Wisconsin Dells Family Vacations

At first glance, you wouldn't think a 19-square-mile city in central Wisconsin with a population of just over 5,000 would garner much attention. But the Wisconsin Dells are much different than most small towns. With 21 indoor and outdoor water parks, this self-proclaimed "water park capital of the world" does in fact boast the greatest concentration of H2O-themed attractions anywhere. More than three million tourists a year visit the Dells, named for the dells of the Wisconsin River which run through here, providing striking scenic views of sandstone formations along its banks.

It's this natural beauty that made the Dells a popular destination for Midwestern vacationers since the mid 1800s, long before water parks became the area's claim to fame. The area has long been known for its propensity of G-rated, all-age family fun, from the water parks to boat tours, amusement parks, live entertainment and classic Midwest supper-club dining. But it was in 1994 that things really took off in the Dells, when the Polynesian Resort became the first property in the country to open an enclosed water park here. Since then, this small city has boasted nothing but big numbers: the most hotel rooms of any city in the state (more than 8,000), more than 200 water slides and 15.7 million gallons of water in use here at any given time during high season), and a local economy that brings in more than $500 million a year.