There are so many things to do at Put-in-Bay, you’d need weeks to enjoy everything our little island paradise has to offer. But since we’re sure that you can’t join us for that long, we hope to provide you with all of the information that you need to make the most of your time on South Bass Island. Come by ferry (via Jet Express or Miller Ferry), tour the island’s attractions (via golf cart rental), and spend a couple of nights (book a waterfront condo, a put-in-bay resort, or a vacation home rental).
Famous Put-in-Bay Things To Do
Put-in-Bay’s most famous attraction is Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial. This massive Doric column celebrates our victory in the Battle of Lake Erie during the War of 1812 led by Oliver Hazard Perry and is the fourth or fifth tallest monument in America depending on how the source defines a monument. This is one Put-in-Bay attraction that you won’t have a choice but to see. The majestic monument towers over downtown.
However, we recommend taking the time to get up to the top of Perry’s and look out onto the lake. From the observation deck, the views are absolutely remarkable! You can see Canada as well as the United States on a clear day. Down at ground level, the visitor center helps explain this national park dedicated to Perry’s Victory & International Peace Memorial.
Another incredibly popular Put-in-Bay Ohio attraction is Perry’s Cave. This is the perfect family activity. Head 5 stories below the surface into an amazing cave with an underground lake in it. When you’re done in the cave, take part in the many all-ages activities at the Perry’s Cave Family Fun Center.
Mini-golf (War of 18 holes), rock wall climbing, Fort Amaz’n, the Butterfly House, and gemstone mining are great for the kids. Rock wall climbing, the antique car museum, and miniature golf are just a couple of other things you can do at Perry’s Cave! Hop on their Put-in-Bay Tour Train to see even more of the island! Also, check out the Crystal Cave to see some cool geodes on Put-in-Bay island.
Lake Erie Activities
If you’re lucky enough to come to Put-in-Bay on a weekend where the weather cooperates, you’ll definitely want to enjoy Lake Erie up close! Fortunately, there are a number of ways to do so. You can rent jet skis, paddle boards, kayaks, or even a speedboat! You can find many different rental companies on this page to compare and find the right rental for you. And if that’s not thrilling enough, you can soar above the lake with Put-in-Bay parasailing!
Although beautiful Lake Erie surrounds the island, maybe you’re just more of a pool person. The good thing is that there’s no shortage of pools on the island. Depending on where you’re staying, most of the vacation rentals, hotel rooms, and rental homes on the island will have an outdoor pool and some will even have the added swim-up bar.
One of the best put-in-bay pools, not affiliated with a resort hotel, would be the pool at the Sand Bar. Grab a seat at the Tiki Bar, or grab a drink and sit poolside to catch some rays. One of our favorite lodging options with a poolview are the Put-in-Bay Condos, these rooms come with a great pool view, full kitchen, and living room . Another option would be the Commodore Resort, comes with free wifi, a great big pool right outside your room, and a Tiki Bar!
The waters around Put-in-Bay are famed for their fishing, especially walleye in the springtime. Just make sure you’ve got your Ohio fishing license, which you can pick up on the island, and then hit the Lake! You can find charter fishing out of Put-in-Bay, Sandusky, Catawba Island, Port Clinton, and although it’s not close sometimes Cleveland. If you staying at a Put-in-Bay hotel or resort they may have other options available for guests as well!
Put-in-Bay Bars, Pubs, and Nightlife
Once the sun sets, you’ll definitely want to take in some of the famous nightlife by checking out some Put-in-Bay bars and pubs. The downtown strip is loaded with bars to fit everyone’s style. Check out Put-in-Bay restaurants like the thumping beats at the Green Room, the sand in your toes at Mojito Bay or the lively atmosphere at Mr. Ed’s, downtown Put-in-Bay at night is like a minibar crawl!
Bachelorette parties enjoy visits to the Heineman’s Winery as well as the Put-in-Bay Winery. Kids can find ice cream open late on weekends. And for beautiful sunset views, dine out on the open deck of the Boardwalk where you can also see Gibraltar Island.
Put-in-Bay Fun
With all of these thrilling Put-in-Bay attractions, it would be easy to neglect all of the natural beauty of Put-in-Bay. But we think you should check out some of the Put-in-Bay beaches and parks, golf courses and water sports, even the Chocolate Museum and Carousel. You can also head to the Put-in-Bay airport and check out the Helicopter Tours of the island. Head to the visitors center near Derivera Park for more info on upcoming events. Make sure to look for cool gift shops on Delaware Ave!
There are great nature trails for hiking, birdwatching, and sightseeing. You can get from one to the other with ease with your Put-in-Bay golf cart rental. Stay downtown if you like, or go to the ends of the island to tour the South Bass Island Lighthouse or swim out at the South Bass Island State Park. Also, check out the Lake Erie Islands Historical Society and the newly updated Nature Center!
You also don’t want to miss out on probably the most fun weekend of the entire year in Put-in-Bay. The first Saturday weekend of May sees a huge party held out at the Island Club with thousands of island visitors and residents coming together for free food, free music, free beer, and lots of extra goodies each year. This event is known as the Official Original Put-in-Bay Spring Fling Customer Appreciation Party!
Conclusion
Nowhere in Ohio offers more fun per square foot than Put-in-Bay! You’ll never run out of things to do at Put-in-Bay and nearly every weekend has an event over the summer. This Lake Erie Ohio destination has it all to offer, so it’s time to start planning your trip today so you can get on a Put-in-Bay ferry sooner! Let us help you navigate the vacation planning process so you can focus on having fun at the Bay! Come to your next getaway on the best Lake Erie island today!
Top 5 Put-in-Bay Things to Do Questions
Yes! All taxi drivers are fully licensed by the village of Put-in-Bay and go through a rigorous FBI background check. It is much safer to ride a taxi house or condo than to try and drive drunk on a golf cart!
Yes! Both ferry docks have reserved parking for taxis and there will usually always be a taxi van there waiting to get you quickly from the ferry to your home, condo, or hotel.
It really depends on which taxi you ride in. All of the Island Club and Put-in-Bay Condo taxis can seat up to 12 people comfortably. Taxis are a great option for getting around the island safely.
Sadly no, there is no tunnel to Put-in-Bay. There are no plans for any new way of getting to the island to be added any time soon.
Most establishments on Put-in-Bay have nothing more than the typical "No shoes, no shirt, no service" policy, but make sure to check the weather forecast and dress appropriately.
The owner of The Jet Express is Todd Blumesaadt. The Jet Express is a passenger-only ferry that departs from Sandusky and Port Clinton.
FUN FACT: Put-in-Bay is actually just the name of the city. The island itself is called South Bass Island!
