When an actual trip is out of the question, a trip down memory lane will have to suffice. So, buckle up and get ready for a true blast from the past as we highlight one of the state’s most beloved attractions from the past – Fort Dells.

Today, the Dells is a popular tourist destination – and it’s been that way for quite some time. One of the area’s first theme parks, Fort Dells opened in June of 1959.
Fort Dells/Facebook
The park closed in 1985, and by 1997, it had been completely bulldozed. And though there are no visual remnants of Fort Dells, the much-loved park has left a lasting impression on residents and past visitors alike.
Fort Dells/Facebook
An informative sign now marks the site of the former park. It also provides a bit of background about Fort Dells, explaining that it was modeled after Disneyland’s “Frontierland.”
Fort Dells/Facebook
The 11-acre park was divided into several sections, which included: Adventureland, Frontierland, Indian Isle, and Children’s Farm.
Fort Dells/Facebook

Related Stories

I/O Arcade Bar In Wisconsin Will Take You Back In Time

I/O Arcade Bar In Wisconsin Will Take You Back In Time

 Race A Go-Kart Through A Half-Mile Landscaped Course At Sugar River Raceway In Wisconsin

Race A Go-Kart Through A Half-Mile Landscaped Course At Sugar River Raceway In Wisconsin

 US Air Motorsports Has The Longest Go-Kart Track In Wisconsin

US Air Motorsports Has The Longest Go-Kart Track In Wisconsin
Offering fun for all ages, the park’s attractions included a stagecoach, suspension bridge, working steam railroad, escape tunnel, paddlewheel steamboat, and more.
Fort Dells/Facebook
There was more to Fort Dells than rides, though. Like Disneyland, costumed characters were on hand for meet-and-greets and photo-ops with park visitors.
Fort Dells/Facebook
Live shows were also part of the fun at Fort Dells.
Fort Dells/Facebook
One of the park’s most notable (and popular) features, though, was Totem Tower, which transported guests 335’ in the air for panoramic views of the surrounding area. Pretty rare, it was only the 4th of its kind in the US and only the 7th in the world.
Fort Dells/Facebook
With rides, opportunities for guest interaction, and entertaining shows, Fort Dells offered all the fun of Disneyland right here in the Badger State!
Fort Dells/Facebook

 

Talk about a trip down memory lane! Do you remember Fort Dells? Or maybe you’ve heard older relatives talk about it? Missing another attraction from the past? Tell us in the comments section.

Want to soak up some more vintage vibes? Click here to read about another Dells attraction from the past.

 

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Articles

Explore Wisconsin

Featured Addresses
Wisconsin Dells, WI, USA