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Island Attractions

Put-in-Bay, Ohio is a fun and educational place to visit. Rich in American and Ohio history, Put-in-Bay is located five miles north of Port Clinton, Ohio on South Bass Island in Lake Erie’s western basin. It was near here that Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry defeated the British in the Battle of Lake Erie during the War of 1812. Put-in-Bay was Perry’s base of operations. Put-in-Bay is also home to a National Park, Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial. The visitor’s center of the Memorial is a rich resource of information on this historical event.

Put-in-Bay offers many fun things to do and see on the island which is the reason thousands of youth groups visit the island each year!

Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial

Perry’s Victory and International Peace memorial is a 352-foot Doric column that dominates the downtown harbor. Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry led the American fleet against the British in the historic naval battle that determined the present boundary between the United States and Canada. Perry’s victory of the British proved to be a turning point in the U.S. struggle. The bodies of three American and three British naval officers are entombed underneath the monument. 33 steps lead to the elevator that takes you to the observation deck where you can see as far as the Detroit River and parts of Canada on a clear day. It was just 10 miles off the western shore of Put-in-Bay that Perry engaged the British in battle. Perry wore an enlisted man’s uniform so that sharp shooters would not be able to easily distinguish him among the crew. Perry was one of only a few men aboard the Lawrence who escaped unwounded. It was Commodore Perry who penned the immortal phrase “We have met the enemy and they are ours.” He also few the banner “Don’t Give Up the Ship.”

Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial is open daily late April through late October.

Perry’s Cave

It was here, in August of 1813, that Perry and his crew discovered fresh, 50-degree drinking water. Perry’s Cave is one of only two island caves that still admits visitors. An underground stream meanders through the cavern, and visitors are treated to a narrated tour. Perry’s Cave is also home to Gem Mining Company, Butterfly House, Fort Amazen, a rock climbing wall, and the War of 18 Holes mini golf course.

Heineman’s Winery and Crystal Cave

Across the road from Perry’s Cave is Heineman Winery and Crystal Cave. The winery, almost 120 years old, is operated by third and fourth generations of the Heineman family. The winery has won many gold awards for its island wines and also produces and sells grape juices. Beneath the winery is Crystal Cave, the largest geode known to man. Tours of the winery and cave are available.

Aquatic Resource Center

The former historic state fish hatchery is an aquatic education attraction operated by the Division of Wildlife to provide fun and show educational displays about Ohio's fishing resources. The Aquatic Visitors Center houses live fish displays, a children's playroom, and hands-on informational exhibits highlighting Ohio fish species, fisheries management projects, and the former state fish hatchery.

Lake Erie Islands Historical Museum

The Lake Erie Islands Historical Society showcases island memorabilia and artifacts. On display are artifacts related to the first airline to service the island, island photographer Otto Herbster, the magnificent Hotel Victory, Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial, the history of the Inter-Lake Yachting Association, a large collection of model ships, old island business signage, postcards, souvenirs, photographs, and paintings. The museum also displays items relating to island life, including an ice shanty, and other island historic pieces.

Transportation To and From Put-in-Bay

Miller Boat Line

Miller Boat Line transports passengers and vehicles between Catawba Point and the southern tip of the island. Group rates available.

Jet Express

The Jet Express transports passengers from downtown Port Clinton to downtown Put-in-Bay. Group rates available.

Transportation on the Island

Island Transportation

Island Transportation offers bus and tour train services to and from the ferry and between island attractions. Bicycles and golf carts are also available for rental.