3-Day Madeline Island Itinerary for First-Time Visitors: Nature, Relaxation & Dining

Located three miles off the shores of Bayfield, Wisconsin is an island that sees over 200,000 visitors annually – Madeline Island. Originally a fur trading post, today the island is a popular tourist destination during the summer months for those looking to slow down and enjoy island time.

I visited Madeline Island with Sam for the first time in 2024 and we had the best time exploring the island, enjoying the shores of Lake Superior, and recharging. It’s a great vacation destination whether you are traveling solo, as a couple, or with children – and this guide has everything you need to make the most of your trip.

This 3-day Madeline Island Itinerary details what to do during your visit and answers common questions about planning a trip to this unique Wisconsin destination.

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Where is Madeline Island? 

Madeline Island is the largest Apostle Island in Lake Superior and is located three miles off the shore of Bayfield, Wisconsin. 

Is Madeline Island an Apostle Island? 

Madeline Island is one of the Apostle Islands, although it is not part of the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. 

How do you get to Madeline Island? 

You can access Madeline Island via the Madeline Island Ferry, a car ferry that travels the three-mile journey (20-30 minutes) from Bayfield, WI to La Pointe, WI. Yes, your car can come with you to Madeline Island.

Do you need a car on Madeline Island? 

While I’d recommend bringing a car to Madeline Island, it is not a necessity. If you stay near the ferry terminal, you can easily walk to your lodging, the restaurants, and museums. However, if you want to explore the parks and island beaches, having transportation is best. 

Bikes are a great alternative to bringing your vehicle. The island also has a few places where you can rent mopeds/scooters for your island transportation needs.

Best Time to Visit Madeline Island:

I recommend visiting the island mid-June through October. June through August provide warm weather and open restaurants and shops, while September and October offer beautiful fall colors.

While you can visit during the winter, the ferry schedule is very limited and not many businesses are open.

However, as long as you’re okay with relaxing and enjoying the tranquility of the island, there’s no bad time to visit Madeline Island.

Hotels on Madeline Island: 

Madeline Island is home to several inns, cabins, rental properties, and campsites. Airbnb and Vrbo are great options for private rentals, while Big Bay State Park and Big Bay Town Park offer excellent camping on Madeline Island.

I stayed at the Inn on Madeline Island in the Lightkeeper’s Lodge and highly recommend it during your Madeline Island getaway.

If Madeline Island lodging options are limited during your dates (or expensive), you can always book a room on the mainland in Bayfield and ferry to the island.

Best for Camping:

– Big Bay Town Park: reservations open up 600 days in advance and fill quickly.
– Big Bay State Park: hiking trails and beach, reservations through the Wisconsin State Park System

Best for Couples:

– The Inn on Madeline Island (The Lightkeeper’s Lodge): King bed, soaking tub, wine counter, fireplace, large deck with some overlooking Lake Superior.

– 3 Bears at South Shore Vista: Sleeps 2, pet-friendly, beautiful Lake Superior Views.

Best for Families:

– The Inn on Madeline Island (Lake Frontage and Fairway Suites): one and two bedroom lodging options with a kitchen, deck, fireplace, and access to the pool.

– Moss Creek Cabin: Sleeps 10, pet-friendly, located in the woods, large deck and fire pit.

– Cozy Pines Cabin: Sleeps 4, overlooks Lake Superior, private dock access, pet-friendly, glass-enclosed porch.

3-Day Madeline Island Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival, Beach, & Dinner

Take the Car Ferry from Bayfield to Madeline Island 

20 Washington Avenue, Bayfield, WI 54814

Your journey to Madeline Island begins in La Pointe (near Bayfield, WI) where you board the Madeline Island Ferry – a car ferry transporting both you and your vehicle to the island. The ride to and from Madeline Island is about 25 minutes and provides beautiful views of Lake Superior and the Apostle Islands. 

It’s such a fun experience to take the ferry. Once you park your car, you are welcome to get out and enjoy the ride from the upper deck of the boat. I think the ferry ride is such a fun thing to do on Madeline Island, and technically you’re not even on the island yet!

The ferry prices are determined by the number of people in your party, if you are bringing a vehicle aboard/the size, and any bikes or motorcycles. Dogs always ride for free. 

Madeline Island Ferry Line operates on a seasonal schedule until Lake Superior freezes and the ferries can no longer break through the ice. 

Grab Lunch at The Beach Club

817 Main Street – La Pointe, WI 54814

After arriving on Madeline Island, head a few minutes down the road to The Beach Club, a local spot that overlooks the ferry dock. Open for lunch and dinner, The Beach Club offers a fun menu of burgers, fish tacos, salads, and more. They also serve a full bar. 

Like most spots on Madeline Island that are open year-round, winter hours can vary day-by-day. However, the summer hours for the 2024 season were 11am-7pm Tuesday through Sunday (closed Mondays).

Spend the Afternoon at the Beach at Big Bay State Park

2402 Hagen Rd, La Pointe, WI 54850

One of the most beautiful and peaceful Wisconsin state parks is Big Bay State Park located on the east end of Madeline Island. 

The park showcases many stunning features, including four miles of shoreline with sandstone bluffs, a one-mile boardwalk, seven miles of hiking trails, and a 1.5 mile swimming beach. 

I love the beach area – it’s beautiful, very quiet, and there is so much space for everyone to spread out. 

Dinner at The Pub Restaurant and Wine Bar

641 Fort Rd, La Pointe, WI 54850

Connected to the Inn on Madeline Island, The Pub Restaurant and Wine Bar is a popular Madeline Island restaurant that is a seasonal establishment serving a large menu offering of salads, pizzas, pastas, pub fare and entrees. 

Sam and I dined here multiple times during our two-night stay on the island. We loved the location overlooking the water and the variety of gluten-free options for Sam to enjoy. It was definitely an added bonus that we could walk from our hotel room. 

The restaurant is open seven days a week during the summer and fall season and offers both indoor and outdoor seating overlooking Lake Superior. 

Day 2: Morning Hike, Picnic Lunch, Museum, Drinks & Dinner

Morning Hike at Big Bay State Park 

2402 Hagen Rd, La Pointe, WI 54850

Big Bay State Park offers seven miles of beautiful hiking trails and a morning hike is the perfect way to start your day on Madeline Island. I recommend the Bay View Trail (1.3 miles) or Boardwalk Trail (1.5 miles) for incredible views of the area and the potential to spot the wildlife as it wanders around in the morning. 

Picnic Lunch in the Park

2402 Hagen Rd, La Pointe, WI 54850

Bring a picnic lunch with you to the park (or pick up snacks at Darlings Grocery Store) and enjoy a peaceful meal in Big Bay State Park. Grab a picnic table with a beautiful view of the lake or surrounding cliffs, or head down to the beach. 

Visit Madeline Island Museum 

226 Colonel Woods Ave, La Pointe, WI 54850

The best way to learn about the unique history of the island is by visiting the Madeline Island Museum. Here you’ll learn all about the people and cultures who once called Madeline Island home and dive into its history as a fur trading post. 

The museum is open seasonally from late-May through mid-October. Admission for adults 13-64 is $10, seniors 65+ is $8 and kids 5-12 is $5. Wisconsin Historical Society members receive free admission.

Grab a Drink at Tom’s Burned Down Cafe 

274 Chebomnicon Bay Rd, La Pointe, WI 54850

Even if you do not drink, I highly recommend a stop at Tom’s Burnt Down Cafe. It’s a very quirky spot that is more of an experience than a bar, although plenty of alcohol is served at this establishment. 

It might be hard to tell from the outside that the it’s an actual business since it looks a little bit like a mix between an eclectic art collection and a scrapyard. The entire place is filled with signs – many with political undertones. One could spend a few hours simply reading everything throughout the bar. 

The bar itself is cash-only and is open from 11am-ish until 2am daily (per their hours). Dogs and kids are both allowed and their are several seating options, some with views of Lake Superior. 

I want to give disclaimer that this spot is not for everyone. It’s not the cleanest and the staff isn’t always the most polite. Service can be iffy at best. However, it’s a Madeline Island gem and for every one person who doesn’t like it, 10 people seem to love it.

Dinner at Miijim

858 Main Street, La Pointe, WI, 84850

For a truly local and authentic meal on Madeline Island, make a reservation at Miijim. This unique restaurant blends local Native American dishes with French style to create a delicious menu that rotates with the seasons. The head chef, a member of the Red Cliff Band of Lake Superior Chippewa, collaborates with local farmers to create a menu featuring the freshest local foods.

Miijim is open seasonally – keep an eye on their Facebook page for the latest updates.

Day 3: Breakfast & Ferry Back to Bayfield

Breakfast at Grampa Tony’s

814 Fort Rd, La Pointe, WI 54850

Located within walking distance of the ferry dock is an island staple – Grampa Tony’s. Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the restaurant offers a casual menu of salads, pizzas, and sandwiches in a casual environment. They also serve ice cream which is the perfect snack after a busy day of adventuring.

Grampa Tony’s is open during the high season from the Friday of Memorial Day Weekend through the Monday of Labor Day Weekend from 8am until 9pm. However, I went around 10am during my visit and they were not serving food due to a break between the breakfast and lunch service, so make sure to call ahead before visiting.

Take the Ferry Back to Bayfield

La Point, WI, 54850

Check the ferry schedule in advance of your departure and arrive at least 30 minutes before your planned departure time. You’ll want to allot plenty of time to catch a ferry back to the mainland on your day of travel.

Tips for Visiting Madeline Island

– Book your accommodations well in advance for best availability. Rates are typically pre-set at the beginning of the season.

– Arrive for the ferry early, especially if you have plans for your day of arrival/departure.

– Bring food with you, especially if you are visiting early or late in the season. Sam and I visited in July and were surprised by the limited restaurant offerings mid-week, especially with his Celiac requirements.

– Even if you just have time for a day trip, do it! You’ll be able to explore the state park, spend a little time at the beach, and browse the small downtown area.

Madeline Island Itinerary Conclusion

I LOVE Madeline Island! It’s a beautiful and peaceful Wisconsin destination, perfect for a summer escape. It’s hard to envision it until you actually visit, which is why I recommend that everyone go at least once for themselves!