
You hopefully just joined us on the first part of our Ohio road trip: Thrills, Chills and Sandhills: HalloWeekends at Cedar Point. Now, we’re going to share with you another, more relaxing type of Lake Erie Shores & Islands vacation. We’ll explore Sandusky and take a ride on a vintage merry-go-round, hop on a ferry to the quaint island of Put-in-Bay where we stay at the Anchor Inn, and head back down to Port Clinton where we spend our last night at the Holiday Inn Express Port Clinton-Catawba Island and marvel at the beauty of Marblehead Lighthouse. Say “hello” to Ohio like you’ve never seen it before.
After departing from Cedar Point, we headed back to Sandusky, where we had lunch at the Jolly Donut. This vintage diner is a Sandusky staple, the perfect spot for a quick, inexpensive and delicious breakfast or lunch. They’re, of course, known for their donuts, but the grilled cheese and steak fries were also delicious– and the ultimate comfort food! After lunch, we took a stroll through the lakeside downtown area. We enjoyed picturesque views of Lake Erie, and even noticed a giant Battleship game right by the shore that kids are bound to love.
After exploring Sandusky, we headed about forty minutes northwest to the Miller Ferry at Catawba Dock in Port Clinton to head to Put-in-Bay, Ohio. Tickets are $15 each round-trip, and ferries run every half hour. Although we opted not to, you can bring your car for an additional charge. However, on Put-in-Bay you really don’t need one. With the taxis and golf cart rentals, you’ll have no trouble getting around.
The ferry delivers you and your luggage at Put-in-Bay in about a half an hour, although the journey itself feels more like a relaxing tour across Lake Erie than a commute. Once you arrive at Put-in-Bay, simply head up the hill on your left where you’ll find taxis waiting to pick up visitors. The taxi costs $3 per person, but tips are greatly appreciated. Be sure to bring cash to pay your driver with!
Our driver dropped us off right in front of the Anchor Inn, where we planned to stay for the night. This boutique hotel has all the quaintness and hospitality of a bed and breakfast. We were welcomed by their warm, friendly staff, who checked us in and showed us to our room, offering suggestions of the best places to eat and fun things to do along the way. The hotel is laid out in such a way that, although it is a large, refurbished house, you don’t really hear your neighbors in the other rooms like you might normally in a bed and breakfast. This makes for an even more relaxing stay.
Like the other rooms at the Anchor Inn, the State Room’s beautiful bathroom and shower boast new stainless-steel appliances, two cozy, plush robes, and even a towel-warming rack so you’ll be able to step out from your warm shower and into an equally warm towel. Each bathroom is also stocked with any toiletries you may need, including shampoo, conditioner, and Q-tips.
We rounded out the evening with a relaxing sunset walk along the pier. The views were breathtaking.
We took the ferry back to Port-Clinton, where we checked into our hotel, the Holiday Inn Express at Port Clinton-Catawba Island. Conveniently located next to McDonald’s (our road trip “go-to”), the Holiday Inn Express was far enough off the expressway to avoid passing traffic, but close enough to the rest of the area that you can still easily access the through-streets.
The Holiday Inn Express even surprised us with their quaint, quiet back patio, where guests can enjoy a nice cup of coffee or breath of fresh air while looking out over a tranquil view of trees and a lake. In the mornings, guests are even welcome to eat their complimentary breakfast outside on this delightful patio.
Next time you’re looking for a weekend getaway or family vacation, consider the Lake Erie Shores & Islands area of Ohio. From theme parks to beaches and everything in between, you won’t be disappointed in this Midwest gem.
Tips:
- Keep in mind if you visit Sandusky, Put-in-Bay or Port Clinton during the off season, while most of the shops are open on Fridays and Saturdays, they may be closed on Sundays or weekdays.
- The Anchor Inn also offers several delightful add-on packages, such as a romance package, breakfast in bed, late checkout, and even bedtime milk and cookies!
- If you’re visiting Put-in-Bay in the summer, you might also enjoy boating, fishing, and other local eateries and attractions, like their Chocolate Museum.
- While visiting Port Clinton, be sure to check out the African Safari Wildlife Park, where you can experience these incredible animals on a drive-through or walking tour.