Discover the Authentic 10 Best Places to Visit on Lake Erie Ohio!

There are many more things to do along the Lake Erie shores, even though roller coasters dominate the Sandusky coast. The Lake Erie islands and shores have attractions for visitors of all ages, including waterparks, wineries, museums, and marinas.

The Lake Erie Shores & Islands Visitors and Convention Bureau estimates that there are more than nine million visitors annually, making it one of the Midwest’s most well-liked destinations for both leisure and business travel.

Best Places to Visit on Lake Erie Ohio

While exploring the southern shores of Lake Erie in Ohio, you will find something to enjoy, from the lighthouses to the charming shops.

1. Marlborough Lighthouse

Beautiful and useful The Great Lakes’ oldest continuously operating lighthouse, Marblehead Lighthouse, was constructed in 1821 and is the most photographed.

With sweeping views of Cedar Point and the surrounding islands, the 77 stairs it took to get there were well worth it. To learn about the history of the area, stroll through the museum and the recently opened lifesaving station.

2. Aviation Museum of Liberty

At the Liberty Aviation Museum, travel through time. A WWII Vosper PT boat that is currently being restored, as well as both civilian and military vehicles from the era, are part of the museum collection at the Erie-Ottawa County Regional Airport.

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Another World War II plane in the collection is a 1945 B-25 Mitchell bomber. A vintage Island Airlines Ford Tri-Motor is currently being actively restored at the Tri-Motor Heritage Museum, which is also on the property.

3. Sandusky Maritime Museum

The Sandusky region has a long and colorful maritime history, including shipwrecks, pirates, and even prisoners.

Discover shipwreck artifacts, learn about the nearby wetlands, try your hand at ice harvesting, learn about pirate legends, and even learn about Sandusky’s role in the Underground Railroad with the help of interactive exhibits and educational programs. It’s entertaining for all ages, so get in a boat or let the kids build one.

4. Embark on a voyage

The journey to the islands is enjoyable because of the cool lake breeze and stunning scenery. Travel to the Lake Erie Islands is enjoyable, handy, and cost-effective which allows you to set sail with your car and all.

5. Isle of Kelleys

The largest American island in Lake Erie is home to a 600-acre state park as well as charming shops and waterfront restaurants. The Glacial Grooves must be seen. The Glacial Grooves, a National Natural Landmark, are 400 feet long, 35 feet wide, and up to 10 feet deep, making them the largest easily accessible grooves in the world.

Using a rented bike or golf cart to get around the island is enjoyable and convenient, allowing you to take in the island’s stunning natural scenery. If you want to view the sights from the water, kayak rentals are also offered.

6. Put-in-Bay

Little island, lots of fun. South Bass Island, known as the “KeyWest of the North,” has a lot to offer its 2 miles by 4 miles of land. Each year, more than 2 million people visit this island. A winery and many restaurants and bars are included in the adult entertainment. Kids will love the mini-golf, huge maze, cave, and rock climbing wall at Perry’s Cave Family Fun Center.

The Butterfly House and nearby Chocolate Museum both offer fascinating experiences for the whole family. A visit to the Perry Peace Memorial, which President Franklin Roosevelt designated as a National Monument in 1936, is a must on any trip to the island. Again, renting a golf cart or bike makes getting around simple. You can also board the Island Tour Train for a guided tour.

7. Museum of a Merry-Go-Round

The Merry-Go-Round Museum in downtown Sandusky expertly combines both history and art. The museum’s own carousel, built around 1939 by the Allan Herschell Corporation, is a magnificent focal point, but there is also a sizable collection of individual carousel figures.

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There is a charming collection of original and restored figures, including reindeer, which were recently used as holiday decorations at the White House, as well as tigers, wolves, ostriches, and traditional horses. Take a ride on the one-of-a-kind carousel and observe skilled artisans at work in the on-site restoration shop.

8. Port Clooney

Port Clinton, Ohio, has a historic downtown area called Main Street. I went for a stroll with a friend and we came across some interesting stores. We had a great time shopping in this Port Clinton landmark, where we found everything from flowers to purses and women’s clothing.

The Sunday Farmers Market, which takes place in downtown Port Clinton from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. from spring through the middle of October, is a notable feature of this community. River Front Live is another enjoyable occasion.

9. Vermilion

You might remember Vermilion most for its beach on Main Street. You’ll be drawn in repeatedly by the town’s charm and maritime history. You’ll be instantly transported to a more tranquil period of time.

This old town is charming and alive with activity, albeit at a slower pace. You can find storefronts for The Silly Goose and Brummer’s Chocolates by taking a stroll through the town. The Silly Goose has everything you need, including specialty items and dog accessories.

My favorite chocolate-related treats, caramels, and chocolates, have been available at Brummer’s since 1904. Place an Adirondack chair on the wooden boardwalk if you want to relax while admiring the water.

10. Milan

Wander around Milan’s picturesque town square, which is surrounded by specialty and antique stores. As you walk, look up to admire the architectural designs of the buildings that surround the town square. If Milan is a place that immediately comes to mind for you, it’s possible that you are aware of the fact that Thomas Edison was born here.

You can go shopping ’til you drop in Milan, and you can also visit Thomas Edison’s birthplace and museum. The history of the town and the area around Milan is on display at the Milan Museum.

Conclusion

Along Lake Erie, there are a number of small towns that have unique charm to offer. All of these old towns have been fun to explore. They each have something special to offer and provide a place to unwind when you want something a little out of the ordinary.

People immediately conjure up the famous amusement park Cedar Point when they hear of the Ohio towns that line Lake Erie. You should go to the region surrounding this well-known theme park to experience the charm of the Lake Erie towns.