Top 9 Winter Activities in Wisconsin Dells (Ranked)
When the slides close and the snow starts to fall, Wisconsin Dells transforms from the “Waterpark Capital of the World” into one of the best winter getaways in the Midwest. Whether you’re after festive lights, indoor adventure, or cozy seasonal fun, these are the top 9 winter activities in Wisconsin Dells — ranked.
1. Legacy Dinner Theater – Best Overall Winter Experience
If you do just one thing in the Dells this winter, make it the Christmas in the Dells Dinner Show at the Legacy Dinner Theater.
This multi-million-dollar holiday production combines Broadway-style performances, a living nativity, and a four-course dinner — all inside a warm, festive setting. It’s over-the-top in the best way, complete with dancing elves, pyrotechnics, and classic Christmas songs.
Why It’s #1:
- A full holiday spectacle you can only see in the Dells
- Dinner included with every ticket
- Great for couples, families, or groups
📍 564 Wisconsin Dells Pkwy S
🌐 legacydinnertheater.com
2. Cascade Mountain – Best Outdoor Winter Adventure
When it comes to outdoor winter fun near Wisconsin Dells, Cascade Mountain is king. Just 15 minutes south of downtown, this ski and snow-tubing destination spans 175 acres of terrain with 48 trails, 4 terrain parks, and a 900-foot long tubing hill featuring a high-speed lift. The runs range from gentle beginner slopes to black-diamond challenges like Far Out and Manitowoc, giving everyone — from first-timers to experts — something to carve into. Cascade also boasts 11 lifts, modern snowmaking, and a massive base lodge with a restaurant, rental shop, and fireplaces for warming up between runs.
One of its best features in winter? Kids 12 and under ski free with a paying adult, making it one of the best family values in the Midwest. Even if you’re not into skiing, the tubing park alone is worth the trip — multiple lanes, conveyor lift to the top, and night lighting for evening sessions.
Why It’s #2:
- 47 trails, 4 terrain parks, and 15 tubing lanes
- Free lift tickets for kids 12 and under
- Close enough for a half-day or full-day trip
📍 W10441 Cascade Mountain Rd, Portage
🌐 cascademountain.com
3. Aquavia Lumina – Most Unique Night Experience
Winter nights in the Dells get magical at Aquavia Lumina, an immersive one-mile light trail by Moment Factory (the same creators behind Astra Lumina). Walk through glowing portals, light tunnels, and soundscapes inspired by water, moonlight, and the Dells’ natural beauty.
Why It’s #3:
- Stunning visuals and music for all ages
- Open year-round, but extra enchanting in snow
- Perfect evening activity after dinner
📍 511 Wisconsin Dells Pkwy S
🌐 aquavialumina.com
4. Red Ridge Riding Stable – Best Sleigh Ride in the Dells
Nothing says “winter wonderland” like a horse-drawn sleigh ride through snowy woods. At Red Ridge Riding Stable, you’ll glide through pine forest trails, cozy under blankets as the horses trot through the snow. Private and group rides are available, and it’s a great option for couples or families.
Why It’s #4:
- Classic holiday activity with real horses
- Scenic wooded trails just minutes from downtown
- Warm-hearted, family-run local business
📍 W4881 Hwy 23, Mauston (10 min from the Dells)
🌐 redridgeridingstable.com
5. Take Flight at The Wilderness – Coolest Indoor Attraction
If you’re looking for something totally different from the usual waterparks and arcades, Take Flight at The Wilderness delivers a next-level experience. This soaring “flying theater” lifts you into the air in front of a five-story, 65-foot-wide curved screen, surrounding you with motion, wind, mist, and scent effects that make you feel like you’re truly flying. The ride features multiple films throughout the year — from the crowd-favorite World Flight (an aerial journey across the globe) to seasonal specials like Flight of the North Pole during the holidays. The attraction is housed inside the massive Wilderness Resort complex, which spans over 600 acres and features multiple indoor waterparks, restaurants, and lodging options. Take Flight uses multi-row gondolas that seat 60 people per show, making it one of the largest immersive rides in Wisconsin. It’s family-friendly yet thrilling enough for adults, and because it’s entirely indoors, it’s one of the best things to do on a cold or snowy Dells day.
Why It’s #5:
- Feels like Disney’s “Soarin’” ride — but in the Dells
- Warm, cozy, and family-friendly
- Great add-on if you’re staying at the Wilderness
📍 511 E Adams St (Wilderness Resort)
🌐 wildernessresort.com/take-flight
6. See the Tree of Light Downtown – Best Free Holiday Activity
Downtown Wisconsin Dells glows in winter thanks to the Tree of Light, a massive illuminated tree that anchors the downtown holiday decor. Grab a cup of hot cocoa, walk the decorated streets, and snap a few festive photos.
Why It’s #6:
- Free and family-friendly
- Perfect evening stroll after dinner or shopping
- Great backdrop for holiday photos
📍 Downtown Wisconsin Dells (Broadway & Superior St)
7. Asgard Axe Throwing – Best Group Activity for Adults
Warm up indoors at Asgard Axe Throwing, where you can test your aim, grab local craft beer, and compete in fun axe-throwing games. It’s surprisingly social and a perfect change of pace from family-centric attractions. In addition to the axe throwing, there’s a full arcade downstairs at Asgard Underground, where you can get unlimited play all day for $25.
Why It’s #7:
- Indoor, adult-friendly fun
- Food, drinks, and competitions available
- Walk-ins welcome or book a lane in advance
📍 714 Broadway St, Wisconsin Dells
🌐 asgardaxethrow.com
8. Knuckleheads Trampoline & Indoor Amusement Park – Best for Rain or Deep Freeze Days
When it’s too cold to be outside, Knuckleheads delivers. This massive 80,000-square-foot indoor complex packs in everything from go-karts and cosmic bowling to a full trampoline park and arcade. The trampoline area is one of the biggest in the Midwest, with slam-dunk basketball lanes, dodgeball courts, and a giant air-bag jump. The arcade features over 100 ticket and prize games, including fan favorites like Down the Clown, Jurassic Park Arcade, and Halo: Fireteam Raven. For rides, there’s an indoor roller coaster, bumper cars, tornado ride, ropes course, and the Jumping Pillow for younger kids. Families often spend a full day here, breaking it up with lunch at the on-site Knuckleheads Grill before heading back for cosmic bowling under black lights.
Why It’s #8:
- One of the biggest indoor attractions in the Dells
- Variety for all ages
- Located near Outlets and major resorts
📍 150 Gasser Rd, Baraboo
🌐 knuckleheadspark.com
9. Holiday Shopping at Tanger Outlets – Best Place to Finish Your Trip
Wrap up your Dells winter trip with a stop at Tanger Outlets, where you can find deals at Nike, Columbia, Under Armour, Bath & Body Works, and more. During December, the walkways are lit with garlands and music, adding to the holiday charm.
Why It’s #9:
- Over 60 brand-name stores
- Heated indoor rest stops for cold days
- Ideal for last-minute gifts or cozy winter gear
📍 210 Gasser Rd, Wisconsin Dells
🌐 tangeroutlets.com/wisconsindells
Conclusion: Which Winter Activity Should You Choose?
If you want the full holiday spectacle, start with Legacy Dinner Theater. For outdoor adventure, Cascade Mountain and Red Ridge Stable can’t be beat. If you’re looking for something immersive, check out Aquavia Lumina or Take Flight. And when the snow’s coming down, Knuckleheads, Asgard, and Tanger Outlets keep the fun (and warmth) going indoors.
Winter in Wisconsin Dells isn’t just an off-season — it’s a whole new adventure.
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