Are you ready to experience island life right here in Ohio? Put in Bay is a village on South Bass Island that is often referred to as the “Key West of the North.” Take the Put in Bay ferry over to spend the day on the shores of Lake Erie, visit local restaurants and shops in the village and stop by historical spots on the island. Make it a day trip with family and friends or stay the night with your group at one of the many lodging options. If it’s your first time or you’re just looking for something new to do on your next visit, we’ve got you covered with plenty of things to do in Put in Bay for everyone!
Get Around the Island
The main way to access Put in Bay is by ferry! The ferry will take you over to the island, and then you are free to explore at your own pace. There are several ways to get around the island. Take a look at some of the options below to see which one best meets your needs for your trip.
Put-in-Bay Tour Train
Hop aboard the cheerful, open-air trolley for a one hour tour around the island. The guided tour takes you around the entire island, passing all of the popular attractions along the way. Not only will you get to see the island with the breeze of the lake, but you’ll learn about the history of the area at the same time.
The train tour stops at the following locations: Perry’s Cave and Family Fun Center, Heineman’s Winery, Perry’s Victory and International Peace Monument, Lake Erie Island Nature and Wildlife Area.
You can purchase tickets at the Downtown Bus terminal at the corner of Delaware and Toledo Avenue.
Put-in-Bay Tour Train
154 Delaware Ave, Put-In-Bay, OH 43456
Website
Rent Golf Carts
If you’re looking for a way to get around the island, golf carts are a great option. The golf cart is the island’s most popular mode of transportation. It allows you the freedom to cruise around at your own pace. However, it is still a good plan to have an idea of the island’s layout and where you hope to stop along your visit.
You can rent the golf carts by the day, but please note that weekday rates may be different than the weekend rates. There are also overnight rates if you plan on staying at one of the lodging partners.
Rentals can be found at E’s Put-in-Bay Golf Carts or AB Cart Rental.
Island Bike & Cart Rental
Another great way to explore the island is by bike. Bikes are available for all size riders. They also offer tandem bikes and bike caddies to meet your group’s needs.
The top two bike rental companies are Boathouse Bike Rentals and Island Bike Rentals and you can rent by the hour or the day.
Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial
Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial pays tribute to the Battle of Lake Erie, during the War of 1812. It is also there to “celebrate the long-lasting peace among Great Britain, Canada and the U.S.” It is a 352-foot Doric column over Lake Erie and situated “5 miles from the longest undefended border in the world.”
You can visit the memorial for free, but there is a fee for going up the column to the observation deck. Be sure to check the website for details on when the memorial is open. You can also find details on pricing, day passes and parking.
Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial
93 Delaware Ave, Put-In-Bay, OH 43456
Website
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Crystal Cave
Explore the caverns of the world’s largest geode. You can view crystals throughout the cave ranging from 8 to 18 inches in length. Heineman Winery owns and operates Crystal Cave and you will learn the history of how the cave helped the winery during the years of Prohibition. The tour of the cave also includes a tour of the wine cellar and a 5 ounce glass of wine or grape juice.
The cave is underground, so be sure to wear a light jacket or sweater and wear appropriate shoes for walking on the rugged terrain. Also, you can visit the website for tour dates and times. You can find admissions details and additional information.
Crystal Cave
978 Catawba Ave, Put-In-Bay, OH 43456
Website
You may also be interested in: More caves in Ohio
Perry’s Cave Family Fun Center
Perry’s Cave Family Fun Center is a family-fun entertainment center on Put in Bay. The center welcomes visitors with a little something for everyone. Take a look at some of what’s available to enjoy during your visit below:
Perry’s Cave
Perry’s Cave is located 52 feet underground. The cave is 208 feet long and 165 feet wide. During your visit you will learn about the history of the cave and its importance to the island.
Your tour will take about 15-20 minutes. Remember you are going underground, so it will be chillier than it is above and you’ll want to bring a light jacket. Also, be sure to wear appropriate shoes for your descent.
Butterfly House
Take a stroll through the 4,000 square foot butterfly aviary. The house has more than 50 different types of exotic butterflies for you to enjoy. The path includes secret walkways for children to get up close to the butterflies while viewing beautiful flowers and bushes along the way.
War of 18 Holes Mini Golf Course
Mini-golf and a history lesson all in one visit? That’s right, at the War of 18 Holes Mini Golf Course you’ll learn details of the War of 1812 while you play. Much of the course is shaded with trees and includes a variety of fun attractions along the way.
Antique Car Museum
Step back in time at the entertainment center’s antique car museum. Skip Duggan’s Antique Car Museum is included at the center. On Sundays you can even catch the antique car museum parade!
Some other exciting attractions include: gemstone mining, a rock wall and a giant maze. Check out the website for additional details.
Perry’s Cave Family Fun Center
979 Catawba Ave, Put-In-Bay, OH 43456
Website
The Put in Bay Sign
Are you looking for the perfect photo opportunity? The Put in Bay sign offers you the spot! The new sign is already becoming iconic, and a must see on your visit to the island.
It is no cost to stop and take a photo of the sign with a view of beautiful Lake Erie in the background. The sign is located in South Bass State Park. You can even visit at different times of day to get a different background for your photos.
The Put in Bay Sign
South Bass Island, Put-In-Bay, OH 43456
Website
South Bass Island State Park
Just a few miles from Put in Bay is South Bass Island State Park. The nature park allows you to enjoy all the park features, all while taking in the amazing views of Lake Erie. The park boasts: “camping, swimming, picnicking, and fishing.” The park also offers boat rentals and provides full service camping options.
Be sure to check out the website for details on park amenities. Also, check into their seasonal camping options before you visit.
South Bass Island State Park
1523 Catawba Ave, Put-In-Bay, OH 43456
Website
South Bass Island Lighthouse
The remarkable South Bass Island Lighthouse is situated on the southern point of South Bass Island. It is open for tours June through October or you can set up group tours April through November by contacting Stonelab Bayview Office. During your tour you’ll learn the history of the lighthouse while taking in the views of Lake Erie.
South Bass Island Lighthouse
The Southern Point of South Bass Island
DeRivera Park
Spend a day at the park right in the middle of downtown Put in Bay. With picnic tables scattered throughout and two BBQ pits you can cook up a meal. There is an aquatic animal themed playground for children, a large fountain in the center of the park and a picturesque gazebo (available for rent). The park also includes restrooms and lockers with showers available.
DeRivera Park
100 Delaware Ave, Put-in-Bay, OH 43456
Aquatic Visitor Center
The Aquatic Visitor Center is an educational and fun experience on Put in Bay. The center offers hands-on activities for visitors while learning about the unique ecosystem of Lake Erie. You will learn about the native fish species and have the opportunity to fish right off the center’s pier.
Be sure to check out special children’s programming ahead of your visit. The center is open June 14 through August 19 Wednesdays through Saturdays. The visit is free, however you can purchase guided tours.
Aquatic Visitor Center
310 OH-357, Put-In-Bay, OH 43456
Website
Put-in-Bay Watercraft Rentals
If you’re heading to Put in Bay for some fun out on the water, Put-in-Bay Watercraft Rentals has you covered! From jet skis to paddle boards to kayaks to power boats…there is something for everyone, no matter your speed.
Reservations are recommended at least a week before your visit, and a $50 deposit is required for powered watercraft. Make sure to check out the details for renting powered watercraft before your visit. You can find additional rental information on the website.
Put-in-Bay Watercraft Rentals
1523 Catawba Ave, Put-In-Bay, OH 43456
Website
DJ’s Ice Cream Parlour
Stop by DJ’s Ice Cream Parlour right in downtown Put in Bay for a sweet treat! With 16 ice cream flavors there’s something for every ice cream lover in your group. The Parlour is also known for the breakfast waffles, which can be served with ice cream. For lunch or dinner you can order one of their signature sandwiches as well.
DJ’s Ice Cream Parlour
258 Toledo Ave, Put-In-Bay, OH 43456
Heineman’s Winery
A favorite stop on the island is Heineman’s Winery, which has been around for more than 100 years! The winery is family operated and it is also home to Crystal Cave, the world’s largest geode. You can tour both the cave and the wine cellar on your visit. The tours will include the rich history of the cave and winery on the island. You can also enjoy wine tastings in their beautiful wine garden.
Check out details on the website for tours, hours and admissions. The winery offers a selection of wine and gifts at their gift shop. Their wine is also shipped year round. Be sure to check out upcoming events and specials before your visit.
Heineman’s Winery
978 Catawba Ave, Put-In-Bay, OH 43456
Website
Chocolate Cafe and Museum
Enjoy chocolate while also learning a little something at the same time. The Chocolate Cafe side of the cafe and museum offers a chocolate cafe with 32 flavors of Toft’s ice cream, as well as a selection of pastries and cakes. You can drink some of their signature coffee that is made to pair with the chocolate. They also have a chocolate menu, where you can order up your favorite creations.
At the museum you will learn about how chocolate is made. It features displays of some of your favorite candy-related movies. You will learn about the origin of chocolate and its early sales and production.
The cafe and museum offers outdoor seating to enjoy your food. Check out the website before your visit to see what chocolate is on the menu and additional treats you can enjoy. They also sell chocolate you can order online.
Chocolate Cafe and Museum
820 Catawba Ave, Put-In-Bay, OH 43456
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