Wisconsin Getaway: 48 Hours to Explore Bayfield
From Great Lake adventures to charming communities and surprising scenery, visiting the Bayfield area is a special experience. Gather your favorite people and get ready to explore this one-of-a-kind Wisconsin gem.
Day One
4 p.m. – Start your trip by getting a lay of the land at the Northern Great Lakes Visitor Center on the edge of the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. The center speaks to all who love the outdoors with interactive exhibits, wildlife viewing on scenic boardwalks and much more.
6 p.m. – Check in at one of Bayfield’s many lodging options. If you love bed and breakfasts, try the Pinehurst Inn which has received the Governor’s Tourism Stewardship Award for its impressive sustainability practices. Near downtown Bayfield, the Old Rittenhouse Inn is another great B&B with spectacular views of Lake Superior. And Artesian House is a contemporary and exceedingly quiet eco-inn set on 25 gorgeous acres.
Or, enjoy a cabin all to yourself with a stay at Hauser’s Bayfield Cabin. Close enough to sea kayaking, Little Sand Bay Recreation Area and dog sledding in the winter, this cabin offers secluded romance with adventure not too far away. And for a truly luxurious getaway, the modern Wild Rice Retreat offers guided retreats as well as curated getaways with your group that can include locally sourced meals and a wide variety of wellness classes.
Day Two
10 a.m. – Explore the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore and its 21 islands punctuated with sculptural sea caves. Kayaking is one of the best ways to experience this breathtaking landscape, with guided day and overnight sea kayaking adventures provided by multiple professional outfitters.
If you’d like someone else to take the helm, head straight to All Hands Sailing for an unforgettable eco-tour powered by wind. Choose an excursion that can range from two to eight hours!
Noon – If you need a midday break, try something tasty - maybe a vegetarian option - from The Fat Radish.
12:30 p.m. – Explore nearby Madeline Island! Hop on the Madeline Island Ferry Line for the three-mile cruise and make it an overnight stay by camping at Big Bay State Park.
After setting up camp, explore the island with stops at Madeline Island Candles, Bell Street Gallery and Woods Hall Craft Shop for locally-made treasures. Grab a bite to eat from the farm-to-table standout Café Seiche or Miijim which offers Ojibwe-inspired cuisine.
Another island, Stockton Island, and its Julian Bay also deserve a shout-out. It is here you’ll find the “singing sands.” The quartz content in the sand produces a squeaking or “singing” sound underfoot.
Back on the mainland, explore Eckels Pottery studio where you can see the potters work their magic. Your group can also browse the upbeat gallery at Stone’s Throw for jewelry and home décor.
6 p.m. – For those staying in Bayfield, Landmark Restaurant at the Old Rittenhouse Inn offers casual elegance with spectacular views.
For an extra fun night together, make it to an evening performance at Big Top Chautauqua, a circus tent venue that has been hosting musical performances for 30 years.
Day Three
9 a.m. – Start your second day with a picturesque stroll to Wonderstate Coffee for an espresso and made-from-scratch bakery.
10 a.m. – Keep exploring by foot by taking the Meyers Beach hiking trail past and above the sea caves. For a more relaxed hike, try the trail in the Houghton Falls Natural Area that winds through a scenic sandstone gorge.
Any golfers in your group? The Apostle Highlands 18-hole course is perched 500 feet above sea level with spectacular views of the islands. Honestly, you won’t even care what your score is.
2 p.m. – Grab some last-minute goodies from a charming bookstore. Apostle Islands Booksellers offers a collection emphasizing the history, culture and cuisine of the area. Be forewarned that you’re likely to leave with an armful of books!
Keep the adventures going with a visit to the United States' first-ever Tribal National Park!
