Ohio's Lake Erie Shores & Islands : Attractions

WHAT TO DO > ACTIVITIES >ATTRACTIONS

African Safari Wildlife Park 267 Lightner Rd. (SR 163), Port Clinton 419.732.3606 or 800.521.2660 africansafariwildlifepark.com This drive-thru safari has exotic animals, camel and pony rides, entertaining and educational animal shows, pig races, a gift shop, picnic facilities, a snack bar and café and grill. Mar 20-May 22, daily 10am-5pm; May 23-Sept 7, daily 9am-7pm; Sept 8-Nov 30, daily 10am-5pm.
Bay Area Bike Rentals Shoreline Park, Sandusky 419.504.2797 or 419.626.1048 doublesind.org Tour downtown Sandusky’s waterfront and historic sites via bicycle. Take a suggested scenic tour, grab a picnic lunch and eat in a beautiful park. This is a great family activity and an excellent addition to your vacation. Stay an extra day and tour the beautiful bay waterfront. Affordable, safe, fun. Memorial Day–Labor Day, daily; weekends only in Sept.
The Berlin Fruit Box Company Samuel Patterson® Baskets 51 Mechanic St. (off SR 61) Berlin Heights 419.588.2081 or 888.905.1858 samuelpattersonbaskets.com Join us during our 151st Anniversary! Sixth generation family company makes home baskets from Maple, Cherry, Walnut and (new in 2009) Buckeye, plus farm baskets. Production on site includes log veneering. Open Mon-Fri 9am-3pm; gift shop Sat 9am-1pm, Memorial Day-Labor Day.
Castaway Bay 2001 Cleveland Rd. (US 6), Sandusky 419.627.2500 castawaybay.com With its tropical theme, guests feel like they have landed on an island paradise. Castaway Bay features 237 hotel rooms and suites including family-oriented units, an indoor waterpark loaded with water activities for all ages, a day spa, fitness center, state-of-the-art arcade, restaurants, retail shops, adjacent marina and space for meetings, group events and birthday parties. The 38,000-square-foot indoor waterpark features Rendezvous Run water coaster; a 100,000-gallon wave pool; three 35-foot-tall body slides, Lookout Lagoon Family Funhouse, Toddler’s Tide Pool and an 80,000-gallon activity pool.
Cedar Downs/Cedar Lanes at Quality Inn & Suites 1935 Cleveland Rd. (US 6), Sandusky 419.626.6761 or 800.654.3364 qualityinn.com Ohio’s first and only off-track gaming and entertainment establishment where you can bet on live horse races from tracks around the country. A state-of-the-art, 32-lane bowling center features automatic scoring, glitter glow bowling and bumper bowling. Food, cocktails, billiards, golf simulator and arcade games available. Off-track gaming daily, 12pm-12am; bowling daily, 4pm-12am.
Cedar Point 1 Cedar Point Dr. (off US 6), Sandusky 419.627.2350 cedarpoint.com Cedar Point amusement park/resort is one of the premier family vacation destinations in the world. Located on a peninsula along scenic Lake Erie, Cedar Point is a 364-acre amusement park that is home to the most exhilarating collection of thrill rides and roller coasters on Earth. With 75 diverse rides, including 17 roller coasters — more coasters than any other park in the world; a huge outdoor waterpark (Soak City); four resort hotels including a year-round indoor waterpark resort (Castaway Bay); a luxury RV campground with cottages and cabins; two large marinas; outdoor activity complex featuring a skycoaster, go-karts, miniature golf and more (Challenge Park); award-winning live shows; gift shops; delicious eateries; four giant kids’ areas and more, it's easy to see why Cedar Point has been voted the “Best Amusement Park in the World” for an unprecedented 11 years in a row!
Challenge Park 1 Cedar Point Dr. (off US 6), Sandusky 419.627.2350 cedarpoint.com Located between the towering rides and roller coasters of Cedar Point and the cool refreshing waters of Soak City is Challenge Park — an activity complex that features the RipCord Skycoaster, two high-speed go-kart tracks, two challenging 18-hole miniature golf courses and Skyscraper, a thrilling ride that spins riders in a circular motion 16 stories above the ground at speeds of 55 mph! Guests can take a break in the arcade with state-of-the art games and refuel at a food stand with hot dogs, popcorn and soft drinks. Challenge Park is open to the public and admission to Cedar Point or Soak City is not required. Each attraction has a separate fee.
Cleveland Metroparks Zoo 3900 Wildlife Way, Cleveland 216.661.1090 clemetzoo.com Come explore the jungles of The Rain Forest, roam the outback of Australian Adventure, take in the grassy plains of African Savanna, stroll around scenic Waterfowl Lake and discover over 3,000 animals representing the 600 species from around the globe.
Crystal Traditions 145 Madison St.,Tiffin 419.448.4286 or 888.298.7236 crystaltraditions.com Crystal Traditions has a growing reputation as a maker of quality crystal giftware, awards and trophies. Tour the facility and enjoy watching glass blowing and crystal hand cutting demonstrations given by artisans with many years of experience. Showroom and outlet open year-round, Mon-Fri 10am-5pm, Sat 10am-2pm; closed holidays. Tours available Mon-Fri 10am-5pm.
Doller House & Museum 392 Bayview Ave., Put-in-Bay 419.285.3343 dollerhouse.com The Doller House was home to one of Put-in-Bay's wealthiest and most influential citizens, Valentine Doller. Take a tour of the historic Italianate home and learn about island life as it was in the 1800's. Available for private parties or events; call for details. May-Sept 10am-6pm.
Edison Birthplace 9 Edison Dr. (off SR 113), Milan 419.499.2135 tomedison.org Visit Thomas Edison’s 1847 birthplace. Tour his boyhood home and see displays of some of his accomplishments as the world’s greatest inventor. Apr, May, Sept, Oct, Tue-Sun 1-5pm; Jun-Aug, Tue-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 1-5pm; Feb, Mar, Nov, Dec, Wed-Sun 1-4pm. Closed Jan and major holidays.
Eleutheros Cooke House 1415 Columbus Ave., Sandusky 419.627.0640 Sandusky is known for its collection of limestone buildings, including this Greek Revival. It includes a ruby and cranberry glass collection, antique furnishings, garden, greenhouse and gift shop. Apr-Dec, Tue-Fri 12-3pm, Sat 10am-1pm.
Firelands Historical Society Museum 4 Case Ave. (off SR 61), Norwalk 419.668.6038 or 419.663.1847 (Tours) Ohio’s oldest museum, located in an 1836 home. Eclectic collections feature 200 years of Firelands history, including an extensive gun collection from pre-Revolutionary War through WWII. Separate research library available. Jun-Aug, Tue-Sat 10am-3pm, Sun 12-4pm; May and Sept-Oct, Sat 10am-3pm, Sun 12-4pm; by appointment Nov-Apr.
Firelands Symphony Orchestra 334 E. Washington St., Sandusky 419.621.4800 firelandssymphony.com The Firelands region is proud to offer the highest quality, live musical arts. Check often for upcoming events on the website. Mon-Fri 8:30am-5pm.
Firelands Winery 917 Bardshar Rd. (off US 6), Sandusky 419.625.5474 or 800.548.WINE (9463) firelandswinery.com One of Ohio's oldest wineries, established in 1880, is located near Lake Erie. Award-winning, estate bottled wines, charming gift shop, tours, tastings and cozy sitting area. Jun-Sept, Mon-Thu 9am-5pm, Fri-Sat 9am-6pm, Sun 1-5pm; Oct-May, Mon-Sat 9am-5pm.
Follett House Museum 404 Wayne St. (off US 6), Sandusky 419.627.9608 sandusky.lib.oh.us Discover Sandusky’s past! Sandusky Library’s local history museum, with four floors of exhibits featuring Johnson’s Island Civil War Prison Camp, Cedar Point and many other artifacts that shaped local life. Apr and Oct-Dec, Sat 12-4pm, Sun 1-4pm; May and Sept, Sat 10am-1pm; Jun-Aug, Wed and Fri 12-4pm, Sat 10am-1pm; Jan-Mar by appointment only.
Ghostly Manor Thrill Center 3319 Milan Rd. (US 250), Sandusky 419.626.4467 ghostlymanor.com Four attractions – one location! Feel the chills and thrills of Top 10 rated Ghostly Manor Haunted House along with Ohio’s first and only XD 3D Theater featuring three exhilarating motion rides…or just relax and enjoy roller skating, games and food while visiting Ghostly Gifts Halloween store. Open all year; call for hours.
Goodtime I Lake Erie Island Cruises, LLC Jackson St. Pier, Sandusky 419.625.9692 or 800.446.3140 goodtimeboat.com Enjoy a relaxing day on Lake Erie and the Lake Erie Islands. Visit Kelleys Island and Put-in-Bay. Two islands in one day for one price. Discounts for seniors, children and groups. May-Oct; call for cruise schedule. Available for private charters.
Goofy Golf 3020 Milan Rd. (US 250), Sandusky 419.625.9935 or 419.625.1308 sanduskygoofygolf.com Play miniature golf, cool off on bumper boats, test your skills with sharp curves and steep hills on Radical Raceway and experience high speed on The Big Track. Round out your fun in the air-conditioned arcade. Attractions sold separately or purchase a discounted Do-All Deal. Open May 16-Oct 18; call for hours.
Great Wolf Lodge 4600 Milan Rd. (US 250), Sandusky 419.609.6000 or 800.641.WOLF (9653) greatwolf.com Great Wolf Lodge is an all-suites, full-service, family destination indoor waterpark resort designed to deliver a memorable, high quality family vacation experience. It is a place where uninterrupted family time is spent and lifelong traditions are created. Every aspect of the property – from the comfortable, Northwoods atmosphere to the family-friendly amenities – is designed with one goal in mind: "Creating Family Traditions, One Family at a Time". The comprehensive package of resort amenities includes a 41,000 square-foot indoor entertainment area featuring a grand scale waterpark, spacious outdoor pool, arcade with ticket redemption, fitness room, a dedicated arts and crafts center for kids, family restaurants, a confectionary, meeting space, gift shop and a performing Great Clock Tower.
Heineman's Winery 978 Catawba Ave., Put-in-Bay 419.285.2811 heinemanswinery.com Take a ferry boat to get to this island winery on Lake Erie. Founded in 1888, Heineman Winery is the oldest family owned winery in Ohio. Mon-Sat 10am-7pm, Sun 12-7pm.
Hermes Vineyards & Winery 6413 S. Hayes Ave. (SR 4), Sandusky 419.626.8500 hermesvineyards.com Hermes Vineyards estate bottled wines are produced from one of the largest viniferous vineyards in Ohio. Premium wines are served by the glass or bottle and a light menu is available. Open daily, year-round.
Hillside Winery 221 Main St., Gilboa 419.456.3434 Enjoy a bottle of wine with a cheese platter beside the fireplace in the wine tasting room or relax outdoors with a view of an historical bridge. Year-round, Thu-Sat 12-6pm.
Historic Lyme Village 5001 SR 4 (south of SR 113), Bellevue 419.483.4949 lymevillage.com Live the past as you tour the sixteen buildings of this 19th century village. Tours include an 1880's Victorian Mansion, an 1836 farm home, log homes, barns, a one-room school, a general store and more. The Museum Gift Shop is located in the Visitors Center. Jun-Aug, Tue-Sat 11am-4pm, Sun 12-4pm; Sept-Oct, Sun 12-4pm.
Huron Playhouse in McCormick School 325 Ohio St. (off US 6), Huron 419.433.4744 (summer only) or 419.433.3503 bgsu.edu/departments/theatrefilm/huron_playhouse Jun 30-Aug 1, 2009. Ohio's oldest continuing summer theatre brings five, fully-staged productions each summer season. Don't miss out on all the exciting musicals and plays. The 2009 season includes: A Grand Night for Singing, Don't Dress for Dinner, 1940's Radio Hour, Our Town (in celebration of Huron's Bicentennial!) and The Secret Garden. Please call for reservations.
Inland Seas Maritime Museum 480 Main St. (off US 6), Vermilion 440.967.3467 or 800.893.1485 inlandseas.org Experience the history of the Great Lakes through interactive and hands-on exhibits, ship models, maritime art and an authentic 1910 steamship pilothouse. Explore shipwrecks, steam engines, original timbers from the Niagara and models of Great Lakes vessels. Nautical gift shop does not require admission. May-Aug, daily 10am-5pm; Sept-Apr, weekdays 11am-4pm, weekends 10am-5pm; closed major holidays. The museum is currently closed until April, 2010.
Island Adventures Family Fun Center 280 SE Catawba Rd. (SR 53 N), Port Clinton 419.732.2020 island-adventures.net A fun-filled way to spend the day! Beautifully landscaped 18-hole mini-golf, fast go-karts, water-squirting bumper boats, air conditioned arcade and group/party pavilion. Walk to the NEW Crosswinds Restaurant & Bar! Clean and friendly family experience! Memorial Day-Labor Day, daily; limited May and Sept weekends.
Island Bike & Cart Rental Ferry Docks & Tour Train Depot, Put-in-Bay 419.285.2016 put-in-bay-trans.com The largest all-electric fleet of golf carts on the island. IBR's carts are quiet, clean and "green" and offer an excellent way to see Put-in-Bay. An even "greener" choice is IBR's fleet of single-speed bicycles, another popular way to move around the island. Apr-Oct
Island Fun Pack 154 Delaware Ave., Put-in-Bay 419.285.4855 put-in-bay-trans.com All day fun! One great rate! Ride the Put-in-Bay tour train and visit all the island’s great attractions. Price includes ferry ticket, tour train, Perry’s Cave, War of 18 Holes miniature golf, the Butterfly House, Antique Car Museum and Heineman Winery/Crystal Cave. Tickets available at both ferry landings and the Lake Erie Shores & Islands Welcome Center - West. Memorial Day-Labor Day.
Jet Express 3 N. Monroe St., Port Clinton 101 W. Shoreline Dr., Sandusky 419.732.2800 or 800.245.1JET (538) jet-express.com High-speed passenger ferry from Sandusky and Port Clinton to downtown Put-in-Bay and Kelleys Island. Comfortable, stylish passenger cabins and open-air sundecks. Extended sight-seeing routes to the islands – so you can see more...faster! Frequent departures and late-night service. Special evening discounts, family-friendly child rates and group tour rates. May-Oct; schedule is available online or call for more information.
John Christ Winery 32421 Walker Rd., Avon Lake 440.933.9672 johnchristwine.com Stop in and enjoy 17 medal-winning wines from Merlot to Ruby Port. Bring your own food or attend a planned cookout or clambake. Definitely a fun and unique experience. Open year-round.
Johnson’s Island Confederate Officers Prison Cemetery & Museum Gaydos Rd. (off Bayshore Rd.), Marblehead johnsonsisland.org 9,000 Confederate soldiers were once housed at the prison. Over 200 graves mark the site. Open year-round, daily dawn-dusk. The museum in downtown Marblehead features a scale model of the prison and many artifacts. Open Memorial Day-Labor Day, weekends and holidays, 1-5pm.
J.W. Dover Heartland Vineyards & Black Box Brewing Co. 24945 Detroit Rd., Westlake 440.871.0700 jwdover.com Stop by and enjoy one of 20 wines in the underground tasting room or browse through the home beer and wine making supply store. Tue 10am-8pm, Wed-Fri 10am-6pm, Sat 10am-4pm.
Kalahari Resort 7000 Kalahari Dr. (off US 250), Sandusky 419.433.7200 or 877.KALAHARI (525.2427) kalahariresorts.com You're in for the time of your life with everything under one roof. Surf indoors 365 days a year or take on the uphill water rollercoaster at America's Largest Indoor Waterpark. Spa Kalahari, Kahunaville Restaurant & Bar, Pottery Pizzazz, Candy Hut, Ivory Coast Lounge, Great Karoo Marketplace Restaurant, Zakanaka Kids, Safari Adventures, Madagascar Indoor Mini Golf and so much more! No matter what the weather is outside, you can splish-splash all day long indoors at Kalahari. Catch some rays at Kalahari’s outdoor pool complex from Memorial Day to Labor Day (weather permitting). Once you cross over the bridge, you’ll feel A World Away ®. Visit soon. Call for day pass information.
The Keeper's House 9999 E. Bayshore Rd., Marblehead 419.798.9339 thekeepershouse.org Built in 1822, this historic house was home to Benajah and Rachel Wolcott. It was the residence of the first three lighthouse keepers for the oldest lighthouse in continuous operation on the Great Lakes. This house was built by the same stone mason who built the Marblehead Lighthouse. Jun 1-Sept 1, Mon-Sat 1-5pm. Check online for additional hours.
Kelleys Island Ferry Boat Line 510 W. Main St. (SR 163), Marblehead 419.798.9763 kelleysislandferry.com The only daily passenger and automobile transportation to Kelleys Island from Marblehead, departing every half-hour during peak times. Available year-round, weather permitting. Late boats on weekends. There is a nominal parking fee.
Klingshirn Winery 33050 Webber Rd., Avon Lake 440.933.6666 klingshirnwine.com Klingshirn's has been growing and producing some of Ohio's finest wines since 1935. Twenty acres of vineyards, manufacturing, bottling, sampling and a retail store are all on site. Mon-Sat 10am-6pm. Closed major holidays.
Lagoon Deer Park 1502 Martins Point Rd. (off SR 269), Sandusky 419.684.5701 lagoondeerpark.com Walk with and hand feed 200 animals from many nations. Gift shop and 56 acres of lakes to fish for rainbow trout, bullheads, channel cats, white bass, large mouth bass, rock bass, bluegills, crappies and muskies. Bring your own gear and bait. Open daily, May-Memorial Day, 10am-6pm; Memorial Day-Labor Day, 9am-8pm; Labor Day-Oct 31, 10am-6pm.
Lake Erie Islands Historical Museum 25 Town Hall Pl., Put-in-Bay 419.285.2804 leihs.org Displays include over 65 ship models; the South Bass Island Lighthouse Fresnel lens; and artifacts from the Battle of Lake Erie, island life and the Ford Tri-Motor and great hotel eras. There is a theatre, research library and bookstore. May & Oct, Sat-Sun 11am-5pm; Jun & Sept, daily 11am-5pm; Jul-Aug, daily 10am-6pm.
Lakeside Association 236 Walnut Ave., Lakeside 419.798.4461 or 866.9LAKESIDE (52.5374) lakesideohio.com This “Chautauqua-style” resort is open to the public. Stroll the grounds, visit the shops and eateries, and enjoy world-class entertainment and family-rated movies. Overnight accommodations and banquet facilities available. Gate fees apply during certain times; call for details.
Lazer Runner in Cedar Lanes at Quality Inn & Suites 1935 Cleveland Rd. (US 6), Sandusky 419.502.0004 Play laser tag in an indoor futuristic maze! Whirling fog, heart-pounding music and black lighting make this the ultimate interactive experience for ages 6-96. Who will have more fun - you or your children? Year-round, call for hours.
Mad River & NKP Railroad Museum 253 S. West St., Bellevue 419.483.2222 madrivermuseum.org Largest railroad museum in Ohio displays many historical artifacts and items pertaining to the railroad history of Northern Ohio and the United States. Larger pieces of the collection are complemented by hundreds of other items of interest. May, Sept-Oct, Sat-Sun 12-4pm; Memorial Day-Labor Day, daily 12-4pm.
Marblehead Lighthouse State Park 110 Lighthouse Dr., Marblehead 419.798.1490 dnr.state.oh.us/parks State park with picnic facilities, fishing, walking trails and the oldest lighthouse in continuous operation on the Great Lakes. On-site Keeper's House Museum and guided lighthouse tours May 26-Sept 4, Mon-Fri 1-4:45pm and the second Saturday of the month, May-Oct, 10am-3pm.
Maritime Museum of Sandusky 125 Meigs St., Sandusky 419.624.0274 sanduskymaritime.org This museum interprets the maritime history of the area including boat building, recreational boating, passenger boats, shipwrecks, wetlands, commercial shipping, fishing and the boats of Sandusky’s Underground Railroad through interactive exhibits and educational programs. Jun-Aug, Tue-Sat 10am-4pm, Sun 12-4pm; Sept-May, Fri-Sat 10am-4pm, Sun 12-4pm. Closed major holidays.
Matus Winery 15674 Gore Orphanage Rd., Wakeman 440.774.WINE (9463) matuswinery.us Enjoy award-winning wines and picturesque views of the vineyard while relaxing inside the 1850's barn, complete with fireplace. Outside, enjoy a lantern-lit veranda and fire pit. Check the website for meals, special events, entertainment and more! Thu 4-10pm, Fri-Sat 1pm-12am, Mon-Wed by appointment.
Merry-Go-Round Museum 301 Jackson St. (at US 6), Sandusky 419.626.6111 merrygoroundmuseum.org Family fun at the Merry-Go-Round Museum! Kids and kids at heart can ride the antique carousel and watch woodcarvers breathe life into new horses, while learning the history of carousels and carousel art. Memorial Day-Labor Day, Mon-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 12-5pm; Sept -Dec, Wed-Sat 11am-5pm, Sun 12-5pm.
Milan Historical Museum 10 Edison Dr. (off SR 113), Milan 419.499.2968 milanhistory.org Visit a National Trust for Historic Preservation Distinctive Destination! The Milan Historical Museum offers an excursion into the past with new, interactive exhibits for children and adults. Come and explore history. May & Sept, Tue-Sun 1-5pm; Jun-Aug, Tue-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 1-5pm; Oct, Sat-Sun 1-5pm; other times by appointment. Group tours welcome.
Miller Ferries 5174 E. Water St. (SR 53 N), Port Clinton 419.285.2421 or 800.500.2421 millerferry.com Passenger and vehicle transportation from Catawba Point to the Lake Erie Islands of South Bass (Put-in-Bay) and Middle Bass. Family-friendly fares, limited free parking, Put-in-Bay summer trips every half-hour and group discounts. See website for events, maps and ferry schedules. Trips daily in spring, summer and fall; winter operation is weather permitting.
Monsoon Lagoon Waterpark & Resort Routes 2 & 269 (1530 N Danbury Rd), Marblehead 419.732.6671 monsoonlagoonwaterpark.com This waterpark and family entertainment complex features aquatic adventures including 6 waterslides, a lazy river, an adult pool with swim up Tiki bar, and Adventure Island Tree House with 17 levels. The family entertainment center has 18-hole miniature golf, bumper boats, grand prix cars, and a gaming arcade to round out a total day of family fun.
Mystic Belle 636 Sandusky St. (off US 6), Vermilion 440.315.1907 donparsonsmarina.com Take a relaxing paddle-wheel tour on the historic and scenic Vermilion River. The trip includes the beauty of both the natural upriver scenes as well as the picturesque lagoons with narration about the harbor’s past. Jun-Sept, Tue-Sun 2pm, 4pm, and on weekends only, one-half hour before sunset.
North Coast Parasail and Water Sports at Cedar Point Beach, Sandusky 419.627.2279 at Kelleys Island 440.315.3479 cedarpoint.com Keyword: Parasail Experience the thrills of Wave Runner riding and parasailing on the beach behind Cedar Point’s Hotel Breakers or on Kelleys Island. Early bird discounts available. Park admission is not required at the Cedar Point location; however, a parking fee will be collected. Reservations are required for Kelleys Island.
Ohio Veterans Home Museum at Ohio Veterans Home, I.F. Mack Bldg. 3416 Columbus Ave., Sandusky 419.625.2454 ext 1447 Military history museum featuring memorabilia from the Civil War, World War I, World War II, Korean Conflict, Vietnam and The War on Terrorism (Iraq and Afghanistan). There is also an exhibit on Johnson’s Island and its role in the Civil War. No admission fee. Year-round, Sat-Wed 10am-4pm.
Paper Moon Vineyards 2008 SR 60, Vermilion 440.967.2500 papermoonvineyards.com Just off SR 2, in the historic harbor town of Vermilion, Paper Moon Vineyards serves a selection of regional and viniferous wines. The tasting room offers a view of the vineyard, pond, woods and an occasional bald eagle. Thu-Fri 3-10pm, Sat 1-11pm.
Perry’s Cave Family Fun Center 979 Catawba Ave., Put-in-Bay 419.285.CAVE (2283) perryscave.com One stop for all day family fun! Perry’s Cave, the Butterfly House, Fort Amaze-n Maze, miniature golf, rock climbing wall, antique car museum and gift shops. A snack shack and picnic pavilion make it convenient to stay all day! May-Sept, daily 11am-6pm; Apr & Oct, weekends 11am-5pm; or by appointment.
Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial 93 Delaware Ave., Put-in-Bay 419.285.2184 nps.gov/pevi A 352 foot tall memorial commemorating Oliver Hazard Perry’s victory over the British during the War of 1812. Stop in the visitors center with displays, video theater and gift shop.
Pottery Pizzazz in Kalahari Resort 7000 Kalahari Dr. (off US 250), Sandusky 419.433.7128 kalahariresorts.com You don’t need to be an overnight guest to create your own masterpiece. Select your pottery, get artistic with over 80 colors and then get it fire glazed! A great way to spend quality time with the family and is just steps from the Big Game Room arcade.
Prehistoric Forest and Mystery Hill 8232 East Harbor Rd. (SR 163 E), Marblehead 419.798.5230 mysteryhill.com or prehistoricforest.com A walk through dinosaur park and funhouse with mini-golf, water war games, picnic area, gift shop and daily or weekly cabin rentals. Memorial Day-Labor Day, daily 10am-7pm; May & Sept, weekends only 12-5pm.
Quarry Hill Winery and Orchard 8403 Mason Rd. (one mile east of SR 61), Berlin Heights 419.706.8005 quarryhillwinery.org Visit this winery and orchard market and enjoy a sample while shopping. Wines are an eclectic variety of grape and fruit specialties made and grown on site. Outdoor seating is available. Apr-Jun, Thu-Sat 11am-5pm, Sun 1-5pm; Jul-Dec, daily 10am-5:30pm, Sun 1-5:30pm; Jan-Mar, Sat 12-5pm.
Rain in Quality Inn & Suites 1935 Cleveland Rd. (US 6), Sandusky 419.626.6761 or 800.654.3364 qualityinn.com Rain indoor waterpark offers a smaller, affordable setting with thrill slides and water play, featuring a 50 foot tower with two giant slides, 275 foot and 251 foot in length and a play structure with additional water activities and outdoor pool. As its name insinuates, guests of the waterpark are frequently showered with rain. The complex also includes a 32-lane state-of-the-art bowling center, laser tag, an arcade and great eats and gambling in the exciting atmosphere of off-track horse racing. In all, Rain features over 35,000 square feet of affordable family fun - all under one roof.
Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Center Spiegel Grove (at Hayes and Buckland Aves.) Fremont 419.332.2081 or 800.998.PRES (7737) rbhayes.org The White House’s original gates mark the entrance to the nation’s FIRST presidential center. Visit the 31-room mansion, 3-story Museum/Library and tomb of 19th President Rutherford B. Hayes. On exhibit are original family furnishings and Civil War and 19th century artifacts. Year-round, Mon-Sat 9am-5pm; Sun and Federal holidays 12-5pm. Closed major holidays.
Safari Adventures at Kalahari Resort 7000 Kalahari Dr. (off US 250), Sandusky 419.433.7200 or 877.KALAHARI (525.2427) kalahariresorts.com/oh/amenities/safariadventures/ New this summer, Kalahari Resorts has added "Safari Adventures". This unique, interactive experience will allow guests to enjoy an entertaining and exciting educational animal encounter. The Safari Adventures will feature ostrich, zebra, African antelope, Barbary sheep, kangaroos, African Pygmy goats, Jacob four-horned sheep, zebu cattle, African tortoise and more. It is located behind the outdoor waterpark.
Sandusky Cultural Center 2130 Hayes Ave. (SR 4), Sandusky 419.625.1188 sanduskyculturalcenter.org With awareness of cultural diversity and the positive values of artistic regionalism, the Sandusky Cultural Center provides educational and entertaining exhibits that stimulate an interest in the fine arts. They provide a focus for multicultural awareness and introduce complex issues and challenging concepts. See website for schedule.
Sandusky State Theatre 107 Columbus Ave., Sandusky 419.626.1950 or 877.626.1950 sanduskystate.com This 1,500 seat national landmark is a top entertainment destination for Erie County. See nationally recognized performers, Broadway shows, movies and more. Also available for rentals.
Schedel Arboretum & Gardens 19255 W. Portage River South Rd., Elmore 419.862.3182 schedel-gardens.org A hidden treasure with unparalleled beauty and tranquility. Enjoy a unique Japanese garden, a kitchen garden with more than 100 varieties of ornamental peppers, a bonsai exhibit, water gardens, perennial gardens, sculptures, painting exhibits and flower gardens featuring 20,000 annuals, as well as unusual trees and shrubs. May-Oct, Tue-Sat 10am-4pm, Sun 12-4pm.
Seneca Caverns - Registered Natural Landmark 15248 E. TR 178 (off SR 269 S), Bellevue 419.483.6711 senecacavernsohio.com Go caving at The Caviest Cave! Walk natural stone steps and pathways through The Earth Crack. Be amazed by Ole Mist’ry River. Shop Hollowrock Gifts for minerals, nature books, apparel and other fine gifts. Pan for gemstones at Seneca Mining Company. Memorial Day-Labor Day, daily 9am-7pm; May & Sept-mid-Oct, Sat-Sun 10am-5pm or by appointment.
Sidney Frohman Planetarium 2130 Hayes Ave. (SR 4), Sandusky 419.621.2761 scs-k12.net Located at Sandusky High School, the planetarium offers interesting hour-long programs about the stars and planets. Oct-May, 2pm Sundays only or by appointment; closed holidays. Free to the public.
Single Tree Winery 12488 Baumhart Rd., South Amherst 440.965.7777 singletreewine.com This winery is nestled on seventeen beautiful acres near Lake Erie and boasts an ample tasting room and outdoor picnic area complete with seating and cozy fire. Tue-Thu 11am-7pm, Fri-Sat 1-11pm.
Soak City 1 Cedar Point Dr. (off US 6), Sandusky 419.627.2350 cedarpoint.com Soak City is a huge 18 acre waterpark that features two relaxing inner tube rivers, more than a dozen thrilling water slides, a giant 500,000-gallon wave pool, two kids' areas, places to eat and much more. Soak City will be open daily, May 23-May 25 and May 30-Sept 7. Operating hours will vary throughout the summer. Proper swimwear is required for admission to Soak City. Applicable height requirements are enforced on Soak City attractions.
Sorrowful Mother Shrine 4106 SR 269, Bellevue 419.483.3435 sorrowfulmothershrine.com A place of pilgrimage since 1850 in honor of Sorrowful Mother Mary. Daily Mass, devotions, events and forty points of interest including a historical and outdoor chapel, 120 acres of woodlands and pilgrimage center. Open daily dawn-dusk; Mass every day at 11am, plus Sat at 4pm and Sun at 9am; gift shop open year-round and cafeteria open May-Oct.
Spa at Castaway Bay in Castaway Bay 2001 Cleveland Rd. (US 6), Sandusky 419.625.5772 castawaybay.com Escape to this tropical full-service spa featuring relaxing massages, facials, waxing, manicures, pedicures and hair styling along with retail products. Indoor pool and hot tub exclusive to spa guests. Reservations recommended. Year-round; hours vary throughout the season.
Spa Kalahari in Kalahari 7000 Kalahari Dr. (off US 250), Sandusky 419.433.7900 kalahariresorts.com With 11 themed and soothing treatment areas, Spa Kalahari welcomes friends, couples and visitors who are seeking a well-deserved break. Rejuvenate your body, mind and soul with treatments designed to re-awaken your senses. Year-round.
Stoney Ridge Winery 07144 CR 16, Bryan 419.636.3500 or 888.370.8206 stoneyridgewinery.com Stoney Ridge Winery is tucked away in the far northwest corner of Ohio. Enter through 11 acres of well manicured vineyards to reach the uniquely designed winery. Once inside, be pleasantly surprised with the rustic interior and fieldstone fireplace. Mon-Thu & Sat 11am-6pm, Fri 11am-7pm. Closed major holidays.
Summit Motorsports Park 1300 SR 18, Norwalk 419.668.5555 summitmotorsportspark.com A family owned business purchased by Bill Bader Sr. in 1974 and operated today by Bill Bader Jr. Located two miles east of Norwalk at the intersection of State Routes 18 and 601. Family entertainment and outstanding guest service are SMP’s core businesses, with nearly 500,000 visitors each year enjoying drag racing events from April through October. The schedule has grown from 24 events in 1974 to 90 events in 2009. The largest events of the year are The Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals on June 25 – 28, and the NAPA Night Under Fire, presented by Amalie Motor Oil, on August 1. Purchase tickets to these or any events online or by phone.
Tiffin Glass Museum and Shoppe 25-27 S. Washington St., Tiffin 419.448.0200 tiffinglass.org Offers tours and retail sales of Tiffin Glass and other fine glassware and collectibles. See a display of original Tiffin Glass produced at the Tiffin Glass Factory from 1889-1980. Open year-round, Tue-Sat 1-5pm; other times by appointment. Closed major holidays.
Toledo Zoo Toledo Zoo, 2 Hippo Way, Toledo. 419.385.4040 toledozoo.org One of America's Top 10 Family-Friendly Zoos. Home to over 4,800 animals and a visual feast of historic architecture. Exhibits include Africa!, Dragons, Primitive Forest, Aquarium, Diversity of Life, Arctic Encounter, Wolf Exhibit, Tiger Terrace, Aviary, Reptile House, African Savanna and Kingdom of the Apes. Open year-round.
Train-O-Rama 6732 East Harbor Rd. (SR 163), Marblehead 419.734.5856 trainorama.net Ohio’s largest operating, multi-gauge electric train display with 4,000 square feet in full scenery, including a lake, airport and miniature amusement park. Gift shop carries train sets and accessories for all ages, train gift items and wooden Thomas. Open year-round, Mon-Sat 11am-5pm, Sun 1-5pm; Memorial Day-Labor Day, Mon-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 1-5pm.
Underground Railroad Tour 800.255.3743 Because of its location on Lake Erie, this area was a leading Great Lakes port and a major terminal on the Underground Railroad. Since documented historic records on this topic are rare and many sites have been destroyed, only a few of the remaining sites and people influential in the local movement have been highlighted in a brochure. Call for a free copy of the self-guided brochure and map.