Put-in-Bay Offers a Budget-Friendly Island Adventure for Families This Summer

Published: Jun 10, 2026 - 3:03 p.m.

By Jaydas Adventures

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PUT-IN-BAY, OHIO — South Bass Island has long been a staple of Lake Erie tourism, but its reputation as a nightlife hub often overshadows its accessibility for families with children. As the summer season approaches, local businesses and historical sites are emphasizing a kid-friendly itinerary that makes the island feel more like a coastal getaway than a standard regional trip. The experience begins at the Miller Ferry dock in Catawba, where the open-air ride provides a 20-minute transit across the water. According to the Miller Ferry fare schedule, round-trip tickets for adults cost $18, while children ages 6 to 11 can travel for $3. Children 5 and under ride for free, making the initial transit one of the more affordable parts of the day. Once visitors dock on the island, transportation becomes the primary focus. While some bring their own vehicles, most families opt for golf carts to navigate the village streets. E's Golf Carts, located at the top of the Miller Ferry hill, offers four-person gas carts for approximately $15 to $17 per hour. For larger groups, six-person carts are available for around $20 per hour or $95 for a full day. Educational stops are a significant part of the inland experience, starting with the Crystal Cave at Heineman's Winery. This is not a standard cavern; it is actually the world's largest celestite geode. The walls are lined with massive blue crystals, and the tour is often paired with a visit to the winery's gardens. According to the Heineman's Winery tour office, tickets for the cave are $8 for adults and $4 for children. Further down the road, Perry's Cave Family Fun Center serves as a central hub for younger travelers. The site features an underground cave, gem mining, a large maze, and a mini-golf course. A free antique car museum is also located on the grounds for those who want a quick break from the heat. To keep costs manageable, the center offers combo tickets, such as a five-attraction pass for $45 for adults and $25 for children. Nature enthusiasts often gravitate toward the Lake Erie Islands Nature and Wildlife Center. The facility houses interactive exhibits and a woods trail where kids can identify local species. A family pass is available for $12, which covers admission for all members of a single household. The most visible landmark on the island is Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial. The massive Doric column stands 352 feet tall and commemorates the Battle of Lake Erie. While the visitor center is free, those who want the 360-degree view of the archipelago can take an elevator to the observation deck. According to the National Park Service, tickets to the top are $7 for adults, but children 15 and under are admitted for free. The National Park Service maintains the memorial grounds throughout the year, though the observation deck access is subject to weather conditions and seasonal staffing hours. For those planning a visit, the memorial is located at 93 Delaware Avenue. -------------------- At Cleveland 13 News, we strive to provide accurate, up-to-date, and reliable reporting. If you spot an error, omission, or have information that may need updating, please email us at tips@cleveland13news.com. As a community-driven news network, we appreciate the help of our readers in ensuring the integrity of our reporting.