IFWTWA Conference Media Trip
Wisconsin Dells
October 22-24, 2026
Wisconsin Dells is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Midwest, attracting millions of visitors every year with its spectacular indoor and outdoor waterparks, scenic landscapes, and family-friendly attractions. Known as “The Waterpark Capital of the World,” the area first became famous in the mid-1800s, when pioneering photographer H.H. Bennett’s stunning photos of the sandstone cliffs and canyons (“Dells”) along the Wisconsin River began drawing visitors by train. The spectacular scenery can also be seen in multiple nearby state parks.
The Wisconsin Dells area is also home to seven different wineries, including Wisconsin’s largest and oldest. Wollersheim Winery & Distillery was founded in the 1840s by a Hungarian nobleman who later helped start the California wine industry. In recent years, Wisconsin Dells has become a more multi-faceted wine destination, as the development of new, cold-hardy grapes has led to a boom in vineyards and wineries. The Wisconsin Dells area also boasts many classic supper clubs and top-flight restaurants, as well as award-winning spas and golf courses.
What Wisconsin Dells Seeks from Media Participants
- This three-day, two-night trip is for two writers
- Writers will complete one to two articles and/or videos (depending on individual writers chosen and media outlets)
- Writers will provide social media posts either during or following the trip—if they are appropriate and fit the writer’s audience
Itinerary:
Thursday, October 22 & Friday, October 23
Writers will depart Potawatomi Casino Resort and head to Wisconsin Dells early on Thursday, October 22nd.
During your press trip on Thursday, October 22nd and Friday, 23rd, your itinerary MAY include the following (PLEASE NOTE THIS IS PRELIMINARY AND SUBJECT TO CHANGE):
- Upper Dells Boat Tour to see the Dells of the Wisconsin River
- An amphibious Duck Boat tour
- Be the first journalists to see the new indoor waterpark expansion at Kalahari Resorts & Conventions—the largest indoor waterpark in the Midwest at 200,000 square feet
- Unwind at a rejuvenating spa service
- Visit Devil’s Lake and Mirror Lake State Parks
- Visit Several of the area’s seven wineries, including Wisconsin’s largest and oldest, Wollersheim Winery & Distillery
- Immerse yourself in upscale dining experiences, including Wisconsin supper clubs and farm-to-table restaurants
Saturday, October 24
Wisconsin Dells will return writers to the Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE) for departures home.