Although Bayfield is one of the smallest towns in Wisconsin, there is so much to do and explore in this city. Why not plan your next vacation here?
The city is as beautiful as many other places in the state and the US.
Although it is a small town in Wisconsin, this place has a lot of exciting things for visitors. The city is truly a beautiful destination to visit in the United States.
If you have two to three days to spend in Bayfield, this town will not disappoint.
Go through some exciting things to do in Bayfield (WI) in a few days.
Fun Things to Do in Bayfield (WI)
1. Explore the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore Ice Caves
If you love nature and scenic beauty, this spectacular trip to the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore Ice Caves must be among your must-sees.
This cruise among beautiful waters promises you a wonderful experience.
Don’t forget to bring along the locals who can guide you on these tours.
That will be an even better experience.
A stretch of shoreline along Lake Superior, north of Wisconsin, and consisting of 21 islands, the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore trails along cliffs and sea caves.
These sea caves have intricately carved ice structures and are a visual delight.
A quick day trip from Bayfield, the Apostle Islands Lake Shore National Ice Caves must be on your list to explore in Bayfield.
2. Check Out the Meyers Beach Sea Caves
Another Bayfield attraction, Meyers Beach Sea Cave, is located right in this location.
The possibility of going down these caves by kayak stands out here at Meyers Beach Sea Caves.
They are one of the largest and the most visited destinations.
You can also opt for a night tour where you can see the shores of Lake Superior in a completely relaxed environment.
The eerie glow of the sunken wreck of the Fedora will also be one of the unforgettable sights on this trip.
However, the Meyers Beach Sea Caves hike is not the easiest.
3. Go Skiing at Pike’s Creek Mt Ashwabay Ski Trails
If you’re into skiing, Pike’s Creek Mt Ashwabay Ski Trails is your destination.
This trail is a hidden gem and is beautiful, especially in the winter. The wooded landscape is ideal for skiing at different levels.
There is also a ski slope, which is an ideal place for fun and entertainment with the family.
The trails are well groomed, maintained, and offer a great opportunity for mountain biking.
So if you’re in the Bayfield area and want to try an intermediate trail, this trail should be on your list to explore.
Dogs ski for free, while others have to pay a nominal fee.
Things to Do in Bayfield (WI) at Night
1. Stop for a Drink at Copper Crow Distillery
What would a trip be without something good to drink? The best stop in Bayfield is the Copper Crow Distillery.
This place is your best bet for buying some of the best beers and a quick drink.
This place has bench-side seating, like a picnic, where you can sit and enjoy your drinks.
The distillery is located among the woods and is the perfect setting for a pleasant day with drinks.
The service is friendly and pleasant.
2. Have Dinner at Landmark Restaurant
The Landmark Restaurant at the Old Rittenhouse Inn offers the best food.
Guests can opt for a traditional five-course meal at a set price or order a la carte from the menu.
Celebrate a special occasion, or just toast your Thursday night!
Landmark is known for its delicious dishes such as pork chop, Bercy steak, or carpet steak, but the menu also features fresh fish, pasta, curries, and lamb.
3. Don’t Miss the Performance by Anishinaabe Dibaajimowin: An Ojibwe Story
Join in celebrating the rich culture, history, and spirit of the Anishinaabe in a musical theater experience honoring the indigenous peoples of the Great Lakes region.
Created by Michael “Laughing Fox” Charette and Severin Behnen, with the help of local songwriters and storytellers, brings musicians, dancers, performers, and storytellers together.
Talented Aboriginal artists share their rich oral tradition with us through songs and stories, while the big screen visuals feature original artwork, beautiful photography, and historical imagery.
Traditional and modern music blend with ancient storytelling as you journey through the Ojibway’s legends, history, hardships, and triumphs.
Come sit with us as you learn and experience this beautiful and proud culture through stories, songs, poetry, and dance.
Things to Do in Bayfield (WI) For Couples
1. Visit the Bayfield Apple Company
Another point of interest in Bayfield is the Bayfield Apple Company, located on the loop of the fruit farm.
Here you can get a wide selection of local fruits.
In a clutter-free environment, you can also get plenty of items like jams, jellies, fresh fruit, and many other local Bayfield favorites.
If you’re lucky, you’ll even get farm-fresh strawberries. The owners are super friendly and helpful.
This Bayfield Apple Company will be worth a visit.
2. Spend Some Time at Pikes Bay Marina
Pikes Bay Marina is another major attraction in Bayfield.
You can spend about three hours here enjoying the sights and sounds.
A leisurely walk after dinner, looking at the boats tucked away and the waters of Lake Superior, make for a beautiful sight.
Interestingly, some of these boats can also be lived in as rentals.
This experience is much more unique than the usual guesthouse rentals and motels.
3. Visit the All Sister’s Winery
If you like your wine, Bayfield has another lovely place to visit.
It is a family business called Seven Ponds Winery, formerly known as All Sister’s Winery.
You’ll love this 150-acre winery nestled in a green space.
The property has apple orchards, seven ponds, as the name suggests, and a newly planted vineyard.
You can taste all the wines produced at this winery for just $5 and also take back a wine glass as a souvenir.
The winery offers spectacular views of the local area and Lake Superior as you sit, sip and enjoy.
And if you have to attend to some important work, you get access to WiFi.
Things to Do in Bayfield (WI) For Kids
1. Take Them to Les Voight State Fish Hatchery Visitor Center
Located about 2 miles from Bayfield, the Voight State Fish Hatchery is historic in Bayfield.
This hatchery was built in 1897 from brownstone.
This hatchery played a vital role in the fishing industry in the Lake Superior region.
Tours here require advance notice.
The staff are very enthusiastic and will show visitors how they work to preserve the native fish species, tag the fish, and discuss several projects currently being implemented there.
The lake trout, brown trout, and brown trout raised here are used to stock Lake Superior.
There are relatively few large aquariums where such work is done.
The information available in the visitor area is excellent and highly informative.
If you’re lucky, you might even spot feeding fish.
2. Let Them Play at Wisconsin’s Big Bay State Park
Wisconsin’s Big Bay State Park is a great weekend or week-long getaway for families who love nature but still want a little urban convenience.
The park is located 7 miles from the village of La Pointe, Wisconsin, where there are restaurants, ice cream parlors, gift shops, golf, and other entertainment.
Close enough for comfort yet far enough away to offer isolation from the hustle and bustle.
Most campers bring bikes to ride around the park, ride the island itself, or go to La Pointe for fun.
The swimming beach at the park faces east, so the morning sun helps warm the waters early in the day.
In addition to swimming and biking, the park has activities that include hiking trails, canoeing or kayaking, rock climbing, beachcombing, and fishing.
3. Visit Three Bears Resort
Three Bears Resort offers kids play all year round. Get wet and wild in the indoor water park with racing slides and slides, wave and activity pools, children’s activities, fountains, and a lazy river for relaxation and swimming.
Three Bears Resort offers a variety of rides and attractions for teenagers, children, toddlers, and the young at heart.
The Lily Pad features two large waterslides and fun slides for kids, such as a frog and sponge slide, a kiddie pool, and an activity area.
Enjoy a range of family-friendly amenities from the thrills of the impressive 60,000 sq. ft. indoor and outdoor water park to Miniature Golf to delicious snacks and drinks in our casual bars and restaurants.
Three Bears Resort creates an exceptional holiday getaway, family reunion, or corporate business retreat, regardless of your budget or travel style.
Indoor Activities to Do in Bayfield (WI) For Adults
1. Don’t Miss a Performance at Lake Superior Big Top Chautauqua
This is a music venue and performing arts center located in Bayfield.
This venue has a capacity of 900 people.
The beauty of the center is that it is a full-screen tent theater.
This performing arts center operates primarily in the summer and has been on the scene since the late 1980s.
It has hosted iconic musicians and continues to be a star attraction for locals and tourists alike.
2. Appreciate Art at Stone’s Throw Art Gallery
Stone’s Throw Art Gallery is a place for art enthusiasts.
The visit takes less than an hour. However, the visit promises to be unforgettable.
Tourists love this adorable little shop, and there is quite a lot to browse.
In-house artists can also create something cute for you to browse.
Stone’s Throw Art Gallery is much more than just a souvenir shop and promises to bring you many fond memories.
Also, if you have a lot of people you’re buying gifts for, this store won’t disappoint with its beautiful collection of elegant art on sale.
Exciting things to take home as souvenirs include ceramics and jewelry.
The art gallery has extraordinarily patient and helpful staff who will go out of their way to customize items to fit your budget.
3. Check Out Eckel’s Pottery and Finecrafts Gallery
If you’re interested in anything artistic and clay pottery is your passion, check out Eckel’s Pottery and Fine Arts Gallery.
You will find ceramics of all sizes and shapes, from clay and earthenware.
You can use these items for home decoration as well as functional pieces.
This store sources its products from local and national artists.
In addition to ceramics, you can also get handmade jewelry, wooden products, garden decorations, etc.
As a visitor, you can also sit and observe each step of the process of making something out of clay.
That’s something you don’t find in too many places.
Romantic Things to Do in Bayfield (WI)
1. Go on a Tour of the Hauser’s Superior View Orchard
If visiting farms and orchards are on your planned itinerary, then Hauser’s Superior View Orchard is a must-see.
The farmhouse is one of the best places to spend a day.
The view from this orchard is more than excellent; it is extraordinary.
Don’t miss the chance to explore the fields and taste the cider.
When you visit this place, do not forget to participate in the “Apple Tour,” which promises great fun.
2. Pick Some Berries at Blue Vista Farm
Blue Vista Farm is a beautiful orchard. The view of the barns and gardens is quite lovely.
It is suitable for daily activities. Visitors can visit the farm and pick blueberries.
The new owners of this place are very friendly and enthusiastic.
If you are in Bayfield, you can expect to spend a quiet and pleasant few hours.
3. Go on a Winetasting Tour at Seven Ponds Winery
Another must-see destination for wine lovers is the Seven Ponds winery.
Their tasting afternoons with afternoon music are a delightful experience.
The atmosphere of the outdoor seating is amazing.
You can choose from a selection of wines to sample and taste.
Although the taste may not be too great for your taste, if you prefer fruity wines, this is your place.
In addition, the employees here are well-behaved, very polite, and helpful.
The cheese and crostini served with the wine also deserve a special mention.
Free Things to Do in Bayfield (WI)
1. Visit the Bayfield Maritime Museum
If you like the idea of a trip to islands and caves, you’ll love visiting the Bayfield Maritime Museum.
This museum preserves the area’s dynamic maritime history. A good thing about the Bayfield Maritime Museum is that entry is free.
Volunteers entertain about 15,000 guests per season. Virtual tours of the museum before coming is also an option.
2. Take a Walk Along the Brownstone Trail
If you have about two hours to explore, you can visit the Brownstone Trail.
This stretch is well-maintained and scenic and a paradise for nature lovers.
Blooming wildflowers and the greenery of the forests on the sides promise a pleasant and relaxing trail.
Most of this trail is well maintained except for about 0.5 miles which are closed due to a landslide.
This brownstone trail ran from downtown to the Sea Gull Inn.
This is followed by a short six-minute detour.
3. Admire the Scenery Along the Big Ravine Trail
Here is another option for nature lovers and hikers. The Big Ravine Trail takes about one to two hours of your time.
It promises to be a fun experience.
Interestingly, this trail has a geocache, which promises to be a fun activity. The trail is beautiful, and the natural beauty will be peaceful.
You have to climb a big hill on this trail, which promises spectacular views.
If you happen to visit Bayfield in the fall, be sure not to miss this beautiful trail. The fall leaves and colors make for an amazing sight.
And one more tip. Although the hike will be beautiful at dusk, be prepared to face mosquitoes.
This trail is mostly wooded and offers beautiful views.
Cheap Things to Do in Bayfield (WI)
1. Visit the Old Bayfield County Courthouse
This beautiful brown building houses the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore Visitor Center.
The architecture of this building is a visual treat in itself. This was the old courthouse that has now been converted into a visitor center.
The staff here is friendly and helpful.
It’s a perfect place to start before heading off to explore the islands and caves.
They have a twenty-minute video where you learn a lot about the location and the local people.
You can also buy your share of souvenirs from this place.
2. Worship at the Christ Episcopal Church
The church is a beautiful place of worship located in Bayfield.
It has a beautiful exterior that is a photographer’s paradise in itself.
Inside the Christ Episcopal Church, you can light a candle and pray to Our Lady of Walsingham. It was built in 1870.
The concert series at this church is excellent.
Another attraction popular with travelers here is the pet blessing ceremony that takes place here.
Most of these places are very close, and you can visit several places in one visit.
3. Try Kayaking With Whitecap Kayak
Whitecap Kayak offers guided boat trips to the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore and Lake Superior.
It offers a variety of kayaking options, from day trips to boat trips to overnight camping.
Whitecap Kayak also provides ACA certification courses, weekend outdoor leadership programs, and Wilderness First Aid.
If you want a memorable kayaking experience with your family and friends, this is the perfect place.
You can take your camera with you to take fascinating photos and post them on your Instagram.
Many kayaking companies follow a pre-booking policy.
But the case is different as the guests can choose the date that suits them best, and then the journey is set for them according to their preferred schedule.
Cool Places to Visit in Bayfield (WI)
1. Apostle Highlands Golf Course
The golf course opened in 1991 and has a nine-hole system.
The golf course was designed and built by Great Lakes and many others.
Apostle Highlands Golf Course is surrounded by beautiful wooded areas and offers mesmerizing views of the Apostle Islands lakeshore and Chequamegon Bay.
The golf course is currently par 72, with 18 holes, a driving range for practice, and beautiful greens.
You can also check out the air-conditioned clubhouse and enjoy a drink on the beautiful terrace or on the clubhouse deck.
There are different types of drinks, beer and even non-alcoholic drinks.
2. Madeline Island Museum
Since past events, Madeline Island has been a place of residence for various cultures.
The area occupying the most significant part of the Apostle Islands is the Ojibwe (Chippewa), and over the centuries, other tribes have made this place their home.
The islands also served as one of many areas used for settlement and European exploration. It was also used as a station for fur trading, missionary activities, and commercial fishing.
Forward bases used by the Americans, British and French were established on the island and had their cultural impact on the area.
The museum is dedicated to exhibiting the region’s rich cultural heritage.
There is an indigenous collection of artifacts depicting the history of the island.
Visitors can have a good time exploring the history of this Madeline Island.
The current renovations were carried out in 1991 and 1996.
3. Wolfsong Adventures in Mushing
Another item to look out for while visiting Bayfield, Wisconsin, is Wolfsong Adventures in Mushing, which provides visitors with dog sledding tours for people of all abilities and ages.
This destination is focused on dogs and 40 beautiful Siberian Huskies.
Tourists can learn how to drive their team or ride with any of the on-site guides. Since 1997, this destination has provided quality dog sledding experiences to the general public.
Here it offers the best sledding experience with these beautiful and unique dogs on beautiful trails; it all adds up to an attractive mushing program and should be on your list of things to do in Bayfield, Wisconsin.
Conclusion
Bayfield is a beautiful place to visit, where you won’t run out of places to visit during your vacation.
It is a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
From the list of fun things to do in Bayfield (WI), be sure to enjoy your visit.
Happy travels!
