Put-In-Bay

Having been a summer resort for over a hundred years now, South Bass Island, or Put-in-Bay as it is more popularly known, has had plenty of practice satisfying its visitors, whether they want a quiet weekend getaway or an activity-filled family vacation – and we all know how practice makes perfect. The tiny two-by-four-mile island at the western end of Lake Erie packs a surprising number of activities and events for everyone into its small area.

Even the trip to this tiny island is a pleasure. You can either fly into Put-in-Bay's airport and be wowed by the amazing aerial view of all the Bass Islands, or take a quick ferry ride from Port Clinton or Catawba Island. Once on the island, you could walk, cycle, take a taxi or do it the Put-in-Bay way and rent a golf cart for the day. While walking and cycling have their advantages, travelling by golf cart is the easiest and most fun way for people of all ages to get around.

This historical Lake Erie Island was the base of operations for Oliver Hazard Perry when he defeated the British fleet in the war of 1812. Celebrating not only the victory in that naval battle but over 150 years of peace, Put-in-Bay is home to a beautiful Greek Doric column. At 352 feet, the granite column known as the Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial is the nation's third tallest monument and definitely worth a visit. While there, do take the elevator up to the observation deck at 317 feet and take in the spectacular view of the Lake Erie Islands as well as the shores of Michigan, Ohio and Ontario

Get in touch with the past. Stroll through Stonehenge Estate's beautifully landscaped grounds, charming farmhouse and winepress cottage and watch the past come to life. Visit the island's very own Antique Car Museum or the Historical Society Museum for a look at the good old days, or get on board the Island Tour Train for an informative one-hour trip through Put-in-Bay with stops at many of the islands attractions. A great family vacation spot, the island is filled with cool stuff for the whole family to do. Take the kids for a spin on Kimberley's Carousel, one of the country's last merry-go-rounds. Or go fishing at the Aquatic Visitors Center and learn more about the marine life in Ohio through hands-on exhibits and displays of live fish. Visit the beautiful DiRivera Park for a picnic lunch where you can relax and enjoy the view of the lake. The memorials and statues around the park are a great way to learn more about Put-in-Bay's eventful history, while the cannons and the playground will keep little adventurers busy for hours. Another attraction for kids of all ages is the Put-in-Bay Raceway, where remote controlled cars on a special track never fail to get anyone into a competitive mood. At 50 miles per hour, these small cars can put up an incredible fight to the finish. If the Raceway gets you in the mood for a more hands-on competition, try out the electric go cart track at Tailfins Amusement Center. With its awesome rides, simulators, water wars and video games, be prepared to find it difficult to leave the amusement center.