Madeline Island

You'll want to visit Big Bay State Park that boasts one of the most spectacular unspoiled beaches on the Great Lakes. Hike along the lakeshore, charter a sailboat, play golf on a tough Robert Trent Jones course, or grab a drink and stake out a beach chair to watch sailboats, yachts, gulls and ferries come and go. A must-do is Tom's Burned Down Cafe Not just a bar and art gallery...an adventure! Carnegie Hall of Junkyards. Many witty sayings. You have to see it to believe it. Phone: 715-747-6100.

On the island read the posters, pick up flyers and check The Gazette in the Island Thyme shop at the ferry dock or Mission Hill Coffee House downtown. We've discovered island happenings such as art classes (tie-dyeing last summer), concerts, softball games, history lectures and special celebrations. I feel like a kid in a candy shop (there's one in Bayfield and on the island) trying to decide what to do first. The LaPointe Center Art Guild features many talented area artists. I rarely leave Wood's Hall Craft Shop without adding another woven rug from one of my favorite island weavers to my collection.

For a great island overview catch the Island Tour Bus at the ferry office on Main Street (715-747-2051).