Taking A Stroll Down Memory Lane Worth the Extra Trip

Some 150 years ago visitors first came to Wisconsin Dells for rowboat tours of the Wisconsin River. From there the tours evolved to steam paddlers, then the double-decker steel vessels of Dells Boat Tours. This fleet of 21 boats carries thousands of visitors to see what is arguably the most "classic" of the area's classic attractions - the "dells" rock formations that tower above the river. At the Stand Rock shore landing, the photo that made the Dells famous - of photographer H.H. Bennett's son caught mid-air leaping from one rock bluff to another - is now recreated with a trusty dog. There is a second shore landing at Witches Gulch. This tour company has exclusive rights to these historic landings along the Upper and Lower Dells.

In 1875, H.H. Bennett, a Civil War veteran, returned to his hometown of Wisconsin Dells and opened a photography studio. His images of the Wisconsin River and towering sandstone bluffs were used in early promotional pieces that helped draw attention to the scenery and bring visitors to the area. Considered among the finest landscape photographers in the country, he revolutionized the photography world with his 1888 invention of the stop-action camera shutter. His original studio, with gallery of photos, still stands today on Broadway and is believed to be the oldest business in the Dells.

It was back in 1956 that Dr. R.O. Ebert started the horse-drawn wagon tours through Lost Canyon, the longest and deepest land canyon in Wisconsin. In 1967, the Kissack families took over the business and still operate it today, doing their part to maintain this natural treasure. Visitors ride through a mile of cliff-walled gorges in comfortable yet quaint horse-drawn carriages. At the narrowest passages, the guides must talk the horses through the tight squeeze. In some of the deeper parts, the sheer rock and sandstone wall have not felt the touch of the sun in more than 50,000 years.

Perhaps best known of the Wisconsin River tour options is the area’s fleet of WWII amphibious vehicles known by their military shorthand - Ducks. These land-to-water transports provide up-close and personal encounters with flora, fauna, the river and the bluffs. It was shortly after World War II ended that these unique vehicles began their new tour of duty in the Dells. The first “Duck” tour was back in 1946, and they’ve been operating continuously since. The operation has grown to 92 vehicles, making it the largest fleet of amphibious tour Ducks in the country and a classic Dells’ attraction.

It was back in 1952 that Tommy Bartlett brought his traveling Water Ski & Jumping Boat Thrill Show to perform for what was to have been a limited run in Wisconsin Dells. Instead, the show never left. Today, it is the longest-running, live, outdoor entertainment show of its kind. In fact, more than 20 million spectators have taken their seats in the amphitheater-style stands and enjoyed 90 minutes of daring waterskiing stunts, wholesome comedy, and Cirque du Soleil-style acrobatics. The show brings entertainers from around the globe together on one stage from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day.

In 1951, Russ Tollaksen conceived of an idea to show the beauty of deer and other forest creatures in their natural habitat, so he built Wisconsin Deer Park. He managed the park until 1976 when he sold it to his son Peter, who still owns it today, with grandson Aaron now running the park. This 28-acre parcel is home to some 100 deer from seven different countries. Visitors walk through the exhibit to feed, pet and photograph the animals. The staff is always happy to answer questions and provide information about the rich history of Wisconsin Deer Park.

In 1917, the Loomis family turned their four-bedroom farmhouse into a modest B&B, and that was the beginning of Birchcliff Resort. Then, in the 1930s they expanded, sprinkling cabins throughout the property, which are tucked back in the woods. There’s a hiking trail to the Wisconsin River, outdoor pool, volleyball, basketball and shuffle board. Each cabin has a park-style charcoal grill and picnic table. It’s charming, quiet after 10 p.m., and the staff is as friendly as you’ll find anywhere. Be sure to saunter out for the evening bonfire and appreciate the conversation and star gazing.

The year was 1951, and Joe and Vera Kaminski built their resort business around the popular "American plan" in which meals were included with lodging. The owners doubled as members of the house band too. In the 1960s, the next generation of Kaminskis took over, ushering in an era of expansion and big name performers, making Chula Vista the area’s first nightclub. Another 20 years passed, and grandson Mike Kaminski joined the business. Today, the resort has more than 600 rooms and condos, expansive meeting space, indoor and outdoor waterparks, restaurants and an 18-hole golf course.

This pretty little motel coexists very nicely with all the expansion of Wisconsin Dells. That can certainly be attributed to the owners’ good foresight in keeping all the things families have loved about staying here since it first opened in 1955, like the quaint rooms with original Ponderosa pine boards, a garden courtyard, picnic areas, and playground with mile-high swings and plenty of grass to play on. There’s a private, heated pool too. Guests are known to stroll next door to sample the delicious homemade food at the Cheese Factory Restaurant, run by the same owners.

It was back in 1948 that this pretty little resort overlooking Lake Delton was first established. Always owned by families, it’s no wonder it is known for its family-friendly ways. In fact, over the course of 70 years, thousands have found their way to Delton Oaks for a lakeside vacation experience that was sure to include swimming, fishing and boating. The sandy beach and heated outdoor pool might just be the favorite amenities. No need to leave the pets at home either, thanks to the resort’s pet-friendly policy. While a guest, be sure to take a rowboat or paddle boat out for a leisurely tour of the lake. If it sounds peaceful, it is, even though you’re just a minute or two from the city’s main thoroughfares.

Joan and Bill Fitzgerald opened their motel in 1949. It was a simpler time when families took a week off for summer vacation and there was time to visit. Today, families return to Fitzgerald's for that nostalgic vacation experience, telling the current owners the place "feels like home." If you're on the second floor, you'll be looking out at a wonderful vista of downtown Wisconsin Dells. Begin the day with a great cup of complimentary coffee and then stroll out to the heated pool, a favorite gathering spot for guests. All in all, the rates are attractive and so is the spirit of hospitality.

It started out as an eight-room tourist hotel at the bend in the road on Hwy. 13. Visitors were apt to arrive by train, greeted by a staff member who would ferry them to the resort in a Chrysler "woodie" station wagon. It wasn't unusual for guests to stay a week or two. Old times tell of Al Capone and Charlie Chaplin vacationing here. On Meadowbrook's 50th anniversary, the Kalcik family purchased it and undertook a full renovation, but still keeping the original lodge. This is a favorite for family reunions, with its northwoods charm, indoor and outdoor pools and eco-friendly philosophy.

The Sandrift was built in 1960, and since then a handful of different families have lovingly cared for the property, each adding their own touches. But it was the 1980s, when the resort received a fresh coat of peach paint with green accents that the "Peach on the Beach" moniker came to be. Today, owners Linda and Chris Allessi treat guests to units that open onto the sandy beach of pretty Lake Delton, row boats and canoes, bonfires on the beach, and a great night's sleep. Choose from the two-bedroom beach house, two-bedroom family units, studio kitchenettes or deluxe townhouse.

Paul Rogan and David and Elinore Gasser opened Yogi Bear's Camp-Resort & Water Playground in 1971 with a goal of providing an affordable vacation experience with nice amenities too. The opening was the Fourth of July and it was a sell-out. At the time of its creation, it was the first “luxury” campground in the nation. Today Yogi Bear's continues to offer Dells’ visitors a classic vacation experience with nearly 400 camp sites and 51 rental units set on 67 scenic acres. Plus, kids of all ages can splash around in the water playground, and there is an array of new activities nearly every week.

Welcome to our lively, spacious contemporary steak house. Established in 1939 the Del-Bar was designed by a protege of Frank Lloyd Wright. Enjoy a unique architectural setting accented with original art, beautifully appointed dining rooms and cocktail lounge. Our casual elegant style makes the Del-Bar a favorite place to relax and meet friends. You'll enjoy exceptional service with generous smiles and the highest quality prime grade beef, aged for flavor & tenderness and the freshest seafood.

Since 1959, House of Embers has prided itself on its fine family traditions. Wally and Barbara Obois opened and then ran the restaurant with their five children until their retirement in 1998. Wally decided that his restaurant would be famous for tender hickory smoked BBQ ribs. Barbara, not to be outdone, came up with the formula for the incredible cinnamon rolls. Their two sons, graduates of the prestigious Culinary Institute of America, and their sister Deb, now own the business. They still use the same recipes and techniques developed years ago that first made the House of Embers famous.

Ishnala means “by itself alone” in the language of the Winnebago Indians. Located deep in the woods and perched high above picturesque Mirror Lake, the land was once used by the Winnebago Indians as a ceremonial ground. In the early 1800s, a log cabin trading post was erected there. The current restaurant structure amazingly still has the original stone fireplace, log walls and staircase from that trading post. With Frank Sinatra music lilting in the background, and lobster and New York Strip served all around, it’s a slice of perfection. Open Memorial Day through Labor Day.

For Wisconsin Dells insiders, the place for burgers is Monk’s Bar & Grill, located in an 1800s-era building smack dab in the middle of downtown. Monk Burgers have been legendary since 1947, when owner Monk Heineke first wafted the smell of burgers and onions frying all the way up and down the main street. Monk called it “aroma marketing,” and it has lured customers in the door for more than 60 years. Monk’s is one of the oldest restaurants in Wisconsin Dells and many tasty traditions continue yet today. Wisconsinites enjoy the fact that it’s also a shrine for Badger memorabilia.

Showboat Saloon has anchored the corner of Broadway and La Crosse Streets since 1907. While it’s always housed a bar, local lore has it that it was a speakeasy in the basement that served up alcoholic beverages during Prohibition. Today, it’s the summertime home of The Swing Crew and a perennial Karaoke hotspot. There’s live music in the winter months too. Both locals and tourists recommend it for classic beverages and easy-going fun. Check their events calendar online.

Thompson’s Flowers and Greenhouses opened in 1947 when George and Louise Thompson started providing beautiful flowers and plants for every sort of special occasion and community gathering imaginable. In 1975, they sold the business to their daughter and her husband, who carry on the tradition. Many of the plants at Wisconsin Dells-area hotels, attractions, restaurants and public areas are sourced from their greenhouses. For this family business, classic means gorgeous plants and flowers, quality service and community spirit. They deliver to a large area too.