2024 Family Trip to Wisconsin Dells
Our Family Weekend Getaway to Wisconsin Dells: September Adventures!
Are you looking for the perfect family trip with fun activities for kids of all ages? Wisconsin Dells is a fantastic playground for families, and we recently spent a fun-filled weekend there! This September, we made memories at The Kalahari Resort and visited a charming petting zoo. Here’s a recap of our adventure:
Personal photo from Lil' Bumpkin Play Village and Petting Farm
Where We Stayed: The Kalahari Resort
We chose to stay at The Kalahari Resort, and it did not disappoint! The resort has something for everyone, especially if you’re traveling with toddlers like us. The highlight was the indoor waterpark—perfect for those unpredictable Midwest weather patterns! Our little ones loved splashing around in the kid-friendly areas while we enjoyed the heated pools and lazy river. The indoor waterpark is large enough to entertain for hours but still manageable with toddlers.
One of the hidden gems at The Kalahari is Tom Foolerys, the resort's indoor arcade and adventure park. While there’s plenty to do for younger kids, like arcade games and rides, there are even more exciting activities for older children. Tom Foolerys has a thrilling ropes course and bowling lanes that are sure to entertain older siblings or teens.
Off The Resort: Lil' Bumpkin Play Village and Petting Farm!
A short drive from the resort, we ventured to Country Bumpkin, a quaint farm market and petting zoo that’s perfect for little ones. Our toddlers loved feeding the animals, and there were plenty of kid-friendly activities to keep them entertained. The farm also features several playground areas, which were a hit with our girls (ages 1 and 3). This is a great stop if your family enjoys a more laid-back, hands-on experience!
What We Missed: The Original Wisconsin Ducks Tour
Unfortunately, the weather didn’t cooperate for one of Wisconsin Dells' most iconic attractions: The Original Wisconsin Ducks Tour. It was unseasonably cold, so we decided to save this adventure for another trip. The Ducks Tour is a unique way to experience the area's natural beauty, taking you on a scenic tour of the Wisconsin River and Lake Delton, but we’ll have to catch it next time when the weather is a little warmer!
Where We Ate: Buffalo Phil's Pizza & Grill
For dinner, we headed to Buffalo Phil's Pizza & Grill, a must-visit spot for family dining. The pizza is fantastic, and the atmosphere is super family-friendly. They even have a fun twist—your food can be delivered by train to your table, which our toddlers absolutely loved! If you’re looking for a fun, laid-back spot with delicious food, I highly recommend stopping by Buffalo Phil's.
Other Food and Activity Recommendations
I also recommend exploring some of these local gems:
Summer House Grill & Bar: A cozy spot with beautiful lakeside views.
Blux Grill & Bar: For a more upscale dining experience, head to Blux Grill & Bar. The menu has something for everyone, from seafood to steaks, and they even have kid-friendly options.
The Grateful Shed: A must-visit for food lovers! This indoor food truck space offers a variety of quirky and delicious eats. From tacos to sandwiches, there is something for everyone and the casual atmosphere makes it a great place for families.
Moosejaw Pizza & Dells Brewing Co.: If you’re looking for a fun and relaxed family-friendly restaurant, Moosejaw is a fantastic option.
Hot Dog Avenue: Sometimes, all you need is a quick bite, and Hot Dog Avenue is perfect for that. With a variety of hot dogs, burgers, and fries, this spot is ideal for a casual and tasty lunch.
Mr. Pancake: Breakfast lovers, this one’s for you! Mr. Pancake is a local favorite for a reason. Their fluffy pancakes and hearty breakfast options are perfect for starting your day before heading out to explore the Dells.
Bella Goose Cafe: If you’re a fan of a great cup of coffee and a cozy atmosphere, Bella Goose Cafe is the perfect spot. We were also told that their cinnamon rolls are absolutely delicious!
The Deer Park: A wonderful way to let your kids experience nature up close. The Deer Park is a peaceful, outdoor space where you can walk through wooded trails and feed friendly deer.
Final Thoughts
While our weekend at the Dells was packed with fun, there’s still so much more to explore. The Kalahari’s indoor waterpark and Tom Foolerys provided endless entertainment, and Country Bumpkin gave us a relaxing escape with hands-on activities for the kids. Despite the cold weather cutting our Ducks Tour short, we had an amazing time and can’t wait to plan our next trip back!
If you’re considering a family trip to Wisconsin Dells, I recommend checking out these spots. Whether you have toddlers or older kids, there’s truly something for everyone. Have you visited Wisconsin Dells before? Let me know if you have any favorite spots we should check out on our next trip!
