I am taking the wife and kids to the Dells for Spring Break this year. Anyone have any neat ideas for cheap entertainment. We are staying at a resort with a water park, so the biggest entertainment is already taken care of, but I was thinking of maybe finding something outside the hotel and water park that would be interesting and cheap. Kids are 8 and 14.

Thanks.

See ya in the skies!!!

My parents took us to the Dells almost every summer.
I recommend the Wonder Spot. It's somewhat hokey, but it's definitely interesting and pretty low rent.
If you have a fist full of dollars, then by all means 'ride the ducks'! Not the cheapest ride in town, but definitely a fun way to kill a few hours with the kiddies.
Big chief coaster world has a good selection of coasters and go cart tracks. If you get REAL hungry, try Paul Bunyan's "Northwoods Cook Shanty". Served 'camp style', they bring the food to the table in big serving dishes so you control your own portions. The food is pretty good, and the kids will love the experience (I always did)
Main street has a few interesting museums and shops among the tourist oriented t-shirt shops and arcades.
There are still a few goofy golf establishments, although the best ones are gone. Most are just glorified putting ranges, not really 'goofy' at all.
The jet boat ride is worth the high price.
the Mid Continent Railway museum is a fun ride for kids and adults will enjoy it too.
If you still have any cash left, your kids might like Tommy Bartlett's Water Show and Robot Museum. It's a P.T. Barnum style, tourist trap legend.
Have fun!

http://www.dells.com

The best attraction in the dells isn't in the dells. It's a few miles away in Baraboo. Circus World Museum ( http://www.circusworldmuseum.com/ ) is a real piece of history, and kids will LOVE it.

If you're looking for something a bit more relaxing, try the International Crane Foundation ( http://www.savingcranes.org/ ). It's very low rent relaxation.
And, Devils Lake State Park ( http://www.devilslakewisconsin.com/) is free. Swimming, rock climbing, nature trails, etc. Big fun, but it's self service!

One more thing you should consider is that most attractions are seasonal, and many don't open until Memorial day.

Thanks for the info. It was 30 degrees in Wisconsin this morning with highs this week to be in the 50's. I am guessing it won't be much warmer next week. Anyway, we are planning a couple of days of indoor waterpark activity, sprinkled with a few of your suggestions (indoor activities). Thanks again for the info.

See

Anyone been to the Wilderness Resort in the dells? I have been to Kalahari with my kids 3 and 1/2 and 2 in the winter and they LOVED it...wondering which is better in the summer?
Any feedback would be appreciated!