PUT-IN-BAY OHIO: AN ISLAND GETAWAY IN YOUR OWN BACKYARD!

Located just a short drive away from Cleveland, Put-in-Bay Ohio brings the Midwest region of The United States together. Nicknamed “Key West of the North” for its island vibes and Caribbean feel, the island entertains over 750,000 guests during its tourist season. Home to unique Put-in-Bay resorts and many spacious island home rentals, spending a few nights on the island relaxes the spirit.

Put-in-Bay Ohio is rich in history dating back to The War of 1812 featuring Oliver Hazard Perry and his influence on the Battle of Lake Erie. Today, instead of ships we have golf cart rentals! The island serves as the best summer vacation spot in the Midwest. Downtown Put-in-Bay features dozens of local restaurants like Mr. Ed’s, parks like DeRivera Park, and a booming nightlife.

Best Put-in-Bay Resorts

FIND THE BEST PLACES TO STAY IN PUT-IN-BAY

Put-In-Bay Ohio is the place to get away from the ordinary.  From comfortable guest cottages to stunning Put-in-Bay condos that offer both pool view and waterfront condos, there is a variety of options for lodging while on your Lake Erie Island Bay Vacation. Put-in-Bay is a popular getaway and vacation destination for families and friends during the week. Also, it offers a fun atmosphere for bachelorette groups and parties on the weekends. From awesome vacation rental homes, great Put-In-Bay Hotels to the best Put-in-Bay resort, we have the right Place to Stay on Put-In-Bay for you!

YOUR DREAM PUT-IN-BAY TRIP IS ONLY A PHONE CALL AWAY

Need a Quick Put-in-Bay Ohio Reservation?

You have Put-in-Bay Ohio questions, and we have answers!! Call 216-898-9951 for reservations or information. You can also use our Put-in-Bay Contact form link to send us a quick email. Ask us anything about the Lake Erie islands and we will try to help!  We are experts!

FILL YOUR VACATION WITH THE BEST THINGS TO DO AT PUT-IN-BAY

Put-in-Bay is nature’s playground when it comes to outdoor activities, Put-in-Bay attractions, sightseeing, and family-friendly entertainment. There is Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial, kids’ activities, the Historical Society Museum, South Bass Island State Park, and more.

Just getting to the island is fun on the Miller Ferry and Jet Express.  So, depart from Port Clinton, Catawba, or Sandusky on a Bay Ferry for Family Fun and Adventure.  Eat some pizza! Sports enthusiasts will enjoy the golf course, jet skis, and scenic bike paths. Not to mention, the island serves as a boater’s paradise. You won’t lack for things to do on Put-in-Bay!

Put-in-Bay Things to Do

Furthermore, check out our upcoming events starting with St. Patrick’s Day and ending with the Halloween Bash!  For some serious family-friendly fun, look into coming for the annual Pyrate Fest featuring pirate reenactments and sword fights. Bash on The Bay serves as the island’s music festival and features a rowdier bunch. The Put-in-Bay airport shuts down for a few days and concert-goers enjoy the live acts of music’s most popular artists featuring Kid Rock, Rascal Flatts, and Toby Keith.

You can also check out the South Bass Island Lighthouse then get back on your golf cart and head to the State Park for some awesome watercraft rentals, picnic areas, and food plus a huge open field for sports. They do have restrooms located nearby the picnic areas. Check out Perry’s Cave and Family Fun Center for mini-golf, the Butterfly House, and gemstone mining.

Adventure Bay Amusement Park

Get off the Put in Bay ferry and go straight to Adventure Bay Amusement Park...

Gemstone Mining

Make like a prospector and mine for treasures at Perry’s Cave’s Gemstone Mining. Visitors purchase...

Mother of Sorrows Catholic Church

The Mother of Sorrows Catholic Church offers a magnificent and peaceful space for those in...

Lake Erie Islands Historical Museum

Put-in-Bay and the surrounding Lake Erie Islands are full of fascinating history. The Lake Erie...

Dodge Woods Preserve

The Dodge Woods Preserve offers visitors 3.5 acres of natural wonder and beauty. Open to...

Fort aMaze’n

Perry’s Cave Family Fun Center contains limitless fun. Fort aMAZE’n is one of the top...

Put-in-Bay Raceway

Race at the fastest speeds on the whole of South Bass Island at Put-in-Bay Raceway....

Aquatic Visitors Center

Learn about Lake Erie and its unique ecosystem at the Aquatic Visitors Center. Here education...

South Bass Island State Park

Perched high atop the white cliffs of South Bass Island sits the beautiful 33-acre South...

THE TOP PUT-IN-BAY BARS AND RESTAURANTS TO MAKE YOUR TRIP COMPLETE

Prepare to experience some amazing tastes, recipes, and aromas presented with a host of locally sourced ingredients. From fine dining and superb bay views at the Boardwalk to pub grub at Mr. Ed’s and specialty wine and cheese at The Goat. Maybe try a Sloppy Scotty at Joe’s Bar!

We are sure to fill your stomach, quench your thirst, and feed your soul at any of our Put-in-Bay restaurants. When you’re ready to leave your home rental and experience the food, call an Island Club taxi and it will take you anywhere on the island for just $3 per person.

Casual Cuisine

No trip to Put-in-Bay is as long as you wish it were, so you've got to maximize your time to... view more

Coffee & Breakfast

These are the best options for the early risers. Everyone needs to start their day at the Bay eventually, but... view more

Restaurants

Almost everything at Put-in-Bay is casual. Flip-flops and tank tops might as well be the island uniform. However, there are... view more

Pizza

If there's one food that is universally loved, easy, fast, fun and great for any situation, it's pizza. There are... view more

FREQUENTLY ASKED PUT-IN-BAY QUESTIONS

How to get to Put-in-Bay?

Put-in-Bay is an island in the middle of Lake Erie only accessible by boat or plane.  The two ferry services are the Miller Ferry and the Jet Express. Both ferries leave from Port Clinton, Ohio, and arrive at the island in roughly 20 minutes whereupon you can grab a taxi to get around. The only other way to get to the island would be by private plane or to bring your own boat over from the mainland. The Jet Express can also take you to Kelley’s Island from PIB, and the Sonny-S can take you to Middle Bass Island.

Can you bring your car over to Put-in-Bay?

Although it is not recommended, you can bring your car over to Put-in-Bay on the Miller Ferry.  Bringing your car over to Put-in-Bay during busy summer days could result in waiting multiple hours in line for the next ferry with space for your vehicle. The cost for bringing your car over on the Miller Ferry is $18 each way. Most people walk on the ferry and then rent a golf cart at their lodging.

Are golf carts allowed on Put-in-Bay?

Once on the island, you will see golf carts riddle the streets. Golf cart rentals are the most popular and convenient way to get around the island. If you own your own golf cart it is legal to bring it over as long as it is legally licensed and registered in the state of Ohio.  For rates and availability regarding renting a golf cart visit our Put-in-Bay golf cart page!

Is Put-in-Bay family-friendly?

Put-in-Bay features many fun attractions that are family-friendly.  Kids love to visit Perry’s Cave and Family Fun Center, Perry’s Victory & International Peace Memorial, The South Bass Island State Park and so much more! The best time on the island for family fun is during the week.  From Sunday through Thursday the island is full of families.  However, the weekend can get a little rowdy. This is truly the best island in all of the Great Lakes!

What is the best place to stay at Put-in-Bay?

The answer to this question depends on what you and your group are looking for.  The Island Club has the best vacation rental homes at Put-in-Bay.  Meanwhile, The Put-in-Bay Waterfront Condos was voted recently as Put-in-Bay’s Best Resort. Lastly, if you are looking for a Put-in-Bay hotel, look no further than the Commodore Resort.

What time does Put-in-Bay open?

Put-in-Bay is not like an amusement park with opening and closing hours. It is an actual village on an island in Lake Erie. There is a defined tourist season that usually runs from April 1st through October 31st. The most popular times to visit Put-in-Bay are June through August when many families allot their vacation time. But it is best to pre-plan your trip months in advance and secure your Put-in-Bay lodging before it all fills up.

Do cell phones work on Put-in-Bay?

Yes, cell phones do work in Put-in-Bay Ohio. Though the quality of service may vary depending on the carrier you have. Over the past few years phone service has improved dramatically on South Bass Island. Many of the major phone carriers have added cell receivers to the water tower downtown Put-in-Bay. That being said most Put-in-bay hotels and rental homes provide WIFI for their guests. Many Put-in-Bay restaurants also provide free WIFI for their customers.

How many days do you need for Put-in-Bay?

This all depends on what you are looking for from your visit to South Bass Island. Though being a small island, there is enough attractions and upcoming events going on in Put-in-Bay Ohio to keep one busy all summer long. Whether you are looking for family friendly activities or a weekend getaway with the boys, Put-in-Bay island has what you are looking for. Some of the best Put-in-Bay attractions include Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial and South Bass Island State Park. Looking for the best Put-in-Bay
restaurants and bars? Head downtown Put-in-Bay where you will find the best bars around Derivera Park. All of which are within walking distance.

Can you walk around with alcohol in Put-in-Bay?

Walking with any type of open container of alcohol in Put-in-Bay Ohio is prohibited. Having an open alcoholic beverage in the street or on a golf cart rental is not allowed anywhere on South Bass Island. We recommend renting a Put-in-Bay Condo or vacation rental with a balcony or porch where one can enjoy an alcoholic beverage outdoors and the beautiful view of Lake Erie. Many restaurants and and bars downtown Put-in-Bay also provide outdoor seating.

Where do you leave your car when going to Put-in-Bay?

Which route you take determines your parking options. Both the Jet Express and Miller Ferry offer multiple parking options. Both locations offer free parking options but operate on a first come first served basis near the ferry docks. Free parking is readily available most weekdays but weekends and high season weekdays you may have to pay for parking. We highly recommend arriving as early as possible for your trip to South Bass
Island if you wish to claim a free parking spot. Once you have arrived on the island you can then get yourself a Put-in-Bay golf cart rental. The preferred method of transportation.

PUT-IN-BAY FUN FACT

Did you know that Put-in-Bay entertains hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, but only about 135 people live there year-round?

Enter our Free Weekend Contest!

With tens of thousands of active members, we publish specials and insider deals every month. Be the first to hear about island specials, themed weekend activities, and be entered into our monthly Free Weekend Contest! You could win a free weekend at PIB in a vacation rental home sleeping up to 8 people and a free Put-in-Bay golf cart rental for your stay!

 

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Read Our Blog

Our Put-in-Bay Blog and News covers a wide range of topics. Don’t let our quiet streets fool you: history meets hip in putinbay. Whether you want to shop ’til you drop, experience the great outdoors, go hundreds of feet in the air up the Monument, stay in a Waterfront Condo, or immerse yourself in entertainment, this village on the lake has it all.

Guests find great Things To Do such as going down in Perry’s Cave, playing at South Bass Island State Park, exploring Chocolate Museums, and more… the island is calling.

Put-In-Bay Info When You Want It!

Put-in-Bay played a major role in the War of 1812 between the US and England. The waters around the island were the location of United States Navy commander Oliver Hazard Perry. He sailed from the port of South Bass Island on September 10, 1813, to engage a British naval squadron commanded by Captain Robert Heriot Barclay just north of South Bass Island in the “Battle of Lake Erie”.  Moreover, he utilized Perry’s Cave to provide potable drinking water for his Men. You can read more about it on our blog!

Connect with Us to Learn About Events, Specials, and More!

Put-in-Bay Ohio is THE place for a great local staycation. We have island visitors who come from Ohio, Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and New York on a regular basis.  Cities include Cleveland, Toledo, Chicago, and beyond.  Some even utilize the small but mighty PIB Airport. Boaters from across the region utilize the public docks across from DeRivera Park for safe refuge and get around the island with a quick taxi ride.

Put in Bay Guests From All Places!

But when it comes to family reunions or bachelor/bachelorette parties, South Bass Island sees guests come from almost every state in the Union, and Canada as well. The summer upcoming events cater to a broad range of interests so there is sure to be a Put-in-Bay Summer Event for you and your friends.

Put-in-Bay, Ohio 43456 Nicknamed the “Key West of the North” offers an exciting nightlife with live musical entertainment to satisfy all generations. Strolling Barbershop singers, pyrates, steel drums and Ohio’s best entertainers are frequently seen on Putinbay island. And the island is safe, with Put-in-Bay taxis always available. Do you like history? Visit us for Historical Weekend and the War of 1812 reenactments. Do you like to party? Visit Put-in-Bay!

PIB is also known for it’s great Lake Erie Perch, Walleye, and lakeside dining.