Bayfield, WI—Gateway to the Apostle Islands

Attractions and adventure abound in Bayfield.

The thrill of outdoor adventure on mighty Lake Superior includes sailing, fishing, kayaking and cruising. Visit Bayfield in almost any season to enjoy the pristine wilderness of the Apostle Islands, an archipelago of 23 island gems featuring seven 19th-century lighthouses. Accessible by ferry, kayak, power or sailboat May through October, these islands harbor crystal white beaches, untouched flora, and a bounty of wildlife for viewing. Each September during the Lighthouse Celebration, as weather permits, cruise boats land at many of the islands for tours of lighthouses, keeper dwellings, and restored gardens and grounds.

A thriving artist community with numerous galleries, the Big Top Chautauqua tent shows, a heritage and maritime museum, eclectic retail shops, casual and fine dining, two golf courses, riding stables, and over a dozen fruit farms and apple orchards where you can pick your own and purchase homemade preserves complete the visitor’s experience.

Winter in Bayfield offers the finest in cross country and downhill skiing, snow shoeing, dog sled adventures, and hikes out to the ice caves. For a once in a lifetime experience, hop aboard the windsled, an amphibious winter transport, for a lightning quick trip across frozen Lake Superior to Madeline Island for some winter fun. Or take your car on the ice road just to say you have done it!

So whether you want to be on the land, on the water or on the ice and snow, Bayfield has something for you.