Wisconsin Dells is only 19 square miles in size, but it sees around 4 million visitors each year.
If you’re looking for a weekend getaway that’s packed with family fun, Wisconsin Dells is the perfect spot. Known as the “Waterpark Capital of the World,” it’s filled with exciting activities for kids of all ages.
From splash-filled adventures to live shows, there’s never any shortage of things to do in Wis-Dells. In today’s post, we’ll give you 7 fun things to do with kids in Wisconsin Dells. Whether you’re looking for weekend family entertainment or outdoor fun for kids, keep reading and you’ll see all our town has to offer.
1. Splash Around at the Waterparks
Wisconsin Dells is famous for its waterparks, and for good reason. You’ll find both indoor and outdoor parks, so the weather never gets in the way of outdoor fun for kids and adults alike. Some of the top waterparks include:
- Noah’s Ark Waterpark (the largest in the U.S.)
- Kalahari Resort’s indoor waterpark
- Great Wolf Lodge’s water adventure park
These parks have everything from lazy rivers to wild water slides. Kid-friendly activities include splash pads and shallow play areas. Older kids and teens will have a blast on the giant wave pools and high-speed slides. With so many options, it’s easy to fill an entire day with water-filled excitement.
2. Go on a Scenic Duck Boat Tour
Take your kids on a ride they’ll never forget with a scenic Duck Boat tour. These amphibious vehicles drive on land and float on water. During the ride, you’ll see beautiful rock formations and forests Wisconsin is known for and you may even see some wildlife to immerse you even further into nature.
The tour guides keep it fun with interesting facts and silly jokes, making it a great way for kids to learn while having fun. Plus, they’ll love the thrill of splashing into the water. This adventure offers a mix of sightseeing and entertainment that’s perfect for curious kids and adults alike.
3. Visit Timbavati Wildlife Park
If your kids love animals, they’ll have a blast at Timbavati Wildlife Park. This interactive zoo lets kids get up close to exotic animals. They can feed giraffes, pet kangaroos, and see rare creatures like white tigers.
There’s also a train ride that takes you around the park for a closer look at the animals. The staff offers educational talks and shows to teach kids about wildlife conservation, which can instill in them a great and lasting appreciation. Kids can also enjoy interactive exhibits that teach them about animal habitats, and even take photos with some of the animals.
4. Explore Wizard Quest
Step into a world of magic and adventure at Wizard Quest. This interactive game challenges kids to solve puzzles and complete quests. They’ll explore colorful, maze-like rooms filled with hidden clues and surprises.
Kids can work as a team or on their own to solve the quests. The magical themes and hands-on activities make it a hit for older kids. Parents can join in on the fun too, making it the perfect option for everyone. Each visit feels like a brand-new adventure since there are different quests and paths to explore.
5. Ride the Coasters at Mt. Olympus Theme Park
Thrill-seeking families will love Mt. Olympus Theme Park. It’s home to go-kart tracks and classic carnival rides. There’s even an indoor theme park area for rainy days, complete with riveting games and other indoor play ideas for children of all ages.
For younger kids, there are gentler rides and a play area just for them. Teens and older kids will love the heart-racing wooden roller coasters and other thrilling rides that you won’t find anywhere else in Wisconsin.
Don’t forget to check out the wave pool and water rides while you’re there. Families can enjoy thrill rides together or let older kids try the bigger attractions while younger kids stick to the kiddie rides.
6. Discover the Dells Mining Co.
The area’s rich mining history is little known nowadays. If your kids like treasure hunts, they’ll love Dells Mining Co. Here, kids can sift through mining rough to find gemstones and fossils. It’s a hands-on activity that’s part science and part adventure.
Kids get to keep the treasures they find, which makes it even more exciting. They’ll learn about different types of rocks and minerals too, creating a fun and educational experience that’s perfect for a weekend visit. Each mining session feels like a new discovery as kids reveal shiny gems and unique stones.
7. Attend the Legacy Dinner Theater
End your weekend with a family-friendly show at the Legacy Dinner Theater. Our cozy venue offers a rotation of live productions that kids and parents will both enjoy. From musicals to comedy shows, there’s always something entertaining on our stage.
The shows are designed to be kid-friendly, so you don’t have to worry about content. While you watch, you’ll also get to enjoy a delicious dinner and adults can enjoy tasty drinks as well. There’s no better way to wind down after a busy day of adventure.
Since 2023, the theater has been under new ownership, bringing a sense of excitement and new horizons to the Wisconsin Dells family entertainment and nightlife scene. Our rotating lineup of performances means there’s always something fresh to see and the interactive experience keeps kids engaged throughout the show. You won’t find a better ticket in town to entertain you and your kids.
Plan Your Perfect Weekend in Wisconsin Dells
Wisconsin Dells is a destination that will provide unforgettable family experiences with fun things to do with kids. Whether you want waterparks and wild animals or live theater, there’s never a dull moment. Pack your bags and get ready for a weekend full of fun and memories your kids will cherish forever.
If you’re coming to Wis-Dells for weekend family entertainment, you’d be remiss not to book a ticket at the Legacy Dinner Theater. Check out our rotating schedule of shows to see what’s playing during your weekend trip. Don’t wait to book – we sold out 36 shows in 2023 and we’re sure to do even more in the coming years.
