Planning a family day in Put-in-Bay is a great way to enjoy Lake Erie with kids. This small island is full of fun, easy-to-reach activities, perfect for a quick getaway. Just a short ferry trip from the mainland, Put-in-Bay offers something for every age.
How to Get to Put-in-Bay Island
Start your adventure with a scenic ferry ride across Lake Erie. The Miller Ferry departs from Catawba and is a popular choice for families. It’s affordable and allows you to bring your car, motorbike, RV, or bike. The Miller Ferry reaches the island in under 20 minutes, making it a quick and smooth trip. On Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays, same-day round trips with a vehicle may not be allowed, so it’s best to plan ahead of time.
The Jet Express, leaving from Port Clinton and Sandusky, drops you right into the center of downtown Put-in-Bay. If you depart from Port Clinton, the ride takes about 30 minutes. If you board in Sandusky, the ferry stops at Kelleys Island first, then continues to Put-in-Bay. It also allows you to bring your bike and kayak. Both ferries are smooth, safe, and exciting for kids, especially first-time visitors to the island.
Pro tip: Check ferry schedules before your trip, so you can plan your day ahead of time. On weekends and holidays, it’s likely to see long lines for vehicle return trips on the Miller Ferry dock. You may have to wait a few hours to get back to the mainland, especially if you’re bringing a car.
Best Things to Do in Put-in-Bay with Kids
Perry’s Cave Family Fun Center
This spot has something for every age. The main feature, Perry’s Cave, is a natural limestone cave located 52 feet underground. The short guided tour is educational and fun, with stories about the island’s geology and history.
After the tour, play mini golf at the War of 18 Holes Mini Golf course, then try gem mining, climb the rock wall, wander through antique cars, or visit the peaceful butterfly house, where colorful butterflies fly freely in a tropical garden. You could easily spend a few hours here.
Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial
This 352-foot-tall monument honors the Battle of Lake Erie and celebrates peace between nations. Ride the elevator to the top for amazing views of the lake and nearby islands (you can get tickets from the visitor center for the elevator ride). The visitor center has hands-on exhibits and a short video about the War of 1812. It’s a simple and engaging way for kids to learn history.
DeRivera Park
In the heart of downtown, DeRivera Park offers a large playground, shaded picnic tables, and public restrooms. It’s a perfect place to relax while kids play or enjoy a treat from a nearby ice cream shop.
Inside the park, you can see cannons and cannonballs, along with the statue of Joseph DeRivera. The park is surrounded by restaurants and souvenir shops, making it a lively and convenient spot during your visit.
Aquatic Visitors Center
Run by the Ohio Division of Wildlife, this spot offers free fishing for kids with poles and bait provided. Inside, the center has live fish tanks, displays about Lake Erie, and friendly staff. It’s a great mix of learning and outdoor fun.
Lake Erie Islands Nature & Wildlife Center
This quiet, educational center helps kids connect with local nature. Exhibits include turtles, snakes, and displays about the Lake Erie ecosystem. There are simple interactive exhibits that are easy to follow for all ages. It’s a peaceful, cool break from more active attractions.
South Bass Island State Park
End your family day in Put-in-Bay Island with a visit to this peaceful state park. It has a small playground, picnic tables, and a rocky beach that’s great for skipping stones. Near the playground, there’s a Put-in-Bay sign set up for photos. Since the park is close to the Miller Ferry dock, many people stop here before leaving the island to enjoy one last view and take a farewell photo.
Where to Eat in Put-in-Bay
The Boardwalk
Located right on the waterfront, The Boardwalk is known for its fresh Lake Erie perch, walleye, and lobster bisque. You can choose from multiple food stands or dine upstairs at the Upper Deck for a full-service meal. With plenty of outdoor seating, you can watch boats come and go while enjoying your food.
When we visited, the Upper Deck and several food stands were closed. It’s a good idea to check the website for current hours before you go, so you know which restaurants will be open.
The Keys
Bright, colorful, and right on the water, The Keys serves Caribbean-inspired dishes along with local favorites. There’s a wide selection of seafood, sandwiches, and drink options. The open-air setting and live music on some afternoons create a lively vacation vibe that families enjoy. We ate a perch sandwich here, and it was so delicious.
Frosty Bar & Family Pizza
A Put-in-Bay classic, Frosty’s is known for thin-crust pizza, root beer floats, and quick service. It’s a good pick when the kids are hungry and you don’t want a long sit-down meal. The casual, family-friendly atmosphere makes it easy to stop in without a reservation.
Pasquale’s Café
If you’re starting early, Pasquale’s is the place to go for breakfast. The menu has pancakes, omelets, breakfast sandwiches, and French toast. It’s quick and filling, and the service is friendly. Located close to the Jet Express ferry dock, it’s a good first stop if you arrive on a morning boat.
Tips for Visiting with Kids
- Take the early ferry to make the most of your time.
- Bring water, sunscreen, and snacks.
- Choose a few key attractions and keep your schedule relaxed and flexible.
- Visit on a weekday if possible; summer weekends can be crowded. When we visited on a weekday, the island was quiet and calm.
- Put-in-Bay is very small. It takes less than ten minutes to drive from one end to the other.
- Instead of bringing your car, consider renting a golf cart. It helps you avoid long return lines for vehicles and adds to the fun of the trip.
- Check ferry schedules ahead of time so you know when to return.
A family day in Put-in-Bay is full of simple pleasures like ferry rides, nature trails, fish sandwiches, and lakeside fun. From hands-on learning to open green spaces, this Lake Erie island is one of Ohio’s best spots for a kid-friendly getaway. Whether you stay for a few hours or the whole day, Put-in-Bay with kids is always a good idea.