Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Bayfield, Wisconsin and Madison, Wisconsin

If you're looking for a great road trip in Wisconsin, consider driving from Bayfield to Madison. It's a route that offers scenic views, historic landmarks, and plenty of stops along the way. The drive is around 230 miles, which takes around four hours. To make the most of your journey, take a break in these five unexpected places.

Starting Point: Bayfield, Wisconsin

Bayfield, Wisconsin is a picturesque town on the shore of Lake Superior. It's a great starting point for your road trip and a place worth exploring. The town offers many attractions, from the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore to the Bayfield Maritime Museum. If you're in Bayfield, be sure to stop by Big Water Coffee Roasters, a cozy café that serves delicious coffee and baked goods.

Halfway Point: Merrill, WI

Before we get to the unexpected stops, we need to mention the halfway point, Merrill, WI (which is exactly 115 miles from Bayfield and 115 miles from Madison). This small city in Lincoln County offers a lot of charm and history. For example, you can visit the Merrill Historical Society and Museum, which houses exhibits on the city's past. And if you're looking for great food, stop at the Checkered Churn, a local favorite that serves classic diner-style meals like burgers, pies, and milkshakes.

1. Black River State Forest

The Black River State Forest is nestled in the heart of central Wisconsin. It's a nature lover's paradise, with over 68,000 acres of pristine woodland, rivers, and lakes. The park is perfect for hiking, camping, fishing, and hunting. If you're driving through, make sure you slow down and take in the beauty of this forest. It's a perfect spot for a picnic or a leisurely stroll. When it comes to food, bring your own snacks or sandwiches to enjoy in one of the picnic areas provided.

2. Wisconsin Cranberry Discovery Center

Wisconsin is the country's top producer of cranberries, and the Wisconsin Cranberry Discovery Center highlights all things cranberry. The center offers interactive exhibits on the fruit, including a restaurant where you can taste different cranberry dishes. You can also take a guided tour of the world's largest cranberry marsh, which is about 20 minutes away. Don't miss the gift shop, where you can buy all kinds of cranberry-themed products, from wine to soap. If you're feeling hungry, try the center's famous cranberry BBQ sandwich, which has garnered critical acclaim.

3. National Mustard Museum

The National Mustard Museum in Middleton, Wisconsin is a quirky stop on your road trip. It has over 5,600 mustards from around the world, as well as exhibits on the history and science of mustard. You can also taste different flavors of mustard, including some of the spiciest mustards you'll ever try. The museum has a store where you can buy all kinds of mustard, as well as other condiments and souvenirs. While there's no food available in the museum itself, there are plenty of restaurants nearby. One great spot is Craftsman Table & Tap, which serves upscale pub food.

4. New Glarus Brewing Company

If you're a beer lover, you can't miss the New Glarus Brewing Company. This brewery is among the top craft breweries in the country and offers free tours of its facility. Visitors can learn about the beer-making process, sample different brews, and buy bottles to take home. The brewery also has a gift shop and outdoor seating area, where you can enjoy your beer while taking in the beautiful surroundings. If you're feeling hungry, try the brewery's cheese and meat plate, which pairs perfectly with their fruity and hoppy beers.

5. The House on the Rock

The House on the Rock is a bizarre and fascinating attraction in Spring Green, Wisconsin. It's a sprawling complex with different sections, each more eclectic than the last. You can explore the Infinity Room, which juts out over 200 feet over the valley, visit the Music of Yesterday exhibit, which features automated musical instruments from the early 20th century, and stroll through the Streets of Yesterday, which recreates an old-timey town. The House on the Rock is open year-round, making it perfect for a stop on your road trip. Food is available on-site at the café, which serves soup, sandwiches, and salads.

Conclusion

There you have it—five unexpected stops along the way from Bayfield to Madison. From natural beauty to quirky museums, this road trip offers something for everyone. Plus, you'll get to taste some of Wisconsin's best food and drink along the way. So, pack up your car, and hit the road. And don't forget to stop in Merrill, WI, the halfway point – you never know what treasures you'll find.