Those seeking the perfect day trip in Wisconsin have got to check out Bayfield. This little gem in the North Woods is a great mix of the indoors and outdoors. It has clothing, books, and resale shops to bring folks in, and hiking, kayaking and sailing to keep folks out. Moreover, Northerners in these parts don't shy away from winter, either. This is when they brave huge dangling icicles from frozen Lake Superior caves and drive the "ice road" across the bay.
View a colorful Bayfield from the bow of the Madeline Island ferry.
Bayfield is such a great Wisconsin day trip because there is so much to do. Shop in Bayfield in the morning, take a quick ferry ride to Madeline Island for lunch, and head outdoors in the afternoon.
Kayak through the sea caves that line Lake Superior near Bayfield.
Centuries of waves pounding the shores of Lake Superior have intricately carved the bright orange rock that surrounds it. Kayaking and canoeing are two great ways to explore the caves. Additionally, you might find some bright pink and green luna moths on the walls.
"Stone's Throw" is one of so many beautiful storefronts in Bayfield.
There are independently owned boutiques, resale shops, coffee houses, restaurants, and bookstores in this little town. Owners and employees are glad to chat about the best the area has to offer, too!
The Lake Superior "Ice Caves" are so unreal you'll expect Elsa to greet you inside.
The caves that are green and orange when kayakers glide through the rest of the year, turn to blue and white crystalline structures in winter. Hiking through them is exhilarating.
Sand Island Lighthouse is visible from boat tours departing Bayfield.
Cruise by the lighthouses on the Apostle Islands with one the tour companies that lead sunset dinner trips or midday excursions. If you're an energetic type who wants to climb to the top, make sure to choose a boat that stops at select islands.
Lake Superior provides delicious fish to eat right away or smoke.
Anglers from fisheries like Bodin's head out to catch fresh Lake Superior whitefish for your lunch and dinner in Bayfield. Try some with a microbrew like "Nut Brown Ale" from nearby South Shore Brewery in Ashland.
Grandpa Tony's on Madeline Island offers rooftop and inside dining that is reasonably priced and delicious.
While there are plenty of restaurants in Bayfield itself, Madeline Island is just a 10-minute ride across the bay. If your kids can't pass up a fun trip on a boat, take advantage of the shops here as well as the beach and Big Bay State Park.
Whether you visit for sailing and scuba diving in the summer, the apple festival in fall, or a winter trip where you can essentially drive across parts of Lake Superior, you'll be thirsty after your day. Unwind with one of several local microbrews, as beer has been part of Wisconsin culture for decades. Bayfield, with all of its delights, is sure to become one of your favorite destinations.
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