Many locals consider fall the ideal time of year to pay a visit to Lake Superior. Between the scenic views, exciting activities, and small-town Wisconsin charm, it’s easy to see why. One of the very best reasons to visit Lake Superior, however, is the Madeline Island Fall Festival. Join the festivities this year on Madeline Island, one of the most beautiful and accessible of the Apostle Islands. Additionally, If you’re looking for info on all of the most exciting things to do in between the Fall Fest’s hours of operation, here is the best place to start. With all of the area’s top restaurants, historic sites, and fun events, our Bayfield area guide is the only way to ensure an unforgettable visit to Wisconsin.
Quick Facts About the Madeline Island Fall Festival
When and Where to Go
Every year in the third week of October, Madeline Island plays host to the Family Fall Fest. Visit the small town of La Pointe and enjoy a weekend of fall fun! Easy to reach and fun to visit, Madeline Island is a part of the Apostle Island chain and just a short ferry ride from historic Bayfield, Wisconsin.
There are so many things to do in Bayfield and the rest of the area. Even if you miss festival weekend, visiting the Apostle Islands and Bayfield are worth the trip on their own. Whether you plan the perfect hike, admire the fall foliage, or explore the beaches of Lake Superior, there is something for everyone in Wisconsin!
Things to Do
The fun begins Friday and Saturday morning with a farmers market held right across from the Madeline Island ferry office from 9:15 a.m. to noon. The rest of the day is filled with pumpkin decorating, fireworks, a costume parade, and an incredible number of interactive events such as making your own apple cider or building your own birdhouse!
The festival also attracts numerous artisan vendors that have everything from wapples (waffles filled with apple cheesecake and caramel sauce) to hand-carved spoons and homemade jewelry. If that isn’t enough, Madeline Island also hosts a wine and food tasting at the Mission Hill Coffee House during the weekend.
What to Eat
One thing to note about the Madeline Island Fall Festival is that it isn’t hard to find delicious food. The festival hosts street vendors that serve some of the best local cuisine all day long, and La Pointe is home to some great places to eat as well. (Try Cafe Seiche or Beach Club.)
Additionally, If you’re coming from off of the Island or you just don’t have an appetite for street food, Bayfield is also home to plenty of incredible restaurants that are not far away. One of our favorites is Lakeside Dining at Bayfield Inn, but for an extensive list of Bayfield’s dining options, click here.
Where to Stay During the Madeline Island Fall Festival
Between both Bayfield and Madeline Island, there is so much fun to be had in Wisconsin this fall. The only way to experience the best of both is by staying in Bayfield and using the ferry to get to Madeline Island and back. When it comes to premier lodging options in Bayfield, the Pinehurst Inn Bed & Breakfast is at the top of the list. Our luxurious accommodations, welcoming atmosphere, and incredible amenities are second to none, and our convenient location makes us the perfect place to start your vacation. Book your stay now and take the first step in planning an amazing trip this fall!