Who doesn’t want--no, who doesn’t need--a vacation to an island getaway?! If you’re anything like me you probably can’t afford to go to the Bahamas or anything (thanks a lot, outrageous tuition bill), but not to worry, Ohio has a perfect getaway that can satisfy anyone with wanderlust in their hearts. Put-In-Bay is one of the most beloved islands in Lake Erie with activities for the whole family and plenty of places to get a little crazy at night.
1. Travel
Part of what makes Put-In-Bay so much fun is the means of travel to get onto the island and once you’re on it. To get onto the island you can either take the Jet Express or the Miller Ferry. The Jet Express takes less time to get onto the island but is significantly more expensive. Clambering aboard a boat and feeling the mist of the lake on your skin is a great way to start a vacation. Once you’re on the island the most fun way to get around is by golf cart! Hope on a golf cart and zip around the island, trust me, it’s the best way to get around!
2. Downtown
Downtown Put-In-Bay has a slew of activities and shops for everyone. From a candy store to antique stores to a ton of bars and restaurants, there’s plenty for everyone. For those over 21, Put-In-Bay is known for being great for partying and has a booming nightlife!
Lovella is a chic clothing store with fashionable and unique summer clothes.
3. Historic Homes
The Benson Ford Shiphouse can be seen while on the Jet Express.
Not everyone loves looking at old homes, but believe me, it is a lot of fun! Put-In-Bay is host to countless beautiful and historic homes. While zipping around on your golf cart do a little sightseeing and take in the beautiful homes and gardens.
4. Perry’s Monument
Perry’s Monument is one of the tallest monuments in the country and world that people can go up into. It rises 352 feet above Lake Erie and is situated next to downtown. For a nominal fee of $5, you can go up into the monument to take in the sights of the island and learn more about Oliver Hazard Perry and the War of 1812.
5. Heineman Winery
Imagine sitting back, relaxing and eating a cheese plate while sipping samples of fresh wine (or enjoying a bottle, you go for it!). Sounds like a perfect afternoon? At the multi-generation winery that cultivates over 50 acres of grapes known as Heineman’s Winery, you can do just that. Before getting carried away with the wine, be sure to go downstairs to the crystal cave, it’s just like walking into a geode!
6. Put-In-Bay Winery
If you’re anything like a normal college student I can get that you love wine. If that’s the case, go to Put-In-Bay. Right. Now. They have not one, but two wineries! Located right on the water, this beautiful winery has delicious wine, scrumptious chocolate strawberries, and a picturesque patio to leisurely sip your wine and enjoy your day.
7. Perry's Cave
Located directly across the street from Heineman’s Winery is Perry’s Cave. In addition to the cave, this section of the island also has a butterfly house, a maze, 18-hole mini golf, shops, and more. The cave itself is 208 feet by 165 feet and has a natural underground lake inside it.
8. Chocolate Cafe and Museum
Yes, you read that right. Put-In-Bay has a quaint cafe that serves delicious pastries and meals with a chocolate museum attached. When touring the museum you learn about the history of chocolate, how it is made, and can see antique chocolate collectibles.
9. South Bass Lighthouse
South Bass Lighthouse is nestled on the edge of the island, offering some peace and quiet along with a scenic backdrop for pictures (because who doesn’t have a mini photo shoot with friends on vacation?).
10. Being on the water
What on earth could possibly make Put-In-Bay any better? Simply being on the water. Put-In-Bay is a gorgeous island and you are never too far from the water no matter where you go. You can also enjoy kayaking, canoeing, parasailing, and more on Lake Erie if you can’t get enough of it.
