Bayfield 1886

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Bayfield 1950's

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But before we get into an answer to the question of what is there to do in Bayfield, click on what the Bayfield Chamber of Commerce  thinks you should know about their city, and be sure to order your copy of the Bayfield Visitors Guide while on the site.

Things To Do: First Visit

Above: Bayfield Harbor in April

So let's just say it is your first weekend visit to Bayfield.

You've arrived after a long drive, and after a quick cruise of the main drag to get acquainted, have settled into your comfortable room in one of  the fine accommodations the area offers.

Resist the urge to rush somewhere to do something!

Above: Lupine Bloom - Mid June

You are now on Bayfield time. Slow down. Relax.
 

Saturday: Start with breakfast.

Highly recommended is Northern Edge, a restaurant on the south side of town where locals and "damn tourists" alike rub elbows.

Eavesdrop on the conversations as much as you dare.

Read a local paper

.

Above: Apple Fest - First Weekend in October

 Watch the crowd move out on the dock toward toward the Island Princess for its 10:00 AM departure, as the ferry's churn back and fourth to Madeline Island.

Small craft of every variety enter and leave the harbor. People watching is varied and always interesting.

Breakfast over, it's time to walk off a few calories.

The perfect first stop is across the street to Apostle Islands Cruise Service to make your reservations for tomorrows three hour Grand Tour of the islands. Next door is Keeper of the Light, with its unique stock of lighthouse and nautical memorabilia. And though it is a bit early to choose a sweat shirt, check out the clothing that Monkey Business offers.

Above: Fall Color in Bayfield

Stop first to pick up a schedule for the ferry, because you do want to make that trip sometime, and then visit the new ferry depot.

After a few more shops you've reached Rittenhouse Ave. again.

Rest your feet for awhile in the gazebo. Then head out on the dock. Sailboat rides. Fishing charters. Private craft going in and out.

Watch a young sailor learning his first hitch.

More shopping. Maybe lunch, or a stop at one of the coffee shops. A nap might figure in. Or an hour or two watching the activity of the harbor.

Then the evening meal, perhaps at a place serving whitefish livers.

Above: November In The Marina

And suddenly it's time to end the day with some fine entertainment at Lake Superior Big Top Chautauqua.
 

Sunday: More of the same.

Breakfast. Then a floating tour of the islands with
commentary on geography, history, human activity past
and present. Sea caves. Lighthouses. And much more.

Back in Bayfield, a couple shopping stops. And then - too soon -  it's time to head home.

Above: Winter In The Bayfield Harbor

You never made it to Madeline Island, or either of the two golf courses, or drove up into the apple orchards.

And you would like to try sailing - or at least have a ride.

It would be neat to visit one of the lighthouses.

And at the Big Top is appearing a musical legend that never for a moment did you dream of seeing live.

There is always a first time.

But a first time visit to Bayfield is seldom the last.

Above: Snow On The Hills Above Bayfield