In northern Wisconsin, nestled against the edge of Lake Superior, lies a tiny town that captures the classic American atmosphere of years gone by.
Bayfield, population about 500, has historic buildings, scenic sailboats and public parks that present a picture any traveler would enjoy. The local farm-to-table scene, stunning national lakeshore and direct access to the Apostle Islands are just extra gravy on the vacation plate. If you're planning a trip to the area, there are a few things you should try to squeeze into your itinerary.
Be sure to make time for Maggie's, a quirky, neon-colored establishment featuring flamingos and casual fare. The black-beans-and-rice starter is large enough for a meal, and at $6.50 it suits the pocketbook of a traveler on a budget. Loaded with cheese, salsa and sour cream, it's also decadent enough to feel like a treat. Other fun finds on the menu include the white vegetable pizza and polenta fries.
The Egg Toss Cafe is a fun breakfast stop decorated in sunny colors with retro seating. You can score an exceptional morning meal here for less than 10 bucks, including hearty options like huevos rancheros, cranberry-orange buckwheat pancakes and vegetable-stuffed scrambled eggs.
While most of the restaurants in town don't have patio dining for pets, there are several spots to enjoy the grass and park benches. Our strategy was the one we saw most other pet owners implementing: divide and conquer. While one of you gets Fifi settled, the other can order the food and bring it to the outside spot you've chosen. Since the park near the marina is spacious, this means you won't have to sacrifice waterfront dining in order to enjoy a meal with your pet.
The area's farm trail provides a number of stops for travelers interested in a bit of agritourism. Several feature berries and orchards specifically, providing an easy "fruit loop" that's doable as a day trip for frugal visitors. Of note for those accompanied by a pampered pooch is Hauser's Superior View Farm, which is also home to the Bayfield Winery.
Our Labrador was welcomed inside with a cuddle and a large bucket of ice water. The concrete floor of the 100-plus-year-old barn kept her cool while we sipped and selected the bottles we wanted to buy. She also enjoyed joining us while we sampled the various jams, dips and sauces that were available for taste testing with pretzel sticks. The $5 tasting fee covers all 11 wines and includes a souvenir glass.
Another picturesque option is Blue Vista Farm. While they don't welcome dogs inside their gift and food shop, there is a good-sized garden area outside with flower-lined walking paths, benches and a picnic table under a large shade tree. With a comfortable out-of-vehicle option for Buster, it's easier to tag-team your exploration of the farm's offerings. There are also outside bistro tables and chairs if you want to snack on your purchases before departure.
For those interested in exploring the Apostle Islands a bit, a ferry trip to Madeline Island is definitely in order. The ferry and on-island town park with beach access are both pet-friendly, and vehicles are allowed on the boat for an extra charge. This allows the freedom of exploring at your own pace without having to secure local transportation across the bay. In addition to the park and scenery, there's also an acclaimed art school that offers workshops, and a number of popular restaurants. Ticket prices for the ferry are $13.50 for adults and $24.50 for vehicles. Rover rides for free.
For a real memory-making splurge, consider a chartered tour by sailboat that will take you around the bay and past picture-perfect rock formations. Manitou Sailing Tours offers half-day excursions for $65, including basic and adult beverages. Large-breed pets are welcome on board, making this a workable solution for those recreating with Rover. They even stock dog biscuits.
After a day on the water, head back to town and enjoy a free outdoor concert at Memorial Park near the marina. Offered as part of a local summer concert series at 7 p.m. on Tuesdays, it's a fun activity for Fido that doesn't require restaurant manners.
Got the 'tweens in tow? Consider a guided ghost tour. Bayfield Heritage Tours offers nightly walking experiences starting at 8:15 with in-character costumed guides, lanterns for customers to carry and scheduled spooky stops throughout historic Bayfield where local legends are told with flair. For $15 per ticket, it's an inexpensive way to enjoy the outdoors on foot. Canines are also welcome to accompany their people.
Pooch-friendly digs can be found at the Winfield Inn, just a few blocks north of downtown with a commanding view of Lake Superior. Rooms come with porch and balcony areas, and the common patio with tables, chairs and a grill makes a great spot for bringing back meals and securing man's best friend to the deck fence next to your table while you all enjoy dinner overlooking the waves. A quick drive from downtown, it's a quiet retreat after a day of touring.
Summer rack rates start at $120, and rooms come with a large, midsized refrigerator for storing supplemental meal supplies and beverages. While this retro-style motel with a resort view might have smaller accommodations than you're used to, the gardens are a charming addition to the spectacular scenery and the staff is friendly. Rooms are comfy and clean, with space for Rover to relax.
For more information about Bayfield, visit bayfield.org or call (715) 779-3335.
Travel on 08/31/2014