Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

Wisconsin Dells is known not only for its killer adult-friendly water parks but also for the dells themselves; a magnificent gorge carved out by ancient glaciers, boasting mighty views of sandstone cliffs along the Wisconsin River. The Dells of the Wisconsin River State Natural Area encompasses 5 miles of trails along the curving river, and private boat tours will take you along the upper and lower dells where you can marvel at the landscape from a comfortable seat. The Dells of the Wisconsin River spread over a vast area of carved gorges and deep canyons that runs up the side of the waterways to the north of the city. With various lookout points and canyon rims closed for ecological reasons, the best way to visit is typically on a boat tour.

Adventurous visitors will go for the remoter area known as the Upper Dells, where vast ice-age rocks and glacial cliffs are the backdrops. Others go for the Lower Dells, where you'll navigate mossy boulders and learn all about the native Ho-Chunk people. The boat float will also give you the best views of enormous and unusual rock formations that are unique to the area. If that’s not enough, nearby Devil's Lake State Park in Baraboo has equal views worth seeing. Apart from literally an endless amount of theme parks and water parks, the town itself has many charming features that are perfect for a summer getaway, like quaint b&bs (Oak Hill and Cedar Lodge), tasty restaurants/ breweries, and plenty of options to get close to furry friends.

Noah's Ark is recognized as both the biggest waterpark in America and one of the best things to do with kids in Wisconsin Dells. It reigns as one of the largest water parks in the entire USA, sprawling across a whopping 70 acres of grounds on the edge of Lake Delton, around 10 minutes drive from downtown. Inside, the attractions range from heart-thumping to soothing. You've got high-octane slides like the twisting Raja, which resembles a king cobra in attack mode. Follow that with a 400-ft plunge down the Scorpion's Tail, or a session on artificial surf waves. Mini-golf and a 4D theatre are also at hand in Noah's Ark for those who prefer to stay dry.

Miles from Chicago: 213 miles northwest
Suggested round-trip time: 4-hour drive
Location: Wisconsin Dells, United States

Tripadvisor Rating: 4.5/5