Despite being one of Wisconsin’s smallest towns, Bayfield is one of the best tourist destinations among the other well-liked communities in the state.
Bayfield is a charming town located on the shores of Lake Superior. With something for everyone, Bayfield is the perfect place to escape and enjoy a wide range of activities. From exploring the stunning natural beauty to indulging in local delicacies, there is plenty to do in this quaint town.
There is no doubt that you’re going to enjoy every bit of your visit to this captivating town with tons of things to keep you entertained all through.
For your perfect tourist activities, places to visit, and fun life, here is a list of interesting things to do in Bayfield, Wisconsin.
Fun Things to Do in Bayfield, Wisconsin
1. Apostle Islands National Lakeshore
Known as the crown jewel of Bayfield, Apostle Islands National Lakeshore boasts 21 islands characterized by their rugged cliffs, clear waters, and enchanting sea caves.
As a lover of nature and scenic beauty, this fantastic trip to the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore Ice Caves is a must on your list of things to do in Bayfield.
These sea caves have intricately carved ice structures and are a visual delight. Take a boat tour or kayak around these stunning formations for a mesmerizing experience.
2. Bayfield’s Historic Downtown
Wander through the quaint streets of Bayfield’s historic downtown. Throughout the year, Bayfield’s historic downtown comes to life with a vibrant calendar of events and festivals. From the annual Apple Festival in October to holiday parades and live music performances, there’s always something happening. These events add an extra layer of excitement to your visit, creating lasting memories and providing a taste of the town’s lively spirit.
As you explore the downtown area, your senses will be tantalized by the aroma of delicious food wafting from the numerous eateries that dot the streets.
From cozy cafes serving up freshly brewed coffee to restaurants offering gourmet meals featuring locally sourced ingredients, Bayfield’s Historic Downtown is a culinary haven. Whether you’re in the mood for a leisurely brunch or a romantic dinner, you’ll find a diverse range of dining options to satisfy your cravings.
3. Madeline Island
Madeline Island, the largest of the Apostle Islands in Lake Superior, is a captivating destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and recreational opportunities. Accessible via a short ferry ride from Bayfield, this island paradise has something for everyone, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a serene escape.
Madeline Island is home to Big Bay State Park, a natural wonderland with miles of pristine sandy beaches along Lake Superior’s shoreline. It’s an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking.
Rent a bike and explore the island’s scenic byways. Madeline Island offers relatively flat terrain, making it perfect for cycling enthusiasts of all levels.
Also, explore the pristine waters around Madeline Island by renting a kayak or canoe. Paddle along the coast, explore sea caves, or venture out to neighboring islands for a day of adventure on the water.
4. Bayfield Apple Orchards
Visit Bayfield during the fall to partake in the tradition of apple picking. Located on the shores of Lake Superior. The local apple orchards offer a chance to savor fresh cider, apple pies, and more. Don’t miss the Bayfield Apple Festival in October.
In addition to apples, the apple orchards in Bayfield also grow pears, blueberries, currants, cherries, strawberries, and asparagus.
If you’re the kind that loves apples, Bayfield apple orchards should be on your itinerary of things to do in Bayfield, Wisconsin.
5. Bayfield Maritime Museum
The Bayfield Maritime Museum is a must-see if you enjoy the thought of traveling to islands and caves. The museum is known for preserving the region’s vibrant nautical history.
Interactive exhibits and historic artifacts provide insights into the rich maritime heritage of Lake Superior and the Apostle Islands.
The museum entertains about 15,000 guests a year. Also, you can have a virtual tour of the museum before coming.
6. Big Bay State Park
Big Bay State Park is situated on Madeline Island, one of the Apostle Islands, off the northern coast of Wisconsin in Lake Superior.
The park is known for its stunning natural beauty, with picturesque views of Lake Superior, sandstone bluffs, sandy beaches, and dense forests. The rugged and diverse landscape makes it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
During the winter months, the park is open for activities such as snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
Nature enthusiasts will love Big Bay State Park. With hiking trails, birdwatching spots, and sandy beaches, it’s perfect for outdoor adventures.
7. Go Camping at Dalrymple Park and Campground
The best outdoor activity you can add to your trip to Bayfield is unquestionably camping at Dalrymple Park and Campground.
This campground offers a remote and undeveloped environment along Lake Superior, despite being close to a freeway.
Dalrymple Park & Campground is a must-visit for ardent outdoor enthusiasts, as it allows you to genuinely experience the rustic charm of lakeside camping.
Additionally, the area has a ton of trees that provide shade, so you might get by with just a tent. Don’t miss out on visiting this great campground, which is equipped with all the needed conveniences for camping.
8. Stroll at Brownstone Trail
Take two hours of your time and stroll at Brownstone Trail. This section is beautiful, well-kept, and a haven for wildlife enthusiasts.
The sideways-blooming wildflowers and the lush forest vegetation guarantee a nice and tranquil trip. Except for 0.5 miles, which are closed owing to landslides, the majority of this trail is kept in good condition.
The Brownstone Trail is known for its stunning natural beauty and offers a relatively easy hiking experience. It meanders along the Lake Superior shoreline and takes you through forests, offering picturesque views of sandstone cliffs, the lake, and the surrounding landscape.
Like much of Madeline Island, the trail provides opportunities for wildlife observation. Keep an eye out for various bird species, deer, and other forest animals.
The scenic vistas and unique geological features make the Brownstone Trail a popular spot for photographers. The interplay of the sandstone cliffs and Lake Superior’s waters creates beautiful photographic opportunities.
9. Go Fishing at Lake Superior
Lake Superior is a paradise for fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming. Charter fishing trips are readily available, catering to both beginners and experienced anglers.
The lake is known for its diverse fish population, which includes species like lake trout, salmon (chinook, coho, and steelhead), walleye, northern pike, whitefish, and more.
Charter boats are typically equipped with the necessary gear and experienced captains who can take you to the best fishing spots. This can be a great option if you’re new to the area or want a guided experience.
Fishing at this great lake is one of the best outdoor things to do in Bayfield, Wisconsin.
10. Visit Pikes Bay Marina
Another bustling place in Bayfield to visit and have the time of your life is Pikes Bay Marina, located near the Apostle Islands on the southern shore of Lake Superior.
Pikes Bay Marina offers boat slips and docking facilities for various types and sizes of boats, including sailboats, powerboats, and pleasure crafts.
The marina also provides a range of amenities for boaters, which may include fuel docks, restrooms, showers, and a boater’s lounge.
After dinner, take a peaceful stroll and see the boats stowed away and Lake Superior’s waters. It’s interesting to note that some of these boats can be rented out for living space.
Compared to the typical bed and breakfast rentals and motels, this experience is more unusual.
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11. Visit Christ Episcopal Church
Another spot to marvel at great architecture in Bayfield is the Christ Episcopal Church. This magnificent church is a great place to worship.
The exterior of this church is gorgeous and perfect for photography. You can light a candle inside the church and offer a prayer to Our Lady of Walsingham.
The church was erected around 1870. This church has a fantastic concert series.
The pet-blessing ceremony held here is another intriguing characteristic that attracts tourists.
12. Houghton Falls State Natural Area
For a scenic hike, head to Houghton Falls State Natural Area. Situated near the town of Washburn, Wisconsin, on the southern shore of Lake Superior. It’s part of the more prominent Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest.
The natural area is renowned for its scenic beauty, including dense forests, sandstone cliffs, and, of course, Houghton Falls. The falls are a highlight of the area, with water cascading over a series of sandstone ledges.
There are hiking trails within the natural area that allow visitors to explore the beauty of the region. These trails offer opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and photography.
The area is home to a variety of wildlife species, including birds, mammals, and plant life. Birdwatchers may spot a range of bird species, including eagles, hawks, and other migratory birds.
13. Apostle Islands Kayaking
Paddle enthusiasts will find their haven in the Apostle Islands. Explore sea caves and pristine shorelines on a kayaking adventure. You can engage in various types of kayaking on the islands, including sea kayaking, which is ideal for exploring the shoreline and sea caves, as well as inland lake kayaking and river kayaking on some of the islands.
If you’re new to kayaking or unfamiliar with the area, guided kayaking tours are available. Experienced guides can provide safety instructions, equipment, and local knowledge about the islands’ history and natural features.
14. Lake Superior Big Top Chautauqua
Bayfield’s Lake Superior Big Top Chautauqua is a concert venue and performing arts complex with 900 seats.
This theater’s all-canvas construction adds to its splendor. This performing arts venue has been around since the late 1980s and is mostly active during the summer.
It has hosted famous musicians and is a popular destination for both residents and visitors.
15. Explore Old Rittenhouse Inn
The Old Rittenhouse Inn is the place for you to stay if you want to experience Bayfield’s hospitality sector firsthand.
This Queen Anne Victorian house, built in 1890, was previously the vacation home of a wealthy family in Bayfield.
The Old Rittenhouse Inn’s interiors successfully recreate the rich 19th-century elegance, allowing guests to experience the luxury lifestyle today.
The Old Rittenhouse Inn is also renowned for serving fantastic breakfast; it’s highly rated by many customers.
You can find this fantastic bed and breakfast along Rittenhouse Avenue.
16. Sample Drinks at Copper Crow Distillery
One of the things that makes traveling more fascinating is sampling different varieties of drinks. Be ready to taste Bayfield at its best by visiting Copper Crow Distillery, a well-known destination for every visitor who wants to go on a drinking spree.
This place has bench-side seating, like picnics, where you can sit and enjoy your drinks. The distillery is located among the woods and presents a perfect setting for a pleasant day with drinks.
As a visitor, this is the best location to mingle with locals and hang out with friends.
17. Bayfield Fish Hatchery
Learn about local fish conservation efforts at the Bayfield Fish Hatchery. The hatchery primarily focuses on raising and releasing several species of fish, including lake trout, brook trout, brown trout, and other cold-water species.
Hatcheries often engage in scientific research to improve fish breeding techniques, enhance fish health, and better understand the ecological requirements of target species.
It’s an educational and family-friendly stop, and you might even get to feed the fish.
18. Chow Down at Maypenny Bistro
The Maypenny Bistro, which is situated on its namesake avenue, is possibly one of Bayfield’s most well-known eateries.
Tourists and visitors frequently have many meals at Maypenny Bistro because of its stylish interiors and excellent cuisine.
They have an extensive menu, but you might want to start with their famous breakfast plates and coffee.
Maypenny Bistro is also excellent at making pizzas—perfect for a late-night meal if you can’t decide what to order.
With a welcoming, clean, and vibrant interior, this is a great spot to meet locals or hang out with friends and family as well.
19. Pick Blueberries at Blue Vista Farm
Blue Vista Farm is one of the stunning orchards in the city of Bayfield. With its lovely view of the gardens and barns, It is appropriate for daytime pursuits.
The farm welcomes visitors who want to pick blueberries.
The new owners of this establishment are kind and enthused.
If you happen to be in Bayfield, you can count on having a relaxing and tranquil few hours.
20. Eckel’s Pottery and Finecrafts Gallery
Visit Eckel’s Pottery and Fine Arts Gallery if clay pottery is your thing and you’re looking for something artistic.
There are many different sizes and types of clay and stoneware pots available. Along with being useful objects, these items can be used as house decor.
This shop purchases its goods from regional and international creators.
Also, you can purchase artisan ceramics in addition to woodwork, jewelry, garden decor, etc. As a visitor, one can also sit and observe every step of the process of making something out of clay.
Best Time to Visit Bayfield Wisconsin
The best and busiest month for tourism visits in Bayfield, WI, US, is April, followed by June and May.
Additionally, there are a few amusing things that visitors might find in September.