Wisconsin Dells continues to amaze students as major waterpark and amusement destination

With more than 200 waterslides and fantasy-themed scavenger hunts, Wisconsin Dells provides endless entertainment experiences.

This year, Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin, celebrates 15 years as the “Waterpark Capital of the World®” — being home to more waterparks per capita compared to anywhere else on the globe. In addition to the city’s more than 200 waterslides, Wisconsin Dells features additional amusement activities and attractions perfect for students.

“The range of attractions in such a close proximity within Wisconsin Dells cannot be beat,” said Leah Hauck-Mills, communications manager at the Wisconsin Dells Visitor & Convention Bureau. “There are attractions found here that are nowhere else in the world, like the International Crane Foundation, the only place in the world you can see all 15 species of cranes!”

The Wisconsin Dells Visitor and Convention Bureau can help secure lodging and build itineraries fit for student groups.

“We offer a variety of complimentary services to assist planners,” Hauck-Mills said. “Our list of services include virtual and in-person site tours; customizable maps, itineraries and welcome bags; and pre-event mailings with our Wisconsin Dells Vacation Guide.”

A top attraction is Chula Vista Resort’s indoor and outdoor waterparks; drift around Mayan ruins in the rapid lazy river or race against friends on the Matador Mat Racers waterslide at Los Rios indoor water park. Open seasonally, the resort’s outdoor waterpark includes an 80-foot drop, wave pool and sport pool — among other features.

Meal packages and additional outdoor amenities are included in a group package, with discounts for student groups of 10 or more.

Kalahari Resort & Convention Center’s Wisconsin Dells location is home to the state’s largest indoor waterpark — 125,000 square feet in size with experiences ranging from leisurely to thrilling. Enjoy a relaxing ride down the Lazy River or dare to try the Screaming Hyena — towering 60 feet above the waterpark floor and plummeting thrill seekers at 25 miles per hour.

Other waterparks in Wisconsin Dells include Great Wolf Lodge Waterpark, Mt. Olympus Water & Theme Park and Wilderness Resort Waterpark.

More than waterparks

Looking for other entertaining options for students in the region? Wizard Quest opened in November 2021. The interactive scavenger hunt challenges students with riddles and other problem-solving opportunities in a live-setting, fantasy-themed labyrinth.

“The new location is three times larger than the current location and goes from three to 32 different experiences,” Hauck-Mills said.

Moving into the building previously occupied by Wizard Quest is Ripley’s Believe It or Not!. During the move, Ripley’s will turn over nearly 100% of its exhibits to make way for new ones.

Students can immerse in the world of circus entertainment at Circus World Museum, showcasing historic Ringlingville and circus heritage in the surrounding area. The attraction is open seasonally.

“The tour includes a visit to the largest collection of circus wagons in the world,” Hauck-Mills said.

Located about an hour from Wisconsin Dells, The House on the Rock is an easily accessible student-day trip. The site, once the dream home of Alex Jordan, is built atop a chimney of rocks. With three tour experiences, students will explore the original sections of the home including the Sculpture Garden, Asian Garden, Japanese Gardens, Infinity Room, The Gate House and Alex Jordan Center.

The House on the Rock’s many exhibits offer students the chance to see over 200 model ship displays, a re-creation of a 19th-century street and the world’s largest indoor carousel — among other sights.

“The complexity of architecture featured will be a favorite for kids and adults alike,” Hauck-Mills said.

Waterways, forests and glacier-carved sandstone formations are abundant in Wisconsin Dells, making it a popular outdoor adventure draw, as well an amusement destination. Hauck-Mills suggests groups soak in the stunning landscapes with a scenic tour.

“Tours range from boat, zipline or on one of the famous WWII amphibious vehicles known as DUCKS,” Hauck-Mills said.

New student-friendly experiences have come to Wisconsin Dells region this year. Reopening after a $10 million renovation, the International Crane Foundation is the only place in the world visitors can see all 15 species of cranes. The Mid-Continent Railway Museum recently debuted a massive exhibit expansion; learn about the golden age of train travel along with a round trip train ride in a restored steel coach. Both experiences are open seasonally; check out their websites for more information.

For more information, contact Wisconsin Dells Visitor & Convention Bureau at 800-223-3557 or visit wisdells.com.