Photo: Bethany Clifford
Photo: Ramesh Chandra Nayak
Photo: Leslie Andrich
Dells Boat Tours
★4.7(1,868 reviews)$$Adventure
🕑 1-2 hours including boarding time👶 Best for ages 4 and up. Younger children enjoy spotting wildlife and hearing stories about the rock formations, while older kids and teens appreciate the geology and history. Toddlers can enjoy the ride but may get restless during the longer tours.🧡 Saved by 90+ families
About
Dells Boat Tours offers a relaxing and scenic cruise through the stunning sandstone formations of Wisconsin Dells gorge, perfect for families who want to experience the area's natural beauty without strenuous hiking. Kids stay engaged with entertaining narration that brings the rock formations to life, while parents enjoy comfortable seating on spacious pontoon boats and spectacular photo opportunities of towering cliffs and unique geological features.
Highlights
- ✓Stunning sandstone cliffs and rock formations with names like Chimney Rock and Devil's Elbow
- ✓Entertaining and educational narration tailored for all ages
- ✓Comfortable pontoon boats with good visibility from all seats
- ✓Opportunities to spot eagles, herons, and other wildlife along the shoreline
- ✓Cool respite from summer heat while still experiencing Wisconsin Dells' main attraction
Pro Tips
- 1.Book the first tour of the day for calmer waters, fewer crowds, and better wildlife spotting opportunities
- 2.Bring sunscreen and hats as there's limited shade on the pontoon boats, even on cloudy days
- 3.Sit on the right side of the boat for the best views of the most famous rock formations on the outbound journey
- 4.Arrive 15-20 minutes early to secure parking and good seats,the tour leaves promptly at scheduled times
- 5.Bring a light jacket even in summer as it can be breezy and cooler on the water
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings in late spring (May-June) or early fall (September) offer the best experience with smaller crowds, comfortable temperatures, and vibrant scenery. Avoid peak summer afternoons when boats fill quickly and temperatures soar.
What to Know
Tours typically run from late April through October, weather permitting. Tickets can be purchased at the dock or online in advance (recommended during summer weekends). The boarding area is accessible, though notify staff in advance if you need special assistance.
Seasonal Notes
Tours operate seasonally from late April through late October, weather dependent. Peak season is June through August with the most frequent departure times. Spring and fall offer beautiful foliage but more limited schedules. Book ahead for holiday weekends and peak summer weeks.
Nearby Eats
Paul Bunyan's Cook Shanty (all-you-can-eat lumberjack-themed meals kids love) and Moosejaw Pizza & Dells Brewing Co. (casual atmosphere with pizza and burgers) are both within walking distance on Broadway.
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