The Invitational Mills Trophy Race, sponsored by the Toledo Yacht Club, is known as ‘THE’ sailing race of the Lake Erie islands. Dating back to 1907 the original intention of the event was to merely test the navigational skills of the Lake Erie locals. Since then the race has been honored nearly every year ever since. What makes this race unique is that you compete at night. Put-in-Bay became more involved in the race in 1981 because it began at the harbor light and ended here at Put-in-Bay. Nearly 35+ years later the tradition still stands and the Put-in-Bay Yacht Club’s involvement is still strong. When you arrive at Put-in-Bay for the Invitational Mills Trophy Race you will find the docks lined with hundreds of beautiful sailboats ready for a weekend full of fun.
Need A Place To Stay For This Event? Check Out Our Favorites!
- Island Club Rentals (islandclub.com) – 216-898-9951
- Put-in-Bay Condos (putinbaycondos.com) – 216-898-1105
- Commodore Resort (commodoreresort.com) – 419-285-3101
- Victory Station Hotel (putinbayvictorystation.com) – 419-285-0120
- Bird’s Nest Resort (birdsnestresort.com) – 419-285-6119
And Here’s The Most Important Things To Know For a PIB Trip
- Island Attractions
- Getting Here: Ferry Details
- Renting A Golf Cart
- Eat and Drink: PIB Restaurants and Bars
Invitational Mills Trophy Race Accommodations
The best to participate in this historic weekend is by staying overnight. The race is at night after all. Lucky for you, Put-in-Bay has plenty of accommodation options to choose from if you book early enough. If you’re planning to bring a group or the family consider the Put-in-Bay Villas. There is no place like home, but Put-in-Bay villas come awfully close. Each villa sleeps between 8 to 10 guests and offers a full kitchenette, fridge, and freezer. This is the perfect option for groups looking to cook their meals and save a little money in between the race and post-race festivities. With that said, each villa comes with 2 balconies for you to enjoy the lakeside breezes.
If you’d rather get a little closer to the water consider staying at the brand new Put-in-Bay Waterfront Condos! Not only will get Lake Erie waterfront views, but you will also have communal amenities such as a swimming pool, outdoor grilling station, and volleyball court. Maybe you’d rather get some peaceful rest and relaxation after the race? You’ll be sure to find what you’re looking for at the PIB Peace and Quiet, just a mile from downtown Put-in-Bay. They even offer a beautiful front porch to relax and enjoy your favorite hot or cold beverage before your next adventure.
Once the Mills Trophy Race is finished you will likely want to get on the water also. There are several fun ways to explore Put-in-Bay and Lake Erie’s waterfront.
- Rent a Kayak at Kayak the Bay
- Rent a wave runner or boat at Put-in-Bay Watercraft
- Learn about Lake Erie’s ecosystem and catch a few fish at the Aquatic Center
It doesn’t matter if it’s your first time or your tenth time at the Invitation Mills Trophy Race, there is plenty to see and do at Put-in-Bay during this monumental weekend. Check out our Lodging resource page to book your stay at the Bay!