Are you looking for a fun-filled vacation destination in Wisconsin? Look no further than Bayfield, a charming town on the shores of Lake Superior. With something for everyone, Bayfield is the perfect place to escape and enjoy a wide range of activities. From exploring the stunning natural beauty to indulging in local delicacies, there is plenty to do in this quaint town. In this guide, we will cover the 15 best things to do in Bayfield, WI, including free activities, summer activities, and winter activities.
- Take a Guided Tour of the Apostle Islands
One of the most popular things to do in Bayfield, WI, is to take a guided tour of the Apostle Islands. This stunning archipelago is located off the coast of Bayfield and is home to a variety of wildlife, including bears, wolves, and bald eagles. There are several tour companies that offer guided boat tours of the islands, allowing you to see a natural beauty up close.
- Visit the Bayfield Apple Festival
If you’re visiting Bayfield in the fall, don’t miss the Bayfield Apple Festival. This festival is held every October and features delicious apple treats, live music, and plenty of family-friendly activities.
- Go Hiking in the Apostle Islands
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you’ll love hiking in the Apostle Islands. With miles of trails to explore, you can spend hours hiking through the stunning wilderness. Make sure to pack plenty of water and snacks for your hike!
- Visit the Bayfield Maritime Museum
Learn about the rich maritime history of Bayfield by visiting the Bayfield Maritime Museum. This museum features exhibits on local shipwrecks, lighthouses, and more.
- Go Fishing
Bayfield is a fisherman’s paradise, with plenty of opportunities for both freshwater and saltwater fishing. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, you’re sure to have a great time casting your line in the pristine waters of Lake Superior.
- Explore the Apostle Islands Ice Caves
If you’re visiting Bayfield in the winter, don’t miss the chance to explore the Apostle Islands Ice Caves. These stunning ice formations are only accessible by foot when the lake freezes over, making them a truly unique sight to see.
- Enjoy a Beach Day
Bayfield is home to several beautiful beaches, including Big Bay State Park and Little Sand Bay. Spend a day soaking up the sun and enjoying the crystal-clear waters of Lake Superior.
- Take a Bayfield Ghost Walk
Explore the spooky side of Bayfield by taking a ghost walk through town. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll hear chilling tales of ghostly encounters and haunted locations.
- Go Kayaking
With the stunning beauty of Lake Superior surrounding Bayfield, kayaking is a great way to get up close and personal with the natural scenery. There are several rental companies in town that offer kayaks and other watercraft.
- Visit the Bayfield Heritage Association
Learn about the history of Bayfield by visiting the Bayfield Heritage Association. This museum features exhibits on local Native American tribes, as well as the early settlers who made Bayfield their home.
- Attend the Bayfield Festival of Arts
If you’re visiting Bayfield in the summer, don’t miss the Bayfield Festival of Arts. This two-day event features over 100 artists and craftspeople from around the country, showcasing their unique creations.
- Visit the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore
The Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is a must-visit destination in Bayfield. With over 21 islands to explore, there are endless opportunities for hiking, camping, and water sports.
- Take a Scenic Drive
The roads around Bayfield offer stunning views of Lake Superior and the surrounding wilderness. Take a leisurely drive and enjoy the scenery, or pack a picnic and stop at one of the many scenic overlooks.
- Visit the Bayfield County Historical Society
Learn about the history of Bayfield County by visiting the Bayfield County Historical Society. This museum features exhibits on local industries, including logging and fishing, as well as displays on the area’s Native American tribes.
- Take a Sailing Tour
Experience the beauty of Lake Superior by taking a sailing tour. There are several tour companies in Bayfield that offer sailing tours of the lake, allowing you to see the stunning natural beauty from a unique perspective.
Free Things to Do in Bayfield WI
If you’re on a budget, there are plenty of free activities to enjoy in Bayfield. Here are some of the best free things to do in Bayfield WI:
- Visit the Bayfield Public Library
The Bayfield Public Library is a great place to spend a few hours reading or using the free Wi-Fi. They also have a great selection of books and movies available to borrow.
- Walk Along the Brownstone Trail
The Brownstone Trail is a scenic trail that runs along the shore of Lake Superior. Take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the stunning views of the lake and the surrounding wilderness.
- Visit the Apostle Islands Visitor Center
The Apostle Islands Visitor Center is a great place to learn about the area’s history and natural beauty. The center features exhibits on the local wildlife, as well as displays on the area’s Native American tribes.
- Explore Bayfield’s Parks
Bayfield is home to several beautiful parks, including Memorial Park and Bayview Park. Spend a day exploring these parks, enjoying the natural beauty and fresh air.
- Attend a Local Event
Bayfield is known for its festivals and events, many of which are free to attend. Check out the local events calendar to see what’s happening during your visit.
Bayfield WI Things to Do in October
If you’re visiting Bayfield in October, there are plenty of fun activities to enjoy. Here are some of the best things to do in Bayfield WI in October:
- Attend the Bayfield Apple Festival
The Bayfield Apple Festival is a must-attend event in October. This festival features apple treats, live music, and plenty of family-friendly activities.
- Take a Fall Colors Tour
The fall colors in Bayfield are stunning, and there are several tour companies that offer fall colors tours. Sit back and enjoy the scenery, or take a more active approach and hike through the colorful wilderness.
- Visit a Pumpkin Patch
Bayfield is home to several pumpkin patches, perfect for picking out the perfect jack-o-lantern or just enjoying the fall atmosphere.
- Go on a Haunted Hayride
Get in the Halloween spirit by taking a haunted hayride through the spooky countryside. Several local farms offer haunted hayrides during the month of October.
- Attend a Ghost Walk
Explore the spooky side of Bayfield by taking a ghost walk through town. Hear chilling tales of ghostly encounters and haunted locations.
Bayfield WI Things to Do in Summer
Summer is a go on a great time to visit Bayfield, with plenty of outdoor activities and events to enjoy. Here are some of the best things to do in Bayfield WI in the summer:
- Go Swimming
Take a dip in Lake Superior at one of the area’s many beaches, including Red Cliff Beach and Little Sand Bay.
- Attend the Bayfield Farmers Market
The Bayfield Farmers Market is a must-visit destination in the summer. This market features fresh produce, handmade crafts, and live music.
- Hike the Apostle Islands
The Apostle Islands offer endless opportunities for hiking and exploring in the summer months. Take a guided tour or set out on your own adventure.
- Go Fishing
Bayfield is known for its world-class fishing, with plenty of opportunities to catch salmon, trout, and more.
- Attend the Big Top Chautauqua
The Big Top Chautauqua is a popular outdoor music venue, featuring live performances by a variety of artists throughout the summer.
Bayfield WI Things to Do in Winter
Winter in Bayfield is a magical time, with plenty of snowy activities and holiday events to enjoy. Here are some of the best things to do in Bayfield WI in the winter:
- Go Snowshoeing
Explore the snowy wilderness around Bayfield by snowshoeing through the area’s many trails and parks.
- Attend the Bayfield Winter Festival
The Bayfield Winter Festival is a must-attend event in the winter. This festival features ice sculptures, live music, and plenty of winter activities.
- Go Cross-Country Skiing
Bayfield offers miles of cross-country skiing trails, perfect for a winter workout or a leisurely afternoon in the snow.
- Take a Sleigh Ride
Experience the magic of winter in Bayfield by taking a sleigh ride through the snowy countryside.
- Attend the Candlelight Ski and Snowshoe
The Candlelight Ski and Snowshoe event is a popular winter event, featuring a candlelit ski and snowshoe trail, hot cocoa, and live music.
FAQs:
What is there to do in Bayfield WI?
There are plenty of fun activities to enjoy in Bayfield, including hiking, fishing, attending festivals and events, and exploring the local parks and museums.
What are some free things to do in Bayfield WI?
Some free things to do in Bayfield include visiting the public library, walking along the Brownstone Trail, exploring the local parks, and attending free events and festivals.
What is there to do in Bayfield WI in the summer?
In the summer, visitors to Bayfield can enjoy swimming, hiking, attending the farmers market, fishing, and attending outdoor music events.
What is there to do in Bayfield WI in the winter?
In the winter, visitors to Bayfield can enjoy snowshoeing, attending the Bayfield Winter Festival, cross-country skiing, taking a sleigh ride, and attending the Candlelight Ski and Snowshoe event.
What is the Bayfield Apple Festival?
The Bayfield Apple Festival is an annual festival in Bayfield that celebrates the local apple harvest. The festival features apple treats, live music, and family-friendly activities.
What are the Apostle Islands?
The Apostle Islands are a group of 21 islands located in Lake Superior, near Bayfield. The islands offer opportunities for hiking, camping, water sports, and wildlife viewing.
What is the Big Top Chautauqua?
The Big Top Chautauqua is an outdoor music venue located near Bayfield that features live performances by a variety of artists throughout the summer.
Can you swim in Lake Superior in Bayfield WI?
Yes, visitors to Bayfield can swim in Lake Superior at one of the area’s many beaches.
What is the best time of year to visit Bayfield WI?
The best time of year to visit Bayfield depends on your interests. Summer is great for outdoor activities and events, while winter offers snowy adventures and holiday festivities. Fall is also a popular time to visit for the fall colors and apple harvest.
What is the Brownstone Trail?
The Brownstone Trail is a scenic walking and biking trail that runs along the shoreline in Bayfield. It offers beautiful views of Lake Superior and the surrounding area.
Overall, Bayfield WI is a wonderful destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those looking for a unique vacation experience. With plenty of things to do year-round, from swimming and hiking to sleigh rides and winter festivals, there’s something for everyone in this charming Wisconsin town. Whether you’re planning a summer getaway or a winter adventure, be sure to check out these top 15 fun-filled things to do in Bayfield WI.