Here Are 8 Islands In Ohio That Are An Absolute Must Visit
Yes. Ohio has island life, too.
In fact, Ohio is actually home to more than a dozen natural islands, all differing in size, their number of inhabitants, and above-water presence (with the rise and fall of Lake Erie’s water levels), as defined by the ODNR Office of Coastal Management. The following are eight accessible Ohio islands that hold some pretty unique attractions, pieces of history, and unforgettable experiences waiting for you. And just wait until you see the breathtaking waterfront scenery! Curious to learn more? Let’s start exploring!
South Bass Island, often called the “Secret Midwest Playground” is home to the small town of Put-In-Bay—which has plenty to do and see. Popular locations and attractions to check out are The Butterfly House, Adventure Bay Amusement Park, the Antique Car Museum, the Chocolate Museum, Put-In-Bay Winery, Kimberly’s Carousel, Perry's Cave and Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial. South Bass Island is also home to one of the best campgrounds in Ohio.
Ohio's largest island is home to Glacial Grooves State Memorial, Inscription Rock, Kelleys Island State Park and other attractions. Few people are aware that the largest accessible glacial grooves in the world are located on Kelleys Island (pictured.) Learn more about what makes Kelleys Island such a fantastic Ohio day trip destination.
Located between South Bass and North Bass Island is Middle Bass Island, which has a rich grape production and wine-making history. This small, quiet island is an ideal getaway for those looking to truly get away from it all. Activities here include boating, fishing, golf cart rentals, swimming and more.
At the mouth of the Cuyahoga River you'll find this small Cleveland island, which features a 22-acre public park (known as Wendy Park) sand volleyball courts, a public marina and a bar/restaurant. It's a great way to spend a day away from the hustle of the city. Who knew you could practically walk to an Ohio island?
This small island is located just offshore of South Bass Island. Science and History Tours of this island show you what kind of research goes on at Ohio State University’s Stone Laboratory and the outside of Cooke Castle, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. (pictured.)
Gibraltar Island, Put-In-Bay Township, OH 43456, USA
Johnson's Island is located in the Sandusky Bay, just three miles from the city of Sandusky. The island was once the site of a Prisoner-Of-War camp for Confederate officers captured during the American Civil War. Today, this island is a National Historical Landmark, and the camp's cemetery (pictured) is a popular stop for history buffs.
Technically, the Catawba Island is part of the Ottawa County peninsula. It's a popular spot to enjoy the waters of Lake Erie. Boating, golf, scuba diving and Catawba Island State Park are popular things to do and see here. While you're there, you can take this off-the-beaten-path adventure to explore the youngest marsh preserve in Ohio.
Last but not least on our list of fascinating Ohio islands is North Bass Island. Also known as Isle St. George, the least developed of the Bass Islands is less than two miles from the Canadian border. This beautiful, quiet island features a vineyard and North Island Bass Park. The island is accessible by airplane or boat, but there is no ferry service or public dockage available. One of the best ways to experience the area is by exploring North Bass Island State Park.
North Bass Island, Put-In-Bay Township, OH 43436, USA
Have you been to any of these Ohio islands? What was your experience like? Share your stories, photos, and thoughts with us in the comments below — we would love to hear from you! For related content, check out our list of the best Ohio day trips. There’s so much to explore in the Buckeye State!
Address: South Bass Island, Put-In-Bay, OH 43456, USA
Address: South Bass Island, Put-In-Bay, OH 43456, USA
Address: Kelleys Island, OH 43438, USA
Address: Whiskey Island, Cleveland, OH 44102, USA
Address: Gibraltar Island, Put-In-Bay Township, OH 43456, USA
Address: Johnson's Island, Danbury Township, OH, USA
Address: Catawba Island, OH 43452, USA
Address: North Bass Island, Put-In-Bay Township, OH 43436, USA
Address: Middle Bass Island, Put-In-Bay Township, OH, USA
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The OIYS Visitor Center
Ohio islands
December 12, 2022
Beth C.
What are the most unique places in Ohio?
The most unique places in Ohio include:
The Wilds
German Village
Ohio State Reformatory
Old Man’s Cave
The J.M. Smucker Company Store and Cafe
Peninsula
Jungle Jim’s
Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens
Yellow Springs
Clifton Mill
Raven’s Glenn Winery
Idle-Hour Ranch
The state of Ohio is brimming with must-visit destinations. The Ohio State Reformatory might be the most unique day trip destination in all of Ohio, and it’s notorious for being the setting of the Shawshank Redemption. Visit today and you can tour the famous prison, which is also rumored to be haunted. Another great place to explore in Ohio is German Village in Columbus. This historically German neighborhood features an assortment of local restaurants, shops, and one of the largest used bookstores in the state.
Does Ohio have any beaches?
Ohio may not be located on the coast, but it’s not exactly land-locked, either. Thanks to Lake Erie, Ohio has remarkable beaches. Some of the best beaches in Ohio include:
Headlands Beach
Alum Creek
Geneva State Park Beach
Old Field Beach
Kelleys Island State Park Beach
If you plan on visiting any of Ohio’s beaches, be sure to be mindful of others and take back everything that you bring with you. Keeping these beaches beautiful is important!
Address: South Bass Island, Put-In-Bay, OH 43456, USA
Address: South Bass Island, Put-In-Bay, OH 43456, USA
Address: Kelleys Island, OH 43438, USA
Address: Whiskey Island, Cleveland, OH 44102, USA
Address: Gibraltar Island, Put-In-Bay Township, OH 43456, USA
Address: Johnson's Island, Danbury Township, OH, USA
Address: Catawba Island, OH 43452, USA
Address: North Bass Island, Put-In-Bay Township, OH 43436, USA
Address: Middle Bass Island, Put-In-Bay Township, OH, USA
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
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April is the Ohio staff writer for Only in Your State. She is an Ohio native with a Bachelor of Science in Journalism from E.W. Scripps School of Journalism. With more than 10 years of writing experience and a background in news reporting for Ohio newspapers, she's published pieces in multiple print and online publications. When she's not on deadline or chasing after her toddler, she's hunting for hidden gems in Ohio or getting lost in a good book.
