Key West? Maui? If you are planning to travel to the islands this summer -- look no further than Ohio's own Lake Erie Shores and Islands. Here you can lounge at the beach, enjoy a beautiful sunset, and take part in the nightlife and fine dining scene -- all at a fraction of the cost.
When planning your weekend or week-long trip to Ohio's north shore, consider these options. Visit one island, or several, for a summer vacation filled with memories:
Kelleys Island: The largest island in American fresh waters provides the perfect weekend away for families, couples or even a group of girlfriends. Choose from activities like swimming, hiking and fishing at Kelleys Island State Park, visit to the Glacial Grooves National Landmark on the north side of the island or rent and ride bicycles for a day. Kelleys Island also features it's own winery, Kelley's Island Wine Company, shopping and dining opportunities. The island is also home to many historic homes and buildings. Visit Kelleys Island online to begin planning.
Put-in-Bay (South Bass Island): Just north of Kelleys Island, take a trip to South Bass Island, the home of Put-in-Bay, lovingly known to locals as PIB. Family activities are galore here, from miniature golf, to cave tours, arcades and go-kart racing. For adults, enjoy a lively bar scene at night, including "the world's longest bar" at Beer Barrel Saloon. For the history buff, Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial and the South Bass Island State Park are essential stops. Go to www.visitputinbay.com to create your itinerary.
Middle Bass Island: Perhaps the least-visited of the islands, this one provides an experience with nature that can't be beat. Here visitors can enjoy primitive camping to get a real taste of the outdoors, along with abundant opportunities for fishing and bird watching -- in particular at the Keuhnle Wildlife Area. This island also hosts a marina, visitors center and a handful of restaurants and shops. Visit Middle Bass Island online.
Marblehead & Lakeside: These two areas offer an "island-like" experience for visitors not wanting to travel by boat. The beauty of Marblehead Lighthouse, the oldest continuously operating light house on the Great Lakes, steals the show in Marblehead. Here you can also leisurely stroll through cafes, quaint shops and art galleries. Later head west to Lakeside. This small gated community offers the perfect night away. Stay at a cottage, inn or hotel. Relax and take in the views of Lake Erie from an adirondack chair on the dock.
The opportunities taste the island life in Ohio are endless with the luxury Lake Erie provides. For additional travel information on the Lake Erie Shores and Islands, explore the resources with the visitor's center online, or in person at their west location in Port Clinton, or their east location in Sandusky.
What is your favorite Lake Erie island memory?
Leave a comment here or tweet @DiscoverOhio.
My favorite memory was when my parents' rented a cabin near Marblehead before I went to school. The vacation didn't quite turn out how everyone expected- it rained nearly the entire time but we made the best of it. We play games and an ocassional walk along the shore when the weather broke.
Posted by: Travelermom | 07/20/2012 at 09:54 PM
Excellent story,Kelleys Island Thanks for sharing this great photo,keep them coming!
Posted by: Corporate Fishing Trips | 12/01/2012 at 02:46 AM