Some travel experts suggest it's best to start planning smaller vacations 1-3 months in advance. This means that right now is the perfect time to start gearing up for a spring/summer road trip.

May we suggest Bayfield, Wisconsin? From sea caves to fish boils — we’re spilling all the details on how to have an unforgettable time in the Bayfield area.

Essential info

Drive time: ~5.5 hours
Year city was established: 1856
Est. population: 600

Experience

Sea Caves
These natural marvels are accessible via a hiking trail from Meyers Beach. Hop on the trail at Meyers Beach parking lot, on Meyers Road — parking costs $5/day.

Madeline Island
This island is the spiritual center of the Lake Superior Chippewa, the Anishinaabe people. Just 2.5 miles from shore, the island is reachable by ferry line or ice road and offers museums, galleries, and camping.

Concerts by the Lake
Every Tuesday + Thursday from the end of June through August, Memorial Park hosts live music. Guests are welcome to bring lawn chairs, blankets, and leashed dogs.

Concerts by the Lake is great for some free family fun. | Photo by @bayfield_wi

Lighthouse tours
Bayfield's Apostle Island National Lakeshore boasts the most extensive assortment of historic lighthouses and light towers in the US. Check out Raspberry Island Lighthouse and the Old Michigan Island Lighthouse for guided tours.

Bayfield in Bloom
Book your trip for the first couple weeks of June to catch the floral celebration of 50,000 blooming daffodils, lupine-lined roads, and blossoming apple orchards — Friday, June 2-Sunday, June 11.

Apostle Island Cruise
Check out the windswept beaches, naturally-carved rock formations, marine wildlife, and intricate sea caves of the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore.

Eat

Mannypenny Bistro
This restaurant and bakery offers American classics with a Turkish twist. Dinner options include wood-fired pizzas, classic gyros, and Turkish Döner.

Gruenke's
This family-friendly spot serves up casual American classics and "the best breakfast in town. Pro tip: Stop by for a traditional Wisconsin fish boil in the summer.

Sweet and Salty
Satisfy your sweet tooth or try some specialty popcorn with flavors like churro, buffalo blue cheese, and green apple.

Copper Trout
Enjoy a sunset dinner on the covered deck and wash things down with sips from the wine and tap beer list. Desserts are handmade by local bakers and pastry chefs.

Bayfield Winery and Blue Ox Cider
This family-owned and operated vineyard is a place where wine and cider lovers can coexist harmoniously. Enjoy live music on the lawn every weekend from mid-June through September.

Wash your worries away with a glass of wine at Bayfield Winery | Photo by @bayfieldwinery

Stay

Copper Trout
That's right, not only is Copper Trout a great dining option, but the site also offers two studio rooms that you can rent out through Vrbo.

Wild Rice Retreat
Ground your mind, body, and spirit at this lakeside getaway where nourishment, movement, and creativity are key.

Find your center at Wild Rice Retreat | Photo by @wildriceretreat

The Bayfield Inn
This inn has been lodging Bayfield's visitors for nearly 100 years. Its modern amenities and historic charm are what landed it on our list.

Artesian House
This contemporary bed and breakfast resides on 25 acres of woodland.

Wait a minute. Before you head out the door, find the cheapest places to fill up your gas tank and stock up on road trip snacks from Kwik Trip. Also, bookmark this map so you have no trouble finding all of our recommendations while visiting Bayfield.