I like to draw a hard line between Baraboo and Wisconsin Dells. They are both fun, but in different ways. Wisconsin Dells is a tourist destination known for being “The Waterpark Capital of the World.” However, there is much more than waterparks to enjoy! Time to fill you in on the hidden gems and help you plan your dog-friendly weekend getaway or day trip to Wisconsin Dells, WI.
STAY
With two state parks and many private campgrounds in the area, there are plenty of campsites able to host you and your furry friends. Your furball is also welcome to stay with you at Delton Oaks Resort right on Lake Delton. I have heard nothing but good things, and the pet fee is only $25/night.
HIKE
What’s a dog-friendly trip without a hike?! Well fear not, I have some great hikes to wear out your pup before you head to dinner.
Option 1: Mirror Lake State Park is located on the Lake Delton side of the Dells. It's a truly stunning state park that we love! Lots of wide trails to choose from that are covered with wood chips or grass. I highly recommend the Ishnala trail and making a stop at Echo Rock. Take in the beautiful rock formation and my favorite views of the lake in about 3 miles. There is a pet picnic area, but even though this park surrounds water, there is no pet swim area.
Option 2: Chapel Gorge Trail is my personal favorite hike in the area. It's an easy out-and-back trail that totals about 2 miles. Stroll along the forest and then have a short climb down to a great beach on the Wisconsin River. It's a gorgeous place good for a picnic or for your pup to play along the shore.
Option 3: Rocky Arbor State Park has only one trail, but it takes you into a beautiful gorge. It's easy- about 1.5 miles, but bug spray is a must. There are no pet swim or picnic areas.
DINE
One thing that Wisconsin Dells has going for it is the number of patios that have dog-friendly dining. My favorite restaurant in town is The Keg & Patio. I used to bartend there when I was in college, and it's where Hayden and I met. But I'm not just being biased- it really does provide a great outdoor dining experience! They should be your #1 stop for breakfast in the Dells. Get “The Brat” breakfast sandwich– you will not regret it. If you stop for lunch or dinner I recommend the jalapeno popper dip appetizer or the “Chuckies” sandwich. Riverwalk Pub also has a fun patio right off the downtown strip. Their great sandwiches make it an ideal lunch stop. The Grateful Shed is dog-friendly inside and out. It's a unique food truck experience and definitely a spot that everyone should see at least once. They have a taco truck, a grilled cheese truck, pizzas, a full bar, and tourist town prices. Summer House on Lake Delton has great views and cocktails! Your pup can join you for food and drinks on the lower patio.
DRINK
Definitely grab a drink at the Riverfront Terrace to enjoy right along the Wisconsin River. It makes a great last stop of the night with awesome sunset views, and they often have live music. Fawn Creek Winery has a massive outdoor space with yard games, and they also have live music oftentimes on the weekends. They have a wide variety of wines, but are best known for their fruit wines. Kilbourn Kork is my favorite place to sip in the summertime. They have fireplaces and a self-serve wine bar!
EXPLORE
The famous Upper Dells Boat Tour is my favorite tourist attraction in the Dells! Doggo is welcome to join you for this gorgeous 2 hour tour. This tour stops at Witches Gultch– a famous, jaw dropping spot with funky rock formations unique to the Dells area. My last recommendation- take your bestie to one of the old time photo shops along the downtown strip and get an old time photo for kicks and giggles!
This is your friendly reminder to always keep your dog on a leash, pack enough waste bags, and bring plenty of water.🙂