It's Time To Plan a Trip to the 'Waterpark Capital of the World'—Here Are the 18 Best Wisconsin Dells Resorts

To people outside the Midwest, "Wisconsin" and "summer getaway" don't necessarily go hand-in-hand. If anything, the state is on people's bucket lists because they want to sit at the legendary Lambeau Field and watch the Packers play in freezing-cold December weather.

But Midwesterners and water slide enthusiasts worldwide know that Wisconsin Dells is the perfect spot for a vacation. "The Waterpark Capital of the World" boasts more than 20 waterparks. Some are located within resorts, allowing families to roll out of bed and slide into their days with a jolt better than any latte. It's also naturally home to the world's largest waterpark, Noah's Ark, a 70-acre family-friendly destination.

Aside from amusement parks, Wisconsin Dells offers lakefront vistas and plenty of opportunities to hike. It's the ideal spot for active families—but even energizer bunny types need some time to unwind. When the adventure of your choice is done, you can retreat to cozy accommodations at one of these 18 Wisconsin Dells resorts.

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18 Best Wisconsin Dells Resorts

1. Baker's Sunset Bay Resort

Situated on Lake Delton, Baker's Sunset Bay Resort likes to tout that it's on the "quieter" side of the Dells. Still, it offers proximity to the area's most noted attraction, Noah's Ark. On the grounds, families can access amenities like double kayaks, large indoor and outdoor pools and a hot tub for free.

2. Chula Vista Resort, Trademark Collection by Wyndham

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This sprawling resort offers more than 200,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor waterparks, making it a year-round destination. Guests can choose from various accommodations, including guest rooms, suites and condos. There's also an 18-hole golf course, spa and arcade .

3. Glacier Canyon Lodge

Picture it: The nation's largest Waterpark Resort in the world's Waterpark Captial. Glacier Canyon Lodge's grounds include four indoor and four outdoor waterparks, three mega-arcades, about a dozen dining options, Go Karts, a spa and an 18-hole championship golf course.

4. Grand Marquis Waterpark Hotel

An indoor pool and waterpark ensure that a little rain won't ruin your plans. Free Noah's Ark passes are also included with a stay. Back on site, three hot tubs are ideal for resting weary legs, especially ones belonging to parents.

5. Great Wolf Lodge

This popular chain hotel is a hit with families at locations all over the country, including the Poconos (Pa.) and Niagara (N.Y.). Wisconsin Dells is no exception. The all-suite hotel gives families plenty of room. Kid-friendly amenities include a waterpark, arcade and ice cream kids' spa. A full-service adult spa is perfect for recovering from their sugar rush and crash.

6. Ho-Chunk Gaming

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This casino has 24-hour slot machines and high-stakes bingo, serving as an adult's-only alternative to Vegas. Forget driving anywhere and spend the night. The resort-style lodging includes 302 rooms and suites, and guests gain access to a pool, hot tub and sauna. Food and drink options include a spirits bar, grill and Mexican restaurant.

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7. Atlantis Hotel Wisconsin Dells

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Situated in the heart of Wisconsin Dells, Atlantis Family Waterpark Hotel's amenities include free Noah's Ark Waterpark tickets through Labor Day. Pools stay open late, and some suites have bunk beds (always fun for siblings).

8. Kalhari Resorts & Conventions

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This expansive 125,000-square-foot resort features an indoor waterpark, outdoor waterpark and adventure park. Spa services and a salt room with purported immune-boosting benefits are also on site.

9. Delton Oaks Resort

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This laidback resort is two miles from Noah's Ark. But people hoping to make a different kind of splash will love that there's a beach on the grounds. Some rooms have lakeside patios.

10. Mount Olympus Theme Park & Resort

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This already-sprawling resort recently upgraded, adding 22,500 square feet and the first rotating water slide (essentially a Ferris Wheel-meets-water-slide extravaganza) in the U.S. Forget sitting in traffic and parking en route to experience the novelty. Some rooms are less than a minute away from the waterparks. Camping opportunities on a tent site or in cabins are also available to families.

11. Wintergreen Resort & Conference Center

This resort is a hot spot for weddings and family vacationers. Indoor and outdoor waterparks boast slides for toddlers to teens.

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12. Sundara Inn & Spa

This adults-only oasis is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year and is an ideal spot for a digital detox and a chance to catch up on Zzzs. Common areas are electronic-free, and lush featherbeds make it a destination for "sleep tourists." Other buzzy wellness activities include purifying bath rituals with hot-and-cold plunge pools, aqua yoga, and suites with enclosed patios designed for a private hot soak (consider it a spa within a spa).

13. Delton Grand Resort

Situated right on the shores of Lake Delton, this spa resort is full of privately-owned villas that owners share with vacationers. It makes for a unique, off-the-beaten-path experience for guests, who can enjoy watersports, fishing, boating and a day at the full-menu spa.

14. Birchcliff Resort

This wooded-cabin resort surrounded by State Forests offers an alternative to the more quintessential accommodations in Wisconsin Dells. The serene setting provides a chance to bask in the area's natural beauty. A hiking trail leads to a beach and there's a community campfire, petting zoo (seriously) and heated pool.

15. Cliffside Resort & Suites

This resort overlooking Lake Delton has indoor and outdoor pools with waterfront vistas for days. Guests can fish and sunbathe on the dock or unwind in a sauna. Two-person jacuzzi suites scream, "romantic getaway."

16. River's Edge Resort

The resort name isn't just for show. River's Edge is set on the Wisconsin River, giving way to gorgeous views. Rooms and cabins are rustic and straightforward, leaning into the relaxed vibe. Noah's Ark Waterpark is three miles away.

17. Natura Treescape Resort

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A hop, skip and a jump from Timbavati Wildlife Park and two miles from Noah's Ark, Natura Treescape Resort offers land-and-sea-style adventures. Passes to both attractions are free. It's also not far from Ho-Chunk, and a casino shuttle is complimentary. Some cabins boast treehouse themes sure to earn you "cool parent" status—if only for a limited time.

18. Tamarack Resort Wisconsin Dells

This condo resort offers plenty of elbow room for families—and entertainment. Indoor and outdoor pools, tennis courts, a game room and a fitness center will keep people active, even when post-waterpark.

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