Getting Away to Madeline Island This Summer

Looking for a summer getaway? Look no further than Madeline Island!

This gem of a spot is the largest of the Apostle Islands in Lake Superior, just off the coast of Ashland, Wisconsin.

The island is the same size as Manhattan, roughly 3 miles wide and 14 miles long. More than 1/3 of the island consists of parks and wilderness preserves, making it a nature-lovers’ paradise. Or, if you’re not as into nature, stick closer to downtown for vibrant indoor attractions and delicious meals.

Getting to and from the Island

As an island, your options to get on and off the property are slightly limited (you can’t just drive over the ocean after all). That said, the island is accessible by ferry, private boat, or even airplane.

The most accessible way is the Madeline Island Ferry Line that docks at the northeast end of Bayfield. If you’re starting from Wisconsin Highway 13, you’ll turn east on Washington Avenue and look for signs on your right for the “Ferry Loading Ramp.”

The Ferry ride is about 20–25 minutes of pleasant waves and ocean views. Generally, the Ferry leaves in half- or hour-long intervals starting around 7:00 AM and ending around 8pm (weekends have slightly extended hours). For precise scheduling, check out https://madferry.com/ferry-schedule. 

You can usually take the Ferry from March/April until the winter freeze, weather permitting. If you have a car, it’s advisable to take it on the Ferry, as some of the parks and attractions can be a few miles away from the island’s dock.

No reservations are required, and pedestrians and cars are loaded on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Food & Drink

In case you’re hungry when you land, the island has a wide variety of food and drink options. The island is quite friendly to various dietary needs, including vegan and vegetarian options. You can also find classic Wisconsin supper club fare, local bistros, sandwiches and snacks to-go, and staples like hot dogs, hamburgers, pizza, and salads.

Most dining locations have sunset views overlooking the lake, and some locations even boast that every seat is a window seat.

Some of the restaurants, like Beach Club (a bar and restaurant with classics like burgers, wraps, salads, and fish, plus vegetarian options) even have a few docking spaces so if you’re lucky enough to have a private boat, you can just sail on up for your meal.

Most locations have indoor and outdoor dining, and you can expect live music frequently throughout the summer.

If you’re a fan of brunch, be sure to check out Farmhouse Kitchen & Inn. As the name suggests, this restaurant doubles as a bed & breakfast so you can take care of your meals and lodgings in one place. Plus, they’ve just started growing their own food and supporting community farming with the goal of being near 100% island sufficient; you can feel good about supporting a local, small business.

There are also a few cafes, markets, and a wine bar so you can DIY your meals and/or enjoy a delicious glass of wine.

Accommodations

The island offers a wide variety of accommodations from camping to romantic getaways.

To start, there are 14 separate cabins and cottages options to suit everyone from single vacationers to large families. Craig’s Place, for example, is a standalone, two-bedroom house with a sleeping porch and a beautiful deck. Enjoy privacy and tranquility when you stay here.

Madeline Island Getaways offers three separate rentals that can house 14–16 people, depending on which rental you choose. If you’re traveling with a large group or planning a reunion, check out the Getaways.

If you prefer a slightly less secluded spot, there are rental homes and condos available. Sheila’s Downtown Condo is close to the Ferry and of course, located centrally downtown. Enjoy walking distance to many amenities, including galleries, a golf course, the marina, kayak rentals, and more.

Prefer to camp? Big Bay State Park and Big Bay Town Park have you covered. Each park has 60+ campsites, including RV sites, plus some sites have electricity for your convenience. There are also walk-in only sites, in case you prefer to camp a little more traditionally.

Things to Do

Once you’re fed and settled in your lodgings, it’s time to have fun! The island has dozens of offerings to suit all entertainment tastes.

If you’re staying closer to downtown or prefer indoor activities, there are multiple art galleries, including pottery displays, jewelry, sculptures, and more. You can find local artists’ work at Turtle Tracks Studio and Madeline Island Candles.

Want to learn how to create some art for yourself? Check out the Madeline Island School of the Arts. This school offers workshops in quilting, writing, photography, and painting. Enjoy the quiet serenity of the Wisconsin dairy farm setting as you get creative.

Other indoor activities include a museum, public library, coffee shops, or you can take advantage of the board games offered at many local retailers.

If you’re more outdoorsy and love the water, you’ll be right at home on Madeline Island. Enjoy public and private boat and kayak tours. Rent your own motor boat, stand-up paddleboard, canoe, or kayak.

The island also boasts pristine beaches where you can take a quick dip or explore the sands for sea glass.

And if you still love the outdoors but prefer to be on land, there are events for you too. Dozens of hiking trails criss-cross the island, offering a variety of nature experiences and vistas. You can go star gazing at the two main parks or on the Casper Trail Observation Deck. Rent bikes or mopeds to explore the island.

You can also go birdwatching and wildlife viewing in the parks and in the Madeline Island Wilderness Preserve. The Preserve is made of 2,600 acres of forest, wetlands, and trails, perfect for exploring.

There’s also a golf club, horseback riding, and yoga and wellness classes and retreats.

Something for Everyone

There truly is something for everyone on this small-yet-mighty island. Make a point to take a visit to Madeline Island this summer for your ideal getaway!