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Island Vacation: No Passport Required

Step out of the hustle and bustle of every day life to an island vacation. Crystalline blue waters, sandy beaches, and the laid-back lifestyle of island living create the perfect backdrop for your next getaway. The best part about it? No passport required. The second best part? This island is only about 9 hours by car from Chicago, 7-1/2 hours from the Milwaukee Area, and just 3-1/2 hours from the Twin Cities Metro Area.

Madeline Island, one of the 22 Apostle Islands, is located off Wisconsin's northern shore in Lake Superior. It is the largest, and only of the Apostles, that has been commercially developed and is populated year-round. Abundant natural beauty, history, delightful surroundings, and lore are packed into the 14 mile by 3 mile island. And the Madeline adventure begins before even setting foot on her shore.

The journey to Madeline begins with a scenic 2.6 mile ferry boat ride from the dock in Bayfield, Wisconsin to the ferry landing in LaPointe, the only town on the island. Four ferries, running every half hour during the summer months, offer a picturesque 20 minute cruise across sailboat-dotted water. Cars, bikes, and motorcycles, can be transported, as well as Man's Best Friend (as long has he is leashed or contained within a vehicle en route) via the ferry.

Upon docking in LaPointe, the carefree island atmosphere takes over. The quaint town is the gateway to a variety of interests and recreation.

A number of restaurants are available, from gourmet to casual dining, including a coffee shop specializing in delicious sandwiches to go and home-baked goodies. Or browse island's unique shops, offering charming wares and gifts.

Take a self-guided walking tour of the town which offers a historical glimpse of Madeline, including the Ojibway Native American Cemetery, the Madeline Island Museum, showcasing 300 years of history, and the century-old Lakeview School. Or kick back and relax on a guided bus tour, chartered fishing excursion, or sailing venture.

There are number fun-filled attractions for children to explore on Madeline Island, as well, including bike rentals, mini-golf, and hiking trails. The Recreation Center has large ball field, playground and tennis courts. A playground and a remarkable swimming area can be found at Joni's Beach.

Out of town a short distance is a more natural landscape where camping, kayaking, and canoeing can be enjoyed at Big Bay Town Park or Big Bay State Park. Stroll on the boardwalk or hike the Lagoon Ridge Trail and view nature from the Wildlife Observation Deck. Both parks offer spectacular views of the other Apostle Islands, and Lake Superior, itself.

Islanders revel in the summer activities offered on Madeline Island including art exhibits, the annual Cheqamegon Chef's Exhibit, Madeline Island Music Camp concerts, and the Independence Day Celebration. Islanders and visitors alike enjoy the festive P4-Take 3 Quadrathon (Pedal, Paddle, Plod, and Plunge) race in July, open to individuals as well as teams.

Contact the Madeline Island Chamber of Commerce for help in planning the island getaway that suits you. The island offers cottage, condominium, and hotel room lodging as well as camp site rentals. Call 1-888-475-3386 or visit www.MadelineIsland.com for more information.

Learn more about this author, Di Reiter.
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