Island Information | Attractions | Getting Here | Getting Around
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!
Island Information
Put-in-Bay Chamber of Commerce
Put-in-Bay offers more fun and activities in 2018! Visit the Put-in-Bay Chamber of Commerce’s site to download the FREE Island Visitor’s Guide.
Website: www.visitputinbay.com
Lake Erie Islands Historical Society
The Lake Erie Islands Historical Society welcomes all ages to explore the varied history of the beautiful islands of Lake Erie’s Western Basin through our many displays.
Phone: 419-285-2804
Website: www.leihs.org
Lake Erie Shores & Islands
Visitor information for Ohio’s Lake Erie Shores & Islands, Cedar Point, Kelleys Island, Put-in-Bay, Sandusky, Ottawa, Vermillion, Fishing, Great Wolf Lodge, Kalahari, and Castaway Bay indoor waterparks.
Phone: 419.625.2984 or 800.255.3743
Website: www.shoresandislands.com
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Attractions
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 flew the banner “Don’t Give Up the Ship.”
Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial is open daily late April through late October.
Phone: 419.285.2184
Website: www.nps.gov/pevi
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.
Phone: 419.285.4855
Website: www.perryscave.com
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.
Phone: 419.285.2811
Website: www.heinemanswinery.com
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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.
Phone: 1.800.500.2421
Website: www.millerferry.com
Jet Express
The Jet Express transports passengers from downtown Port Clinton to downtown Put-in-Bay. Group rates available.
Phone: 1.800.245.1JET
Website: www.jet-express.com
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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.
Phone: 419.285.4855
Website: www.put-in-bay-trans.com
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