Put-in-Bay Travel Guide

Trek Zone

Village

Facts and practical information

Nestled on South Bass Island in Lake Erie, Put-in-Bay is a charming village in the state of Ohio that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and vibrant entertainment. Known as the "Key West of the North," this picturesque destination attracts visitors with its laid-back atmosphere and diverse range of activities.

One of the main attractions in Put-in-Bay is Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial. Standing at a majestic 352 feet, this towering monument commemorates the Battle of Lake Erie during the War of 1812 and celebrates the lasting peace between the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Visitors can climb to the top of the memorial for breathtaking panoramic views of the island and the lake.

For those seeking outdoor adventures, Put-in-Bay offers numerous options. The island is home to several state parks, including South Bass Island State Park and Oak Point State Park, where visitors can enjoy hiking trails, picnicking areas, and beautiful beaches. Lake Erie provides excellent opportunities for boating, fishing, and water sports, with rentals available for those who want to explore the crystal-clear waters.

History enthusiasts will find plenty to explore in Put-in-Bay. The village is dotted with historic sites and museums, such as the Lake Erie Islands Historical Society Museum, which showcases the island's rich maritime heritage. Visitors can also explore the reconstructed village of the War of 1812 at the Perry's Cave and Family Fun Center, where they can learn about the island's role in the war and even explore an underground cave.

In addition to its natural beauty and historical significance, Put-in-Bay is also known for its lively entertainment scene. The village is famous for its vibrant nightlife, with a wide array of bars, restaurants, and live music venues that cater to all tastes. Whether you're looking for a relaxing evening by the water or a lively night of dancing and partying, Put-in-Bay has something for everyone.

Alternative names: Area: 0.63 mi²Elevation: 584 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 41°39'6"N, 82°49'7"W

Location

OhioUnited States

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Put-in-Bay Top Attractions

Put-in-Bay Attractions - What to See and Explore

Put-in-Bay offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial, Jay Cooke House, Crystal Cave, South Bass Island Light. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Monuments and statues • Observation decks and towers • Historical place
Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial
Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial commemorates the Battle of Lake Erie that took place near Ohio's South Bass Island, in which Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry led a fleet to victory in one of the most decisive naval battles to occur in the War of 1812.
Forts and castles • Neo-renaissance architecture
Jay Cooke House
The Jay Cooke House, is a historic summer estate house on Gibraltar Island, an island in the Lake Erie community of Put-in-Bay, Ohio. Built in 1865, it was the summer house and a favorite place of financier Jay Cooke.
Nature • Natural attraction • Cave
Crystal Cave
The Crystal Cave is a limestone cave located in Put-in-Bay, Ohio, located on South Bass Island in Lake Erie. In 1887 a Mr. Gustav Heineman emigrated from Baden-Baden, Germany, to Put-in-Bay, Ohio, where he established a winery.

Lighthouse
South Bass Island Light
South Bass Island Light is a lighthouse on the southern end of its eponymous island in Lake Erie. It was listed in the National Register of Historic Places on April 5, 1990 and is thought to be the only lighthouse in the United States owned by a university - Ohio State.
41°39'30"N • 82°49'14"W
Gibraltar Island
Gibraltar Island is an island in Ohio, located within Lake Erie. This small 6.55-acre island is just offshore of South Bass Island. It is part of Put-in-Bay Township, Ottawa County, Ohio. The rocky island is named for its resemblance to the Rock of Gibraltar.
41°38'50"N • 82°49'42"W
Perry's Cave Family Fun Center
Park • Natural attraction • Entertainment
41°35'28"N • 82°49'58"W
Mouse Island
Mouse Island is a private island located in Lake Erie off the northern tip of Catawba Point in Ottawa County, Ohio, United States, near the city of Sandusky. It was formerly named "Ship Island", as denoted on early-19th-Century maps. It was later named Mouse Island for its small size. It is part of Catawba Island Township.
41°38'50"N • 82°49'48"W
The Butterfly House at Put-in-Bay
Nature and wildlife • Park • Botanical garden
Church
St. Paul's Episcopal Church
St. Paul's Episcopal Church is a historic Episcopal church in Put-in-Bay, Ohio, on South Bass Island in Lake Erie. It is the oldest religious structure on the island, believed to be the oldest wooden church still in use in Ohio, and is one of the oldest churches of any construction in continuous use in Ohio.

Day trips

Put-in-Bay – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Put-in-Bay, it's worth seeing attractions such as: The Henry Ford (Dearborn), Renaissance Center (Detroit), Comerica Park (Detroit).

50 milesNW
Museum, History museum, Specialty museum
The Henry Ford, Dearborn
The Henry Ford, located in the heart of Dearborn, Michigan, is not just a museum but a sprawling complex that celebrates America's tradition of ingenuity, resourcefulness, and innovation. This cultural destination attracts history buffs, technology enthusiasts,...
48 milesN
Shopping complex with GM headquarters
Renaissance Center, Detroit
The Renaissance Center, affectionately known as the RenCen, is a towering beacon of modernity in the heart of Detroit, Michigan. This iconic complex is not just a shopping center but a landmark that embodies the city's spirit of resurgence and innovation.
49 milesN
Quirky ballpark with large food court
Comerica Park, Detroit
Comerica Park, located in the heart of Detroit, United States, is not just a sports venue—it's a cornerstone of downtown Detroit's entertainment and athletics. Opened in 2000, this open-air ballpark replaced the historic Tiger Stadium, becoming the new home for Major...
32 milesSE
Racetrack, Entertainment, Sport venue
Summit Motorsports Park, Norwalk
Summit Motorsports Park is a premier destination for speed enthusiasts and a landmark of Huron County, Ohio. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and high-octane events, this sports facility is a hub for drag racing and has earned a reputation as one of the finest tracks...
49 milesN
Sport venue, Sport, Arenas and stadiums
Little Caesars Arena, Detroit
Little Caesars Arena, nestled in the heart of Detroit, United States, stands as a modern coliseum dedicated to sports and entertainment. Opened in September 2017, this state-of-the-art venue is not only a testament to Detroit's revitalization efforts but also a hub for...

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Best Time To Visit Put-in-Bay

Learn when is the best time to travel to Put-in-Bay weather-wise and what to expect in each season.

Popularity among visitors

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June, July and August are the busiest months in this location. Slightly fewer tourists decide to visit in September.

Average temperatures in °F

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The highest air temperature is in June, July and August. While the coldest is in January and February.

Monthly rainfall in inches

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The lowest rainfall is recorded in January and February. Most of it rains in May, June, July and August.

Length of day in hours

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We can expect the longest days in June, while the shortest in December.

Sunrise

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the top attractions to visit in Put-in-Bay?

The top attractions to visit in Put-in-Bay are:

What is the best time to visit Put-in-Bay?

June, July and August are the busiest months in this location. Slightly fewer tourists decide to visit in September. The highest air temperature is in June, July and August. While the coldest is in January and February.