Lodging

Wisconsin Dells, or “The Dells,” as the locals call it, has been a family vacation destination for decades, Appropriately, many of the lodging options you’ll find along the main strip of Hwy 12, where the major attractions are based, are family-run businesses, not major chains.  These can offer great deals to the budget traveler.

Mayflower Motel Double Bed Room

One of the best family-run motels in The Dells is the Mayflower Motel and Suites. It is an older motel, but the family that runs it has done a good job of upkeep and occasional renovations to keep the property fresh (though there is some wear and tear here and there).

Accommodations here range from a standard two double bed room to a three queen bed jacuzzi suite with a loft (great for groups or large families). Each room comes with a fridge, microwave, coffee maker and cable TV with the Starz! movie channel. The suites also include wet bars, sofa sleepers and in-room jacuzzi tubs. Some even have private balconies.

Amenities at the Mayflower include a large indoor pool with hot tub and sauna, as well as two outdoor pools with kids pools, a children’s playground area, an arcade and a sheltered picnic/grill area.

There isn’t an on-site restaurant, but within a two-to-three block are several restaurant options from a pizza joint to ethnic food like Japanese and Jamaican. During my stay I ate at Houlihan’s (an upscale sports bar) and the elegant House of Embers across the street (very cool place if you want to have a romantic fine dining experience). Fast food options and a WalMart Supercenter (featuring a grocery secton) are mere minutes away by car.

The Mayflower is also within walking distance from major Dells attractions such as Noah’s Ark waterpark and Mt. Olympus.

Rates for 2009 start as low as $58 for the two double bed rooms during the off-season when I stayed (which is pretty much all year except Memorial Day through Labor Day). Be sure to check the motel’s website for coupons. I was able to book my three-night stay with 50% off the third night using them.

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Mayflower Motel & Suites
910 Wisconsin Dells Pkwy
Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965-8316
608-253-6471

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