Lake Erie Living Travel Guide 2023

On the Cover

Most of us have been to quite a few different spots around Lake Erie, but how about an all-in-one-shot loop around the lake? It’s about 650 miles and, to do it right, we suggest setting aside six days. Flip to page 20 for suggestions on where to stop, what to eat and the spots that simply can’t be missed. But the trip is more than just an itinerary. It’s a chance to see the lake from new angles — and take in the rhythm of lake life from Port Stanley to Presque Isle — and everywhere in between. Happy travels!

Play, Laugh & Learn

Chairman

Lute Harmon Sr.

President

Lute Harmon Jr.

Publisher

Paul Klein klein@glpublishing.com

Editor

Colleen Smitek editor@lakeerieliving.com

Web Editor Rachel Hagenbaugh

Intern

Samhita Chitturi

Contributing Writers

Laura Watilo Blake, Lara Busold, Linda Feagler, Vince Guerrieri, Kristen Hampshire and Jennifer Webb

Managing Art Director

Rayanne Medford rmedford@glpublishing.com

Associate Art Director

Megan Rosta

Contributing Artists

Laura Watilo Blake

Production Manager

Alyson Moutz Cowan

Account Managers

Julie Bialowas, Nichole Cardinale and Karen Hopkinson

Operations Manager

Corey Galloway cgalloway@glpublishing.com

Director of Digital Strategy

Jacquie Chakirelis

Development Manager

Daniel Klinzing

Subscriber Services

1-800-453-1015

lakeerieliving@emailcustomerservice.com

Chief Financial Officer

George Sedlak

Finance Director

Perry Zohos

Accounts Payable Coordinator

Geli Valli

Audience and Events Manager

Jennifer Roberts

Always Calling

When we think of the lake, we tend to think of sailing, swimming or sipping a drink on the patio.

And those are all things we love.

But there’s been a definite shift over the past decade. It’s as if we’ve all realized that life is too short to spend three quarters of it waiting for three months of glorious summer.

The result is that there are nearly as many events in October — maybe even more — than there are in June. The holidays are slammed with fun things to do, followed by winter festivals and outdoor hiking challenges. March is maple syrup season. Then comes spring, a time when Lake Erie birding is at its very best.

It’s in that spirit that we publish our annual Lake Erie Living Travel Guide. Flip through these pages and you’ll see ideas for making the most of our Great Lake in every season, including at Greenfield Village in Michigan (page 33), Point Pelee National Park in Ontario (page 28) and Presque Isle State Park in Pennsylvania (page 37).

That’s also why — if you’re interested in Lake Erie yearround — you’ll want to sign up for our free newsletter at LakeErieLiving.com/newsletter and follow us on Facebook and Instagram @lakeerieliving. When we’re between print issues, that’s where you’ll find stories, photos and videos offering all kinds of ideas for exploring and relaxing.

Because Lake Erie is always calling, inviting you for a stroll, whether you’re wearing flip-flops or boots. We’ll see you there.

P.S. Don’t forget to cast your vote for our upcoming “Best of Lake Erie” issue at LakeErieLiving. com/best.

Colleen Smitek Editor

LAURA WATILO BLAKE

LET US HELP YOU PLAN YOUR VISIT.

VERMILION, OHIO.

Historic house offers three large suites with private entrances and a charming cottage. Each features a full kitchen, spacious bedrooms, AC, internet. Two suites include laundry centers. Breakfast vouchers for all guests at nearby restaurant. In the heart of walkable/bikeable downtown, explore the local shops, restaurants and beaches of Vermilion.

5760 Liberty Ave., Vermilion, Ohio 44089 440-714-5082 - captainbellhouse.com

Erie & Anchor is a lifestyle brand and nautical storefront designed for all those who love, live and play on Lake Erie. What makes us different is the quality of items and ability to give back. Five percent of our total sales goes towards research and initiatives that will protect and save the lake from further damage. Shop and ship available online and in-store.

5499 Liberty Ave., Vermilion, Ohio 44089 440-963-9447 - erieandanchor.com

Visit our “Small Town on a Great Lake” and fill your day with sightseeing, shopping and dining as well as sitting on a beach, getting in a kayak, on a boat and more family fun. There’s history here worth exploring and plenty of new experiences in store. Visit our website to plan your trip.

685 Main St., Vermilion, Ohio 44089 440-963-0772 - mainstreetvermilion.org

Healthy eating has never been easier. Stop in and discover over 50 different extra virgin olive oils and balsamic vinegars along with specialty foods and companion products. We are open all year round, seven days a week during the summer season. You will never think of olive oil in the same way again!

5512 Liberty Ave., Vermilion, Ohio 44089 440-963-0504 - theolivescene.com

1. CAPTAIN BELL HOUSE BED & BREAKFAST

2. ERIE & ANCHOR

3. MAIN STREET VERMILION

4. OLIVE SCENE

MAINSTREETVERMILION.ORG

5. PUBLIC ART VERMILION

The Postcard Project features 15 murals inspired by vintage postcards that depict local history and Vermilion’s reputation as a vacation destination. This walkable, drivable tour makes for a great day trip. Guide to postcard locations are available at Main Street Vermilion.

685 Main St., Vermilion, Ohio 44089 440-963-0772 - mainstreetvermilion.org/pav

6. RIVERSIDE & RIVERBEND RETREATS

Two riverside homes with breathtaking views of nature and the Vermilion waterway. Each home offers upscale amenities including full kitchens, hot tub, propane grill, fire pits, two 34’ docks and more. Pet friendly, too. riversidevermilion.com. - jvarlamos@aol.com VRBO or bringfido.com

Boutique family wine shop located in downtown Vermilion featuring old world classics, new world favorites and exciting new organic and biodynamic wines.

651 Main St., Vermilion, Ohio 44089 440-794-1466 - soswinesvermilion.com

9. TIFFANY’S FLOWERS

A beautiful flower and gift boutique that offers items from Brighton, eNewton, Lakegirl, Puravida, Duke Cannon and much, much more. Make us your first stop during your visit.

686 Main St., Vermilion, Ohio 44089 440-967-9996 - tiffanysflowers-gifts.com

8. TAILS OF VERMILION

Vermilion’s go-to outfitting and lifestyle shop for cats, dogs, & their best friends! We have the gear & supplies to keep you and your furbaby ready for adventure. Pets welcome too! Best of all, 100% of our profits fund animal causes! Come on by!

678 Main St., Vermilion, Ohio 44089 440-963-9660 - Facebook & Instagram

10. VERMILION FARM MARKET

Fresh from the farm to you! Vermilion Farm Market sources local and regionally grown in season produce, fresh locally sourced meat perfect for year-round grilling, artisan breads and homemade baked goods, a robust deli section of meats and cheeses, in-store made signature deli sides and salads, plus ready to grab and go homemade entrees. We pride ourselves in exceptional customer service, specialty grocery, a large selection of beer, wine, and dairy products.

2901 Liberty Ave., Vermilion, Ohio 44089 440-967-9659 - facebook.com/vermilionfarmmarket

7. SOS WINES

All Aboard!

Cruising the streets of Put-in-Bay or Kelleys Island on a bike or golf cart is about as good as summer gets. “There’s just something that tracks differently about a destination you have to take a boat to get to,” says Jill Bauer of Shores & Islands Ohio. “You feel like you’re escaping — getting away from the everyday. The boat ride there and back is a major part of the fun.” Whether you’re looking to go to one of the Ohio islands or to Pelee Island in Ontario, you’re just a ticket away. Visit LakeErieLiving.com/ferries for info on how to get to each island.

The State of the Lake

To love the lake means to take care of the lake. With that in mind, we checked in with Lake Erie Foundation president Jim Stouffer to gauge exactly how the lake is doing — and what challenges it’s facing.

Q. What are the current threats to Lake Erie?

A. Harmful algal blooms, microplastics and plans to erect wind turbines on the lake.

Q. Blooms can be somewhat benign to severely toxic. What’s being done about Lake Erie’s algal blooms?

A. Harmful algal blooms develop every year in the lake. Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine’s H2Ohio program is a comprehensive water quality initiative that is working to address issues that have been building in Ohio for decades. LEF supports action by the state of Ohio to adopt rules and regulations that require farmers to apply all agricultural fertilizers at the agronomic rate. This action is a top priority recommended by scientists to improve water quality and still accommodate full production by agriculture.

Q. How much will H2Ohio help, considering that DeWine has said “for now we will not mandate the use of these practices because we believe our strategy will lead to significant changes within our current laws”?

A. Much of the success of the program depends on the cooperation of the farming community. While LEF appreciates the farmers who have signed up for H2Ohio, it is likely that the acres that are contributing the greatest amount of pollution, such as the large concentrated animal feeding operations, are not participating in the H2Ohio program.

Q. The public has been aware for a while of microplastics in the oceans and the severe harm they can cause humans and animals. But not everyone realizes that microplastics are found in lakes as well. Are the Great Lakes in danger?

A. Lake Erie has one of the highest concentrations of microplastics in the world. Plastics are broken down into microplastics, which are almost impossible to filter out of the water. We are ingesting these microplastics, which can lead to a multitude of health issues. That includes an increase in the risk of developing cancer, a weakened immune system and decreased sperm levels in men. Even babies are ingesting these harmful chemicals from microplastics in the womb.

Q. How is LEF addressing this problem?

A. LEF partnered with students from Case Western Reserve University. The students’ research became the cornerstone of our initiative to educate and create awareness on the dangers of microplastics, especially single-use plastics. This is a focus area for us in 2023.

The Land of Making The Lake Your Own

Q. How do microplastics get into the lake?

A. The problem is not just intentional littering of plastic bottles or straws on a beach. Wind, water runoff and flooding pick up plastic, which finds its way to our bodies of water, breaks down and becomes secondary microplastic. Primary microplastics, those created for commercial use, including those in microfiber clothing, are also a major source.

Q. How do microplastics relate to LEF’s opposition to building wind turbines in Lake Erie?

A. Turbine blades are made of plastic composites, which, when worn down, shed microplastic particles. The Icebreaker Wind project could potentially create a microplastics drift field in close proximity to the city of Cleveland’s water intake crib. While LEF supports the pursuit of clean and renewable energy, it opposes construction of wind turbines in the lake due to lack of independent, objective studies on lake effects, including the impact on birds. LEF not only objects to the excessive costs of building and maintaining Icebreaker, but also the resulting higher electricity cost to electric consumers.

— Jill Sell

The Boats Are Back

The bayfront in Erie, Pennsylvania

When the pandemic hit, Norm Schultz — like many others in his line of work — foresaw doom. As it turned out, just the opposite happened.

“We expected boat sales to plummet,” says Schultz, president emeritus of the Lake Erie Marine Trades Association, which sponsors the annual Cleveland Boat Show. “But dealers sold everything in sight, and manufacturing slowed down. We ran out of boats to sell. It was a rocket ride we never expected.”

With low interest rates at the outset of the pandemic, many boaters saw a chance to upgrade (much like the housing market). And with many activities restricted or ill-advised, a lot of people who might have spent money traveling considered buying a boat instead.

As a result, some new people got into boating, but what John Zimdahl says he saw more frequently were former boaters getting back into it. That led to a robust market for both new and used boats even through 2022.

“In the last two years, I sold right through the winter,” says Zimdahl, sales manager at Collins Marine in Tonawanda, New York. “There

was no downtime. Last year I sold eight or 10 boats in January. That never happens.”

Like many other sectors, the boating industry faced supply chain issues. Companies that made windshields for boats, for examples, started producing personal protective equipment. As a result, prices went up for new and used boats. “I had a few scenarios where I sold used boats for more than when I sold them new,” Zimdahl says.

But now the tide has changed.

Schultz says boat dealers are facing more competition for recreational spending. “Dealers and manufacturers will have to offer incentives again,” he says. “It’s back to real-world marketing.”

Boat sale transactions are getting back to normal, confirms Craig Graham, a broker who co-owns Catawba Yacht Sales in Port Clinton, Ohio. “There is an asked price and there is a negotiation now,” he says. “Since COVID, there’s been no negotiation. If you want the boat, you have to pay full asking price or close to it.”

Graham also notes that boats are staying on the market longer — a function, he says, of sellers pricing them higher than the market might bear, as well as rising interest rates.

There hasn’t been any type of mass sell-off of boats, Schultz says, but it’s a concern in the industry.

Still, he knows he’s not selling a product. He’s selling a mood.

“Boating is the great escape,” Schultz says. “There’s something magical about untying the boat and leaving the dock. You leave a lot behind. A boat isn’t a piece of hardware. It’s an escape machine.”

— Vince Guerrieri

CRUISING LAKE ERIE

We tend to think of cruises as ocean experiences, but you can also cruise right through Lake Erie and the other Great Lakes. Here are three options to check out.

• Viking, a luxury cruise company with many overseas tours, now has adults-only cruises of the Great Lakes. The eight-day Niagara & the Great Lakes tour departs from Toronto, sails over a corner of Lake Ontario, then goes all the way across Lake Erie. From Detroit, the cruise heads north through an edge of Lake Huron, then south through Lake Michigan to Milwaukee. On this cruise, starting at $5,995 per person, tourists will explore sheltered bays and woodlands, as well as watch for birds. viking.com

• Adventure Life offers a few Lake Erie tours, either starting or ending in Chicago or Toronto. Aboard the big Ocean Voyager, you’ll sail portions of lakes Michigan, Huron, Erie and Ontario. The tour beginning in Chicago includes stops at Mackinac Island, Niagara Falls and other popular spots. The one that starts in Toronto includes stops at more urban ports, including Detroit and Cleveland. These two cruises last 11 days and start at $5,689. adventure-life.com

• If you want to see all five Great Lakes, check out American Queen Cruises’ Toronto to Chicago (or vice versa) cruises. These nearly identical, 11-day cruises include Niagara Falls, the Welland Canal, Manitoulin Island, Mackinac Island and stops in Cleveland and Detroit. Tickets cost $4,999 to $10,799. aqvoyages.com

— Kellie Gormly

JANUARY

Get a jump on the season at the annual Cleveland Boat Show at the I-X Center in Cleveland. clevelandboatshow.com

Months of Fun

FEBRUARY

Check out ice sculptures — and see them being carved — at Ice A Fair in Vermilion, Ohio. Bundle up and stay to enjoy the food and entertainment. mainstreetvermilion.org/ice

APRIL

Enjoy classics like “Saturday in the Park” when Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee Chicago takes the stage April 7 at Caesars Windsor in Ontario. The next morning, enjoy a walk along the Detroit River. caesers.com

MAY

Take flight with Festival of the Birds (May 12-14) at Presque Isle State Park in Erie, Pennsylvania, where more than 320 species of birds have been recorded. presqueisleaudubon.org

MARCH

Head to Buffalo — where 11% of the population is Irish — to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with two parades, plenty of Irish pubs and classic foods like Beef on Weck. visitbuffaloniagara.com

JUNE

Join the pirates in downtown Put-in-Bay for live entertainment, a parade, re-enactments and more at the annual —and family-friendly — Pyrate Fest (June 23-25). Costumes are encouraged. pyratefest.org

Around Lake Erie

Head to Kelleys Island in Ohio for Island Fest (July 14-16) to enjoy family entertainment, a parade, fireworks, crafters, street dances, games, great food and a beer tent.

kelleysislandchamber.com

Embrace fall at the LakesideMarblehead Lighthouse Festival (Oct. 14), where you’ll find pumpkin-decorating, a pie contest, live music, hayrides and tours of the iconic Ohio lighthouse. lakesideohio.com

Laugh at the annual Lucille Ball Comedy Festival (Aug. 2-6) featuring more than 50 events and 30 artists in Ball’s hometown of Jamestown, New York. comedycenter.org

Celebrate the harvest at Grape Jamboree (Sept. 23-24) in Geneva, Ohio, with a grape-stomping contest, a parade, rides, great food, entertainment, grape juice and local wine.

grapejamboree.com

Join hunters from all over the world to participate in the Pelee Island Pheasant Hunt, which has been happening on this 10,000-acre island in Ontario for more than 90 years. pelee.org/pheasant-hunts

Marvel at more than a million twinkling lights at the Toledo Zoo and Aquarium’s annual Lights Before Christmas, which has been voted best zoo lights by USA Today toledozoo.org/lights

6AROUND THE LAKEIN

Days

By Ra c h e l Hagenbaugh

From bustling downtown waterfronts to quaint beach towns, Lake Erie has something for every member of the family. Take it all in — in just one trip — with this six-day breakdown of some of the best beaches, shops, sights and restaurants along the shoreline.

Map It Out

Traveling around Lake Erie entails about 650 miles and three major roadways — Interstate 90, which travels through New York, Pennsylvania and most of Ohio; Interstate 75, running through Michigan; and Ontario Highway 3, which spans the length of Canada’s southern border. Although views of the lake are visible at times, those looking to keep the coast in their sights will want to make time to venture off the main route.

From Ohio to Ontario DAY 1

TOLEDO

Launch your trip with a stroll through Toledo Botanical Garden’s blooms before making your way to Wildwood Preserve Metropark, which boasts 493 acres of natural beauty around the 30,000-square-foot historic Manor House.

“I just love the local history here,” says Cathy Miller of Destination Toledo, highlighting such historical hot spots as the National Museum of the Great Lakes and Fort Meigs, which includes a museum and battlefield. “It’s a fascinating piece of history to visit.”

When it comes to shopping, Handmade Toledo has it all, from jewelry and clothing to coffee, home decor and more — all created by local artists.

For lunch, participate in a proper tea complete with scones, savories, sandwiches and sweets at Clara J’s Tea Room. On weekends, opt for brunch downtown at The Heights for magnificent views of the riverfront and Glass City River Wall — the largest mural in the United States.

BROWNSTOWN

As you make your way through Michigan, take in the sights at Lake Erie Metropark, where visitors can golf, hike, fish, kayak or just walk along the waterfront. Make sure to take a dip in the Great Wave Pool and visit the Marshlands Museum.

DETROIT

If you’re a fan of second breakfasts, double down on a delicious weekend brunch (or daily Lunchy Brunch) and tasty cocktails at Bobcat Bonnie’s, a colorful, hip space with an eclectic aesthetic. Before heading into Canada, Belle Isle is a must. In addition to picture-perfect

scenes of the Detroit River, it’s also home to the country’s oldest marble lighthouse (Livingstone Memorial Lighthouse), swimming beaches, an aquarium, conservatory and nature center.

WINDSOR

You’ve crossed the bridge to Canada and, from beaches and breweries to coffee shops and culture sites, Windsor is bustling. Meander your way through downtown to Maiden Lane to appreciate vibrant splashes of creativity from artists who are turning dull alleyways into blossoming outdoor galleries. Next, head to Drouillard Road to explore the Ford City neighborhood and its 36 outdoor murals honoring the area’s automotive past. Feeling lucky? Make a stop at Caesars Windsor casino, which also offers the top-notch Nero’s Steakhouse.

HARROW

Harrow is home to more than 10 talented vintners excited to share their passions with travelers. Grab a prime patio spot at Viewpointe Estate Winery and relax with a glass of wine and a breathtaking Lake Erie backdrop. Then, settle into a lakefront geodome for the night at Lungovita Beach Retreat, a 16-and-older haven of relaxation. “It’s beautiful,” says Megan Carman, marketing assistant for Southern Ontario Tourism Conference. “I’m really excited about the fact that it’s pet-friendly and want to plan a vacation there with my dog and husband.”

Tenting Made Easy

Looking to spend the night outdoors in Southern Ontario without the hassle of setting up and tearing down camp? Tent Life has you covered. Rent the campsite of your choice, then contact Tent Life with the details, as well as your choice of tent shape and size, and by the time you make it to your site, you’ll be all glamped out.

Glass City River Wall

Bobcat Bonnie’s

Lungovita Beach Retreat

LAURA WATILO BLAKE, GLASS CITY RIVER WALL: NICOLE LEBOUTILLIER, COURTESY LUNGOVITA BEACH RESORT, COURTESY BOBCAT BONNIE’S

Estate of Health

KINGSVILLE

Rise and shine in Kingsville, Ontario, with a cup of coffee or a beermosa (lager and orange juice!) and a filling breakfast at Grove Brewing Co.

Next up is a morning of relaxation at Estate of Health, which offers a yoga studio, tea lounge, hydrotherapy pool and meditative garden.

Once you feel like your best self, sip on award-winning wine while enjoying the serenity of the countryside at Kingsville Winery.

Before heading east, snag an assortment of mouthwatering flavors and artistic creations at Dutch Boys Chocolate.

When it comes to experiencing Lake Erie, travelers can do no better than Point Pelee National Park’s Marsh Boardwalk and Tip Exhibit — a nature lover’s paradise boasting some of the shore’s most majestic views and best bird watching and hiking.

ERIEAU

No trip through Canada is complete without experiencing one of the region’s favorite desserts. At Crazy 8 Barn & Garden, grab a Busted Butter Tart sundae to enjoy while browsing a curated shopping corner or checking out the 1-acre garden.

Exploring the North Shore DAY 2

PORT STANLEY

Known for its world-class beaches, this harbor town is where you’ll soak up some sun and hit the sand. Hungry? There’s plenty of waterfront restaurants like Mackie’s and GTs on the Beach, as well as charming boutiques. Take home a piece of Ontario at Art Emporium, a gallery showing the works of local and regional artists or venture into James Street for coastal home accents. “Pepper Tree Spice Co. is not to be missed,” advises Carman. “I highly recommend their pizza and pasta seasoning, lavender vanilla sugar and Best Bagel seasoning.”

PORT DOVER

Save your appetite for Port Dover’s boisterous culinary scene offering everything from casual eats to fine dining. Nestle into Norfolk County for the evening at Bonnieheath Estate, a farmhouse bed-and-breakfast set on 130 acres and boasting a vineyard. Those vacationing mid-June to mid-July will want to make time to take a stroll through the lavender field when it’s in full bloom.

Crazy 8 Barn & Garden

GTs on the Beach

NIAGARA FALLS

Before crossing back over the border, spend the morning basking in the cool mist and soothing sounds of Niagara Falls on the Canadian side. Keep the kids happy with a visit to the Aquarium of Niagara or Niagara Amusement Park and Splash World.

BUFFALO

Keep the fun rolling at Buffalo RiverWorks, a 60,000-square-foot indoor/outdoor event center filled with activities like axe throwing, ziplining and silo climbing. Take a tour of RiverWorks Brewing Co. (the world’s first silo brewery) or a ride on the Buffal-O Ferris Wheel. For a more serene experience, book a Buffalo Harbor Cruises boat ride or see the sights from atop Erie Basin Marina’s 76-foot observation tower.

DUNKIRK

History beckons at Dunkirk Lighthouse and Veterans Park Museum in Western New York. Participate in guided tours, check out the extensive collection of maritime and military artifacts or take in the view from the working lighthouse’s observation deck.

DAY 3

Back to the U.S. via Buffalo

ERIE

Erie, Pennsylvania, offers all of the amenities of a bustling downtown while maintaining its small-town charm. “The atmosphere is casual chic. We’re laid back, but we also have some really upscale attractions,” says Christine Temple, director of communications for VisitErie.

Among her favorite activities is taking her dog for a walk at Presque Isle State Park. “It’s connected to the mainland, but once you’re out there, you feel like you’re in a resort attraction destination. It’s so quiet with the beaches on one side and water surrounding you.”

Learn about the 3,200-acre isle’s history at the Tom Ridge Environmental Center before

moving on to the Erie Maritime Museum. Here, two tall ships, including the U.S. Brig Niagara, act as floating museums and are available for daytime or sunset sails.

For those 12 and younger, the Experience Children’s Museum is unveiling exciting additions this spring. “Throughout the museum and its various exhibits are stories about Lake Erie that help educate children about the region’s rich history,” Temple says. “There’s also a replica of the U.S. Brig Niagara that kids can climb on and learn how to tie knots.”

Round out the afternoon browsing local treasures at Moose Head Pottery and Relish Studio and Gallery before setting your sights on Oliver’s Rooftop Bar and Restaurant, boasting floor-to-ceiling glass panels that set the scene for a sunset dinner straight from a fairytale. “The views of Lake Erie and Presque Isle are just incredible,” Temple says. “It’s a great new addition to our bayfront district.”

For a more casual peek into the city’s culinary scene, Flagship City Food Hall, home to nine diverse local food vendors and a fullservice bar, is sure to please every palate.

Rest easy at the Sheraton Erie Bayfront Hotel, which, by summer 2023, will be wrapping up a $7.5-million renovation with a nautical-themed design.

Horseshoe Falls

Erie Maritime Museum

Moose Head Pottery HORSESHOE FALLS: ISTOCK, ERIE MARITIME MUSEUM AND MOOSEHEAD POTTERY: COURTESY VISITERIE

CONNEAUT

If weather permits and you have a fourwheel or all-wheel-drive vehicle, stop at the sandbar on the western corner of Conneaut Harbor in eastern Ohio to check out the beach without having to schlep all your gear.

ASHTABULA

At Walnut Beach Park, you’ll want to leave the car behind as you explore one of the region’s beach glass hot spots. Next, head over to Harbor Yak, which offers kayak, paddleboard, hydrobike and pontoon boat rentals.

GENEVA-ON-THE-LAKE

With more than 150 years of history, Geneva-on-the-Lake is a must for those traveling around Lake Erie. Snap an Instagram-worthy shot in front of the GOTL sign or Ferris wheel at Old Firehouse Winery, try to get a hole-inone at Allison’s Mini Golf (the oldest miniature golf course in the U.S.) or zip above the creeks of Geneva State Park at speeds up to 30 mph at Lake Erie Canopy Tours.

MADISON

It’s time to unwind for a bit. Due to the region’s relatively mild climate, Grand River Valley is home to some of the best grape growers in the country. In Madison alone, there are more than 10, including Debonne Vineyards, Grand River Cellars Winery and Restaurant, Stonegait Winery and Cask 307.

DAY 4

On the Road to Cleveland

FAIRPORT HARBOR

If you brought your tackle box, now’s the time to throw your line in the water as the Fairport Harbor pier offers some of the best walleye, perch and steelhead trout fishing in the region. Take a break at the Pompadour, a small plates restaurant and cocktail bar, or enjoy all-you-can-eat seafood at Pickle Bill’s Lobster House in nearby Grand River. Before making your way to Cleveland, be sure to visit Mentor’s Headlands Beach, the longest beach on Lake Erie that provides a phenomenal view of the Fairport Harbor West Breakwater Lighthouse. The James A. Garfield National Historic Site in Mentor also is worth a stop.

“For anybody who’s into history, it’s an absolute must,” says Neil Stein, executive director of the Lake County Visitors Bureau. “There’s so many original things there.”

CLEVELAND

Take in spectacular views of the city’s skyline at Voinovich Bicentennial Park, also home to one of the Cleveland Script Signs. Nearby, music lovers can cross the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame off their bucket list before embarking on an evening filled with entertainment. Options include rooftop bars and breweries, a cruise on the Goodtime III, a comedic city tour on the Funny Bus Cleveland, the Big Bang Dueling Piano Bar, the Improv Comedy Theater & Restaurant and, of course, sporting events. After a night on the town, hit the pillow at Aloft Cleveland Downtown, a stylish boutique hotel in the center of Cleveland’s hip Flats East Bank. If you’re lucky, you might get to witness a 700-foot-long freighter navigate the Cuyahoga River’s tight curves.

Lake Erie Canopy Tours

Cask 307

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame COURTESY CASK 307, COURTESY LAKE ERIE CANOPY TOURS, ROCK & ROLL HALL OF FAME: ISTOCK

VERMILION

This Lake Erie gem is known for its quaint downtown full of shops and restaurants, including Erie and Anchor, SOS Wines, Main Street Threads Boutique, Harbourtown Trading Co., the Wine Vault and Hometown Bakery. Meanwhile, Chez Francois — one of Lake Erie’s premier restaurants — expanded its offerings with the 555 Lounge, which includes a raw bar and craft cocktails.

SANDUSKY

“With so much great energy and opportunity, there are a lot of reasons to want to enjoy time in Sandusky’s downtown,” says Jill Bauer, of Shores & Islands Ohio, highlighting the Merry-Go-Round Museum as one of her favorites. “My family loves to visit the museum and take a spin on the carousel,” she says. “My kids love watching the carvers and doing crayon rubbings.”

Dive farther into the city’s roots at the Maritime Museum of Sandusky, which teaches visitors about ice harvesting, shipwrecks, boat

DAY 5

Go West

building and Sandusky’s Underground Railroad history.

You can’t visit Sandusky without spending at least a few hours at America’s Roller Coast. This year, Cedar Point will unveil the Boardwalk, a retro-themed midway showcasing new rides that nod to the past, and a Grand Pavilion with a restaurant and lakeview bar.

Before calling it a night at Hotel Kilbourne, a boutique hotel overlooking Sandusky Bay, head up the elevator to Moseley’s Rooftop Bar for drinks and a spectacular view of Jackson Street Pier and Lake Erie.

Erie and Anchor

Chez Francois

Cedar Point

COURTESY CHEZ FRANCOIS, ERIE AND ANCHOR, CEDAR POINT

PORT CLINTON

Before hopping on a ferry, take a minute to explore the Walleye Capital of the World, where a 600-pound glass fish drops every New Year’s Eve. Festivals are weekly affairs, and everyone’s here to kick back, relax and have a good time on the water — whatever that means to you. Downtown Port Clinton is home to nautical gift shops, such as Lake Erie Candle Co., and restaurants, like Rosie’s Bar & Grill (our favorite). Don’t leave without sampling one of the more than 30 flavors — including Wild Walleye — at the Great Lakes Popcorn Co.

PUT-IN-BAY

The islands offer so much to explore, so there’s no time to waste.

First on the bucket list is the 352-foot Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial that offers a bird’s-eye view of our Great Lake, followed closely by Crystal Cave — the world’s largest geode — and Lake Erie Islands Nature & Wildlife Center, which recently expanded with new exhibits.

“It’s a great place to take the kids, and it offers a lot of summer programming as well,” says Bauer, also calling out Duff Woods Preserve, a new 13.7-acre nature preserve featuring a 2,200-foot hiking trail, as well the island’s more than two dozen dining destinations. “There’s so much variety and something to accommodate everyone’s tastes and budget. Some of my personal favorites are Goat Soup & Whiskey, The Forge and The Keys.”

Once you’ve gotten a taste of island life, rent a single or double kayak from Kayak the Bay and head to Gibraltar Island to explore the marvelous limestone cliffs and coves from the water’s surface. Those feeling up for a more adventurous paddle can make their way to Middle Bass Island to visit the old Lonz Winery property, which is undergoing a $5 million renovation.

KELLEYS ISLAND

Book a biking tour through Kelleys Island AdvenTours to get the inside scoop on the island’s nature and history. Then, be amazed by the glacial grooves, which are 400 feet long, 35 feet wide and 15 feet deep and attract visitors from all around the world.

Next up is the Charles Herndon Gallery and Sculpture Garden. “This is such a hidden island gem. Even if you’re not into sculptures, it’s a very relaxing and contemplative place to walk around,” Bauer says. “If you appreciate art, be sure to visit the gallery as well. There are a variety of items for sale, from paintings and sculptures to jewelry.”

At North Shore Alvar State Nature Preserve, visitors can explore the unique plant species found on this nearly barren land and enjoy wonderful shoreline views.

Dining on Kelleys is a breeze, with plenty of options, including Kelleys Island Wine Co., a pet-friendly full-service winery and restaurant; Peepers, which features smoked meats and barbecue; and West Bay Inn Restaurant and Tiki Hut, where some of the island’s best sunsets can be enjoyed. If you’re spending the night, check out the Water’s Edge Retreat or Kelleys Island Venture Resort — and grab a coffee the next morning at Taste by the Lake before hopping back on the ferry and making your way home.

Goat Soup & Whiskey

The Forge

Charles Herndon Gallery and Sculpture Garden

COURTESY GOAT SOUP & WHISKEY, THE FORGE, CHARLES HERNDON GALLERY AND SCULPTURE GARDEN

EXPLORE There's More To

From the white stretches of sand in Pennsylvania to the lighthouses of the North Shore, Lake Erie is full of both old favorites and hidden gems. In these pages, you'll find ideas to inspire. Because, whether you like to get up and go or sit back and relax, Lake Erie has it all.

By Samhita Chitturi, Kellie Gormly, Vince Guerrieri, Rachel Hagenbaugh and Colleen Smitek

Four Seasons at Point Pelee

Point Pelee National Park (parks.canada.ca) is the southernmost point of mainland Canada, inviting you to walk out on the spit of sand at the very tip that bends and shifts with the wind and the waves. Located about an hour from the American border on the Detroit River, the park has plenty to explore in every season.

WINTER

There are 24 oTENTik sites in Point Pelee that offer basic overnights in a cross between a cabin and a tent. Use them as your cozy base for hiking or snowshoeing.

SPRING

Birding is at its peak here both in the spring and fall, with almost 400 species of birds having been recorded. Visit during the Festival of Birds in May to join a guided hike.

SUMMER

Kayak or canoe through the marsh alongside frogs and turtles or explore more than 7 miles of bike trails. Then, hit the sand at Point Pelee North West Beach to relax.

FALL

The park was designated as a Dark Sky Preserve in 2006 and has 11 Dark Sky Nights a year when it’s open till midnight, including Sept. 16, Oct. 14, Nov. 18 and Dec. 16.

LONG POINT ECO-ADVENTURES

From glamping and ziplining to stargazing and axe throwing, discover the many ways to explore outdoors at Long Point Eco-Adventures ( lpfun.ca) in St. Williams.

Dine with a divine view of Lake Erie in the background at Marshview Patio & Bar, serving scrumptious breakfasts daily, as well as refreshing lunch and dinner dishes Friday through Tuesday.

Be sure to check out the extensive drink menu complete with a selection of mixed drinks. (Lavender Honeybee, anyone?)

Long Point Eco-Adventures offers an array of activities for nature lovers of all ages and interests, including paddleboarding, biking, ziplining and hiking. On the Honeybee Apiary Tour, get a deeper understanding of the life of a beekeeper and inner workings of a honeybee hive.

Enjoy a variety of overnight accommodations, from charming wooden huts and cozy glamping tents to a rustic cabin complete with a full kitchen. For a more luxurious experience, book a room at Burning Kiln Winery’s Farmhouse, which provides plenty of space to relax and take in vineyard views.

Join naturalist Robin Tapley on an outdoor culinary journey where you’ll learn to forage for mushrooms before enjoying a delicious gourmet lunch prepared by executive chef Heather Pond. The event, which takes place Sept. 23 and 24, includes an overnight stay, local drink pack, s’mores kit and hot breakfast.

EAT STAY PLAY GO

Take 5

Lighthouses of the North Shore

Once primarily used to ensure safe passage of vessels in and out of harbors, lighthouses today serve as a guiding light into the past. Sprinkled across the Lake Erie shoreline are more than 50 lighthouses, each with its own story to tell.

1 BOIS BLANC ISLAND LIGHTHOUSE

This 40-foot-tall round limestone structure was built in 1836 and reflects the imperial tower design popular at the time. It marks the entrance to the mouth of the Detroit River and entryway to the upper Great Lakes. Located on the southern tip of Bois Blanc Island in Amherstburg, the lighthouse is visible from the shore of the Detroit River. parks.canada.ca

2 PELEE ISLAND LIGHTHOUSE

Built in 1834 on Lake Erie’s largest island, this 66-foottall lighthouse was constructed to guide vessels traveling the shipping route to the Detroit River. Located within Lighthouse Point Provincial Nature Preserve, the structure is accessible via a hiking trail that’s perfect for bird watching and includes a walk along the beach. pelee.com

3 PORT BURWELL LIGHTHOUSE

Standing 45 feet tall, this white, octagonal building is the oldest wooden lighthouse on Lake Erie’s Canadian shore. Built in 1840, it’s also one of the oldest and best-maintained lighthouses in Canada. Book a tour to take in the sweeping views of Port Burwell and Lake Erie from atop the iconic structure. bayham.on.ca

4 MOHAWK ISLAND LIGHTHOUSE

Located 2 miles off the mainland on Mohawk Island, this 59-foot-tall stone structure was built in 1846 to warn travelers of an offshore shoal. It features a cylindrical, tapered tower with a lighthouse keeper’s residence. Decommissioned since 1969, the tower can be seen from the end of Mohawk Point Road or Rock Point Provincial Park in Dunville. pc.gc.ca

5 POINT ABINO LIGHTHOUSE

Located in Fort Erie, this lighthouse was built in 1917 between the high and low water marks on the rocky shoreline of Point Abino. Standing 98 feet tall, the concrete lighthouse features classic detailing and consists of three structures — a tower, deck and fog alarm building. Limited tours are available on a first-come, first-served basis. forterie.ca

LAURA WATILO BLAKE

LAKE ERIE ISLANDS

Behind the Boat

For a half-century, Billy Market has been working on the Miller Boat Line (millerferry.com) and ferrying fun-seekers to Put-in-Bay. Market started picking up trash and mowing grass as a kid. Like his father, William, who started at the company in 1947 and bought it with his wife, Mary Ann, in 1976, Market worked his way up. Today, at 61, he’s the general manager and co-owner with his brother, Scott, and his sister, Julene.

HIS START

Market graduated to working in the ticket booth and then started as a deck hand when he was 17. He got his captain’s license when he was 19 and filled in on crews until he was 24. “Then I started taking over the day-today operations.”

ALL IN THE FAMILY

There’s a third generation working on the ferry line. “My nephew Jake, he’s pretty much in charge of the new vessel construction. My daughter, Caitlin, has taken over office responsibilities. We’re loosening the leash now. Maybe not as much as they want, but they’re getting their feet wet pretty quick.”

BUSY SEASON

One of the things Billy does is make sure the fleet is properly crewed and moving. With five vessels and 120 employees in season, that’s not always easy. “There are some days where we’ll run up to 45 trips trying to keep up with demand and, if everyone shows up in the proper spot, it makes me look really good.”

ISLAND LIFE

Billy, who lives on South Bass Island, says the peak season is from Memorial Day to Labor Day, but the season can run from St. Patrick’s Day to New Year’s Day. “I haven’t golfed nearly as much as I’d like to,” he says. “I still play softball on the islands a couple days a week. We have a poker group on Thursday night.”

ALWAYS ON

“Everyone’s worked so hard for the majority of the year that you look forward to some time off but, when you’re shut down, we’re making plans to do all the things that you couldn’t do in season. I’ve got a honey-do list that’s about an arm’s length.”

Spotlight ON

PELEE ISLAND

With more than 10,000 acres, Pelee Island is the biggest island in Lake Erie but also one of the least explored. That’s likely because, for Americans, it’s harder to get to since the Owen Sound Transportation Co. (ontarioferries.com) offers just one trip a day. But those who persist are rewarded with quiet roads, splendid views and new experiences.

Sip pinot grigio or merlot in the outdoor wine garden at Pelee Island Winery Pavilion (peleeisland.com) before heading to Stone House 1891 (stonehouse1891.com) for classics like Lake Erie perch and burgers, but you’ll also find more interesting entrees like mussels and poutine.

While you won’t find chain hotels on this laid-back island, there are plenty of campsites, inns and cottages for rent. Find them on the island’s official website — pelee.org

Pelee Island is a paradise for hikers, birders and anglers, but cyclists might have the most fun thanks to the nearly 20-mile trail that goes all the way around the island, hugging the shoreline.

Find the full ferry schedule online at millerferry.com.

A Day ON KELLEYS ISLAND

9 a.m. Depart Marblehead on the Kelleys Island Ferry for a 20-minute cruise to the island. Stop by Seaway Marina for breakfast at the cafe and rent a golf cart for easy island cruising.

10:30 a.m. Head to Inscription Rock Petroglyphs to view Native American symbols carved in rock on the south shore of Kelleys Island between 1200 and 1600 A.D.

11 a.m. Venture to Charles Herndon Gallery and Sculpture Garden to discover the works of a passionate island artist.

Noon Pair a glass of grapes with a salad, sandwich or pizza at Kelleys Island Wine Co. Or chill out with a frozen margarita at KI Cantina, Kelleys Island’s only Mexican restaurant.

1:30 p.m. Visit Kelleys Island History Museum & Parsonage Resale Shop. “The museum is a very interesting way to learn about island life and the history of the entire region,” says Jill Bauer of Shores & Islands Ohio.

2:30 p.m. Take a hike at the North Shore Alvar State Nature Preserve. “A lot of people enjoy exploring the ruins that are located here, and taking a short hike leads to some beautiful shoreline views,” Bauer says.

3:30 p.m. Head downtown to cool off with a couple of scoops at Dipper Dan’s Ice Cream before checking out the local shopping scene with stops at Kelleys Island General Store, Island Mining Co., Chicklet’s Closet, Meg’s Makeshop, Kelleys Island Clothing Co., Cathy’s Wire Art Jewelry and more.

6 p.m. Get ready for dinner. From Captains Corner and Village Pump to Peeper’s and Sand Trap Tiki Bar, there’s no shortage of destinations to grab a drink and dinner. For a front row seat to an unforgettable Lake Erie sunset, snag a table at the Casino, Docker’s Waterfront Bar and Restaurant or West Bay Bar and Restaurant.

9 p.m. Board the ferry back to the mainland, taking time to absorb a few more gusts of calming freshwater breezes.

STAY THE NIGHT: Keep alive the island vibes by booking an overnight stay at Kelleys Island Venture Resort ( kiventureresort.com), the island’s only boutique resort hotel. Take a dip in the swimming pool or hot tub before settling in for the night. Wake to the soothing sound of the water’s edge before making your way back to the mainland. For more information on places to dine, shop and stay, visit kelleysisland.com.

MORE ON MIDDLE BASS

THE YING

TO

PUT-IN-BAY’S

YANG, Middle Bass Island is an ideal destination to escape the frenzy of the mainland and take advantage of the quiet side of island life.

“The island is so peaceful, and everybody is so nice. There’s a lot of natural beauty,” says Michelle Brunner, a painter and Middle Bass Island seasonal resident. “There’s so many places that are fun to see.”

One such destination is East Point Preserve (lakeerieislandconservancy.org), an 8-acre property on the island’s northeastern peninsula, where more than 120 species of birds and 30 species of plants and trees have been identified.

“Taking a bike and riding around the island — that’s the best way to do it,” Brunner says, pointing to the Historic Lonz Winery (ohiodnr.gov) as one of her favorite destinations. The castle-like

structure opened for self-guided tours in 2017 and houses several historical exhibits, as well as a cafe called the Island Grind that’s open from 6:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. The site also hosts the island’s annual free Middle Bass Music Fest, which this year is July 15 from noon to 7 p.m.

Those looking for a destination to eat, shop or stay the night can find it all at J.F. Walleye’s ( jfwalleyes.net). Catch a basket of Lake Erie walleye bites to nibble by the pool or grab a drink and relax with some live entertainment. Condos are available for those looking to extend their stay, while a boutique offers the perfect destination to snag a souvenir.

For a true slice of island life, head to Middle Bass General Store (mbigeneralstore.com) and grab a seat on the patio of this local hot spot while sharing a mouthwatering pie from Uncle Joe’s Pizza.

Four Seasons at The Henry Ford

Spotlight ON

DETROIT

Detroit, the big southeastern Michigan metropolis dubbed “Motor City,” boasts great restaurants, music and plenty of places to explore.

WINTER

It doesn’t get any merrier than Holiday Nights in Greenfield Village, where you’ll find 80 acres of carolers, roasting chestnuts and historic homes. Take a ride on a Model T or horse-drawn wagon or a spin on the carousel or around the ice rink. Make your evening even more magical by booking Supper with Santa or a candle-lit dinner at Eagle Tavern.

SPRING

Greenfield Village opens for the season April 15. Until then, there’s plenty to explore inside at the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation, including the bus on which Rosa Parks was riding when she was arrested and the rocking chair in which Abraham Lincoln was sitting when he was shot. Kids love the hands-on activities and exhibits.

SUMMER

Greenfield Village is an outdoor living history museum that’s home to almost 100 buildings from different time periods in America, including the Wright Brothers’ original bicycle shop that was moved from Dayton, Ohio. Other famous buildings include poet Robert Frost’s home and the courthouse where Abraham Lincoln practiced law in Illinois.

FALL

Hallowe’en in Greenfield Village invites guests to stroll through the village at their own pace. During the day, enjoy wool dying, beer brewing and yard games. Things get spookier at night on the illuminated jack-o’-lantern path that leads through dramatic vignettes from such stories as The Legend of Sleepy Hollow and The Wonderful Wizard of Oz.

EAT

For down-home soul food at an iconic Detroit eatery, try the new location of Detroit Soul in the Jefferson Chalmers neighborhood. You can enjoy favorites like mac and cheese, black-eyed peas, barbecue and cobbler. detroitsoul.net

For a cool boutique hotel stay in the heart of Detroit, book The Siren Hotel. This newer artsy hotel with 106 guestrooms — along with shops, restaurants and a rooftop deck — occupies the historic 1926 Wurlitzer Building. thesirenhotel.com

To take in the beautiful sights of the American and Canadian skylines on opposite shores of the Detroit River, take a one-hour narrated cruise on a Diamond Jack Riverboat. diamondjack.com

Detroit’s history is full of soul. If you’re a music fan, visit on April 1 for the 15th Annual Motor City Blues Festival. The 2023 Blues is Alright Tour, held at the historic Fox Theatre, features performances by Blues artists Pokey Bear, King George and Calvin Richardson. visitdetroit.com

Located just outside of Detroit, The Henry Ford (thehenryford.org) has two top-notch attractions — Greenfield Village and Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation.

An Afternoon in Wine Country Wine Country

Northern Ohio’s Lake Erie-moderated climate and rich soil make it an ideal spot for grape growing. As a result, the region is dotted with wineries, each with its own tastes and atmospheres. Here are five of our favorites.

Take 5

1 THE WINERIE

Wine and dine while enjoying live entertainment on the patio overlooking the vineyard at the Winerie, a family-owned estate vineyard in Sandusky that exudes a cozy, rustic atmosphere. Pair a glass with an array of palate-pleasing appetizers, salads or sliders. thewinerie.com

2 ROCKY POINT WINERY

This Marblehead hidden gem is known for its old schoolhouse home and native Midwest wines, including concord, a sweet Lake Erie red wine, and pink Catawba, Rocky Point Winery’s most popular creation that’s best enjoyed on the outdoor, pet-friendly patio with firepits. rockypointwinery.com

3 PAPER MOON VINEYARDS

Paper Moon Vineyards in Vermilion not only offers a nice selection of wines, but visitors also rave about the destination’s hard cider, sangrias and selection of beer from local breweries. Enjoy your drink of choice with a selection of small plates and live music Fridays and Saturdays. papermoonvineyards.com

4 FERRANTE WINERY & RISTORANTE

Located in the heart of the Grand River Valley, Ferrante Winery & Ristorante stands out among the crowd. A family affair since 1937, third-generation brothers manage the vineyard’s 40 acres and winemaking, while two of their sisters and extended family members curate a menu of Italian-inspired dishes. ferrantewinery.com

5 BUCCIA VINEYARD WINERY

This boutique winery in Conneaut specializes in cool climate wines. Opt for Reflections of Lake Erie, a semi-sweet white wine that blends the best of the region’s grapes, or Baco Noir, a, light-bodied red wine that blends raspberry, spice and vanilla. Turn an afternoon into a weekend by staying at the on-site bed-andbreakfast. bucciavineyards.com

COUPLE: LAURA WATILO BLAKE, COURTESY ROCKY POINT WINERY

MY FAVORITES

Meet Karen Volzer, owner of Fairport Harbor Creamery (fairportharborcreamery.com). Here, she shares why she chose Fairport Harbor for her summer home and booming business.

HOME AWAY FROM HOME

One of Volzer’s favorite ways to spend time on Lake Erie is simply sitting on her back porch, watching the waves, wildlife and boats that breathe life into the waterfront. “We have a beautiful view of the lake. My kids love it,” she says. “It’s nice to have somewhere you can just pack up and go to. You feel like you’re on vacation every weekend.”

FULL OF NATURAL FLAVOR

So what’s Volzer’s favorite flavor of ice cream? With no hesitation — key lime pie. “It’s made with real key lime juice, as well as a house-made graham cracker crumble that’s swirled in,” she says, adding that she never uses any artificial flavoring. “It makes a big difference. One of the most unique things about us is that all of our mix-ins are made in-house. The cookies and cakes are actually baked at the shop using our own recipes.”

JUST BEACHY

Volzer also loves Fairport Harbor Lakefront Park, which offers paddleboard and kayak rentals, concessions and a fantastic view of the Fairport Harbor West Breakwater Lighthouse. “It’s a beautiful family beach,” she says, adding that, because of the breakwater, it’s a great place for little ones.

MAKING PEOPLE SMILE

Having owned several businesses prior to the ice cream shop, Volzer has always been an entrepreneur. When she saw a vacant space downtown, she thought it would be a fun adventure. “Ice cream makes people smile,” she says with a laugh.

ALL ABOUT THE LOVE

“People in town thank me for investing in that because it’s changed the vibe of Fairport Harbor’s downtown. It’s given the area a social outlet in the evening. It’s a great town. I love Fairport Harbor.”

Spotlight ON SANDUSKY

Home to the world-famous Cedar Point, as well as indoor water parks and ferries that whisk you to the Lake Erie islands, Sandusky has been rated among the country’s best coastal towns. “Sandusky is really becoming the place to be,” says Jill Bauer of Shores & Islands Ohio, revealing some of the city’s newest and most popular hot spots, as well as a few old favorites.

Paddle Bar (paddleandclimb.com) is a fun hangout with a Key West vibe, while Everwild Spirits (everwildspirits. com) is Sandusky’s first bourbon distillery. In the mood for something more upscale? Check out J Bistro Downtown (jbistrodowntown.com) where you'll find steak, seafood and pasta, as well as starters like escargot and lobster flatbread. If you're looking to start the day right, stop by the recently remodeled Wake up and Waffle (wakeupandwaffle.com).

“Jackson Street Pier is a hub of activity, from the special events hosted there to people just visiting casually to enjoy a sunset, fishing from the pier, swinging on the swings or watching the boats go by,” Bauer says. Step away from the shoreline to check out Lagoon Deer Park (lagoondeerparkohio.com), home to more than 200 animals — including elk, peacocks and emus — and four stocked ponds, making it a perfect place to reel in the catch of the day.

SAVE THE DATE THE SUMMER MARKET JULY 21-22

Held at the Black River Landing in Lorain, the Summer Market is an outdoor festival boasting more than 100 vendors selling art, jewelry, coastal décor, fresh produce, furniture, clothing and more. Guests can grab a bite to eat from several featured restaurants and food trucks, enjoy a cocktail by the water, listen to live music and watch the sun set — all while knowing that a portion of the proceeds helps local families and organizations in need. thesummermarket.com

PLAY GO

STAY

Turn a day of splashing around at the waterpark into a weekend-long affair at Castaway Bay (castawaybay. com), which offers a taste of island life with tropical-themed guest rooms. For those with larger groups, opt for the villas at Kalahari Resorts & Conventions (kalahariresorts. com/ohio). These two-level suites include seven flat screen TVs, five bedrooms, a recreation room with a full bar, pool table, fully equipped kitchen and the ability to sleep 11.

Head to Jackson Street Pier on Thursdays from June 30 to Sept. 1 for Party at the Pier (cityofsandusky. com), a free summer concert series that starts at 7 p.m. and attracts hundreds of visitors. Meanwhile, Festival of Sail Sandusky (sandusky. festofsail.com), which takes place the first weekend in July, brings entertainment, festival food, a beer garden, tall ships and the World’s Largest Rubber Duck right to the city’s waterfront.

Lakeside Chautauqua Celebrates 150 Years

IN 1873, A GROUP OF PEOPLE GATHERED along the Lake Erie shoreline in Ohio, envisioning a place where they could gather for worship and lecture studies. They found a beautiful lakeside spot and set up tents. A year later, they built Hotel Lakeside and the rest, as they say, is history.

“Lakeside is a family destination for rest, renewal and reinvigoration,” says Gretchen Colon, vice president of advancement and marketing for Lakeside Chautauqua.

Built upon the pillars of religion, education, arts and recreation, Lakeside Chautauqua’s calendar of events is filled Memorial Day through Labor Day with activities geared toward nurturing one’s well-being. An afternoon could be spent at the beach or pool, taking an art class, enjoying live music by the water, attending a lecture or playing tennis, pickleball, sand volleyball or shuffleboard.

“There’s really something for everyone, and, more importantly, something for multiple generations,” Colon says.

And although Lakeside Chautauqua is a gated community requiring an entrance fee during the summer, newcomers are always greeted with open arms. “Lakeside is open to everyone,” Colon says. “You can get a 90-minute shopping and dining pass or book a cottage for a weekend or week. Some people love it so much that they stay for the entire summer.”

This year, as Lakeside Chautauqua celebrates its 150th anniversary, programming will focus on honoring the past, celebrating the present and looking to the future. That means an impressive lineup of prominent preachers and nationally recognized authors and thought leaders. There’s also a full line-up of entertainment, including Blood, Sweat & Tears (July 8) in Hoover Auditorium.

“Lakeside is needed now more than ever,” Colon says. “People are looking for a place of purpose and ways to step out of the hustle and bustle to renew and rest. We’re celebrating that this year by helping people and families do that along the shoreline.”

Four Seasons at Presque Isle State Park

Presque Isle State Park (dcnr.pa.gov) stretches into the water like an arm sheltering the city of Erie. It boasts 11 pristine beaches, a 13.5-mile multi-purpose trail that loops around the park and more than 300 species of birds. What doesn’t it have? Any commercial or residential development to blight the beauty.

WINTER

Explore the park on snowshoes or skis — or just enjoy the scene from your own car. The Tom Ridge Environmental Center offers more to do indoors.

SPRING

Join in on the action when birding is at its peak in the park. Festival of the Birds (presqueisleaudubon. org) runs from May 12-14 and offers field trips and more.

SUMMER

Hit the sand at the beach of your choice. Beach No. 11 is the most sheltered and has shallow water and a playground that make it perfect for little ones.

FALL

Bike all the way around the peninsula on the multipurpose trail that takes you past all 11 beaches, as well as Misery Bay and the Perry Monument.

Hands-On HISTORY

The highlight of the Hagen History Center (eriehistory.org) in Erie is that it features items we can touch and feel for ourselves. While not everything is up for grabs, the center welcomes us to gently lay our hands on a select few items, giving us a ride on a metaphoric time-travel machine. Here are the top five must-see exhibits:

3 WATSON-CURTZE MANSION FIRST FLOOR

Built in 1891, the Watson-Curtze Mansion boasts 12 fireplaces and a ballroom. While the upper two floors go through rotations of new exhibits, the lower level remains in its original state. Stained glass windows, mosaic fireplaces, ornate woodwork and period furnishings fill the floor. Highlights include an antique harp and piano in the living room, a grandfather clock and Victor Talking Machine in the foyer, rows of antique books shelved in the library and an Underwood typewriter that sits in the den.

1 THE STORY OF US

A fan-favorite of locals, this new exhibit demonstrates how Erie was influenced by immigration over the decades and developed into the city it is today. The exhibit includes a full-scale replica of what a recent immigrant's rented room looked like, as well as items from everyday life like old clothing, stoves and toys. Two must-see and can-touch items are an old cash register and a worker’s toolbox.

2 FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT OFFICE RECONSTRUCTION

Wright is known as the father of organic architecture, which seeks to bring structures together with their natural environments. To do so, he used 120-degree angles instead of traditional 90-degree angles and focused on natural materials and colors. He also employed “compression and release,” which saw low-ceiling hallways open into higher-ceiling rooms. All of these methods are on display in the reconstruction of Wright’s San Francisco office at Hagen, which includes drafting boards and an imitation of the view from Wright’s original office.

4 THE WINDOW SEAT IN WINIFRED’S ROOM

Among the second-floor exhibits in the Watson-Curtze Mansion is Winifred’s Room and the Children’s Gallery. One side of the room is filled with toys from the 19th and 20th centuries. The other side has a cushioned window seat with a photo of Winifred, the only child of Harrison F. and Carrie T. Watson, hanging on the wall above. The photo shows her as a young girl sitting in the same cushioned seat. The Hagen History Center invites visitors to take a photo in the window seat just as young Winifred did.

5 COMMODORE PERRY’S SWORD AND THE PERRYHARRISON TELESCOPE

Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry commanded various ships during the War of 1812, including the USS Lawrence and the USS Niagara. The sword and telescope he used during that battle are on display at Hagen. Accompanying the items is a color lithograph by Huddy & Duval in which Perry can be seen on the left side of the image.

— Samhita Chitturi

A Day at Chautauqua Lake

CHAUTAUQUA LAKE HAS A LONG HISTORY of delighting visitors with a range of experiences (tourchautauqua.com) from outdoor adventures to cultural attractions, including the National Comedy Center and the Chautauqua Institution, which is celebrating its 150th anniversary this year.

“People should not miss this destination because it has something for everyone all year long, and people who visit here really do fall in love with the area,” says Victoria Burch of the Chautauqua County Visitors Bureau.

For example, 6 Baers Toys & Gift Shoppe (baeressentials.org) offers old-fashioned toys, candy and DIY kits while ART Cloth + Craft (artclothandcraft.com) in Jamestown offers handmade gifts and jewelry from local artists, as well women’s and children’s clothing. Take home a taste of Chautauqua County at Jamestown’s Borsari Food Co. Inc. (borsarifoods.com), offering an array of top-notch seasonings, or Webb’s Candies (webbscandies.com) in Mayville for some goat milk fudge or other sweet treats.

Chautauqua Lake also is home to more than a dozen waterfront dining options, from 4 Below Haggy’s Bar and Grille (4belowbarandgrill.com), Jamestown’s only self-serve bar taps, to Stella: A Kitchen & Bar (stellakitchenandbar.wordpress.com), one of Lakewood’s newest culinary options, featuring a diverse, creatively curated menu of contemporary and traditional American fare.

New to the area this year is Ghostfish Brewing Co. (ghostfishbrewing.com), the largest gluten-free brewery in the U.S. Headquartered in Seattle, Washington, Ghostfish offers seven flagship beers, including three IPAs, a stout, pale ale, pale lager and Belgian white ale.

Of course, a day at the lake is not complete without a visit to the Chautauqua Institution (chq.org), which features a plethora of art, education, entertainment, recreation and religious experiences from late June through late August.

THE SPARK OF ART

Good art makes you feel something.

At the Roger Tory Peterson Institute in Jamestown (rtpi.org), the goal is to nurture a greater love of nature and our planet.

That’s done by showcasing more than 1,500 original works of art by Roger Tory Peterson, known for traveling the world to create his Peterson Field Guides. It’s also done through special exhibitions, including Hope is the Thing with Feathers: Contemporary Women Nature Artists. The exhibit, which runs through June 11, includes work by five women whose art explores “the paradoxically powerful and fragile nature of birds and the ecosystems in which they live.”

But there’s no better way to appreciate nature than to actually be in it. To that end, the institute maintains 27 acres of wildflower gardens, pollinator meadows and mature stands of hemlock trees — and plenty of trails to explore all of it.

“The intersection of art and nature lies at the heart of everything we do, including along our trails,” says Arthur Pearson, the institute’s CEO. “In addition to live birds, keep your eyes peeled for carved wood sculptures of a bald eagle, a northern flicker and lots more.”

Take 5

Canalside Calling

Nestled in the heart of Buffalo’s bustling downtown is Canalside, a “waterfront destination unlike any other in the country,” says Michael Spong, business development manager for Buffalo Waterfront (buffalowaterfront.com). “Our guests love to be by the water,” he says. “Canalside offers a host of activities and vantage points for guests to interact with Lake Erie.”

1 BUFFALO RIVER HISTORY TOUR

See the city from the Buffalo River during a 90-minute look into the past, where you’ll learn about the Erie Canal, as well as the city’s story as the largest grain port in the world. Four tours are offered daily from mid-May through the end of September. “If you want to see, learn and experience how Buffalo became one of the largest cities in the country in the mid-1800s, Canalside offers that backdrop and understanding while providing guests a fun and interactive visit,” Spong says.

2 BUFFALO HERITAGE CAROUSEL

Gets the kids in on the fun. This fully restored, solar-powered, vintage park-style carousel designed in 1924 celebrates the history of carousel manufacturing in western New York — and it’s right on the boardwalk.

3 BUFFALO AND ERIE COUNTY NAVAL & MILITARY PARK

Get a closer look at the nation’s military history at the country’s largest inland Naval Park. Home to four decommissioned naval vessels, the property also features a museum, monuments garden, U.S. military exhibits and a maritime simulator. buffalonavalpark.org

4 WATER BIKES OF BUFFALO

See the city from a new point of view by renting a single rider or tandem water bike or pedal boat from Water Bikes of Buffalo and floating your way along the canal. Along the way, you’ll pass massive grain elevators, extraordinary naval ships and more. waterbikesofbuffalo.com

5 EXPLORE & MORE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM

With more than 40,000 square feet of Buffalocentric activities, this museum gives a good look at the region’s history, geography, culture, architecture, athletics and innovation. Highlights include a tinkering tank and art studio. exploreandmore.org

Spotlight ON

ELLICOTTVILLE

Home to one of the region’s most popular ski resorts, as well as a summer adventure park, arboretum and par-72 golf course, Ellicottville ( ellicottvilleny.com ) is a haven for outdoor exploration. But, with more than two dozen shops, bars and restaurants and several annual festivals and events, it’s also a city filled with space for everyone to play.

If pizza, burgers and wings are your thing, you belong at the Ellicottville Depot, known for its hip atmosphere, cheap eats and live entertainment. On the opposite end, Dina’s (dinas.com) offers a more upscale environment and extensive breakfast, lunch and dinner menus. At 12 Gates of EVL (12gatesbrewing.com), indulge in the city’s craft beer scene with 18 rotating taps.

See if you have what it takes to conquer the third-largest aerial park in the United States at Holiday Valley's Sky High Aerial Adventure Park (holidayvalley.com), where ziplining, a roller coaster ride through the forest and mining for hidden treasure are just the beginning. While you’re there, rent an e-bike to boost your cruise around the resort’s tough terrain.

Keep the cozy charm of Ellicottville alive during a stay at the Jefferson Inn (thejeffersoninn.com), an 1800's Victorian-style bed-and-breakfast minutes from popular hot spots, including gift shops, clothing boutiques, breweries, wineries, coffee shops and an ice cream bar. The inn makes an ideal base for exploring the region, including hiking trails and Amish country.

From the Summer Music Festival (June 30 to July 2) and Jazz & Blues Weekend (July 29 to 30) to A Taste of Ellicottville (Aug. 12 to 13) and Rock N’ Roll Weekend (Sept. 15 to 17), Ellicottville has no shortage of ways to keep residents and visitors busy throughout the summer, regardless of whether you’re a music lover or foodie. ellicottvilleny.com

Lakeside has been a family vacation destination on the Lake Erie shoreline for 150 years. As one of the original Chautauqua communities, Lakeside has been a center of spiritual renewal, education, cultural arts and recreation. Make this the year you experience all Lakeside has to offer. Celebrating

EAT PLAY STAY GO

4573 Route 307 East Geneva, OH 440-415-0661

laurellovineyards.com

unwind.

Laurello Vineyards

Laurello Vineyards is a familyowned winery providing handcrafted, award-winning wines and specially prepared foods as well as beer on tap. Laurello’s offers premium, vinifera wines in addition to unique blends and delicious ice wines. We invite you to stop by to experience our boutique winery.

Klingshirn Winery

33050 Webber Road Avon Lake, OH 440-933-6666

klingshirnwine.com

978 Catawba Avenue

Put-In-Bay, OH 419-285-2811

heinemanswinery.com

Growers and Producers of Ohio’s Finest wines since 1935. For over 85 years and three generations, this family farm winery has consistently provided crowd-pleasing and awardwinning wines. Visit our retail store to sample and purchase your favorite varieties. Visit our website for outlet stores and delivery options. Just 5 minutes off I-90 at St Rt 83 North Hours: Mon. - Sat., 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., closed Sun. and holidays.

Heineman Winery

Celebrating 135 years of family traditions, Heineman’s is the oldest family-owned and -operated winery in Ohio. This award-winning winery is also home to the world’s largest known Celestite geode and offers combined tours of the winery and Crystal Cave. Visit the tasting room featuring wines made on-site, while enjoying a fresh-cut cheese plate. Check our website for hours. Online ordering 24/7 to 38 states!

Quarry Hill Winery

111 West Main Street Marblehead, OH 419-967-5344

redferninn.com

11005 Gore Orphanage Road

Wakeman, OH 440-965-5202

vermilion-valleyvineyards.com

Red Fern Inn at

Rocky Point Winery

Located in the historic Marblehead Schoolhouse just steps from Lake Erie and down the street from the Marblehead Lighthouse, the Red Fern Inn is the perfect getaway. Guests have access to complimentary bicycles, a private lounge and several fire pits. We’re open year-round, with live music and special events April-October.

Vermilion Valley

Vineyards

Vermilion Valley Vineyards produces excellent quality wines with a classic, old-world European style on its 15 acres. This beautiful estate winery offers a tasting room, live music, and an extensive wine menu throughout the year. Come enjoy our outdoor space which overlooks our vineyard and 1.5-acre pond.

The Lumberyard Winery

118 West Front Street, Suite G Napoleon, OH 419-599-WINE (9463)

thelumberyardwinery.com

The Lumberyard Winery & Supply is situated along the scenic Maumee River in a historic lumberyard in Napoleon, Ohio. With a combined 40 years of winemaking experience, our winemakers are producing a variety of wines. Come in and enjoy an appetizer with your favorite wine or try something new in a tasting or flight.

White Timbers Winery

8403 Mason Road #2 Berlin Heights, OH 419-588-3179

quarryhillwinery.com

Well known for our estate-grown grapes and fruit wine, Quarry Hill’s vantage point and distant Lake Erie views make it the perfect combination of delicious wine and panoramic views. The Gammie family invites you to visit Quarry Hill Orchards, our bustling market barn, and end your day enjoying wines that are grown and carefully crafted from our vineyards.

10036 Rittman Road Wadsworth, OH 330-331-7383

thewhitetimbers.com

White Timbers is a new uniquely tranquil winery, vineyard and event center located at 10036 Rittman Road, Wadsworth, Ohio in Medina County. Find us online at thewhitetimbers.com and on Facebook and Instagram. Email: whitetimberswinery@gmail.com. Join us for “A Sip and A Sunset!”

Presented by...

Chateau Winery & Vineyard

525 State Route 635

Helena, OH 419-638-5411

chateauwineryandvineyard.com

Experience Chateau Winery & Vineyard, a hidden gem where guests can sit by the koi pond, stroll the vineyard, or relax in the tasting room. All of the wine is made on the premises, including a few estate grown wines. Open year round. Food menu, craft beer, live entertainment, and tours available. Owners: Bill and Michele Hollister

Knotty Vines Winery

52185 West Griggs Road

Wellington, OH 440-506-7022

heroncreekwine.com

Brady Vineyards of Ohio and Heron Creek Winery

The grapes to produce the awardwinning Heron Creek Wine are grown, processed, fermented and bottled in a sustainable way at the Brady Vineyards of Ohio 140-acre family farm. Fourteen acres of wine grapes, including seven different varietals, are grown in the Lake Erie region of North Central Ohio. Visit our website for details.

Crooked Tree Vineyard

2920 County Road 19 Wauseon, OH 419-446-WINE (9463) knottyvineswinery.com

Welcome to Knotty Vines Winery, where friends become family, stories are shared, and memories are made. Tasting room open Wednesday through Saturday with weekend entertainment. Take a day trip to the rich farmland of Fulton County and let us share the fruits of our labor with you.

Leisure Time Winery

As our name implies, Leisure Time Winery is the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely afternoon or evening. Tucked into the peaceful countryside of Napoleon, Ohio, we offer a little something for everyone. We proudly craft an assortment of wines, including several fruit options. 16982 CR-M2

Napoleon, OH 419-758-3442

leisuretimewinery.com

The Winerie

715 E. Lakeshore Drive Kelleys Island, OH 419-724-2200

crookedtreevineyard.com

Crooked Tree Vineyard is a quiet oasis on Kelleys Island. The tasting room, with both indoor and outdoor seating, offers eight wines from dry to sweet produced on-site. Grapes grown on the property are the foundation for the wines. Prime season is May through September. Visit us online for hours.

D & D Smith Winery

401 W. Main Street Norwalk, OH 419-577-0242

ddsmithwinery.com

Our award-winning winery is celebrating 15 years! Relax and enjoy a glass of wine selected from one of 45 varieties in our historic 1870 house-turned-winery. Sit along the scenic river, enjoy the pavilion, or our cozy interior seating, while experiencing wine paired with a selection of foods and appetizers from The Bistro at D & D. Rental of loft or pavilion is available for private parties. Open year-round, Wed. 3-8 p.m., Thurs. 3-9 p.m., Fri. 1-10 p.m., Sat. noon-10 p.m., and Sun. noon-6 pm. See our website for special events or a change in hours.

Gillig Winery

6413 Hayes Avenue Sandusky, OH 419-502-1290

thewinerie.com

Come sip and relax while we wine and dine you with our full dining menu, Friday night dinner specials, large selection of 100% estate grown and produced wines, full bar, and live music on select nights. Follow us at facebook.com/thewinerie for our latest hours and updates.

gilligwinery.com

Enjoy a relaxing environment and an extensive selection of wines alongside a full lunch and dinner menu. Located off Interstate 75 on Northridge Road. We are open Tuesday through Thursday 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.

DESTINATIONS

Ontario ADVENTURE BAY FAMILY WATER PARK

CAESARS WINDSOR

ATTRACTIONS

Make a splash at Adventure Bay and spend a fun-filled day with the whole family! 10 water slides, FlowRider surf simulator, wave pool, Tot Loch slides for younger kids and lazy river along with Cannon Cove dry play area and concessions. Located in downtown Windsor steps from attractions, accommodations and the Windsor-Detroit border.

401 Pitt St. W., Windsor, ON N9A 0B2 519-974-2782 ~ adventurebay.ca

AMHERSTBURG FREEDOM MUSEUM

Welcoming everyone to experience the history of the Underground Railroad and the compassion and solidarity it took to make this network possible. Featuring educational programming, tours, presentations and events throughout the year.

277 King St., Amherstburg, ON N9V 2C7 519-736-5433 ~ amherstburgfreedom.org

BARRELS BOTTLES & BREWS TRAIL

Explore and pour the 12 craft breweries and two distilleries in Windsor Essex that make up the Barrels Bottles & Brews trail with our digital passport. Visit the stops along the way of the Windsor Essex barrel trail – the birthplace of Canadian whisky, award-winning vodkas, and craft breweries featuring some of the finest ales, lagers, stouts and more! visitwindsoressex.com/beer

The thrill of Las Vegas comes alive at Caesars Windsor. Home to world-class entertainment, fine dining, luxury accommodations and a 24/7 casino. Plus Ontario’s first full-service sportsbook offering game-changing ways to experience sports betting.

377 Riverside Dr. E., Windsor, ON N9A 7H7 800-991-8888 ~ caesarswindsor.com

DEVONSHIRE MALL

Devonshire Mall is the area’s premier shopping centre with over 170 stores and services. Vibrant dining options from quick and convenient to casual and sophisticated create a shopping and culinary experience you can spend the whole day enjoying. 3100 Howard Ave., Windsor, ON N8X 3Y8 519-966-3100 ~ devonshiremall.com

EPIC WINERIES

Essex County wine making has a rich history dating back to the 1860s on Pelee Island. Today, there are approximately 1,000 acres of grapes grown for you to taste the bold reds and crisp whites of our Essex Pelee Island Coast (EPIC) Wineries. Whether sipping on a warm summer patio or learning the history and techniques during a tour, the 14 EPIC Wineries will have you planning your next trip before this one ends! visitwindsoressex.com/wine

J.P. WISER’S EXPERIENCE CENTRE

Immerse yourself in the history of Canadian whisky and its birthplace right here in Windsor. Learn about the production process from grain, distilling, bottling to the final pour into a glass with a tour and tasting of some of Canada’s most loved whiskies.

2072 Riverside Dr. E., Windsor, ON N8Y 1A7 519-561-5596 ~ jpwiserstour.ca

NORTH 42 DEGREES ESTATE WINERY

Discover their passion for wine making, the natural surrounding beauty and warm southern hospitality. Enjoy 360 degree vineyard and lavender views and taste farm to table culinary creations. Certified Feast On and Ocean Wise.

130 County Road 50, E. Colchester, ON N0R 1G0 519-738-6111 ~ north42degrees.com

PELEE ISLAND WINERY PAVILION

POINT PELEE NATIONAL PARK

Point Pelee National Park is a tiny sanctuary supporting a mosaic of habitats from jungle-like forest to lush wetlands to open savannah. Travel by bike, on foot, or paddle through the diverse eco-system to explore Canada’s most southern mainland point.

1118 Point Pelee Dr., Leamington, ON N8H 3V4 519-322-2365 ~ parks.canada.ca/pointpelee

WILLISTEAD MANOR

Step back in time and view the opulent setting of Willistead Manor on the gorgeous grounds of Willistead Park. Built in 1906 for Edward Chandler Walker, the second son of Hiram Walker, founder of the worldrenowned distillery. Tours offered during the summer and holiday seasons.

1899 Niagara St., Windsor, ON N8Y 1K3 519-253-2365 ~ citywindsor.ca

DINING ARMANDO’S PIZZA

Founded in 1967 and creating award-winning hand-tossed Windsor-style pizza ever since, a visit to one of their 10 locations needs to be at the top of your list. Windsor-style pizza has won best in Canada (2019) and 3rd best in the world (2018).

Multiple locations

armandospizza.ca

TRAVEL & TOURISM

BIRD KINGDOM

5651 River Road, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 7M7 905-356-8888 − birdkingdom.ca

Discover the world’s largest indoor free-flying aviary! Interact with exotic birds and animals from around the world in our multilevel rainforest.

Experience ‘island time’ by relaxing in the outdoor wine garden surrounded by vineyards overlooking Lake Erie. Reserve a tour and learn the history of Pelee Island and Pelee Island Winery. Your tour includes wine tasting and complimentary tasting glass.

20 East West Road, Pelee Island, ON N0R 1M0 800-597-3533 ~ peleeisland.com

VISIT WINDSOR ESSEX

333 Riverside Drive W., Suite 103, Windsor, ON N9A 7C5 800-265-3633 − visitwindsoressex.com

Canada’s southernmost destination, with 100 miles of waterfront, Hiram Walker’s iconic Canadian Club whisky, outdoor adventure at Point Pelee National Park, Caesars Windsor and Caesars Sportsbook, and a wine region along the Lake Erie North Shore.

Lake Erie

Shores & Islands

ACCOMMODATIONS

Put-in-Bay Novels By

Bob Adamov

MYSTERY ADVENTURE NOVELS

bobadamov.com

ANCHOR INN BOUTIQUE HOTEL

500 Catawba Ave., Put-in-Bay, OH 43456

419-285-5055 − anchorinnpib.com

The Anchor Inn Boutique Hotel is a quirky, one-of-a-kind, couples hotel with lighthearted, mildly rebellious room details. For a relaxing Ohio getaway, tour and book one of their nine casually elegant rooms online today at anchorinnpib.com.

ATTRACTIONS

Award-winning island author will be releasing his 18th mystery adventure novel this summer. Sawdust Joint is a James Bond-like adventure.

TRAVEL & TOURISM

MILLER FERRIES TO PUT-IN-BAY

GPS: 5174 E. Water St., Port Clinton, OH 43452 800-500-2421 − millerferry.com

Welcome aboard Miller passenger/car ferries to Put-in-Bay (South Bass) & Middle Bass, Ohio’s Lake Erie Islands. 20-minute cruise to Put-in-Bay, free parking, golf cart rentals and family savings. Ferries depart Catawba, the tip of Rt. 53 North.

SHORES & ISLANDS OHIO

125 E. Water St., Sandusky, OH 44870 770 S.E. Catawba Road, Port Clinton, OH 43452 419-625-2984, 419-734-4650 − shoresandislands.com

Shores & Islands Ohio boasts 152 miles of Lake Erie shoreline, welcoming communities, rich history and an abundance of diverse attractions for all. Find your Lake Erie love at shoresandislands.com!

COMMON GROUND CANOPY TOURS

14240 Baird Road, Oberlin, OH 44074 440-707-2044 − ohzipline.org

Zip tree to tree on an exciting, family-friendly zipline adventure through the beautiful Vermilion River Valley with Common Ground Canopy Tours!

GREAT LAKES SCUTTLEBUTT

7862 W. Central Ave., Suite F, Toledo, OH 43617 877-775-2538 − greatlakesscuttlebutt.com

Do you boat, fish or float the Great Lakes? GLS is your FREE resource for destinations, events, services and articles of interest across the freshwater seas. Explore today!

LORAIN COUNTY METRO PARKS

12882 Diagonal Road, LaGrange, OH 44050

440-458-5121 - loraincountymetroparks.com

With more than 11,000 acres of land, the Lorain County Metro Parks is sure to have something for everyone to enjoy nature nearby! LCMP has been preserving traditions and creating memories for over 65 years.

RUTHERFORD B. HAYES PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY & MUSEUMS

Spiegel Grove, Fremont, OH 43420 419-332-2081 − rbhayes.org

ELROY’S DELI MARKET

105 S. Front St., Fremont, OH 43420 419-333-8289 − elroysdeli.com

An epicurean delight in the heart of downtown Fremont, Elroy’s Deli is a specialty market focused on local and imported Italian ingredients. Delicatessen, artisan pizzas, craft sandwiches, dine-in seating, delivery and carryout available.

Visit President Rutherford and First Lady Lucy Hayes’ estate of Spiegel Grove, home of America’s first presidential library. Tour their mansion, see their tomb, visit the museum, explore the library and walk the paved trails.

LORAIN LIGHTHOUSE

440-960-2301 − lorainlighthouse.com

info@lorainlighthouse.com

Tours of the inside of the lighthouse and Sunset Wine Dinners start in June with advanced tickets for both available at lorainlighthouse.com. Schedule your special event at the lighthouse — wedding, corporate event, retirement party, etc.

JIMMY G’S BARBEQUE

1321 W. State St., Fremont, OH 43420  567-201-2920 − jgbbq.com

FIRELANDS ADVENTURE TOURS

See website for pick-up and drop-off locations. 419-734-9283 − firelandsadventuretours.com

Enjoy informational, recreational and historical tours, including wine tasting, underground railroad, lighthouses and many more, from our comfortable 18-seat bus. Departing daily. Check firelandsadventuretours.com for reservations and details.

Jimmy G’s delivers the ultimate barbecue experience! We scratch-make everything we’ve got including our brines, rubs, sauces and smoking processes. Our ingredients, portions and people are all second to none.

MOKE AMERICA OHIO

212 Norwest Dr., Clyde, OH 43410 888-834-0492 − mokeohio.net

Moke America Ohio is an exclusive, local distributor of Moke America vehicles for all of Ohio. Iconic British Moke vehicles have been reimagined for the 21st Century with fully electric power for a modern and eco-friendly driving experience.

MOONSHINE NIGHTCLUB

109 S. Front St., Fremont, OH 43420 419-333-8291 − moonshinenight.club

This new nightspot features an arcade, a dance floor and great cocktails with restaurant offerings. It’s the perfect setting for watching your favorite sports game, hosting parties, family reunions and receptions. Ask about renting our VIP Lounge!

THE GARRISON

209 Garrison St., Fremont, OH 43420 419-333-8260 − the-garrison.net

A Euro/American bistro-style restaurant with 20 craft beers on tap, The Garrison is located in a 122-year-old structure in the historical district of downtown Fremont. Catering and private party event space available. Open Monday – Saturday.

THE NATURE CONSERVANCY’S GREAT EGRET MARSH PRESERVE

Located across from East Harbor State Park

1000 N. Buck Road, Lakeside Marblehead, OH 43440 419-867-1521 ext. 1 − nature.org/greategretmarsh

This 150-acre protected coastal marsh can be explored from an easy 1.2-mile loop trail. The preserve is open for birding, fishing, hiking, kayaking and canoeing.

DOWNTOWN WILLOUGHBY ARTSFEST

28 Public Square, Willoughby, OH 44094 440-942-1632 − willoughbyartsfest.com info@wwlcchamber.com

The ArtsFest draws 100+ juried artists to downtown Willoughby with live music, great food and kids’ crafts. This year’s ArtsFest will take place Saturday, July 15, from 10 a.m. to 5.p.m.

THE SUMMER MARKET

Black River Landing

421 Black River Lane, Lorain, OH 44052

thesummermarket.com − July 21 and 22, 2023

Shop Ohio’s original open-air market featuring the best of the best in vintage, handmade and homegrown. Celebrating season 18. FREE event.

RESERVE TODAY! anchorinnPIB.com | 419.285.5055

DINING

D&D SMITH WINERY

THE BISTRO AT D&D

401 W. Main St., Norwalk, OH 44857 419-577-0242 ddsmithwinery.com

TRAVEL & TOURISM

MALLORCA RESTAURANT

1390 W. Ninth St. (Warehouse District) Cleveland, OH 44113

216-687-9494 − mallorcacle.com

Downtown Cleveland’s most awarded restaurant for 26 years! Serving the freshest fish and chef-prepared specials. Specializing in foods from Spain and Portugal. Uniqueness at its finest! Home to Wine and Dine in the Dark.

SHOPPING

MARBLEHEAD SOAP CO.

413-417 W. Main St., Lakeside-Marblehead, OH 43440

419-702-7488 − marbleheadsoap.co

Where magic meets the lake! Local treasures, natural handcrafted soaps and many other organic body products in a plethora of scents and options. Stop by in person or visit the online store

DESTINATION CLEVELAND

DESTINATION

334 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, OH 44114 216-875-6600 − thisiscleveland.com

Beach getaways with an edge. This is The Land of making the lake your own. From volleyball and sunbathing at Edgewater to kayaking and jet skiing through the Flats, your tropical vacation just got cooler.

DESTINATION TOLEDO

401 Jefferson Ave., Toledo, OH 43604 419-321-6404 − visittoledo.org

Where a great city meets the great outdoors. #ThisIsToledo. Destination Toledo is your official travel guide to the Toledo region. Start your adventure at visittoledo.org.

DOWNTOWN FREMONT

315 Garrison St., Fremont, OH 43420 419-332-8696 − downtownfremontohio.org

Think Fremont! Immerse yourself in the historic and entertainment district of Downtown Fremont with over 15 retail attractions and diverse diningoptions, including a two-story restaurant and a cafe,aswell as a nightclub, cinema and library.

PUT-IN-BAY OFFICIAL TOURISM BUREAU

148 Delaware Ave., Put-in-Bay, OH 43456 419-285-2832 - visitputinbay.com

The #1 resource for planning a Put-in-Bay, Ohio vacation! Start planning your every day island getaway at visitputinbay.com.

LAKE ERIE LIVING, published bi-monthly at 1422 Euclid Ave., Ste 730 Cleveland, Cuyahoga County, Ohio 44115 as filed September 29, 2022. The general business offices of the publisher are located at 1422 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, Cuyahoga County, Ohio 44115. The names and addresses of the Publisher, Editor and Managing Editor are: Publisher, Paul Klein, 1422 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, Cuyahoga County, Ohio 44115; Editor, Colleen Smitek, 1422 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, Cuyahoga, Ohio 44115; Managing Editor, Colleen Smitek, 1422 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, Cuyahoga County, Ohio 44115. The owner is Great Lakes Publishing Company, 1422 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, Ohio 44115. The names and addresses of stockholders owning or holding one percent or more of total amount of stock are: Lute H. Harmon Sr., 1422 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, Ohio 44115; Susan Harmon, 1422 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH 44115; George F. Sedlak, 1422 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, Ohio 44115; Frank Bird, 1422 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, Ohio 44115; Lute Harmon Jr, 1422 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, Ohio 44115. The known bondholders, mortgagees, and other security holders owning or holding one percent or more of total amount of bonds, mortgages or other securities are: None. The average number of copies each issue during the preceding

226 Middle Ave. #532, Elyria, OH 44035 loraincountyohio.gov/cvb

LORAIN COUNTY VISITORS BUREAU

Pennsylvania ATTRACTIONS

FALLINGWATER

1491 Mill Run Road, Mill Run, PA 15464 724-329-8501 − fallingwater.org

Fallingwater, a National Historic Landmark and a site inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, is open for guided interior tours as well as guided and self-guided exterior tours.

SPLASH LAGOON INDOOR WATER PARK RESORT

8091 Peach St., Erie, PA 16509 866-377-5274 − splashlagoon.com

Overnight packages are available at splashlagoon.com. Get drenched by the coconut bucket on our new tree house, swirl down slides, ride the surf machine, splash in our massive wave pool and enjoy our arcade!

WALDAMEER PARK & WATER WORLD

HAGEN HISTORY CENTER

HAGEN CENTER

356 W. Sixth St., Erie, PA 16507 814-454-1813 − eriehistory.org

Where history inspires with historic homes, Frank Lloyd Wright’s San Francisco office, interactive exhibits and more. Open Tuesday-Sunday. Visit eriehistory.org.

220 Peninsula Drive, Erie, PA 16505 877-817-1009 − waldameer.com

Exciting amusement and waterpark with more than 100 rides, slides and attractions for all ages, including the new RallyRACER waterslide and Whirlwind family coaster!

RELISH STUDIO & GALLERY

3835 W. 12th St., Erie, PA 16505 814-836-1827 − relishinc.com

Visit Relish, a hip gallery and gift shop with a penchant for all things quirky and coastal.

KRAUS’ DEPARTMENT STORE

810 Parade St., Erie, PA 16503 814-453-4314 − krausdeptstore.com

Serving Erie for over 135 years, Kraus’ is an old-time hardware store known for excellent customer service, product know-how and carrying just about everything ever made.

Western New York ATTRACTIONS

FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT’S GRAYCLIFF

6472 Old Lake Shore Road, Derby, NY 14047 716-947-9217 − experiencegraycliff.org

Graycliff was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright as the summer home of Isabelle and Darwin Martin in 1926. Located just south of Buffalo, a brief scenic ride from the city, the historic site is open year round for tours.

NATIONAL COMEDY CENTER

203 W. Second St., Jamestown, NY 14701 716-484-2222 − comedycenter.org

Discover the nation’s official cultural institution dedicated to comedy. Named Best New Museum by USA Today and top-rated by Tripadvisor, the National Comedy Center offers fun and laughter for the entire family. This is a safe and worry-free visitor experience with more than 50 immersive and interactive exhibits. Plan your visit at comedycenter.org

TAMARACK CLUB AT HOLIDAY VALLEY

6447 Holiday Valley Road, Ellicottville, NY 14731 716-699-7000 − holidayvalley.com

This beautiful condominium/hotel is steps away from the golf course and ski slopes of Holiday Valley. With a year-round outdoor pool and hot tubs, restaurant and spa, it’s the perfect spot to vacation.

NIAGARA POWER VISTA VISITORS CENTER

5777 Lewiston Road, Lewiston, NY 14092

866-697-2386 − nypa.gov/niagarapowervista.com

Powerful fun for all ages at the free Niagara Power Vista Visitors Center. State-of-the-art interactive energy exhibits for all ages. Minutes from the Falls.

FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT’S MARTIN HOUSE

125 Jewett Parkway, Buffalo, NY 14214 716-856-3858 − martinhouse.org

Explore three Wright-designed residences, three interconnected buildings, and an integrated landscape on a beautiful 1.5-acre estate. Tours and events offered year round.

PEEK’N PEAK RESORT

1405 Olde Road, Clymer, NY 14724

716-355-4141 − pknpk.com

Overnight packages available at pknpk.com. Experience summer fun at The Peak! Climb our Aerial Adventure Course, play on the championship caliber golf course and relax in our indoor/outdoor pool complex and spa.

PORTAGE HILL ART GALLERY

6439 Portage Road, Westfield, NY 14787 716-326-4478 portagehillgallery.com

ONE ARCHITECT. ONE FAMILY. TWO HOUSES.

ROGER TORY PETERSON INSTITUTE

311 Curtis St., Jamestown, PA 14701 716-665-2473 − rtpi.org

Exhibitions of Art that Matters to the Planet Art and nature trails. Programs and special events for all ages. Plan your visit at rtpi.org.

THE BUSTI APPLE FESTIVAL BUSTI HISTORICAL SOCIETY

3443 Lawson Road, Jamestown, NY 14701 716-483-3670 bustihistoricalsociety.com

DINING

WEBB’S CAPTAIN’S TABLE RESTAURANT

115 W. Lake Road, Mayville, NY 14757 716-753-3960 − webbscaptainstable.com

Fine dining on Chautauqua Lake — open daily, year-round for lunch and dinner. Private dining facilities, including a covered patio, are available for your upcoming celebration or corporate event.

VISIT WRIGHTINWNY.ORG

Experience Frank Lloyd Wright in Western New York through the Martin family’s city and summer homes, now fully restored.

PHOTO: Matthew Digati

PHOTO: Meccay Photography

TRAVEL & TOURISM

519.777.3999

susane.tanton@c21.ca www.portstanleyproperties.com

CHAUTAUQUA COUNTY VISITORS BUREAU

Chautauqua Main Gate, Route 394

Chautauqua, NY 14722

716-357-4569 − tourchautauqua.com

Explore the unrivaled beauty of the Chautauqua-Lake Erie Region’s magnificent lakes and trails, unique outdoor experiences, top-notch wineries, one-ofa-kind cultural centers and engaging museums.

LAKE ERIE WINE COUNTRY

Westfield, NY 14787

877-326-6561 − lakeeriewinecountry.org

Lake Erie Wine Country is comprised of 20 plus wineries along a 50-mile trail on the Lake Erie coastline between Western New York and Pennsylvania. Wineries are open year round. Plan a visit to taste award-winning wine.

VISIT DUNKIRK, NY

342 Central Ave., Dunkirk, NY 14048

716-366-0452 − cityofdunkirk.com

Enjoy Dunkirk’s parks, beaches, museums, music festivals and more. Visit cityofdunkirk.com and plan your trip today!

GRAPE DISCOVERY CENTER

8305 West Main Road, Westfield, NY 14787

716-326-2003 − grapediscoverycenter.com

Visit the Grape Discovery Center, the official Visitor’s Center for the Lake Erie Concord Grape Belt. Explore exhibits and learn about the history of grape growing in the Chautauqua-Lake Erie Region of Western New York.

Walkerville, Ontario

In 1855, Hiram Walker, disenchanted with the temperance movement taking root in Detroit, went across the river to a British colony, where he created a whole new type of spirit — and a new town.

A Massachusetts native, Walker had come to Detroit in the 1830s. He started a grocery business and learned to distill — vinegar at first and then whiskey. But little by little, restrictions on making and selling alcoholic beverages tightened in Michigan, culminating in full prohibition in 1855.

Walker saw the writing on the wall and bought 468 acres — land that, legend had it, was settled by Chief Pontiac and the Ottawa Indians — near the village of Windsor in what was then British North America.

Walker built a flour mill and distillery in 1858 and, soon after, started building homes for workers. The unincorporated village became known as Walkerville, which became a town in 1890. It was ahead of its time, with paved roads, streetlights and fire and police.

Walker’s main product was Club Whisky, a barrelaged spirit made with corn, rye and malt. In 1889, the

U.S. Congress — at the behest of American distillers — passed a law mandating the nation of origin be listed on imported spirits. Undaunted, Walker renamed his product Canadian Club Whisky, still one of the most well-known distilled spirits sold in America.

Canadian Club was an exceedingly popular (if not legal) import during Prohibition, when it was estimated that three-fourths of smuggled alcohol from Canada came across the Detroit River from Windsor. In fact, Chicago gangster Al Capone was said to have been one of Walker’s biggest customers.

In 1935, Walkerville was absorbed into Windsor, by then a city. Today, it remains a heritage precinct in Windsor, home to a bevy of historic buildings, as well as a working distillery, still the largest in North America and open for tours.

Hiram Walker died in 1899 and is commemorated as a person of Canadian National Historic Significance. In 2022, a statue of him was dedicated in a Windsor park bearing his name.

— Vince Guerrieri

An employee sits in the aging room at Hiram Walker Distillery in Walkerville, Ontario.