How much do you know about the Great Lakes?
Maybe you know that they straddle the border between the U.S. and Canada. Perhaps you know that there are 5 of them. Maybe you can even rattle off their names: Superior, Michigan, Huron, Ontario, Erie.
But did you also know that the Great Lakes have islands? Because they do. Thousands of little ones, in fact, and a handful of larger ones that are actually inhabited.
I was actually just recently riding a bike on the Toronto Islands in Lake Ontario, but I have to admit that I'd never really had much interest in the islands closer to home. Lake Erie – which borders my home state of Ohio to the north – has some fantastic islands just a few miles off the mainland. But I had only ever been to one.
So, before I waved goodbye to Ohio for an extended period, I decided I had better get at least one more Lake Erie Shores and Islands visit under my belt.
And what better place to finally visit than Put-in-Bay?
Introducing: Put-in-Bay
Put-in-Bay is a village on South Bass Island, with a permanent population of right around 150. During the summer months, however, the population swells by 10- or 20-fold as young twenty-somethings and retired couples alike flock to Put-in-Bay to party and relax in equal measure.
Now, usually I wouldn't be interested in a place known for its party-resort atmosphere; I'm not a fan of being around people who are so drunk that they can't even form coherent sentences.
But Put-in-Bay is so much more than just drunk college kids.
It's got yacht clubs and crepe restaurants. It's got more golf carts than cars. It's even got a national memorial to commemorate a naval battle that took place on Lake Erie in 1813 (yes, really).
And yes. IT'S IN OHIO.
Despite being small, there's actually quite a bit to do on the island, especially in the summer months.
Things to do in Put-in-Bay
Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial
You can't miss this 352-foot tower – it's one of the first things you'll see as you approach South Bass Island from the mainland, and can be seen from various points around the island. Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial commemorates the Battle of Lake Erie, one of the most significant naval battles to occur in the War of 1812. The monument is dedicated to those who fought in the battle, and also celebrates the long-lasting peace among Great Britain, Canada, and the U.S. (who were all involved in the War of 1812).
The monument is managed by the National Park Service, and the visitor center does a great job of explaining the Battle of Lake Erie.
But the real highlight is taking the elevator to the top of the tower, which gives fantastic views out over Put-in-Bay and Lake Erie. On a clear day, you can see Canada.
Visit The Boardwalk
If you're looking for a lunch spot overlooking Lake Erie, head to The Boardwalk. You can find good seafood dishes here (Lake Erie is known for its perch and walleye!), as well as great views.
Enjoy a winery
Yes, Put-in-Bay has wineries! Sip some delicious locally-bottled wines at either the Put-In-Bay Winery or Heineman's Winery.
Visit Perry's Cave Family Fun Center
Perry's Cave is exactly what it sounds like – a cave! You can go on underground tours of this limestone cave, or enjoy some of the other things the family fun center has to offer, including mini golf, gem mining, a rock wall, and a butterfly house.
Rent a bike
One of my favorite ways to explore the Lake Erie Islands is by bike! Several places in Put-in-Bay rent out bicycles by the hour/day, or you can bring your own over from the mainland.
RELATED: Biking the Lake Erie Islands
You can also ride an old carousel, go parasailing, rent a kayak, or just spend some time wandering around the town on foot.
A trip to Put-in-Bay doesn't have to be all about drinking and partying (though there are certainly plenty of places to do that, too).
I'm almost ashamed that it took me this long to finally discover Put-in-Bay. It's a really great summer getaway destination, and it's no wonder lots of people flock here on the weekends.
Practical info for visiting Put-in-Bay
Getting there: You can catch a ferry from either Catawba Island, Port Clinton, or Sandusky. You definitely do NOT need a car on the island, though you can technically pay to bring yours over on the ferry. People-only ferry tickets start at $7 each way on Miller Boat Line from Catawba Island, and that ferry takes about 40 minutes.
Where to stay: There are quite a few accommodation options considering the size of the island. I stayed at the Islander Inn, which has a Caribbean theme and a distinct slant towards the party crowd. (This probably has to do with the fact that the resort has 5 pools and swim-up bars…)
Other, less party-focused options include:
- Bay Lodging Resort (rated #1 in Put-in-Bay)
- Ahoy Inn (top-rate B&B)
Where to eat: Check out the Olde Forge Cafe and Creperie for breakfast, grab a fresh seafood lunch (perch and walleye are both local) on the Boardwalk, and have dinner at The Goat (a bit outside of the downtown area).
Where to drink: There are plenty of bars and clubs in Put-in-Bay. A lot of them can be fun, but also crowded. If you want to avoid the drunk crowds and go somewhere more “local,” check out Topsy Turvey's on the waterfront. Bring an extra dollar bill with you to staple to the wall.
Is Put-in-Bay a place that YOU would like to visit?
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Amanda Williams is the award-winning blogger behind A Dangerous Business Travel Blog. She has traveled to more than 60 countries on 6 continents from her home base in Ohio, specializing in experiential and thoughtful travel through the US, Europe, and rest of the world. Amanda only shares tips based on her personal experiences and places she's actually traveled!
We go to Put-In-Bay every year as a family. We have gone to party and we have gone and taken the kids for a family getaway. Plenty to do both ways. The island is also home to Heineman’s Winery, which is Ohio’s oldest winery. They are celebrating their 125th year, I believe. The Crystal Cave is below it and you can tour the cave and he winery. It is a must do each time we visit the island!
Good to hear you’ve experienced both “sides” of the island, too. I didn’t realize Heineman’s was the oldest winery in Ohio! That’s cool.
Very cool, I had no clue about the islands, but this spot looks wicked chill. Love breezy calm towns, especially with Victorian style houses like that!
Yes, it’s beautiful! Kind of a weird mix of chilled-out and party central, but cool nonetheless.
I grew up in Port Clinton and we used to go over in our boat to Put-In-Bay and Cedar Point. I loved fishing and swimming off the boat. Needless to say, I miss it terribly. The entire area is a hidden gem. I hope someday to buy a summer home there, or maybe just move there permanently.
That must have been so nice! If I lived up there, a boat would definitely be a necessity!
I have been to Put-in-Bay several times to party and be one of the stupid drunks. Recently, my band played there so we were there for three days. There’s only so much drinking I can do, so we decided to check out a few other things. We went to the monument because my husband had not been there yet. We also went on the island tour in the trolley. It was extremely informative and a great way to see all of the island. Near the tour start is a great little ice cream shop. That was probably the highlight of our trip. I am excited to try Old Forge on our next trip in August.
That’s great that you took time to see a bit more of the island! Good to hear that the trolley tour is good. And yes, definitely try the Olde Forge next time! Breakfast there was sooooo good!
As someone from northern Ohio who grew up going to the islands every summer, I’m always shocked by the number of people, even Buckeyes, who know nothing about them. Put-in-Bay is a favorite. Kelley’s Island, with its state park and awesome white-sand beach, is another fav. And riding the ferry over to any of the islands is the best of all.
I know! I knew about the islands (and have been to Kelleys before), but for some reason never went very often. I will definitely need to change that in the future!
Thanks for highlighting one of my favorite places in Ohio. The trams are also another way to get around the island in style.
You are most welcome. I loved it there!
This makes me miss home so much! I grew up on the north coast of Ohio and looooooved the islands; from camping as a kid to more “adult adventures” as a college kid to bringing back my kids now when we visit. I brought my husband (a Utah native) and he could not believe that these islands existed and were such a well kept secret. The best place to eat is the Boardwalk, the lobster bisque is to die for!
Thanks for promoting one of my favorite places on earth!
Agreed on the Boardwalk having great seafood!
And I’m happy to share this awesome slice of Ohio with the world!
The best part – your dogs are welcome most places! We just had a group getaway with 25+ other Newfoundland owners, and our dogs were with us every minute. It’s fantastic.
Didn’t know that, but that’s great!
I love put in bay bought a summer home their with my best friend 19 years ago now 6 kids between us we love our little getaway kids get on their bikes and go to the pool and to the yacht club for sailing class their is a lot for everyone to do. glad you got to enjoy it!
Having a summer house there would be lovely!
Those pictures make me want to hop in the car and go here instantly. This looks like a perfect getaway for this Philly girl. Love that fourth picture with the signs pointing to everywhere. It’s officially made my list!
Awesome the hear, Amanda! A bit far from Philly, but I would definitely recommend it for a weekend if you ever find yourself in Ohio!
I’ve seen and heard only great things about Put-in-Bay from many people…really makes me want to visit!
You definitely should go sometime if you can!
I visited Put-in-Bay for a day trip once a few years ago. It really was a fun place! I remember poking around the island in a golf cart – good times!
Ah yes, so many golf carts there – probably the best way to see the whole island.
This post makes me miss Ohio. I actually went at a very different time of year (in September). We were the only ones in the pool and were there for a bachelorette party. It was fun to get out of the city and feel like you have just escaped. It does have a reputation for being the party island.
I have also been to Kelley’s Island, which is a little more tame and more family oriented. I have a post about a day visit a couple years back. Unfortunately, it was October with rainy and cold weather. I took very few pictures.
I’m sure when I come back and read this in a month I will be missing Ohio, too!
Put-in-Bay definitely does have that party reputation, but I was surprised to find plenty to do on the island that didn’t involve alcohol. I loved it! I need to tack on a visit to Kelleys Island next time. I’ve been there once before, but it was when I was quite young and I don’t remember much about it.
We had a similar experience on Painted Rock National Seashore in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. It’s not a place we had ever heard of before, or expected to find in MI, but the area is like the Grand Canyon on one side and open ocean (Lake Superior really) on the other. Amazing place.
That sounds really cool! I haven’t heard of it, either, to be honest… but you have me intrigued!
We re-visited Pictured Rocks National Lake Shore last month…and Put-in-Bay earlier this month. I’ll be posting about both of those places through the coming months myself.
We stayed at a bed & breakfast inn on Put-in-Bay. There are many of them on the island and a great alternative for those who want to experience the more quaint and quiet side of the island. We loved the Boardwalk and the Goat, too!
Good to know there are plenty of good BnBs there!
As someone from southeast Michigan, Put-in-Bay has always been on my radar, but I’ve sadly never been. I need to get myself there! Looks beautiful.
Yes, you definitely should go, Amanda! Makes a fantastic weekend trip in the summer.