The historic side of Wisconsin Dells offers more substance than its waterpark fame suggests. Two trolley tours stand out: The City and History Tour excels with its comprehensive circuit of downtown landmarks and natural attractions, delivering reliable information in a well-organized format. The Haunted History tour, while occasionally uneven in its presentation, provides an atmospheric evening experience through the city’s spookier locations and burial grounds. For serious history buffs, the City tour proves most worthwhile, thanks to its detailed commentary and strategic photo stops. Let’s explore the best historical tours this Midwestern destination has to offer.
Good To Know
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The City and History Trolley Tour provides a scenic loop showcasing local history and trivia with several stops, including downtown Dells, Mirror Lake, and the Wisconsin River.
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The Haunted History Trolley Tour explores local legends and haunted buildings, with a visit to a cemetery and ghost hunting with dousing rods, although the storytelling clarity and organization receive mixed reviews.
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Both tours offer knowledgeable and friendly guides, but the Haunted History Trolley Tour is criticized for dragging on and failing to meet the tour description, with recommendations for improved storytelling and more stops.
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The City and History Trolley Tour is generally rated as fun and entertaining, with opportunities to get out, look around, and take photos, but is not wheelchair accessible and has some complaints about scenic and historical content.
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Improvements for both tours are needed in terms of better organization, increased number of stops, clearer storytelling, enhanced scenic value, historical content, and consideration for accessibility for all guests.
Haunted History Trolley Tour in Wisconsin Dells
Departing from the Bobbers Island Grill in Wisconsin Dells, the Haunted History Trolley Tour takes visitors on a spine-chilling journey through the region’s haunted past.
This 2-hour tour aboard an air-conditioned vehicle explores local legends and haunted buildings, with the highlight being a visit to a nearby cemetery. Guests are given the opportunity to do some ghost hunting with dousing rods, though some have found the storytelling to be vague and disorganized.
While the tour is generally enjoyed by families, with the guide praised for being knowledgeable and friendly, not all guests are satisfied.
Some feel the tour drags on and that the limited stops for exploration fail to live up to the tour’s description. Recommendations for improvement include enhancing the clarity and organization of the storytelling, increasing the number of stops, and providing a guided flashlight tour of notable graves in the cemetery.
Read our full review: Haunted History Trolley Tour in Wisconsin Dells Review
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City and History Trolley Tour in Wisconsin Dells
The City and History Trolley Tour in Wisconsin Dells takes visitors on a scenic loop showcasing the local history and trivia of this popular vacation destination. The air-conditioned trolley tour lasts approximately 60 minutes and can accommodate up to 24 travelers at a time.
Along the way, the fully guided and narrated service provides opportunities to get out, look around, and take photos at several stops, including downtown Dells, Mirror Lake, and the Wisconsin River.
With an overall rating of 4.1 from 99 reviews, the tour is generally considered fun and entertaining, though some customers have complained about disorganized tours and long-winded narration. Guides like Brian are praised for their knowledgeable and humorous presentations of local history.
The tour is suitable for all ages and runs year-round, making it a convenient option for first-day orientation to plan vacation activities. However, it isn’t wheelchair accessible, and some reviewers found the scenic value and historical content lacking.
Read our full review: City and History Trolley Tour in Wisconsin Dells Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for the Tours?
The minimum age requirement for historical tours can vary, but is typically around 5-8 years old. It’s best to check with the tour operator for their specific age policies before booking.
Do the Tours Operate Year-Round or Only Seasonally?
The tours operate seasonally, typically running from spring through fall when the weather is most favorable for outdoor activities. Many tour providers adjust their schedules to accommodate the seasonal demands and fluctuations in tourism.
Are the Tours Wheelchair Accessible?
Most historical tours in the area offer wheelchair accessibility, allowing all visitors to explore the region’s rich history. Tour operators strive to accommodate guests with mobility challenges, ensuring an inclusive and enjoyable experience.
Can Private Group Tours Be Arranged?
Yes, many historical tour providers in the area offer private group tours that can be customized to suit the needs and interests of the group. Groups can often arrange special accommodations and personalized experiences through these private tours.
Are There Any Discounts or Package Deals Available?
Many historical tour providers in the area offer discounts for larger groups and package deals that bundle multiple attractions. Customers should inquire about any special offers when booking their tours to maximize their savings.
The Sum Up
The Haunted History Trolley Tour and the City and History Trolley Tour offer visitors to Wisconsin Dells the chance to explore the area’s rich history and haunting legends. These tours provide an engaging and informative way to learn about the unique past of this popular Midwestern destination. Whether you’re interested in the paranormal or just want to explore the region’s fascinating heritage, these historical tours are a must-do activity in Wisconsin Dells.