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I want to say a big thank you to Katrina M. Reed from Miller Boat Line, Jill Bauer from Lake Erie Shores & Islands, Island Bike and Cart Rental for helping make this trip possible.
Our family went to visit Put-in-Bay last Saturday. When we left our home in Walbridge it was pouring out. The trip is about a hour from our home. When we arrived we had to get our tickets for the Miller Ferry. Out tickets were at the Lake Erie Shores & Islands Welcome Center in Port Clinton. I had never been there before and they had so much to see. They also have a second location in Sandusky. I asked a million questions and they answered everything. We tried some local grape juice plus explored a area that was like a museum.
A half an hour later we were on our way to catch the Miller Ferry. I saw several parking lots that you needed to pay a fee but was glad to see that the Miller Ferry had free parking and I was able to find a spot. Then I needed to exchange my passes for actual tickets. They were so nice and friendly! The cost is just $7.00 for adults one way or $14 round trip. They even have a coupon to save you $1.00 off a round trip ticket on the website. Children 6-11 are only $1.50 one way plus kids under 6 are Free! I will list more about that near the end of this post.
So many people were heading over to the island due to 2 weddings, a boy scout event, reenactment, parade and something with a marching band. I was worried with the vehicles and everyone inline that we would not be able to make the ferry. The good news was we did but even if we did not make that one another would be there in 30 minutes.
So we handed over our tickets and walked onto the ferry. We decided to stand below where the vehicles were parked so my son could watch over the edge. It was still raining and a bit windy so he got a little wet. He loved being able to see everything!
The staff was very nice. Even answering my sons questions. The vehicles were unloaded first and then we were able to get off the ferry.
The rain stopped as soon as we arrived and the sun started to come out.
Making our way up the hill arriving at Island Bike & Cart Rental to pick up our golf cart. This was my first time ever driving a golf cart. The staff explained everything to me and I was off. Let me say it was fun. I would love to have one. Earlier in the year we had rented bikes from the same location and biked around the island.
I had been to Put-In-Bay once as a child. Then this year I had gone with family and loved it. I was so excited to come back and to be able to see everything. If I could I would go all the time. To me it is so relaxing and just a great place to spend time with your family. In the future I hope to rent some where to stay so we can stay overnight. I was worried about the total cost of this trip, but I will say you can do so much on a little budget. Combined with coupons and a little research it was worth the visit. We were given a map of the entire island so first we explored just to see what all was there. I could not believe all the things to do between the attractions, shopping, food, entertainment etc.
For dinner we ate at Dairy Isle. All I can say is yum. Plus outside they have a huge chair along with some other neat things!
The Perry's Cave Family Fun Center was a must. First we went for a tour of Perry's Cave it was established in 1870 and was fun for our entire family. The tour was filled with historical facts and attached was a cute little store.
Next we decided to go to The Butterfly House where they had hundreds
of exotic butterflies. When you walk in the door you see the butterflies in all stages of life. It was so cool! The people that work there have a
amazing job. They say if a butterfly lands on you it is good luck.
For our other 3 activities we went to The War of 18 Holes Mini-Golf, Giant Maze Fort Amaze'N, and the Rock Climbing Wall. We had so much fun! By this point I had taken over 200 photos and my camera had died. I wish I had brought a spare battery set with me.
7:00 seemed to come very quickly and we had to return our golf cart. We caught the 7:00 ferry to head back to get my SUV.
Next time we visit I think we will plan to arrive earlier. It was almost noon when we arrived. There is so much to do. On the list for our return visit is the Lake Erie Islands Nature & Wildlife Center plus the tour train, Perry's Victory & International Peace Memorial and Crystal Cave.
Did you know they even have a chocolate museum? Filled with candy and ice cream plus more. We snacked on ice cream earlier in the day and then in the evening went back for some candy.
I hated having to leave..our son who is 12 is already talking about a return trip. He wants to open a business on the island when he gets older! Below are some tips and places to check for more information before you visit Put-In Bay.
The website is really cool and lets you create a itinerary. Be sure to order your travel guide online or pick up one when you stop by the welcome center. It is filled with different activities, events, and lodging options you can explore; plus, find a valuable Cedar Point coupon and a Shore Savings Card which offers discounts at participating businesses.
They also have 2 welcome centers:
East-4424 Milan Road, Suite A Sandusky, Oh 44870 (419)625-2984 or (800)255-3743
West-770 S.E. Catawba Rd. (SR 53) Port Clinton, Oh 43452 (419)734-4386 or (800) 441-1271
