Perry’s Cave is a one-of-a-kind natural wonder located at Perry’s Cave Family Fun Center and as far as caves in Ohio go, it is one of the most fascinating. Just about a mile outside of downtown Put-in-Bay, Perry’s is a must of everyone’s summer checklist. An entire complex of fun, family-friendly activities surrounds the cave. Mini golf, rock climbing, sifting through dirt for gems, and enjoying a natural butterfly habitat are just some of the options available to Perry’s Cave guests!
About Perry’s Cave
South Bass Island is full of ecological wonders to discover. For such a small island, its diverse environmental landscape is really something to marvel. The island is a hunk of dolomite and limestone, believed to have formed about 400 million years ago, at the bottom of a shallow salt water sea.
Perry’s Cave is named after Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry who is believed to have discovered it in 1813. He was using Put-in-Bay as a harbor during the Battle of Lake Erie. As the legend does, Perry’s troops drank the pure water from the underground lake found in the cave.
The cave is 52 ft underground and 208 feet long by 165 feet wide. The temperature always stays at 50 degrees. The underground lake is quite mysterious. It rises and falls with Lake Erie but the connection between the two has yet to be discovered.
Regularly scheduled tours leave from the Gift Shop., known affectionately as the “Shop at the Top” Here visitors can find lots of amazing souvenirs, toys, and gifts. This is also where you will purchase tickets to the various Family Fun Center attractions. Remember to bring a jacket and good walking shoes, as it is a little chilly and slippery in the cave.
Perry’s Cave Family Fun Center
The Cave is the centerpiece of the center but there are lots of fun activities to choose from. One of the favorites is the War of 18 Holes mini-golf course. Players learn about the War of 1812 while trying to hit under par.
The Butterfly House is a peaceful retreat. This aviary is full of fluttering butterflies and soothing music. Looking for something more active? Try racing your friends up the 25 ft rock wall. See who can ring the bell first! Other fun stuff includes Gemstone Mining, Fort aMAZEn, and the delicious treats at Dan Dee’s Snack Shack.
Testimonials
Jayson W: “Perry’s Cave and Family Fun Center is a place you can easily spend several hours. There is a lot to do with the maze, mini-golf, huge gift store, and the Perry’s Cave which is a MUST DO! We did the Cave tour for the first time and it is almost like something you would see out of a movie. Everything here is very affordable and the staff is very friendly and helpful. Always love visiting while on Put In Bay.”
Kelly A: “One of our favorite places on the island, mostly for its awesome and friendly staff. There are two great gift shops where we got several things for our children. The mini-golf course is very nice. The cave is really cool. Kids would love it. You could spend a better part of the day here. We had a great experience and want to thank the staff for their hospitality.”
Scott S: “Perry’s Cave is named because of its use by Commodore Perry during the War of 1812 and in his decisive victory on Lake Eerie. The cave itself is easily accessible to any who wishes to visit. There is also a butterfly house, a gift shop, mining for precious stones, a play area for kids, and a barn that showcases some of the vehicles used in the early 20th century. Right across the street is a local winery (which also has a cave to explore) where visitors can refresh themselves with local wines, beers, and snack items. Perry’s Cave is just a short distance from downtown Put-In-Bay, but you might still want to rent a golf cart or bicycle to get there.”
Mary S: “Perry’s Cave is a great place for families. My personal favorite is the Butterfly House – I can visit there over and over. The cave is educational for small children. The cave guides do not have the in-depth knowledge of guides in places like Front Royal or Carlsbad, but they add amusing touches to their presentation. The kids like the maze and the climbing wall and laser tag are all located here. Children of all ages should visit. The vineyard mentioned in the other review is across the street and is not part of Perry’s Cave.”