Original Wisconsin Ducks Tour

Upper Dells

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1890 Wisconsin Dells Pkwy
Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965
(608) 254-8751

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Babies

Toddlers & Pre-K

School-Age Kids

Pre-Teens & Teens

Original Wisconsin Ducks Tour Description

It's a truck. It's a boat. Wait—it's both! These workhorses were used to transport troops and supplies onto the beach at Normandy on D-Day. Lasting about an hour, the Ducks tour is the perfect length for everyone from restless little ones to eye-rolling teens, with comic commentary from the captain as he describes the history of the Ducks themselves and points out historical and natural points of interest along the way. There's a bit of daring to this journey (racing up roller coaster hills along wooded trails and the big "splashdown" into the river)—just enough to pump the adrenaline, but not so much to terrify young kids.

Kid Tips

Babies: Bring a sling or front-facing baby carrier and let the motion of the Duck lull your little one to sleep.

Toddlers & Pre-K: Keep toddlers close by, either between parents or on your lap during the tour. They'll likely be lulled to sleep while you're on the water, but boisterous kids will need supervision.

School-Age Kids: Whether they're into history, vehicles, nature, or bad jokes (courtesy of the Duck captain), kids this age will love the ride, especially that point where the boats hit the water and everyone's wondering whether or not it's really going to float (it will).

Planning Notes

Sit toward the front. As cool as the Duck rides are, the fumes from the engine at the back may be overwhelming to adults and kids with sensitive lungs.
Life vests available. While they likely won't be necessary, take note of where the life vests are stowed (above the seats) and that the kids' vests are toward the front.
Buy before you go. For convenience, purchase tickets in advance online directly from their site.
Go before you go. Use the restrooms at the boat launch, since there are no facilities aboard the Ducks.
Catch a ride to the boat launch. Free shuttles and tickets are available at a kiosk located on Broadway in the downtown River District.
Ditch the stroller. Strollers aren't allowed on the Ducks, but if you do bring one, you can leave it with on-land staff when you board. Infant car seats are allowed on board.
Prepare for the hard sell. Toward the end of the tour, the captain stops the Duck (watch for deer roaming the forest here) and hands out colorful brochures to purchase for $4.

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