ACTIVITIES
Put-in-Bay, South Bass Island offers a wide range of activities. Tour the island via bike, golf cart or tour train.
History, Parks and Caves:
Discover Put-in-Bay’s unique history. We are home to the National Park Service’s third tallest national monument and only national peace memorial. Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial commemorates Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry’s victory over the British during the War of 1812, thus securing the Great Lakes. It is a tribute to the longstanding peace the United States has known with its Canadian neighbor. Because it honors peace and the fallen soldiers from both sides, it is the only place in the United States where the U.S., Canadian and British flags all fly at the same level. The monument has the highest open air platform which allows for breathtaking views of the Lake Erie Islands, the U.S. mainland and Canada. Park guides are available at the monument and the Visitor’s Center for tours and demonstrations.
Parks: In addition to the Federal Park, South Bass Island has two State Parks and the downtown DeRivera Park. Some have picnic areas and playgrounds. They all provide excellent views of Lake Erie.
Caves and More: South Bass Island is also home to Perry’s Cave and Crystal Cave. They are located across from one another. Crystal Cave is known to be the world’s largest geode and Perry’s Cave has an underwater limestone lake. Perry’s Cave Family Fun Center is also home to The Butterfly House at Put-in-Bay, War of 18 Holes mini-golf, Fort aMAZE'n: Giant Maze Challenge, Gem Stone Mining, Rock-Climbing Wall and Antique Car Museum.
The Lake Erie Islands Historical Society’s Museum showcases the islands wine-making history, maritime boats from the last 100 years, the Victory Hotel, Perry’s victory, plus so much more.
The island has many beautiful homes which used to be farmhouses or vintner’s homes. Many are Victorian and over 100 years old.
Due to the islands’ late frost and tepid climate, similar to Europe’s wine regions, the Bass Islands are still known for their grape growing and wine production. Heineman Winery still produces island wines.
Wine Tasting is available at the Dollar House, Put-in-Bay Winery.
Great Festivals & Events All Year:
Put-in-Bay has a number of special events on the weekends. Visit Ohio's Lake Erie Shores & Islands website for more information and a complete listing of the calendar of events, and the Chamber of Commerce website: www.visitputinbay.com. To learn more about the island and bay, visit www.putinbaydaily.com.
Activities:
Of course there is the fishing: The Walleye Capital of the USA. Perch is another great catch. The island is the perfect place to enjoy the outdoors. Biking is the best way to get around the island. Other activities are kayaking, parasailing, jet skiing, boating and golfing. South Bass Island is a bird watchers retreat. Each season brings new migrating species such as Robins, Red-Winged Black Birds, Hummingbirds, Baltimore Orioles, Swallows, Finches, Bald Eagles, Hawks, Ducks, Geese, Swans, and so many more. Don't miss the migrating butterflies such as Monarchs and Swallow Tails. Black squirrels are also seen here, including our mascot 'Smudge'!
Shopping:
Downtown Put-in-Bay is the place to shop for island gifts and unique items. You will find home decor, educational gifts, women’s and children’s fine apparel, and t-shirts for the whole family.
Dining and Entertainment:
Downtown Put-in-Bay has a wide range of restaurants. Being a boating environment, most restaurants are casual in dress. However the menus range from casual gourmet burgers and lobster bisque to elegant crab cakes and filet mignon. Our favorites are the Brewery, Mossbacks, and the Boathouse. We are happy to assist you in your lunch and dinner plans by providing local menus available for your viewing in the Community Room.
Many of the establishments also have nightly live entertainment. Many of the regulars are The Menus, Westside Steve, Mike "Mad Dog" Adams, and so many more. A schedule of performers is also available in the Community Room.