back in time with a visit to the Riverside & Great Northern Railroad Preservation Society, which features rides on a miniature train. Let your kids sleep in at your vacation rental while you get in a round of golf at the Pine Aire Country Club, or bring them with you to enjoy Heightened Adventures zip line and adventure park located next to the golf course.
6. Plainville – Dellwood
Wisconsin Dells, the small towns of Plainville and Dellwood feature a handful of vacation rentals that make a great jumping off point to the area’s lakes and rivers. Visit Buckhorn State Park for a summer swim or boating adventure in Castle Rock Lake. Head north to Petenwell Lake for an, even more, relaxing time in nature. At the end of the day, head back to your rental to make dinner or join the locals at Petenwell Pub for a rustic meal at the side of the lake.
7. Baraboo
If your family prefers nature and the small town vibe more than water parks, consider a vacation rental in Baraboo, which lies about 13 miles south of Wisconsin Dells. Just south of the town is Devil’s Lake State Park, which features a sandy beach, cliffs, camping, hiking, and even concessions for easy picnicking. Downtown Baraboo maintains a historical character with old buildings, including the Al Ringling Theatre, which was built by one of the founders of the Ringling Bros. Circus and is sometimes called “America’s Prettiest Playhouse.” The town is also home to the Circus World Museum. During the summer, the area hosts a full schedule of concerts, parades, fairs, and a farmer’s market.
8. West Shore of Castle Rock Lake
Stay in a natural setting in one of the vacation rentals on or near the western shores of Castle Rock Lake, which offers ample opportunities to take a pause from the bustle of everyday life. Visit the Yellow River State Wildlife Area, or head over to Castle Rock County Park for a dip in the lake. Enjoy a meal on a lake front deck at Pine Cove or the Dirty Turtle.
9. Necedah – Sprague
Step even further away from the things with a stay in a vacation rental in Necedah or Sprague, both about a 45-minute drive north of Wisconsin Dells. The rentals in this area include log cabins and solitary homes on acreage, ideal for peaceful nights watching the stars around a campfire. Explore the Necedah National Wildlife Refuge for some bird watching or just to enjoy the fresh air of nature.