Fall Harvest Along Shores and Islands

By Amanda Ensinger, Freelance Writer

The start of fall marks the celebration of the fall harvest and the changing of the seasons. It also is the perfect time to explore regions you typically might not visit this time of year. While many visit Shores & Islands Ohio in the summer, fall is breathtaking time to embark on some adventure in the area.

Below are some unique communities in the region that offer a variety of fun ways to celebrate the season.

Huron

Known for its breathtaking views of Lake Erie, natural sandy beaches and paddleboarding and kayaking, Huron is the perfect place to visit any time of the year. In the fall, explore Sheldon March Nature Preserve and enjoy the changing of the foliage, as well as the variety of bird species before they migrate south.

Don’t miss Pumpkin Fest at the Huron Boat Basin Amphitheater in October. This annual event offers fall inspired food, games and activities for all ages.

Berlin Heights

This charming village in known for its fertile soil and abundance of farms, including wineries, orchards and farm markets.

Visit Quarry Hill Orchards to enjoy the variety of applies grown in the region. This family-owned fruit farm has been in operation since 1929. Shop at the rustic market barn that sells everything from fresh cider to donuts to produce grown right on the farm. The orchard hosts an annual Apple Peak Harvest Gathering in October that celebrates all things fall. This year, enjoy apple picking wagon rides, food trucks, wine, a vendor market, live music, honey demo, hiking and face and pumpkin painting.

Quarry Hill Winery also is a favorite in the region. Located next to Quarry Hill Orchards and owned by the same family, it offers a variety of wines made with grapes grown from the winery. Enjoy a glass of local fruit wine, while viewing the sunset from the wineries’ wraparound deck.

Port Clinton

Located right on Lake Erie, this community has been named the “Walleye Capital of the World” and attracts fishing enthusiasts from all over the country. However, there is so much more to Port Clinton than fish.

Home to the Miller Boat Line, this ferry runs an 18-minute trip to Put-in-Bay. During this boat ride you can enjoy the beauty of the lake and the fall foliage of the island as you arrive. Once on Put-in-Bay, walk off the ferry directly to E’s Golf Carts. Offering two, four, six and eight-person golf cart rentals, guests enjoy having their own transportation to explore the island. There is a variety of gold cart parking on the island, and it makes it quicker and easier to explore Put-in-Bay in one day.

While at Port Clinton, also stop by Toft’s Ice Cream Parlor to enjoy a sweet treat. The parlor has been serving ice cream in Port Clinton for over 25 years and offers a variety of unique flavors, specialty sundaes, milkshakes and more.

Before leaving Port Clinton make sure and visit the Liberty Aviation Museum. This museum showcases historical aircrafts and vehicles used during WWII. Listen to volunteers about how these airplanes and vehicles were used during the war and the work it takes to restore them and keep them pristine.

Finally, don’t miss out on visiting the African Safari Wildlife Park. Offering families an experience of a lifetime for over 50 years, guests enjoy feeding a variety of animals from the comforts of their car. Interact with giraffes, zebras, bison, deer and other animals you would normally only see at the zoo

After visiting with the animals, stop in the gift shop for a souvenir and explore the interactive activities for families.

As you make your fall plans, consider a trip to Shores & Island Ohio. Offering a serene settings, fresh and local produce and entertainment for everyone, fall is the perfect time to visit this unique part of Ohio.