Put-in-Bay Kids Guide
Bringing the Whole Family to Put-in-Bay?
Our island is the perfect destination for a family vacation, and there’s plenty for kids of all ages to enjoy! From the carousel to wildlife, we’ve included a selection of activities perfect for your family.
South Bass Island Lighthouse
Visitors can climb the stairs to take in a great view of Put-in-Bay and Lake Erie from the top of the tower, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Most days, the grounds are open to the public from dawn to dusk.
South Bass Island State Park
This unique 33-acre park offers a peaceful retreat with picturesque views and access to Lake Erie. Children will have fun on the playground or by exploring the stone beach, where families can skip rocks, go fishing, swim or search for beach glass. The campground has sites that are tucked in the woods or perched on the limestone cliffs, along with a serene lakeside picnic area. Don’t miss the photo opportunity with the Put-in-Bay Sign! This all comes with an unbeatable Lake Erie view.
Perry's Victory & International Peace Memorial
Rising 352 feet above Lake Erie, Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial is the most dominant feature of the Lake Erie Islands. After a climb of 37 steps to the lower landing, an elevator takes visitors to the tallest open air observation deck in the National Park Service. The Perry’s Victory Visitor Center and grounds are free and open to the public. Black Powder Demonstrations, Ranger and Junior Ranger programs are some of the activities offered.
Aquatic Visitor Center
The newly renovated Aquatic Visitor Center, formerly a fish hatchery, highlights Lake Erie’s natural resources, aquatic ecosystem and conservation efforts as well as the importance of preserving water quality. You’ll find interactive displays and exhibits inside that showcase Lake Erie’s great and historically significant fishing for species such as walleye, smallmouth bass and yellow perch, as well as a live fish viewing tank.
Oak Point State Park
Oak Point offers facilities for boaters and picnickers. Surrounded by Lake Erie views, this park is only a short walk from the heart of downtown.
Will's Playground and Derivera Park
Enjoy over 5 acres of waterfront park featuring a gazebo, rustic stone fountain, memorials, picnic tables, and Will’s Playground. Enjoy the view of Lake Erie while children explore Will’s Playground. Located in downtown Put-in-Bay, you are close to shopping, restaurants, and sweet treats.
Kimberly's Carousel
Kimberly’s Carousel is one of the country’s oldest, original carousels; built in 1917 with original wooden horses and “Petey the Perch.” Kids of all ages love the island’s carousel. Tickets can be purchased inside the Carriage House.
Crystal Cave and Heineman's Winery
Discovered by workers in 1897 while digging a well for the winery 40 feet above, Crystal Cave is the world’s largest geode. The walls of this cave are covered in strontium sulfate, a blueish mineral called celestite. Tour Crystal Cave and Heineman Winery and your kids even get to sample fresh Island grape juice.
Lake Erie Islands Historical Society Museum
Whether you’re a history buff or just curious about Put-in-Bay’s past, the Lake Erie Islands Historical Society Museum is a must-visit attraction for all ages! The Museum has many rotating exhibits as well as established exhibits on island history, the wine making industry, Put-in-Bay’s many Victorian hotels, the ice industry, the island road races, Ford’s “Tin Goose” airplane, and a large collection of related historic souvenirs.
Perry's Cave Family Fun Center
Your one stop for all day family fun. Enjoy Perry’s Cave, The Butterfly House at Put-in-Bay, the War of 18 Holes Miniature Golf, Climbing Wall, Fort aMAZE’n Giant Maze, Gemstone Mining, Antique Car Museum, and two unique gift shops. Hungry? Make sure to stop by Dan Dee’s Snack Shack or bring your own to the pavilion with gas grills.
Lake Erie Islands Nature & Wildlife Center
Come see the improved and updated Nature & Wildlife Center featuring beautifully preserved wildlife & habitats, and several exciting new displays: indoor turtle pond, observation beehive, wildlife viewing window for birdwatching, and an amazing geology exhibit. Check out their website for family and children activities throughout the summer.
Jane Coates Wildflower Trail
A half-mile loop trail offering views of a variety of wildflowers as well as migratory songbirds.
Massie Cliffside Preserve
Follow this trail system for birdwatching, walking, photography, kayak launching, and nature study. Commemorative benches along
the cliff edge allow visitors to enjoy native plants such as harebells, columbines, and hoptree, as well as great sunsets.
Scheeff East Point Preserve
This 8.8 acre parcel is one of the last remaining natural settings for people to enjoy the Lake Erie Islands, offering spectacular views of Lake Erie and the surrounding islands. East Point’s rocky shores and upland cover provide habitat for the Lake Erie Watersnake, migratory songbirds, waterfowl, and a host of shoreline plants. The area offers excellent birdwatching and access for kayakers.
Dodge Woods Storywalk™ Trail
Dodge Woods Storywalk Trail is a beautiful trail, open to the public from dawn to dusk. Each stop on the trail takes you through the pages of a story. This trail is a fantastic way to disconnect from technology and share an appreciation of nature and literature with children.