Nestled on the shores of Lake Superior, the charming town of Bayfield offers an incredible summer destination! Pack your bags for Old Rittenhouse Inn and embark on an epic adventure. Explore the Apostle Islands, kayak through spectacular sea caves, attend concerts under a canopy tent, meander through our local shops, and pick berries at a local orchard. Discover the top 10 things to do in Bayfield during the summer months with these activities selected by our knowledgeable staff!
1. Biking and Chilling on Madeline Island
Whether you bring your bike, rent on Madeline Island, or cruise over in your car, you’re sure to have a good time on Madeline Island. The Madeline Island Ferry will carry you across the 2.5-mile stretch of Lake Superior to the village of LaPointe.
Try our favorite restaurants: Tom’s Burned Down Café, Grampa Tony’s, Madeline Island Food Truck, Farmhouse Kitchen and Inn, and Pub Restaurant.
Or spend your time enjoying outdoor activities at Big Bay State Park and Big Bay Town Park.
2. Exploring the Islands with Apostle Islands Cruises
One of the most popular things to do in Bayfield in the summer is exploring the neighboring Apostle Islands. Daily cruises leave the Bayfield City Dock from mid-May through mid-October. Cruise the islands on the Grand Tour, where you’ll see 20 of the 22 Apostle Islands, or opt to be dropped at one of the lighthouses for a tour and hiking excursion.
Rain or shine, cruise guests often spot eagles, sea caves, and fish camps, among other sites, while enjoying information about the area from cruise captains and the beauty of the lake and the outdoors.
Image by Eric Iverson
3. Kayaking the Sea Caves
Set up your professionally guided tour of the mainland sea caves with licensed services like Living Adventure, Trek & Trail, or Apostle Island Tours. These outfitters include trips to Lake Superior’s most impressive sea caves at Meyers Beach and Sand Island.
4. Concerts at Lake Superior Big Top Chautauqua
Known as the spot for “Culture Under Canvas,” Lake Superior Big Top Chautauqua has been an annual Wisconsin summer tradition for the past four decades! They will feature over 60 concerts, educational programs, and events from June through September under a 900-seat canvas tent.
Experience the best of outdoor entertainment in a beautiful setting with great sound, good food, and new friends!
Image by Eric Iverson
5. Dinner at Landmark Restaurant
The Old Rittenhouse Inn’s Landmark Restaurant offers fine dining with Lake Superior views. We offer breakfast, specialty lunches, and gourmet dinners using local ingredients in every dish!
Celebrate a special occasion or just toast to Thursday evening! The Landmark is known for mouthwatering dishes such as the roast pork loin with apple cider, steak Bercy, and freshly caught Lake Superior fish. Reservations are suggested; please call us at 715-779-5111.
Stay tuned for Part Two of our list of Top Ten Things To Do In Bayfield This Summer, and start planning your getaway today!