Put-in-Bay

Travel Guide

Photo provided by National Parks Service
Photo provided by National Parks Service
Put-in-Bay
Photo by Eve Reeves
Photo by Deepti Reddy

The historical site of the Battle of Lake Erie gets a modern makeover as Ohio’s top getaway destination.

Surrounded by Lake Erie, Ohio’s South Bass Island feels a world apart from the mainland. The island’s only town, Put-in-Bay (often written Put In Bay), has become a top Midwest getaway. The village got its name in the 1700s, when boats would “put in” to the bay during inclement weather.

Put-in-Bay has many restaurants, shops and bars concentrated in its downtown. Relax in a village nightspot and enjoy live music, available almost any evening. During the day, find a winery and pass the afternoon lounging on the expansive vineyards. Doller House, one of the area’s most famous wineries, doubles as a museum depicting island life in the mid-1800s. Heineman’s Winery is home to the famous Crystal Cave, which holds the world’s largest geode.

Spend a few hours at Perry's Cave Family Fun Centre, with cave tours, an antique car museum and a butterfly house. Learn about the history of the island at Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial, which was built to commemorate those who fought in the War of 1812’s Battle of Lake Erie. The setting of the massive column against the water creates a perfect photo opportunity.

Lake Erie appears prominently in Put-in-Bay’s recreational activities during summer the waterfront is filled with swimmers, kayakers, Jet Skiers and sailors. Moorings are also available so that visitors can bring their boats from the mainland.

The town offers a variety of accommodation that ranges from budget hotels to quaint bed-and-breakfasts. South Bass Island State Park, located at the far end of the island, has a campground with full facilities.

Although cars are permitted in Put-in-Bay, most people opt to explore by foot, or with golf cart or bicycle, both of which can be rented upon arriving on the island.

Most people visit Put-in-Bay from May to September. Ferries run to and from the island daily during the peak season. Port Clinton, Sandusky and Catawba Island are the top mainland departure points. Alternatively, visitors can fly into the tiny Put-in-Bay Airport or take a private boat.

Commodore Resort

Commodore Resort

2.5 out of 5
272 Delaware Avenue, Put-in-Bay, OH
The price is CA $166 per night from Aug 24 to Aug 25
CA $166
CA $188 total
Aug 24 - Aug 25
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this hotel in Put-in-Bay. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Popular attractions DeRivera Park and Lake Erie Islands Historical Society ...
6.6/10 (408 reviews)
"It was centrally located and friendly staff."

Reviewed on Aug. 20, 2025

Commodore Resort
Islander Inn

Islander Inn

2.5 out of 5
225 Erie St, Put-in-Bay, OH
The price is CA $174 per night from Sep 2 to Sep 3
CA $174
CA $199 total
Sep 2 - Sep 3
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this hotel in Put-in-Bay. Enjoy free WiFi, 3 outdoor pools, and 2 poolside bars. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular attractions ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (357 reviews)
"It was clean and had a nice location. It was nice that we could also rent a golf cart from the front desk at a lower price than most rental places on the island. I think vending machines on the property would be nice for after hour drinks and snacks."

Reviewed on Aug. 20, 2025

Islander Inn
Bayshore Resort at Put-in-Bay

Bayshore Resort at Put-in-Bay

3.5 out of 5
328 Toledo Ave, Put-in-Bay, OH
The price is CA $171 per night from Sep 9 to Sep 10
CA $171
CA $193 total
Sep 9 - Sep 10
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3.5-star hotel in Put-in-Bay. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 2 outdoor pools. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular attractions ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (237 reviews)
"Property was clean. Not many amenities in room, sparse. No plastic bag for ice bucket and small amount of shower gel. No refrigerator nor coffee pot nor microwave oven. But pools were nice but could be cleaner and need a place to dispose of drink cups etc at the pool area. Nice pool towels provided. ..."

Reviewed on Aug. 18, 2025

Bayshore Resort at Put-in-Bay
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Middle Bass Island retreat,10-min ferry ride to Put-in-Bay, Pet friendly!

Middle Bass Island retreat,10-min ferry ride to Put-in-Bay, Pet friendly!

Middle Bass
Stay at this vacation home in Put-in-Bay. Enjoy free WiFi, a water park, and laundry facilities. Popular attractions St. Hazards Beach and Middle Bass Island ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (8 reviews)
Perfect for a little family getaway
"Nice, clean, quiet location. It was perfect and accommodating for my family."

Reviewed on Jul. 9, 2025

Middle Bass Island retreat,10-min ferry ride to Put-in-Bay, Pet friendly!
Aunt Jane's #1 Downtown Put in Bay up to 12 guests

Aunt Jane's #1 Downtown Put in Bay up to 12 guests

Put-in-Bay
Stay at this vacation home in Put-in-Bay. Enjoy an in-room coffeemaker. Popular attractions Kimberly's Carousel and DeRivera Park are located nearby.
Family birthday
"Nice property in the mix of it all."

Reviewed on Aug. 2, 2024

Aunt Jane's #1 Downtown Put in Bay up to 12 guests
Cozy apartment in the heart of downtown Put in Bay

Cozy apartment in the heart of downtown Put in Bay

Put-in-Bay
Stay at this vacation home in Put-in-Bay. Enjoy patios and an in-room coffeemaker. Popular attractions Kimberly's Carousel and DeRivera Park are located ...
10/10 Exceptional! (6 reviews)
"Employees were very nice and friendly and helpful. Nice and cozy room. Very close to downtown and walking distance from everything. I will be coming back soon, thanks for your hospitality"

Reviewed on Aug. 3, 2025

Cozy apartment in the heart of downtown Put in Bay
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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