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Wisconsin Dells may have earned its crown as the Waterpark Capital of the World in the summertime, but don’t let the frosty air fool you—this town knows how to sparkle in winter too. Imagine steam rising from outdoor hot tubs as snow falls around you, laughter echoing from indoor waterparks, and pine trees dusted in white lining trails just begging for skis or snowshoes. That’s the Wisconsin Dells in winter: part family adventure, part snowy fairytale.
Whether you’re chasing thrills on the slopes, floating down a lazy river, or ducking into quirky attractions downtown, here’s how to make the most of your chilly-season getaway.
Splash Without the Sun: Indoor Waterparks
Waterparks aren’t just a summer thing here – they’re an all-year obsession. Resorts like Wilderness, Great Wolf Lodge, Kalahari, and Chula Vista make sure that even when it’s below zero outside, you can still zip down slides, bob in a wave pool, or drift in a lazy river.
- Wilderness Resort sprawls across multiple buildings, so you’ll find everything from toddler-friendly splash pads to big-kid thrill slides.
- Great Wolf Lodge nails the family vibe—between water fun, MagiQuest, and the arcade, kids will forget snow even exists.
- Kalahari is larger than life, with one of the biggest indoor waterparks in the country, plus an indoor amusement park if you want to dry off.
- Chula Vista adds a twist with its heated outdoor pool that’s open in winter. There’s nothing quite like swimming outside while snowflakes fall.
Hit the Slopes at Cascade and Christmas Mountain
When you’re ready to trade swimsuits for snow pants, the slopes call. Cascade Mountain, just a short drive away, has everything from beginner hills to adrenaline-pumping runs—and the tubing park is pure joy for kids (and grown-ups who still love a good sled ride).
Closer to town, Christmas Mountain Village transforms into its own snowy playground each winter. Ski, snowboard, tube, or just sip hot chocolate in their cozy chalet while watching everyone else carve down the hill.
Step Back in Time at H.H. Bennett Studio
Wisconsin Dells exists as a tourist town in large part because of one man: photographer H.H. Bennett. His 19th-century images of the sandstone bluffs lured visitors here long before water slides were a thing. His original studio is still standing downtown, and it’s part museum, part time capsule.
And if you’re in the mood for something more playful, you can suit up in Victorian or Wild West costumes for an old-time photo session. Think of it as a throwback Instagram filter you can actually frame.
Explore Nature in Its Quiet Season
The Dells isn’t just neon lights and indoor rides—it’s surrounded by some of the prettiest landscapes in the state.
- Mirror Lake State Park offers groomed trails for skiing and snowshoeing, with evergreens and cliffs creating postcard views.
- Red Ridge Ranch runs horse-drawn wagon rides and winter trail rides on horseback. Trotting through the snow here feels like stepping into a snow globe.
- For a bigger thrill, Vertical Illusions offers winter ziplining. Flying over frosted treetops? Unforgettable.
Quirky Fun When You’re Ready to Warm Up
Downtown Dells is packed with indoor escapes when you want to thaw out.
- Wizard Quest is like stepping into a live-action fantasy game, complete with puzzles, quests, and magical sets.
- Tommy Bartlett Exploratory is a science museum where kids can burn off energy tinkering with interactive exhibits.
- Knuckleheads Trampoline Park delivers trampolines, bowling, and rides all under one roof—a great backup plan on a snowstorm day.
Wildlife, Ice, and Classic Winter Joy
For animal lovers, Timbavati Wildlife Park keeps some of its residents on view year-round, so you can still visit furry friends even in the cold months.
And don’t forget the simple pleasures: lace up skates at Lake Delton, sled down hills at Rocky Arbor State Park, or just crunch through fresh snow on a winter hike. Sometimes the old-fashioned fun is the best.
Refuel, Relax, Repeat
All that activity deserves cozy meals and a little indulgence. Grab a pizza at Moosejaw Pizza & Dells, known for its three-story log lodge atmosphere (and craft beer brewed onsite). For a quieter day, sneak off to Sundara Inn & Spa, where dome-covered pools, massages, and facials are the cure for tired muscles and cold toes.
And don’t leave without a souvenir. Downtown shops like Dells Mining Co. let you pan for gemstones, while boutiques carry everything from fudge to handmade crafts.
Final Thoughts on Winter in Wisconsin Dells
Winter in Wisconsin Dells is proof that this town doesn’t hibernate. Whether you’re flying down a waterslide, riding a horse-drawn wagon through the snow, or just sitting by the fire with a plate of pizza, the Dells shines just as brightly in the cold as it does in the heat.
So pack your mittens and your swimsuits – you’ll need both.
