History Comes Alive

Tour the oldest, continuously operating lighthouse on the Great Lakes; the Marblehead Lighthouse. Step back in time to the Civil War era on Johnson's Island. Experience the historic Chautauqua village of Lakeside. Shop the quaint nautical village of Marblehead for those one-of-a-kind finds.  Explore the shore and spot the recently refurbished Port Clinton Harbor Light cir 1880s.

Island Adventure

Hop aboard a ferryboat for an island adventure. The village of Put-in-Bay on South Bass Island invites you to explore underground caves, discover the nation's third tallest national monument and learn about the island's history. Sample some island wine, rent a bike or golf cart, browse the wide variety of shops, tour the Aquatic Visitors Center, stop for a delicious meal, enjoy the live entertainment or take the island tram for a tour. Looking for a slower pace? Why not head to Middle Bass Island for some ideal bird watching and hiking opportunities?  Sure the islands are fun.  But why not skip the ferry ride and spend time in “the District” found in downtown Port Clinton.  Home to over 100 free concerts and family friendly activities from Memorial Day Weekend through early October, “the District” is the place to be, eat, shop, dance and with the MORA (MainStreet Outdoor Refreshment Area) drink the day and night away!

Beach Bummin'

Relax along our 107 miles of beautiful shoreline including a nearly 1-mile stretch of publicly accessible sand known as the Port Clinton City Beach. Take a dip in Lake Erie, pack a picnic lunch, build a sandcastle or two, or simply catch some rays. The choice is yours. Feel like more adventure? Consider a "walk-on" head boat or book a fishing charter with a licensed guide and you'll increase your chances of pulling in a trophy-sized catch!  Fishing from shore more you style?  Drop a line from the new Jefferson Street Pier in downtown Port Clinton.

Amusement Park Thrills

Ready to race, spin, splash, twist, tumble and roll? Then head to Cedar Point Amazement Park. Get ready for some heart-pounding adventure, blockbuster shows and more fun than you thought possible, all packed in to one great day.

A Walk on the Wild Side

Did you know that Ottawa County was named one of the hottest bird watching areas in the Midwest? Get back to nature with a walk through Magee Marsh and Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge in the western part of the Lake Erie Islands Region. Enjoy beautiful gardens? Be sure to explore Schedel Arboretum & Gardens in Elmore. This 27-acre garden features approximately 20,000 annuals planted each year to compliment the many wonderful permanent displays, such as an Oriental garden with an authentic pagoda, graceful bridges, stone lanterns, and a Torii (gate).

Family Fun

Grab the kids and head for Monsoon Lagoon Waterpark for some wet and wild adventures. Or how about going on safari at the African Safari Wildlife Park? Now, if your family has been bitten by the competitive bug then Island Adventure Family Fun Center is a must. With miniature golf, go-karts, bumper boats and air-conditioned arcade and much more you can finally determine a 'Summer Fun Champion' of your family.

Beat the "End of the Vacation" Blues

Wind down your trip with visits to local farm markets. You'll find all kinds of goodies to take home, from the freshest homegrown produce and wine made from local grapes to a huge selection of cheese at Cheese Haven.  Make plans to stop by TAG (The Art Garage).  Home to more than two dozen of the area’s best artists.  This colorful and festive space is their workshop, classroom, retail space and more.  TAG is must see as the light, activity and energy of this space is truly contagious!  Now that's a full weeks adventure! However, that's only the surface of what there is to see and do. Here are some activities they could not fit in to their week of adventure: taste the area – from diners to fine dining, the area is home to some amazing restaurants with local flair and atmosphere unlike anywhere else, relaxing by the pool, playing tennis, reading a book, getting away from your workplace, getting reacquainted with your family and friends, building a sand castle, scuba diving a shipwreck, taking a soak in a hot tub, creating the ultimate margarita, or just plain old doing nothing for a change!!!! From beaches and trails to shopping and nightlife, rods and reels to grapes and history, the south shore of Lake Erie has it all! Check out just some of the must see attractions while visiting this region.