A Family-Friendly Day Trip to the Wisconsin Dells from Eau Claire, WI

Looking for a quick summer getaway with the kids sans water? Just under two hours from Eau Claire, the Wisconsin Dells makes for the perfect family day trip—especially with toddlers or young kiddos in tow!

7:00-8:00 AM | Hit the Road

We hit the road around 7:30 AM, aiming to maximize our time in the Dells. If you're like us and need a little caffeine kick to start the day, grab your favorite coffee and breakfast to-go or bring breakfast snacks & drinks for the ride. Early departure helps you arrive before late-morning crowds at the first attraction!

~9:30 AM | Wisconsin Deer Park or Timbavati Wildlife Park (a family fav)

Our first stop was Timbavati Wildlife Park, where we arrived right at 9:45 AM—perfect timing before it gets too hot or crowded. This park is so much more than a zoo! The kids got to feed giraffes, ride the Safari Train and have animals come up to them, meet kangaroos, and even walk through a parakeet enclosure.

Allow 60–90 minutes at the Wisconsin Deer Park

Kids can hand-feed gentle deer and wander shaded, stroller-friendly paths; you’ll also see goats, elk, bison, and other small animals. Go early—animals are more interactive before the heat and crowds.

Allow 60 - 90 minutes at the Timbavati Wildlife Park

A visit with over 400 animals across 75+ species, visitors can get up close with giraffes, kangaroos, camels, sloths, parakeets—and even hold a baby animal in the nursery (if available). Don't forget the Safari Train rides through the park - my son's favorite part!

11:30 AM | Fun Lunch: Buffalo Phil’s (Train-Delivered Food!) or MACS (Mac & Cheese)

Buffalo Phil’s: Food delivered by mini model trains right to your table—huge toddler crowd-pleaser; keeps kids entertained while you regroup.

MACS – Macaroni & Cheese Shop: Fast, cheesy, kid-friendly comfort food in downtown Dells; good if your crew needs a quicker in-and-out meal.

1:30 PM | Downtown Dells Wiggle Break + Treat + Mini Golf

Let kids stretch legs around the Bavarian Village / Carr Valley Cheese area downtown and playing mini golf;

Mini Golf at Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf

A perfect post-lunch activity for toddlers and young kids! Choose one of the easier 18-hole courses with fun bridges, waterfalls, and pirate-themed decorations that keep kids entertained.

3:00 PM | Original Wisconsin Ducks Tour

Cap the day with a one-hour amphibious Duck ride — part forest trail, part splash into the Wisconsin River & Lake Delton. Guides keep it fun and the tour length is toddler-manageable compared to longer boat trips. My seven year old had a blast doing this - the guide even let kids take a turn driving!

4:00 PM | Snack + Potty Stop, Then Roll Home

Grab drive-home snacks at Goody Goody Gum Drop candy stop (wander through the largest candy store in Wisconsin Dells) or a quick bakery/ice cream downtown if needed and head north!

Final Tips

• Pack a small cooler with snacks, water, and extra wipes.

• Bring sunscreen, hats, and a stroller or carrier for younger kids.

• Try to hit the Dells early to beat the crowds—especially during the summer!

  
  

Whether you're local to Eau Claire or just visiting the area, this Wisconsin Dells day trip is a must-do for young families. If you try it out, I’d love to hear what your crew enjoyed most!

Timing

Do animals first. Mornings = cooler temps and more interactive wildlife experiences at both Wisconsin Deer Park and Timbavati. Save the Ducks for after nap/meal window. It’s exciting and gives kids a “wow” finale.

Eau Claire ➜ Wisconsin Deer Park or Timbavati ➜ Lunch (Buffalo Phil’s or MACS) ➜ Downtown stroll + Mini Golf ➜ Original Wisconsin Ducks ➜ Home!