Adventures in America: Wisconsin Dells

As a child, I had traveled many places. I have been as far south as the Florida Keys to as far west as New Mexico and as far north as the Dakotas. Now, I live in the Pacific Northwest and have found that one of the best places to visit in America is closer to my childhood home in Wisconsin. One of the best places to visit in America is Wisconsin Dells.

Wisconsin Dells, located between Madison and La Crosse, has everything anyone could want in a typical vacation. The only thing to remember is you might want to go during the spring and summer months, as the winters in Wisconsin can be very brutal. There are plenty of outdoor and indoor activities for all to enjoy at the Wisconsin Dells.

If you go to Wisconsin Dells, you have the opportunity of staying at some of the nicest resorts. Almost all of the hotels and resorts in the area have water parks. In addition to the water parks, there are restaurants inside the resorts to add to the full vacation package. The one resort I recommend families to stay it is the Timber Lodge. The Timber Lodge offers a rustic atmosphere with a nice indoor water park. At the Timber Lodge, there is an arcade, as well as a nice restaurant.

There are many family-friendly attractions in Wisconsin Dells. You can choose to be active in the water or you can take a chance at seeing some shows. There is also the opportunity to do some horseback riding and visiting the local area. Listed below you will find some information on the must-see attractions available in Wisconsin Dells.

Noah's Ark

Noah's Ark is located in the heart of Wisconsin Dells. If the name does not give it away, Noah's Ark is the largest water park in the United States. Noah's Ark offers a variety of water activities and is always adding to its rides. Their latest addition was in 2006 when they added "Time Warp" which is the largest bowl ride in the world. At Noah's Ark you will find two wave pools; two rivers, which seem to last forever; 4 kids' areas; bumper boats; 18 hole miniature golf; 41 waterslides; gift shops; and restaurants. The fun at Noah's Ark is endless!

Dells Army Ducks

I have never been on one of the Dells Army Ducks, but I always wanted to go for a ride. The Dells Army Ducks are WWII amphibious Army vehicles. The Dells Army Ducks include a one hour tour of the Lower Dells Glacial Park. While on the one hour tour, you will pass by the Lost City of Newport in Dell Creek. The tour ends in Lake Denton. The Dells Army Ducks also has a special bunker set up for kids to enjoy. Dells Army Ducks tours are offered from May to October, with tours beginning every 20-30 minutes each day.

Mt. Olympus Water and Theme Park

Mt. Olympus Water and Theme Park is the complete package, offering four parks for the price of one. Mt. Olympus is one of my favorite attractions to visit. The Mt. Olympus Water Park and indoor park, Parthenon are fairly new, as they was not there when I last visited in 2000. The Mt. Olympus Water Park has 37 slides, a huge wave pool, and 2 rivers. The "dry" portion of the park has many activities for you and the kids to enjoy. There are nine elevated go-kart tracks, which are my favorite. There are seven roller coasters, as well as 14 rides for children. There is also an 18-hole miniature golf course. Parthenon offers an inside "dry" theme park, which includes a twisting coaster called "Opa" as well as several other rides. This is a must-visit attraction and is sure to keep the family busy!

Chicago Club Cabaret Dinner Show

If you are one that likes Broadway shows, the Chicago Club Cabaret Dinner Show is just for you. The Cabaret is a show were anything can and will happen. The show boasts more than a typical mob and mollies type of show. It is fun and inviting and you can enjoy dinner while having a great laugh. Be sure to make reservations for the dinner show to ensure that you will not miss this experience!

Tommy Bartlett Show

The Tommy Bartlett Show is one of the best things you can experience in Wisconsin Dells. The Tommy Bartlett Show is a show done on the water and is about an hour and a half long. The show features The Pirates of Bartlett Bay where water skiers become daredevils and take on various activities, such as flips and twists. Miss North Carolina is a regular performer there as well. She performs acrobatic stunts on her "Aerial Sky Ring." This show has much more to offer. Shows are performed everyday from May 25-Sept.3 three times a day.

If you are a water fanatic, why not go and visit Wisconsin Dells. There are many attractions available to ensure you will not be bored. Whether you want to live in the water, catch a show, or ride a rollercoaster, Wisconsin Dells has it all. Grab your swimsuit and head out to the Wisconsin Dells! I guarantee you will not be disappointed!