Wisconsin Dells Trip Itinerary from St. Paul via Amtrak

Day 1: Travel to Wisconsin Dells

Morning: Depart from St. Paul Amtrak Station early morning. Enjoy scenic views along the route on the Amtrak Empire Builder.

Afternoon: Continue traveling; pack snacks for a budget-friendly lunch on the train.

Evening: Arrive in Wisconsin Dells. Check into an affordable motel or budget-friendly lodging near downtown. Have dinner at a casual local spot offering inexpensive comfort food.

Day 2: Explore Noah’s Ark Water Park

Morning: Head to Noah’s Ark Water Park, America’s largest water park. Spend the morning enjoying wave pools and slides.

Afternoon: Continue exploring the park’s attractions. Eat an economical lunch at the park’s budget-friendly food stands.

Evening: Return to your lodging and walk to a local deli or takeout for an affordable dinner option.

Day 3: Visit Kalahari Resort Waterpark & Downtown Dells

Morning: Spend the morning at the Kalahari Resort Indoor Waterpark, enjoying various water rides and pools.

Afternoon: Grab a casual lunch at Kalahari’s food court. Then, explore Downtown Wisconsin Dells for budget shopping and sightseeing.

Evening: Have dinner at a low-cost pizzeria or café downtown to keep expenses low.

Day 4: Local Parks & Departure Prep

Morning: Visit Rodeo Grounds Park or Lake Delton Beach for free outdoor relaxation and light walking.

Afternoon: Enjoy a packed or inexpensive lunch from a grocery store picnic. Prepare and pack for departure.

Evening: Early dinner at a budget diner near the hotel. Rest early for next day’s travel.

Day 5: Travel Back to St. Paul

Morning: Check out and board the Amtrak Empire Builder back to St. Paul.

Afternoon: Continue relaxing on the train with personal snacks or meals purchased beforehand to reduce costs.

Evening: Arrive back at St. Paul Amtrak Station and conclude the trip.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Amtrak Empire Builder (Round Trip): ~12 hours each way, Estimated cost: $70 - $90 each way ($140 - $180 total)
• Noah’s Ark Water Park: Full day (~6-8 hours), Admission: Approx. $45
• Kalahari Resort Indoor Waterpark: Half to full day (~5-6 hours), Admission: Approx. $50
• Affordable lodging (4 nights): Approx. $60 per night, Total: $240
• Meals (5 days, self-catered/cheap eats): Approx. $15 per day, Total: $75

Total Estimated Cost: $550 - $600

Tips

To extend the trip, consider adding an extra day for local hiking or visiting additional attractions like the Tommy Bartlett Show to diversify your experience. For a shorter trip, focus on just one water park and reduce lodging by choosing overnight travel options (e.g., night train) to maximize full days at the parks and minimize overnight hotel costs.