Bayfield
Bayfield, WI
A small harbor town on Lake Superior, with older wooden houses, galleries and a waterfront where ferries and boat tours leave for the Apostle Islands. Stop for fruit from local orchards in season and a walk along the dock.
Since 1856 Bayfield has carried the name of the British topographer Henry Bayfield, who explored the region in 1822-23. With 584 residents (2020), it is the smallest city in Wisconsin. The town on Lake Superior is the gateway to Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, with 21 islands; ferries run to La Pointe on Madeline Island, the largest of the Apostle Islands. The national lakeshore's headquarters is in town and was built of sandstone quarried on the islands.
The historic town center is characterized by brownstone architecture. A lumber and fishing town became a resort. On the first weekend of October, the Apple Fest draws about 60,000 visitors, according to Wikipedia, and the town is then very crowded; in July there is the Festival of Arts, and around July 4 the Race Week regatta. One to two hours are enough for a walk through town and down to the harbor. If you want to visit the islands, you will need considerably more time. Plan to arrive early on festival days.
- Nearest town
- Bayfield, WI
- Category
- History & culture
- GPS
- 46.8108, -90.8185
Hours, fees and access change. Confirm with the operator or park before you go.
Good to know
Best time to go
The most pleasant months are usually May–June and September. Still fine, with some compromises, in July–August. Cold, short days in November–March. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)
Nearby
FAQs
Where is Bayfield?
Bayfield is in Bayfield, WI, at GPS 46.8108, -90.8185. It is about 3 mi from La Pointe.
What is there to see near Bayfield?
Places worth a stop nearby: Apostle Islands sea caves (11 mi), Split Rock Lighthouse (37 mi), Gooseberry Falls State Park (38 mi) and Palisade Head (40 mi).
When is the best time to visit Bayfield?
The most pleasant months are usually May–June and September. Still fine, with some compromises, in July–August. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)