6 Things to Do in Bayfield, Wisconsin, for the Ultimate Lake Superior Getaway
“Take Me To The Islands – Out Around The Apostle Islands”
This line is from the popular Big Top Chautauqua show, Riding the Wind, written by Warren Nelson. It explains the undeniable draw of Lake Superior and the Apostle Islands. And it is just one of the many fun things to do in Bayfield, Wisconsin.
Bayfield is the gateway to 22 islands, 9 lighthouses, and the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore.
Bayfield, Madeline Island, and the other Apostle Islands share a rich history of culture, people, and industries. They’re home to the Ojibwe people, who were integral in the fur trade and logging industries. And are still vital in today’s commercial fishing industry.
The historic lighthouses once secured safe passage for ships. The islands still provide a safe harbor from the unforgiving waters of Lake Superior.
They’re called the “Crown Jewels of Lake Superior,” and it's no secret why. The islands boast of:
Sandy beaches
Old growth forests
Towering sandstone cliffs
Sea caves
Historic lighthouses
An occasional black bear walking the shoreline
The real question is, how will you get there?
Read our blog to find the best itinerary to experience Lake Superior, the Apostle Islands, and the other fun things to do in Bayfield, Wisconsin.
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Pick Berries and Drink Cider at One of Bayfield, Wisconsin’s Family-Owned Orchards
Hauser, Erickson, and Dale are just a few famous names that have farmed on the Bayfield Hillside for generations. Mix hard-working families and a microclimate ideal for growing fruits like:
Apples
It’s no wonder Bayfield has held its place on the map. Make a plan to visit any one of the orchards. Some fun experiences include picking berries, sampling Muriel Erickson’s famous apple cider donuts, and drinking fresh, crisp apple cider.
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Pick Berries and Drink Cider at One of Bayfield, Wisconsin’s Family-Owned Orchards
Hauser, Erickson, and Dale are just a few famous names that have farmed on the Bayfield Hillside for generations. Mix hard-working families and a microclimate ideal for growing fruits like:
Cherries
It’s no wonder Bayfield has held its place on the map. Make a plan to visit any one of the orchards. Some fun experiences include picking berries, sampling Muriel Erickson’s famous apple cider donuts, and drinking fresh, crisp apple cider.
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Pick Berries and Drink Cider at One of Bayfield, Wisconsin’s Family-Owned Orchards
Hauser, Erickson, and Dale are just a few famous names that have farmed on the Bayfield Hillside for generations. Mix hard-working families and a microclimate ideal for growing fruits like:
Raspberries.
It’s no wonder Bayfield has held its place on the map. Make a plan to visit any one of the orchards. Some fun experiences include picking berries, sampling Muriel Erickson’s famous apple cider donuts, and drinking fresh, crisp apple cider.
plan my trip
Pick Berries and Drink Cider at One of Bayfield, Wisconsin’s Family-Owned Orchards
Hauser, Erickson, and Dale are just a few famous names that have farmed on the Bayfield Hillside for generations. Mix hard-working families and a microclimate ideal for growing fruits like:
Strawberries.
It’s no wonder Bayfield has held its place on the map. Make a plan to visit any one of the orchards. Some fun experiences include picking berries, sampling Muriel Erickson’s famous apple cider donuts, and drinking fresh, crisp apple cider.
plan my trip
Pick Berries and Drink Cider at One of Bayfield, Wisconsin’s Family-Owned Orchards
Hauser, Erickson, and Dale are just a few famous names that have farmed on the Bayfield Hillside for generations. Mix hard-working families and a microclimate ideal for growing fruits like:
Blueberries.
It’s no wonder Bayfield has held its place on the map. Make a plan to visit any one of the orchards. Some fun experiences include picking berries, sampling Muriel Erickson’s famous apple cider donuts, and drinking fresh, crisp apple cider.
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Listening to Live Music Is THE Thing to Do When You Visit Bayfield, Wisconsin
A fun thing to do in Bayfield, Wisconsin, is going to a show at the Lake Superior Big Top Chautauqua. It’s located at the foot of the Mount Ashwabay Ski and Recreation Area and is a part of the Ashwabay Alliance.
Big Top is a non-profit performing arts organization.
This exceptional and intimate venue offers over 60 performing arts events per year from June through September.
From big-name artists like Brandi Carlile and Johnny Cash to the local talents of the Blue Canvas Orchestra, a show at Big Top really should be at the top of your list.
And to make getting to Chautauqua as easy as possible, we have a free shuttle leaving right from our parking lot at Seagull Bay. What could be better?
Looking for a more casual affair?
Bayfield’s free Concerts by the Lake offers a more laid-back way to experience the talents of local musicians.
Grab your favorite camp chair or relax on a blanket spread out in Memorial Park next to the Bayfield City Harbor. Here you can sing along to your favorite songs and listen to singer-songwriter originals.
The only hard part will be picking which show to go to!
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There Are LOTS of Things to Do in Bayfield, Wisconsin, for the Outdoor Enthusiast
Bayfield is a mecca for outdoor adventures on land and on the clear waters of Lake Superior
It doesn’t matter if you’re well-versed in the outdoors or a novice – there’s something for everyone.
Plus, with the changing seasons and even the snow, there are lots of things to do to keep you busy in the beautiful outdoors.
There are many ways to enjoy the big lake, but some of our favorites are kayaking, sailing, or taking an Apostle Islands Cruise.
On land, there are fabulous hiking trails, including The Brownstone Trail, which is just steps from your room at Seagull Bay.
Plus, the spectacular CAMBA mountain biking trails at Mount Ashwabay are a must for any shredder.
If walking along sprawling fairways and putting greens is more your speed, The Apostle Islands Golf Course will definitely impress you with its unrivaled views of Lake Superior. The gorgeous views and well-maintained course is worth your reservation.
And if you think summer is the only time to visit Bayfield, we think you’ll be pleasantly surprised by what winter has to offer.
A Bayfield winter is known for its cold and snow, but that’s the point. For the outdoor adventurer, it's a winter paradise filled with cross-country and downhill skiing at Mount Ashwabay. There are snowshoe trails, fat biking, and dog sledding too.
Bayfield is your place to seek adventure and make memories. Check out our seasonal guide to help you plan your trip.
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The Bayfield Apple Festival and Festival of Arts and Gallery Tour
Fall is harvest time
And there’s nothing like the Bayfield Apple Festival celebrating an American icon – the apple.
It all started with a flat tire and has grown into one of the best fall festivals in the Midwest. You’ll find delicious food, live music, art, and more here. The only catch is you need to plan in advance for this one. Rooms in Bayfield and at Seagull Bay can book a year in advance during this exciting season.
The Festival of Arts and Gallery Tour also showcases another local gem – Bayfield area artists. Potters, painters, and jewelry makers are celebrated each year, ready to share their talents with you. There isn’t a more authentic souvenir than something made by one of our local artists.
If festivals are your thing – Bayfield won’t disappoint.
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Shop, Eat, Sip, & Relax in Bayfield, Wisconsin
When you stroll along Bayfield's historic streets, you’ll discover its classic and subtle charm. Its historic 19th-century brownstone buildings, cobblestone streets, and vintage lamp posts – all surrounded by the shores of Lake Superior.
Along these streets, you’ll find one-of-a-kind shops, restaurants, spas, and yoga studios.
There are area breweries, wineries, and a distillery also waiting to be explored by you.
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Want more info?
Bayfield is brimming with outdoor adventures, local events, and renowned festivals.
To help you plan the ultimate Bayfield vacation, we’ve created a seasonal guide filled with the best our area offers.
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