LAKE ERIE AREA ATTRACTIONS

African Safari Wildlife Park
267 Lightner Rd. (SR 163), Port Clinton
419.732.3606 or 800.521.2660
africansafariwildlifepark.com
This drive-thru safari has exotic animals, camel and pony rides, entertaining and educational animal shows, pig races, a gift shop, picnic facilities, a snack bar and café and grill. Mar 20-May 22, daily 10am-5pm; May 23-Sept 7, daily 9am-7pm; Sept 8-Nov 1, daily 10am-5pm.

 

Castaway Bay
2001 Cleveland Rd. (US 6), Sandusky
419.627.2500
castawaybay.com
With its tropical theme, guests feel like they have landed on an island paradise. Castaway Bay features 237 hotel rooms and suites including family-oriented units, an indoor waterpark loaded with water activities for all ages, a day spa, fitness center, state-of-the-art arcade, restaurants, retail shops, adjacent marina and space for meetings, group events and birthday parties. The 38,000-sqaure-foot indoor waterpark features Rendezvous Run water coaster, a 100,000-gallon wave pool, three 35-foot-tall body slides, Lookout Lagoon Family Funhouse, Toddler’s Tide Pool and an 80,000-gallon activity pool.

 

Cedar Downs/Cedar Lanes
at Quality Inn & Suites
1935 Cleveland Rd. (US 6), Sandusky
419.626.6761 or 800.654.3364
qualityinn.com
Ohio’s first and only off-track gaming and entertainment establishment where you can bet on live horse races from tracks around the country. A state-of-the-art, 32-lane bowling center features automatic scoring, glitter glow bowling and bumper bowling. Food, cocktails, billiards, golf simulator and arcade games available. Off-track gaming daily, 12pm-12am; bowling daily, 4pm-12am.

 

Cedar Point
1 Cedar Point Dr. (off US 6), Sandusky
419.627.2350
cedarpoint.com 
Situated on a peninsula along scenic Lake Erie, Cedar Point is a 364-acre amusement park/resort that is home to the most exhilarating collection of thrill rides and roller coasters on Earth. This family vacation destination features 75 diverse rides, including 17 roller coasters; a huge outdoor waterpark (Soak City); four resort hotels; a luxury RV campground with cottages and cabins; two large marinas; an outdoor entertainment complex featuring go-karts, miniature golf and more (Challenge Park); award-winning live shows; gift shops; delicious eateries; four giant kids’ areas and more. In fact, Cedar Point has been voted the “Best Amusement Park in the World” for 10 years in a row, and this summer promises to be one of the best ever!

 

Challenge Park
1 Cedar Point Dr. (off US 6), Sandusky
419.627.2350
cedarpoint.com  
Located between the towering rides and roller coasters of Cedar Point and the cool refreshing waters of Soak City is Challenge Park — an activity complex that features the RipCord Skycoaster, two high-speed go-kart tracks, two challenging 18-hole miniature golf courses and Skyscraper, a thrilling ride that spins riders in a circular motion 16 stories above the ground at speeds of 55 mph! Guests can take a break in the arcade with state-of-the art games and refuel at a food stand with hot dogs, popcorn and soft drinks. Challenge Park is open to the public and admission to Cedar Point or Soak City is not required. Each attraction has a separate fee.

 

Cleveland Metroparks Zoo

3900 Wildlife Way, Cleveland

216.661.1090

clemetzoo.com

Come explore the jungles of The Rain Forest, roam the outback of Australian Adventure, take in the grassy plains of African Savanna, stroll around scenic Waterfowl Lake and discover over 3,000 animals representing the 600 species from around the globe.

 

Doller House & Museum

392 Bayview Ave., Put-in-Bay

419.285.3343

dollerhouse.com

The Doller House was home to one of Put-in-Bay's wealthiest and most influential citizens, Valentine Doller. Take a tour of the historic Italianate home and learn about island life as it was in the 1800's. Available for private parties or events; call for details. May - Sept 10am-6pm.

 

Firelands Winery
917 Bardshar Rd. (off US 6), Sandusky
419.625.5474 or 800.548.WINE (9463)
firelandswinery.com
One of Ohio's oldest wineries, established in 1880, is located near Lake Erie. Award-winning, estate bottled wines, charming gift shop, tours, tastings and cozy sitting area. Jun-Sept, Mon-Thu 9am-5pm, Fri-Sat 9am-6pm, Sun 1-5pm; Oct-May, Mon-Sat 9am-5pm.

 

Goodtime I
Lake Erie Island Cruises, LLC
Jackson St. Pier, Sandusky
419.625.9692 or 800.446.3140
goodtimeboat.com
Enjoy a relaxing day on Lake Erie and the Lake Erie Islands. Visit Kelleys Island and Put-in-Bay. Two islands in one day for one price. Discounts for seniors, children and groups. May-Oct; call for cruise schedule. Available for private charters.

 

Goofy Golf
3020 Milan Rd. (US 250), Sandusky
419.625.9935 or 419.625.1308
sanduskygoofygolf.com
Play miniature golf, cool off on bumper boats, test your skills with sharp curves and steep hills on Radical Raceway and experience high speed on The Big Track. Round out your fun in the air-conditioned arcade. Attractions sold separately or purchase a discounted Do-All Deal. Open May 16-Oct 18; call for hours.

 

Great Wolf Lodge
4600 Milan Rd. (US 250), Sandusky
419.609.6000 or 800.641.WOLF (9653)
greatwolflodge.com
Great Wolf Lodge is an all-suites, full-service, family destination indoor waterpark resort designed to deliver a memorable, high quality family vacation experience. It is a place where uninterrupted family time is spent and lifelong traditions are created. Every aspect of the property – from the comfortable, Northwoods atmosphere to the family-friendly amenities – is designed with one goal in mind: "Creating Family Traditions, One Family at a Time". The comprehensive package of resort amenities includes a 41,000 square-foot indoor entertainment area featuring a grand scale waterpark, spacious outdoor pool, arcade with ticket redemption, fitness room, a dedicated arts and crafts center for kids, family restaurants, a confectionary, meeting space, gift shop and a performing Great Clock Tower.

 

Heineman's Winery

978 Catawba Ave., Put-in-Bay

419.285.2811

heinemanswinery.com

Take a ferry boat to get to this island winery on Lake Erie. Founded in 1888, Heineman Winery is the oldest family owned winery in Ohio. Mon-Sat 10am-7pm, Sun 12-7pm.

 

Hermes Vineyards & Winery
6413 S. Hayes Ave. (SR 4), Sandusky
419.626.8500
hermesvineyards.com
Hermes Vineyards estate bottled wines are produced from one of the largest viniferous vineyards in Ohio. Premium wines are served by the glass or bottle and a light menu is available. Open daily, year-round.

  

Inland Seas Maritime Museum
480 Main St. (off US 6), Vermilion
440.967.3467 or 800.893.1485
inlandseas.org
Experience the history of the Great Lakes through interactive and hands-on exhibits,
ship models, maritime art and an authentic 1910 steamship pilothouse. Explore
shipwrecks, steam engines, original timbers from the Niagara and models of Great Lakes vessels. Nautical gift shop does not require admission. May-Aug, daily 10am-5pm; Sept-Apr, weekdays 11am-4pm, weekends 10am-5pm; closed major holidays.

 

Island Adventures Family Fun Center
280 SE Catawba Rd. (SR 53 N), Port Clinton
419.732.2020
island-adventures.net
A fun-filled way to spend the day! Beautifully landscaped 18-hole mini-golf, fast go-karts, water-squirting bumper boats, air conditioned arcade and group/party pavilion. Walk to the NEW Crosswinds Restaurant & Bar! Clean and friendly family experience! Memorial Day-Labor Day, daily; limited May and Sept weekends.

 

Island Bike & Cart Rental

Ferry Docks & Tour Train Depot, Put-in-Bay

419.285.2016

put-in-bay-trans.com

The largest all-electric fleet of golf carts on the island. IBR's carts are quiet, clean and "green" and offer an excellent way to see Put-in-Bay. An even "greener" choice is IBR's fleet of single-speed bicycles, another popular way to move around the island. Apr-Oct.

 

Island Fun Pack
154 Delaware Ave., Put-in-Bay
419.285.4855
put-in-bay-trans.com
All day fun! One great rate! Ride the Put-in-Bay tour train and visit all the island’s great attractions. Price includes ferry ticket, tour train, Perry’s Cave, War of 18 Holes miniature golf, the Butterfly House, Antique Car Museum and Heineman Winery/Crystal Cave. Tickets available at both ferry landings and the Lake Erie Shores & Islands Welcome Center - West. Memorial Day-Labor Day.

 

Jet Express
3 N. Monroe St., Port Clinton
101 W. Shoreline Dr., Sandusky
419.732.2800 or 800.245.1JET (538)
jet-express.com
High-speed passenger ferry from Sandusky and Port Clinton to downtown Put-in-Bay and Kelleys Island. Comfortable, stylish passenger cabins and open-air sundecks. Extended sight-seeing routes to the islands – so you can see more...faster! Frequent departures and late-night service. Special evening discounts, family-friendly child rates and group tour rates. May-Oct, schedule is available online or call for more information.

 

Johnson’s Island Confederate Officers Prison Cemetery & Museum
Gaydos Rd. (off Bayshore Rd.), Marblehead
johnsonsisland.org
9,000 Confederate soldiers were once housed at the prison. Over 200 graves mark the site. Open year-round, daily dawn-dusk. The museum in downtown Marblehead features a scale model of the prison and many artifacts. Open Memorial Day-Labor Day, weekends and holidays, 1-5pm.

 

Kalahari Resort
7000 Kalahari Dr. (off US 250), Sandusky
419.433.7200 or 877.KALAHARI (525.2427)
kalahariresorts.com
You're in for the time of your life with everything under one roof. Surf indoors 365 days a year or take on the uphill water rollercoaster at America's Largest Indoor Waterpark. Spa Kalahari, Kahunaville Restaurant and Bar, Pottery Pizzazz, Candy Hut, Ivory Coast Lounge, Great Karoo Marketplace Restaurant, Zakanaka Imports, Madagascar Indoor Mini Golf and so much more! No matter what the weather is outside, you can splish-splash all day long indoors at Kalahari. Catch some rays at Kalahari’s outdoor pool complex from Memorial Day to Labor Day (weather permitting). Once you cross over the bridge, you’ll feel A World Away ®. Visit soon. Call for day pass information.

 

The Keeper's House

9999 E. Bayshore Rd., Marblehead

419.798.9339

thekeepershouse.org

Built in 1822, this historic house was home to Benajah and Rachel Wolcott. It was the residence of the first three lighthouse keepers for the oldest lighthouse in continuous operation on the Great Lakes. This house was built by the same stone mason who built the Marblehead Lighthouse. Jun 1-Sept 1, Mon-Sat 1-5pm. Check online for additional hours.

 

Kelleys Island

www.kelleysisland.com

Kelleys Island is located in the western basin of Lake Erie about four miles north of Marblehead and twelve miles from Sandusky on the Ohio mainland. The entire island measures more than four square miles and is the largest fresh water American island in Lake Erie. A short drive from major cities makes Kelleys seem right next door, yet the Canadian Border lies only a few miles north of the island.

 

Kelleys Island Ferry Boat Line
510 W. Main St. (SR 163), Marblehead
419.798.9763
kelleysislandferry.com
The only daily passenger and automobile transportation to Kelleys Island from Marblehead, departing every half-hour during peak times. Available year-round, weather permitting. Late boats on weekends. There is a nominal parking fee.

 

Lagoon Deer Park
1502 Martins Point Rd. (off SR 269), Sandusky
419.684.5701
lagoondeerpark.com
Walk with and hand feed 200 animals from many nations. Gift shop and 56 acres of lakes to fish for rainbow trout, bullheads, channel cats, white bass, large mouth bass, rock bass, bluegills, crappies and muskies. Bring your own gear and bait. Open daily, May-Memorial Day, 10am-6pm; Memorial Day-Labor Day, 9am-8pm; Labor Day-Oct 31, 10am-6pm.

 

Lake Erie Islands Historical Museum
25 Town Hall Pl., Put-in-Bay
419.285.2804
leihs.org
Displays include over 65 ship models; the South Bass Island Lighthouse Fresnel lens; and artifacts from the Battle of Lake Erie, island life, and the Ford Tri-Motor and great hotel eras. There is a theatre, research library and bookstore. May and Oct, Sat-Sun 11am-5pm; Jun and Sept, daily 11am-5pm; Jul-Aug, daily 10am-6pm.

 

Lakeside Association
236 Walnut Ave., Lakeside
419.798.4461 or 866.9LAKESIDE (52.5374)
lakesideohio.com
This “Chautauqua-style” resort is open to the public. Stroll the grounds, visit the shops and eateries and enjoy world-class entertainment and family-rated movies. Overnight accommodations and banquet facilities available. Gate fees apply during certain times; call for details.

 

Marblehead Lighthouse State Park

110 Lighthouse Dr., Marblehead

419.798.1490

dnr.state.oh.us/parks

State park with picnic facilities, fishing, walking trails and the oldest lighthouse in continuous operation on the Great Lakes. On-site Keeper's House Museum and guided lighthouse tours May 26-Sept 4, Mon-Fri 1-4:45pm and the second Saturday of the month, May-Oct, 10am-3pm.

 

Maritime Museum of Sandusky
125 Meigs St., Sandusky
419.624.0274

sanduskymaritime.org
This museum interprets the maritime history of the area including boat building, recreational boating, passenger boats, shipwrecks, wetlands, commercial shipping, fishing and the boats of Sandusky’s Underground Railroad through interactive exhibits and educational programs. Jun-Aug, Tue-Sat 10am-4pm, Sun 12-4pm; Sept-May, Fri-Sat 10am-4pm, Sun 12-4pm. Closed major holidays. 

 

Merry-Go-Round Museum
301 Jackson St. (at US 6), Sandusky
419.626.6111
merrygoroundmuseum.org
Family fun at the Merry-Go-Round! Kids and kids at heart can ride the antique carousel and watch woodcarvers breathe life into new horses, while learning the history of carousels and carousel art. Memorial Day-Labor Day, Mon-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 12-5pm; Sept -Dec, Wed-Sat 11am-5pm, Sun 12-5pm.

 

Miller Ferries
5174 E. Water St. (SR 53 N), Port Clinton
419.285.2421 or 800.500.2421
millerferry.com
Passenger and vehicle transportation from Catawba Point to the Lake Erie Islands of South Bass (Put-in-Bay) and Middle Bass. Family-friendly fares, limited free parking, Put-in-Bay summer trips every half-hour and group discounts. See website for events, maps and ferry schedules. Trips daily spring, summer and fall; winter operation is weather permitting.

 

Monsoon Lagoon

1530 S. Danbury Rd. N Port Clinton, OH 43452

Phone: (419) 732-6671

monsoonlagoonwaterpark.com
Over 300,000 square-feet of pure excitement, Monsoon Lagoon offers something for the entire family. For the children, there is the Adventure Island Tree house with 17 levels and 105 play stations that is sure to entertain all ages. In addition, one can visit the Lil' Squirts Play Pool or the Pirates Cove bumper boat pond. For adults who want to escape, there is a adult-only pool and swim up bar with island music. Once out of the water, the family can also enjoy the Montego Raceway go-karts or the Castaway Island 18-hole miniature golf Course.
Phone: (419) 732-6671
 

Mystic Belle
636 Sandusky St. (off US 6), Vermilion
440.315.1907
donparsonsmarina.com
Take a relaxing paddle-wheel tour on the historic and scenic Vermilion River. The trip includes the beauty of both the natural upriver scenes as well as the picturesque lagoons with narration about the harbor’s past. Jun-Sept, Tue-Sun 2pm, 4pm, and on weekends only, one-half hour before sunset.

 

North Coast Parasail and Water Sports
at Cedar Point Beach, Sandusky
419.627.2279
at Kelleys Island 440.315.3479
cedarpoint.com Keyword: Parasail
Experience the thrills of Wave Runner riding and parasailing on the beach behind Cedar Point’s Hotel Breakers or on Kelleys Island. Early bird discounts available. Park admission is not required at the Cedar Point location; however, a parking fee is. Reservations are required for Kelleys Island.

 

Perry’s Cave Family Fun Center
979 Catawba Ave., Put-in-Bay
419.285.CAVE (2283)
perryscave.com
One stop for all day family fun! Perry’s Cave, the Butterfly House, Fort Amaze-n Maze, miniature golf, rock climbing wall, antique car museum and educational gift shops. A snack shack and picnic pavilion make it convenient to stay all day! May-Sept, daily 11am-6pm; Apr and Oct, weekends 11am-5pm; or by appointment.

 

Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial
93 Delaware Ave., Put-in-Bay
419.285.2184
nps.gov/pevi
A 352 foot tall memorial commemorating Oliver Hazard Perry’s victory over the British during the War of 1812. Stop in the visitors center with interactive displays, video theater and gift shop.

 

Pro Football Hall of Fame

2121 George Halas Dr NW
Canton, OH 44708

profootballhof.com

Honoring the great players of the professional football world since 1920. Located in Canton, Ohio.
 

Put-In-Bay on South Bass Island

putinbay.com

There is no doubt that Put-in-Bay Ohio is one of the most unique places you will ever visit. The tiny two by four mile island is dotted with historic homes, the nation's third tallest monument, quaint restaurants and local pubs. Beautiful water surrounds Put-in-Bay where you will find the best walleye and perch fishing in the United States.
Over 2 million people annually discover the magic of the Bass Islands of Lake Erie. Put-in-Bay Ohio on South Bass Island is the crown jewel of the Lake Erie islands of Ohio.
 

Rain
in Quality Inn & Suites
1935 Cleveland Rd. (US 6), Sandusky
419.626.6761 or 800.654.3364
qualityinn.com
Rain indoor waterpark offers a smaller, affordable setting with thrill slides and water play, featuring a 50 foot tower with two giant slides, 275 foot and 251 foot in length and a play structure with additional water activities and outdoor pool. As its name insinuates, guests of the waterpark are frequently showered with rain. The complex also includes a 32-lane state-of-the-art bowling center, laser tag, an arcade and great eats and gambling in the exciting atmosphere of off-track horse racing. In all, Rain features over 35,000 square feet of affordable family fun - all under one roof.

 

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum
1100 Rock and Roll Boulevard
Cleveland, Ohio 44114

216.781.ROCK
The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum is a museum located on the shores of Lake Erie in downtown Cleveland, Ohio, United States, dedicated to recording the history of some of the best-known and most influential artists, producers, and other people who have in some major way influenced the music industry, particularly in the area of rock and roll. The museum is part of the city's redeveloped North Coast Harbor.

 

Sandusky State Theatre

107 Columbus Ave., Sandusky

419.626.1950 or 877.626.1950

sanduskystate.com

This 1,500 seat national landmark is a top entertainment destination for Erie County. See nationally recognized performers, Broadway shows, movies and more. Also available for rentals.

 

Seneca Caverns -Registered Natural Landmark
15248 E. TR 178 (off SR 269 S), Bellevue
419.483.6711
senecacavernsohio.com
Go caving at The Caviest Cave! Walk natural stone steps and pathways through The Earth Crack. Be amazed by Ole Mist’ry River. Shop Hollowrock Gifts for minerals, nature books, apparel and other fine gifts. Pan for gemstones at Seneca Mining Company. Memorial Day-Labor Day, daily 9am-7pm; May and Sept-mid-Oct, Sat-Sun 10am-5pm or by appointment.

 

Soak City
1 Cedar Point Dr. (off US 6), Sandusky
419.627.2350
cedarpoint.com
Soak City is a huge 18 acre waterpark that features two relaxing inner tube rivers, more than a dozen thrilling water slides, a giant 500,000-gallon wave pool, two kids' play areas, places to eat and much more.

 

Summit Motorsports Park

1300 State Route 18, Norwalk

419.668.5555

summitmotorsportspark.com        

 

Toledo Zoo

Toledo Zoo, 2 Hippo Way, Toledo.

419.385.4040

toledozoo.org

One of America's Top 10 Family-Friendly Zoos. Home to over 4,800 animals and a visual feast of historic architecture. Exhibits include Africa!, Dragons, Primitive Forest, Aquarium, Diversity of Life, Arctic Encounter, Wolf Exhibit, Tiger Terrace, Aviary, Reptile House, African Savanna and Kingdom of the Apes. Open year-round.

 

Train-O-Rama
6732 East Harbor Rd. (SR 163), Marblehead
419.734.5856
trainorama.net
Ohio’s largest operating, multi-gauge electric train display with 4,000 square feet in full scenery, including a lake, airport and miniature amusement park. Gift shop carries train sets and accessories for all ages, train gift items and wooden Thomas. Open year-round, Mon-Sat 11am-5pm, Sun 1-5pm; Memorial Day-Labor Day, Mon-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 1-5pm.