Lake Erie Shores & Islands
One of many things we love about Ohio is the mix of terrain, from flat farmland to unexpected ravines to rolling hills to the lake shores and surrounding islands. On the shores of Lake Erie you'll find the usual lakeside activities, but there are some unexpected finds, too.
Food & Fun on the Mainland
African Safari Wildlife Park: feed the animals (including giraffes!) from your car at this drive-through park
Cheesehaven: load up on all the cheeses and smoked meats here
Dairy at the Dock: seasonal local favorite that sits close to the ferry docks. Order up some Dole Whip!
Gideon Owen Wine Co.: the former Mon Ami has been refurbished into a stunning property with patios, event spaces, a tasting room, restaurant
Great Lakes Popcorn Co.: choose from over 30 flavors!
Island House Hotel: historic hotel with a cocktail bar in the heart of Port Clinton
Jolly Roger Seafood House: delightful must-stop for the best fried perch and walleye, now with a new location!
Latitude Cafe: favorite spot in Marblehead for eggs benedicts, burritos, crepes
Liberty Aviation Museum: two hangars loaded with local history, restored planes, vintage cars, and more
Climbing Marblehead Lighthouse: you can climb this iconic red-and-white Lake Erie lighthouse. Be sure to visit the museum and lifesaving station, too! And no far down the road is the historic Keeper's House.
Portage River Paddling Co.: rent canoes or kayaks to paddle in the Portage River, do some gem mining, say hi to the goats
Port Clinton Lighthouse: newly moved and restored to the waterfront, you can climb the lighthouse and explore the grounds
Tin Goose Diner: refurbished 1950s diner serving hearty fare, connected to the Liberty Aviation Museum
Twin Oast Brewing Company: beautiful Port Clinton brewery located on a 60-acre farm
Kelleys Island
MORE INFO COMING SOON!
Horseshoe Lake
Kelleys Island Wine Co.
Kelleys Island State Park
Monarch Winery
South Bass Island
Ride the Miller Ferry to Put-in-Bay
Golf carts from E's Put-In-Bay Golf Carts: rentable carts for trekking around the island
Heineman's Winery: local winery whose claim to fame is having the world's largest geode underneath, which you can tour!
Pasquale's Cafe: breakfast spot in Put-In-Bay
Perry's Victory & International Peace Monument: national park that includes the museum, grounds, and the 352-foot column commemorating Perry's naval victory in the War of 1812. Great views from the top!
Perry's Cave: family fun center that includes cave tours, mini golf, snacks, and more
The Keys: casual waterfront spot in Put-In-Bay
South Bass State Park: park on the southwest corner of the island, good for a little swimming and seeing the South Bass Island Light
Read our Lake Erie itineraries
The 12 Best Things To Do on Kelleys Island
Check out the best things to do on Kelleys Island, from restaurants and wineries to hikes and beaches.
July 2023
The Best Things To Do at the Lake Erie Shores & Islands
A summer itinerary that included breweries and wineries, a day on Kelleys Island, a fun morning at Lakeside Chautauqua.
July 2022
Shipping Out to the Erie Shores & Islands
An invited trip that had us staying in Port Clinton and exploring local lighthouses, safari parks - then a day trip to Put-in-Bay.
August 2016
