Zee X.
Yelp
We spent a week at the Wilderness Resort in Wisconsin Dells. Here's a quick review and some important things you should know before going...
The Wilderness is an amazing resort SPECIFICALLY GEARED TOWARD YOUNGER KIDS and families (13 yrs and under). Think, midwest Disneyland, but a waterpark version of it-- ideal for a quick one-stop getaway or best during brutal winters when you don't want to step outside.
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PROS:
- Access to all 8-something indoor and outdoor waterparks. The Waterdome wave-pool and the newest WildWest water-park were our family's go-to favs.
- Updated bedrooms, with a convenient outdoor deck and separate eating areas. (Note: Most WisDells hotel rooms are 'old,' Wilderness had one of the most recent remodels.)
- Shoutout to all the amazing indoor non-water activities (Polka-Dot-Pots, Arcades, Go-Carts, Kid-zone, Golf, Lasertag, Takeflight)
- Because the resort is huge, you will always be able to find a seat/chair no matter which waterpark you go to. (*Note, we went off-peak)
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CONS:
- Inconsistent Wifi: Although wifi was free, it kept disconnecting, and you'd have to reconnect every time you got back on your device. There's poor wifi/cell reception on the skywalk going from Wilderness Resort to Lost World/ Glacier Canyon Lodge.
- Resort Prices: Everything within the resort is overpriced, so if you don't have access to a car, or internet, be prepared to pay EXTRA for simple things. Some places DO NOT list their prices--so remember to ask before purchasing.
- Resort Food is Glum: Limited to no access to fresh fruit or veg, again this place is geared toward kids, so there are lots of burgers, fries, pizza, cheese curds, and kraft mac. The breakfast buffet is sub-par with very few and limited options, not recommended.
- Language/Communication Barrier: A majority of the front-side workers (including the front desk) were international students or those on a work-visa, English is not their first language. Be patient.
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IMPORTANT THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW:
- Better Places To Eat: *Molly's Shake Shoppe for milkshakes ($15), *Mama Tiger for something (a bit) healthy ($16), *Klondike Pizza for a whole pizza ($22), *Coffee Canteen for coffee ($4+) and pastries ($5+), and *Swimming Chicken for fried chicken ($15) and cheese curds ($15).
- Walking Time: It takes about 1.5 hours of non-stop walking, end-to-end throughout the entire resort, to visit every indoor/outdoor pool, restaurant, and convenience shop. If you have a little one, best to bring a stroller or a wagon, it's a lot of walking.
- Navigation: The whole resort is accessible via the second floor. You can get anywhere if you stay on that level. With that said, it's best to avoid rooms on the second floor, it gets loud and busy.
- Amenities: Unless you want to pay $4 for water/soda, it's best to bring your own refillable water bottle, there are water fountains located everywhere. The same can be said for snacks and food.
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3.75/5 Stars: For young kids, this is an ideal getaway! Not much to do here for adults, other than making family memories. Isn't that what vacation is about?