This Island Butterfly House Near Cleveland Is The Perfect Summertime Retreat
By Nikki Rhoades|Published July 15, 2019
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Nikki Rhoades
Author
Nikki is a lifelong Ohioan with a love for literature. She holds a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Akron and has enjoyed publishing her written work since 2007. She has a love of travel and does so frequently, though she believes that home is where the heart is — she continues to work in and around Cleveland as a digital content specialist to this day, working on everything from commercial scripts and social media posts to grassroots marketing initiatives.
As local travel experts, we know what travelers are looking for when it comes to finding the perfect accommodations for their next trip. To compile our lists, we scour the internet to find properties with excellent ratings and reviews, desirable amenities, nearby attractions, and that something special that makes a destination worthy of traveling for.
Pile on the sunscreen and plan for some fun in the sun, because we’re about to embark on a journey that will take us up to the Key West of Lake Erie. South Bass Island is one of our lake’s archipelagic islands, and it’s one of the most accessible sites offshore. Its playful landscape hosts the friendly and historic community of Put-in-Bay, a destination with a culture so vibrant that it attracts a variety of tourists throughout the summer months each year. While this bay was essential to Oliver Hazard Perry’s victory over the British in the War of 1812, today’s trip is going to take on a lighter tone… we’re here for butterflies and family fun! Are you ready to visit one particularly gorgeous butterfly house near Cleveland?
This charming destination is exactly what it sounds like: a butterfly sanctuary that invites visitors to come appreciate the beauty of nature. It's a colorful addition to any Put-in-Bay sightseeing trip.
There's nothing quite as magical as interacting with these enchanting critters up close. In this enclosed environment, the power and fragility of these lovely creatures is evident.
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The aviary and its gardens are totally serene, offering a vivid contrast to the island's high energy atmosphere.
Adults can tour this site for $8, and children will enjoy admission for $5 per person. You can also take advantage of combo deals to save money on your day trip.
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Before entering the aviary, you'll stroll through a gift shop full of rich beauty...
This 5,000-square-foot shop dwarfs the adjacent aviary. It features traditional souvenirs as well as more sought-after collectibles like Fenton Glass and Belleek Fine Irish China.
...But that's just one of several things you can enjoy before or after your visit.
As this site is located right on the campus pf Perry's Family Fun Center, mini-golf, gem mining, a maze, a rock wall, and an antique car museum are all within walking distance of this incredible destination.
This cave's discovery is credited to Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry, whose men purportedly found something of a healing quality to the cave's water. Featuring stalagmites, stalactites, and cave pearls, this cave continues to stun and fascinate visitors to this day.
The cave features a rare subterranean lake, which appears just as delicate and vivid as the butterflies next door.
This body of water appears to rise and fall with Lake Erie, indicating that the two must be connected. The rich, clean water was even pumped to the once-famous Victory Hotel.
Across the street is a historic winery and cave that, like Perry's Cave, remains open to the public.
Heineman's Winery is an absolute delight, and their selection of wines and cigars is a fan favorite. Below this is Crystal Cave, the world's largest geode.
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This destination is fun for the whole family, so prepare to experience memory making at its finest.
There’s much fun to be had on South Bass Island, but this enchanting aviary is coveted by visitors and locals alike. Have you ever visited the Butterfly House? Share your experience and photos with us in the comments!
