Just about an hour from my home, lies what I believe to be one of the best-kept secrets in the USA, Put-in-Bay. I’m not the only one who thinks this small town located on South Bass Island off the Ohio shoreline is pretty great. This Lake Erie island town was recently nominated as one of America’s Coolest Small Towns by Budget Travel magazine.
I could tell you everything that I think is great about Put-in-Bay, but I’ve already written about that. Instead, I’m going to show you why I think this is such a wonderful place to visit.
Put-in-Bay is known for its wineries and many festivals that it holds throughout the year. This year, they’re even hosting their 3rd annual Bash on the Bay with none other than Kid Rock performing.
Don’t let the parties scare you off. Some festivals create an adult atmosphere and if you’re looking for a family-friendly weekend, you may not want to visit during that time. But most of the time, you’ll find the island is big enough for everyone and makes the perfect spot for a girlfriend getaway, romantic escape, family reunion, corporate event or family friendly vacation. My tip, visit during the week in early September and stay in a quiet hotel, bed and breakfast or cottage away from downtown. It’s not at all crowded, it’s quiet and the weather is perfect.
Downtown Put-in-Bay is dotted with charming buildings and some of them even have a pretty colorful history, which you’ll enjoy learning about during your visit. If you have a sweet tooth, you’ll definitely want to stop at the Original Bay Fudge shop. We even bought a chocolate covered Twinkie. Yum.
There are wonderful places to relax and grab a bite to eat and if you try the Conch Fritters at The Keys while taking in this gorgeous view, you just may forget that you’re still in Ohio.
Want to learn more? Read these posts about my visit to Put-in-Bay and then tell me that you don’t want to plan your own trip to South Bass Island.
A Family Friendly Getaway to Put-in-Bay
Traveling to Put-in-Bay via Miller Boat Line
Bay Lodging Resort in Put-in-Bay
Take a Ride on the Put-in-Bay Tour Train
Educational Family Travel: Visit Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial
Kayak the Bay for Active Family Fun
Only a short boat ride away:
Exploring Family Friendly Kelleys Island
Have you been to Put-In-Bay? Would you visit?
© 2013 – 2019, Tonya Prater. All rights reserved.
Pat Percle says
LOVE Put-In-Bay. One of my favorites!
Dominique says
Working on getting out to Put-in-Bay later this summer…it’s been years!
Maria says
You had me at FUDGE! Just kidding, the scenery looks breathtaking. I can imagine the bay during a clear sunset . Lovely!!
Sonja @ The {Happy} Travel Bug says
Looks like a fun place to chill! Ohio, who knew? 🙂
EverywhereAmy says
You are a one woman Ohio tourist board for me 🙂 You are slowly convincing me 🙂
Mary {The World Is A Book} says
You had me at fudge, chocolate covered Twinkie and conch fritters. 🙂 Everything else is icing on top. I would definitely like to visit this place. It looks like a wonderful weekend getaway in the summer. Love the serenity of that last picture.