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Put-in-Bay, Ohio
Let’s talk about an island where 138 winter residents multiply into 750,000 summer visitors. Put-in-Bay packs more action into 2.5 square miles than most cities do in their downtown districts.
They call it the “Key West of the North,” and for once, the nickname actually fits.
The Monument Is More Than Just a Big Column
Want to see Canada without dealing with border patrol? The 352-foot Perry’s Victory Memorial has you covered with views stretching 14 miles across Lake Erie.
Between the USS Lawrence’s original cannons and history guides who treat the Battle of Lake Erie like an action movie pitch, you’ll forget you’re learning something.
Golf Carts Are the Way to Go
Rule one of Put-in-Bay: leave your car on the mainland. The island’s 800+ golf cart army is your ride, and it’s way more fun.
Drop $70 at E’s Golf Carts for a day of cruising in anything from classic four-seaters to mini party buses with sound systems. During ‘Christmas in July,’ the whole fleet turns into a roving holiday light show.
The Wine Scene Is Unexpectedly Awesome
Lake Erie pulled off a miracle: actually good Ohio wine. Put-in-Bay Winery crushes the fruit wine game, while Heineman’s handles the classics.
But here’s the kicker – Heineman’s cellar sits on top of the world’s largest geode. Name another winery that lets you sip cabernet in a crystal cave.
Speaking of That Crystal Cave…
Thirty-five feet of glittering celestite crystals under a winery? Crystal Cave sounds made up, but it’s real and it’s spectacular.
The constant 50-degree temp makes it summer’s best hangover cure, and unlike most tourist caves, you can actually touch these million-year-old crystals.
DeRivera Park is Wonderful
DeRivera Park has been hosting the island’s best hangouts since 1864.
Catch free concerts at sunset, spread out on the grass with a picnic, or just watch the Lake Erie show. It’s the kind of place where planned events and random gatherings mix perfectly.
The Bars Are Legitimately Historic
Ever seen a 405-foot bar? The Beer Barrel Saloon has one (Guinness-certified). The Round House Bar’s been pouring since 1888, and Mojito Bay makes even locals forget they’re in Ohio.
Best part? They’re all stumbling distance from each other.
Elite-Level Fishing
Lake Erie’s waters are stacked with walleye, perch, and bass.
Local charter captains know these waters better than their own driveways, and they’ll put you on fish even if you’ve never held a rod. Bring your catch to any waterfront restaurant and they’ll cook it up fresh.
There’s a Really Cool Butterfly House
Perry’s Butterfly House hosts 50+ species in a tropical setup that feels more Costa Rica than Ohio.
These aren’t your garden variety monarchs – we’re talking exotic butterflies flying right up to your face.
Water Sports Paradise
If it floats or flies over water, you can do it here. Kayak rentals, jet skis, parasailing – take your pick.
The bay’s smooth enough for first-time paddleboarders but big enough for serious water sports. Local outfitters have all the gear you need.
The post 11 Reasons Put-in-Bay Is the Great Lakes’ Most Underrated Island appeared first on When In Your State.