Until 1931, this city was called Kilbourn, but it changed its name in the hope of attracting tourists to the nearby Dells. It seems to have worked—the Wisconsin Dells has become the state's prime tourist attraction. This burgeoning destination quickly became one of the top spots for family travel in the Midwest. Walk through downtown or visit some of the area attractions and there will be no mistaking the focus on tourism. Although some aspects of the Dells lean toward the tacky side, the overall feel is good, clean fun.

The Wisconsin Dells are well equipped for the throngs of tourists who stop through here every summer. The region offers a wide selection of campgrounds, bed-and-breakfasts, hotels, motels, resorts, condos, and cottages; of these, more than 40 welcome guests with pets, and 17 house indoor water parks. Man-made and natural attractions keep visitors from lingering too long at area accommodations.

Families can explore the Upper and Lower Dells on a Dells Boat Tour or the water- and land-based environs on an original World War II Duck. Take to the water in the largest indoor water park in the United States at Kalahari Resort & Convention Center, or at Noah’s Ark, America’s largest water park, housing 5 million gallons of water and 3 miles of water slides. Uncover the enchantment under the Big Top at Circus World Museum in nearby Baraboo, take a wagon tour through a working elk ranch (Nanchas Elk Ranch Tours, phone 608/524-4355), or ride the rails through the Baraboo Hills at the Mid-Continent Railway Museum (phone 608/522-4261).

Spectators flock to the Tommy Bartlett show, where entertainers amaze through daring feats in the water, on stage, and in the sky. Fast-paced action circles the track at the Dells Motor Speedway—the place to head for stock car racing (phone 608/345-7274). Those in search of quieter pursuits can stroll along the new RiverWalk in the downtown Dells River District. The 1,100-foot walkway is equipped with a bicycle path, benches, and game tables. Mirror Lake State Park and Rocky Arbor State Park are two other places to commune with nature, or tour the vineyards at Prairie du Sac's Wollersheim Winery, the largest producer of wine in Wisconsin.

Sports-minded visitors will find five horseback riding stables, several championship golf courses, and ample space to reel in the catch of the day. Fish for walleye, trout, bass, catfish, northern pike, and muskellunge—all are plentiful in the area.