The Dells! What a strange combination of natural beauty and man-made carnival. It is the Las Vegas for kids.

How many families crowd this area annually for the goofy attractions (water parks, go karts, all you can eat buffets, etc.)? Yet they come in droves.

We (my husband and I) have been going to The Dells on a regular basis for over 20 years and always stay at Old Newport Resort on the lower Wisconsin River. This resort is unique for several reasons - no data ports in the cabins, cabins, sandy beach front, exquisite view, and the most geniune and welcoming hosts, Ed and Jane Sojka.

If you take in the sunrise off the river, sitting on the pier or the cabin deck, and watch the morning vapor rise off the water while the birds are active then you'll know why we keep going back...need to go back.

The kids are grown now and downtown Dells experience isn't as compelling as it once was, but we make the trip because Old Newport has become a part of us. And, of course, we need to stock up on fudge!