I think it would have been lovely had I not been literally chased off the island by biting flies! The historical museum was very nice and well done with an emphasis on the Ojibwe, who were the first people to settle in the area. The staff were kind and ready to answer questions. The original museum was near the back of the new structure and offered a glimpse of the what the museum was like when first opened- very meta.

La Pointe is a quaint little town on Madeline Island...reminds me of Door County. Rented bikes and rode out to Big Bay State Park. Two things you must do there: Stop at the Wisconsin Overlook on Point trail and go to Barrier Beach and experience Lake Superior. They also have a beautiful boardwalk trail by the beach. We also walked Capser trail...a one mile trail through the woods in town. Ate at the Beach Club...outdoor seating. The fish tacos were excellent!

The ferry ride, while spendy, was quick, scenic and efficient. The workers were friendly and good at what they did. There’s really not much in the town of La Pointe. There was a bus load of senior citizens on the ferry with me, and I can’t imagine what they found to do on the island. I would only visit if you are capable of hiking in Big Bay State Park. The Point and Bay View Trails are stunning. They are pretty level, so anyone in average physical condition should be able to handle them. You don’t have to do any rock scrambling or steep inclines. Take your vehicle on the ferry, because the state park is 6-7 miles from the dock. I would also pack a sack lunch, hand sanitizer and trash bags. The park does not have flush toilets (maybe in the campground???) or trash cans. It’s too inconvenient to leave the park to go eat in town and then come back. Pick up both an island and a park map from the kiosk on the mainland. Fuel your vehicle before leaving the mainland. There were signs posted about no fuel (for the time being) on the island. Have a credit card if you need a day pass for the park. The pay station is not always manned.