09/19/2025
We had the pleasure of spending a few days at Put-In-Bay, Ohio to watch the annual vintage sports car races. Not any fire breathing Mustangs, but lots of old cool cars!
For those of you that do not know where it is, here is a short description.
Put-in-Bay is a small, historic village on South Bass Island in Lake Erie, Ohio. It's a popular summer tourist destination often called the "Key West of the North" for its lively atmosphere. Weekdays are great for family fun, but weekend nights in the summer families may want to avoid. It gets very rowdy.
History & Name Origin ๐
The name "Put-in-Bay" is thought to have come from sailors who would "put in" the bay for shelter from sudden storms on Lake Erie. The island played a significant role in the War of 1812 when Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry used the harbor as a base. From here, he sailed to defeat the British fleet in the Battle of Lake Erie on September 10, 1813. The victory is commemorated by the Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial, a 352-foot granite column visible for miles. The island's rich soil and climate also led to a thriving wine industry in the mid-19th century, with vineyards and wineries still operating today.
What to Do & See ๐บ๏ธ
Put-in-Bay offers a mix of historical sites, natural attractions, and entertainment. Many visitors get around the small island by renting golf carts.
Historical and Natural Sites: Key attractions include the Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial, Perry's Cave (an underground cave), and Heineman's Winery, which is home to the world's largest geode, the Crystal Cave.
Recreation: Visitors can enjoy activities like kayaking, parasailing, and exploring the island's state park. There are also family-friendly spots like the Butterfly House and Kimberly's Carousel.
Nightlife: Downtown Put-in-Bay has a vibrant scene with numerous bars, restaurants, and live music venues.