Nestled along the shores of Lake Erie, Sandusky, Ohio is a gem often overlooked by travelers seeking a fun getaway. Known for its historic significance and picturesque landscapes, the city offers a diverse array of activities that cater to thrill-seekers, history buffs, and families alike. The city’s proud maritime heritage is on full display at the Maritime Museum of Sandusky, where visitors can immerse themselves in the rich stories of the Sandusky Bay area.
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Sandusky’s position as a lakeside city lends itself to a host of recreational activities, especially on the water. From the adrenaline-pumping experience of parasailing over Lake Erie to leisurely boat tours, there is no shortage of ways to engage with the splendor of the Great Lakes. But it’s not just the lake that calls to adventure-seekers; the city is also home to Cedar Point, an amusement park that boasts an impressive collection of roller coasters and rides, solidifying Sandusky as a premier destination for family-friendly excitement.
Cedar Point Amusement Park
Cedar Point in Sandusky, Ohio, stands as a premier destination for thrill-seekers with its vast collection of roller coasters, family-friendly rides, and engaging live entertainment.
Roller Coasters
Cedar Point is renowned for its impressive lineup of roller coasters, boasting some of the tallest and fastest rides in the world. The park features a range of coasters, from the record-breaking 420-foot tall Top Thrill Dragster to the classic wooden coaster, Blue Streak. Visitors seeking adrenaline-pumping experiences should not miss Millennium Force and Steel Vengeance, acclaimed for their height, speed, and innovative designs.
Cost
For Cedar Point in 2024, the “Good Any Day Admission” price is $49.99 when purchased online, which is a savings of $35 off the gate price. This ticket allows single-day admission to Cedar Point on any one public operating day through September 8, 2024.
Family Rides
Apart from roller coasters, Cedar Point offers a variety of family rides suitable for all ages. The park’s family-friendly attractions include the Cedar Point & Lake Erie Railroad for a gentle tour of the park and the Antique Cars where guests can steer their own vintage motorcar. Younger visitors will especially enjoy the Kiddy Kingdom, a dedicated area with over a dozen rides tailored for children.
Live Entertainment
The park provides a dynamic selection of live entertainment, ranging from musical performances to high-energy dance shows. Guests can experience a multitude of live acts at venues such as the Jack Aldrich Theatre and Celebration Plaza. Seasonal events like HalloWeekends offer special entertainment options that include haunted houses, spooky shows, and night rides.
Kalahari Resorts
Kalahari Resorts in Sandusky, OH is a renowned family vacation destination offering a variety of activities and experiences. From its expansive indoor water park to the thrilling Safari Outdoor Adventure Park, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Indoor Water Park
At the heart of Kalahari Resorts is its impressive Indoor Water Park, which is open year-round. Guests can enjoy a wave pool, thrilling water slides, and lazy rivers. The water park provides day passes to the general public based on availability, making it a fun escape for both staying and visiting guests.
Cost
A day pass for the indoor water park will cost you $80-$95 for an adult.
Safari Outdoor Adventure Park
For those seeking an adrenaline rush, Kalahari’s Safari Outdoor Adventure Park invites visitors to climb and soar. Activities include zip lines, ropes courses, and climbing walls, which cater to a variety of ages and skill levels. It’s an outdoor escapade that complements the water-themed entertainment.
Spa Kalahari & Salon
For relaxation, Spa Kalahari & Salon offers a tranquil retreat. Guests can indulge in massages, facials, and body treatments, or update their look with a range of salon services. The spa is a haven of serenity amidst the excitement of the resort’s attractions.
Maritime Activities
Sandusky, Ohio, offers a variety of maritime activities that celebrate its rich heritage on Lake Erie’s shores. From leisurely cruises to educational museum visits, there’s plenty to explore for water enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Goodtime Lake Erie Cruises
For those looking to experience the beauty of Lake Erie from the water, Goodtime Lake Erie Cruises offers an array of options. One can embark on a scenic daytime cruise or enjoy the shimmering skyline on a sunset trip. The cruises also provide a unique view of the area’s islands and historical landmarks, making it a must-do for visitors and locals.
Sandusky Maritime Museum
The Sandusky Maritime Museum educates visitors on the area’s nautical past, including commercial fishing and shipbuilding. Exhibits highlight the importance of Lake Erie in travel and trade, and one can learn about the fascinating history of ice harvesting and the Underground Railroad connections in Sandusky. The museum ensures an engaging experience through interactive displays and educational programs.
Marblehead Lighthouse
Known as the oldest continuously operating lighthouse on the United States side of the Great Lakes, the Marblehead Lighthouse stands as a beacon of history. Visitors can tour the lighthouse and adjacent museum to learn about its role in guiding sailors through Lake Erie’s treacherous waters. This iconic structure offers a glimpse into the maritime heritage that has shaped the region.
Outdoor Recreation
Sandusky, Ohio, offers a variety of scenic locales for visitors who appreciate the great outdoors. The area is known for its accessible natural reserves, well-maintained pathways, and diverse recreational areas.
Sheldon Marsh State Nature Preserve
Sheldon Marsh State Nature Preserve is an ecological sanctuary teeming with wildlife and plant species. It boasts a trail that leads to a pristine stretch of Lake Erie beach, making it an ideal spot for bird watching and serene walks.
Sandusky Bay Pathway
Along the shores of Sandusky Bay lies the Sandusky Bay Pathway, a developing trail system designed for biking, walking, and nature enjoyment. This pathway provides panoramic views of the bay and is a perfect place for a refreshing morning jog or a leisurely evening stroll.
Osborn Recreation Area
For sports enthusiasts and families, the Osborn Recreation Area features multiple facilities. Visitors can make use of baseball diamonds, soccer fields, and a skate park, alongside picnic shelters for a restful day out.
Historical Sites
Sandusky, Ohio, is home to a treasure trove of historical landmarks, each offering a glimpse into the area’s rich heritage. From meticulously preserved museums to memorials steeped in the past, visitors can step back in time and experience the stories that shaped this vibrant community.
Merry-Go-Round Museum
The Merry-Go-Round Museum celebrates the history of carousels and the artistry behind them. Visitors are treated to an array of antique carousel pieces and can even take a ride on a working merry-go-round that’s a piece of history itself.
Follett House Museum
Housed in a dignified 1837 Greek Revival building, the Follett House Museum provides insights into the local history of Sandusky and the surrounding Erie County. Its exhibits span four floors, including displays on the Civil War and the Underground Railroad’s significant impact on the region.
Johnson’s Island
Johnson’s Island holds a sobering history as the site of a Confederate officer prison during the Civil War. The cemetery there is a solemn tribute to those who lost their lives far from home. The island is accessible by causeway and invites reflection on a pivotal time in America’s past.
Local Cuisine
In Sandusky, Ohio, visitors have the opportunity to indulge in local flavors ranging from fresh lake catches served up at dockside restaurants to handcrafted brews and regional wines that capture the essence of the area.
Dockside Restaurants
Sandusky’s waterfront is lined with restaurants offering fresh fish and seafood straight from Lake Erie. Dockside eateries capitalize on their locations, providing dining experiences with a view. For instance, visitors can enjoy a meal at Paddle & Climb, known for its atmosphere as much as its menu.
Restaurants in Sandusky
- Berardi’s Family Kitchen: Known for its friendly atmosphere, beautiful food presentation, and delicious desserts. It’s a family restaurant with a history of satisfied customers.
- Toft Dairy Ice Cream Parlor: A delightful ice cream shop with a wide variety of flavors, offering a nostalgic dining experience with old school decor.
- J Bistro Downtown: A fine dining option where guests rave about the quality of the meals, including ribeye, scallops, pork chop, and filet, all served by attentive staff.
- Dockside Cafe: Located by the lake, offering great views, friendly staff, and a selection of drinks and foods, including a Greek salad and burgers.
- DeMore’s Offshore Bar & Grill: A bar and grill celebrated for its service and lake-focused menu, featuring yellow perch and frog legs alongside craft beers.
- Soba Asian Kitchen: An Asian Fusion restaurant that provides a variety of noodle dishes and other Asian cuisines at an affordable price, without sacrificing quality.
- Fazoli’s: Praised for its attentive service and Italian offerings, it’s a great spot for those looking for a casual dining experience.
- Depot Family Restaurant: Offers a home-like atmosphere with courteous staff, known for its value and the generous amount of food served.
- Chet & Matt’s Pizza: A highly recommended pizza place, especially for those looking for delivery options, known for its amazing pizza and cheese bread.
- Crush Wine Bar: Ideal for wine lovers, offering a wide selection of wines complemented by a great dining experience, although the service can vary.
- Sortino’s Italian Kitchen: A high-quality Italian restaurant offering a wide range of dishes, praised for the service, especially for large groups.
- Everwild Spirits: Known for its beautiful location and crafted cocktails, providing a great experience with delicious chips and drinks.
- Texas Roadhouse: Offers a fantastic dining experience with perfectly cooked steaks and excellent service, making it a standout choice for meat lovers.
- Saucy Brew Works – Sandusky: A brewpub with quality beer and food offerings, including a notable pizza selection and family-friendly atmosphere.
- Bay Bell Restaurant: Offers a serene dining experience with views of the bay and a menu that includes a full boiled lobster, known for its zen atmosphere and exceptional service.
- Small City Tap House: Specializing in sushi and Asian cuisine, it’s known for great sushi, spicy noodles, and a wide selection of brews.
- Casa Las Palmas: A Mexican restaurant noted for its good food, reasonable prices, and quick service, offering a comfortable dining experience.
- Mon Ami Restaurant & Winery: Features American cuisine with a wine bar, known for its bouillabaisse filled with walleye and other delights.
- Big Boppers: An American diner offering a casual dining experience with a menu that includes breakfast items, award-winning chili, and more.
- Canoe Club Wine Bar: Provides a menu of small plates, soups, salads, and pizzas, known for its cozy atmosphere and being a favorite dining spot.
Brewery Tours
Craft beer enthusiasts will appreciate the local brewery scene in Sandusky. Tours are an excellent way for visitors to sample a variety of ales and lagers. One’s enjoyment of the craft is heightened by the local breweries’ emphasis on uniquely local ingredients and brewing techniques.
Saucy Brew Works
This brewpub and coffeehouse in Sandusky offers 16 fresh beers on tap daily, an elevated food menu including their award-winning New Haven-style Apizza, alongside fine wines and signature cocktails. The Saucy coffeehouse also provides a full selection of craft coffee offerings. They have weekly specials and host events like music bingo. For more details, visit their website at Saucy Brew Works.
CLAG Brewing Company
Although specific details about their offerings were not provided, CLAG Brewing Company is known as an internationally recognized craft brewery located in Sandusky. They offer a wide variety of bourbon options and Vietnamese food. For the latest information on their beers and food menu, it’s best to visit their official website at CLAG Brewing Company.
Wineries
In Sandusky, OH, you can explore some wonderful wineries that offer a great selection of wines, beautiful settings, and the opportunity to learn more about the winemaking process. Here are two notable wineries in the area:
The Winerie
This family-owned vineyard and winery prides itself on producing 100% estate-grown wines. They offer a large selection of wines with a focus on quality and a classic, old-world European style. The Winerie is not just a place for wine tasting; it’s also a venue for special events like weddings and bridal showers. They have a dining and bar menu featuring fresh, locally sourced dishes alongside their fine wines and refreshing cocktails. The Winerie operates with specific hours, including special summer and winter hours, and they occasionally close for private events, so checking ahead is recommended.
Firelands Winery
Established as one of Ohio’s oldest wineries, Firelands Winery has a rich history dating back to 1880. Located in the lakeside town of Sandusky, they produce a wide range of wines, including the Firelands 1880 Estate Reserve, Firelands, Mon Ami, Lonz, and Mantey brands. The winery has a tasting room and restaurant, making it a popular destination for tourists. They craft their wines in both an austere, old-world style for their Vitis vinifera varietals and a sweeter, juicier style for their distinctive Vitis labrusca grapes. Firelands Winery also boasts award-winning wines, such as their Gewurztraminer, and offers a variety of unique gifts and services, including wine and gift baskets.
Shopping Experience
In Sandusky, Ohio, shoppers can delight in a variety of retail experiences ranging from traditional mall shopping to the charming boutiques in the downtown area, as well as a selection of unique antique shops.
Sandusky Mall
The Sandusky Mall has undergone a significant transformation, now boasting new stores such as Hobby Lobby and T.J. Maxx. The revitalized space offers a modern shopping environment with a mix of retail, dining, and entertainment options for all ages.
Downtown Boutiques
Visitors looking for a more personalized shopping experience will find it in Sandusky’s downtown boutiques. These small, independent stores feature curated collections of clothing, accessories, and home decor, reflecting the local style and character of Sandusky.
Antique Shops
Those with a passion for history and vintage items should explore Sandusky’s antique shops. Each shop offers its own glimpse into the past, with a variety of unique and rare finds that are perfect for collectors or as one-of-a-kind gifts.
Seasonal Events
Sandusky, Ohio, offers a tapestry of events that cater to diverse interests, with each season bringing its own unique festivals and activities.
Winter Sports
During the colder months, Sandusky doesn’t hibernate. It becomes a hub for winter sports enthusiasts. The chilly weather provides an ideal setting for ice fishing on Lake Erie, and nearby indoor facilities offer ice skating for those looking to enjoy winter’s splendor.
Summer Festivals
The arrival of summer is celebrated with vibrant festivals. Cedar Point illuminates the sky with fireworks and extends its hours for the enjoyment of longer, sun-filled days. Families can partake in live music, food stalls, and an array of exciting performances.
Halloween Weekends
When autumn winds blow in, Sandusky transforms with HalloWeekends. Cedar Point becomes a playground for the spooky season, where thrill-seekers can brave haunted houses by night and enjoy harvest-themed activities by day. It’s an exhilarating blend of chills and thrills fit for the whole family.
Family Entertainment
Sandusky, Ohio offers a variety of family-focused entertainment options catering to all ages. Among the notable destinations are the Ghostly Manor Thrill Center and the Rain Water Park Complex, each providing unique fun-filled experiences.
Ghostly Manor Thrill Center
At the Ghostly Manor Thrill Center, families can indulge in an exciting range of activities. From a thrilling haunted house to an indoor skating park, the center promises an adrenaline-packed day out. This attraction is especially popular for its virtual reality and escape rooms which challenge and entertain in equal measure.
Outdoor Nature Trails
When it comes to enjoying nature within Sandusky, OH, outdoor enthusiasts have much to appreciate. Especially noteworthy are the well-maintained trails of Pipe Creek Wildlife Area and Castalia Quarry MetroPark, which offer a serene escape into the area’s natural beauty.
Pipe Creek Wildlife Area
Located near the Sandusky Bay, Pipe Creek Wildlife Area is a sanctuary for birdwatchers and nature lovers. It features a variety of ecosystems, from wetlands to meadows, supporting diverse bird species. Visitors should not miss the opportunity to traverse the trails that offer intimate encounters with wildlife and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. For more details about the trails offered, one might explore information available through AllTrails.
Castalia Quarry MetroPark
The Castalia Quarry MetroPark stands as a testament to Sandusky’s natural history with its rugged limestone quarry walls and open grasslands. The park’s trails lead adventurers around remnants of its past and through restored prairies, with observation decks providing unique vantage points. Beyond the geological wonder, the Quarry is a hotspot for hiking, birding, and photography. Additional information and visitor experiences can be found at Rooted in Ohio.
Art and Culture
Sandusky, Ohio, offers a vibrant scene for art and culture enthusiasts, with various venues providing rich musical performances and cultural exhibitions that cater to diverse interests.
Firelands Symphony Orchestra
The Firelands Symphony Orchestra has been delivering outstanding classical music experiences to the community. They boast a schedule of performances that often include collaborations with both local and internationally renowned artists.
Sandusky Cultural Center
At the Sandusky Cultural Center, visitors can immerse themselves in various art exhibits that challenge the mind and spark conversation. The center is a hub for cultural engagement, hosting a variety of educational programs and events that reflect on the dynamic spectrum of human experience.