There’s so much to explore in Ohio. From the enchanted forests of the Hocking Hills to the rolling hills of Ohio Amish Country, there’s truly something for everyone when it comes to day-trip destinations in Ohio. And for those in the northern part of the state wondering “what are some great day trips near me in Ohio?” — we have a truly amazing day trip you’ll want to check out. When you want to really get away from it all for a day and see a side of Ohio you may not have ever seen before, consider visiting the Lake Erie Islands. It’s a lot easier than you think — and you can do it in just a day. Here’s the perfect itinerary for the day trip of a lifetime you can only take in Ohio:

You'll start your journey at Port Clinton, a quaint fishing town with a unique charm all its own. It's a safe harbor for Lake Erie boaters and the "Walleye Capital of the World."
Vicki Timman/Flickr
No matter the time of year, you're likely to see marina after marina packed with fishing boats, people fishing from the pier and the catch of the day being sold at local restaurants and markets.
Port Clinton is also home to a unique park that’s perfect for the whole family. The African Safari Wildlife Park is a walk and drive-thru park that features exotic animals, many of which you can feed yourself.
April Dray/Only In Your State
You'll find this attraction located at 267 S Lightner Road, Port Clinton, OH, 43452.
After you've explored everything you want to see in Port Clinton, you can take a ferry to South Bass Island, where you'll find Put-In-Bay.
Miller Ferry to Put-in-Bay and Middle Bass Island/Facebook
Daily ferries travel to South Bass Island. Miller Ferry (pictured) offers affordable one-way trips to the island.
The ferry ride takes about 20 minutes, and it's best to sit back and enjoy the scenery! (Trailer fares apply if you're taking a vehicle.)
Miller Ferry to Put-in-Bay and Middle Bass Island/Facebook
To learn more about Miller Ferry pricing and departure times, click here for more information.
There's so much to do at Put-In-Bay. No matter what your interests are, you'll find something to do here. Golf cart, moped, and bicycle rentals are popular ways to get around the island. (But of course, walking is fun, too!)
Rick Austin/Flickr
An Island Tour Train is also available, with rates varying by age.

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Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial and Visitors Center is a popular destination on the island. Admission to the center is free, and admission to get to the top of the monument is just a few dollars/person. It's definitely worth it, though, for those who aren't afraid of heights!
Alvin Trusty/Flickr
The monument honors Master Commandant Oliver Hazard Perry, who won one of the biggest victories in the War of 1812. This 352-ft. memorial became part of the National Park System in 1936 and was declared a National Monument by President Franklin D. Roosevelt.
Perry’s Cave is another one of Put-In-Bay’s most well-known historical landmarks. Visitors can take 20-minute tours of the limestone cave, which really are quite a fun bucket-list experience!
Ohio Sea Grant/Flickr
The cave was discovered by Master Commandant Oliver Hazard Perry during the war of 1812, and the underground lake in the cave provide him and his men drinking water.
Another unique place to visit on the island is Heineman's Winery and Crystal Cave. Crystal Cave is attached to the winery because workers discovered it in 1897 while digging a well for the winery.
Heineman's Winery
Crystal Cave and Heineman’s Winery is located at 978 Catawba Avenue, Put-In-Bay, OH, 43456.
What's so special about this beautiful cave is the fact that it's the world's largest celestite geode. It's made up of celestite crystals ranging anywhere from 8-18 inches long, is located 35 feet below the surface, and is estimated to be between 12,000-15,000 years old.
Sean Munson/Flickr
You can tour the cave every day from early May until late September, according to the winery's website. You can learn more about this unique Ohio attraction in this previous article.
After a day of fun and adventure in the Buckeye State, be sure to take some time to relax on the shore and take in the beautiful views.
Frank DiBona/Flickr
The Lake Erie Islands make an unforgettable day trip and weekend destination in Ohio when you just need to get away for a little while.

Have you ever traveled to South Bass Island for a day? What would you recommend for someone who’s never been to Put-In-Bay? Share your thoughts and experiences with us!

And if you’re wondering “What are some more epic day trips near me in Ohio?” be sure to check out our previous article, 15 Unique Day Trips In Ohio That Are An Absolute Must-Do.

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day trips near me in Ohio

Sarah | July 07, 2021

What are some of the best day trips near me in Ohio?

No matter where you're located in the Buckeye State, you're sure to be within an easy drive of a fun day trip! If you're looking for a new-to-you adventure in Ohio, you'll definitely want to check out these 15 options. Some of our very favorite day trips around the state include German Village, a treasure of a town in Columbus; Old Man's Cave, one of the most beautiful places that's located the eastern part of the state; Jungle Jim's, an epic grocery store experience in Cincinnati;  and Young's Jersey Dairy, a winsome dairy farm in Yellow Springs.

What are some other things to do on a day trip to The Wilds?

Although Ohio is full of several impressive zoos, The Wilds in Cumberland offer a unique way to observe exotic animals. Depending on the tour option you choose, you can get an up-close encounter with the animals or board a Safari Transport so you can observe them (from a safe distance) roam freely while learning all about the rare and endangered species the facility conserves. Of course, tours aren't the only attraction at The Wilds; this Columbus gem also has some of the most spectacular glamping in the state!

What's the best day trip I can take in Ohio?

While there are numerous wonderful day road trips in Ohio, this wine and waterfalls trip is incredible. This epic trip visits some of the most picture-perfect places in the Buckeye State, including Debonne Vineyards, Hocking Hills, The Winery at Wolf Creek, Brandywine Falls, and Ohio Amish Country.

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