100+ Adventures Around the Lake: Lake Erie Islands

Slice of Island Life
Ferry over to Kelleys Island, known as an island for every season, and take in live music at the Casino Bar Restaurant & Dockage (kelleysislandcasino.com) on Division Street in the heart of town, where lake-caught walleye is a favorite, and you can sip on a Casino Royale cocktail — a 20-ounce bloody mary with celery, dill pickle, olives and tiger shrimp. Local watering hole the Village Pump (villagepumpkioh.com) is famous for its Brandy Alexander and perch — and on the island, it’s the first high-speed internet spot, which locals and visitors appreciate. West Bay Bar and Restaurant (westbayki.com) offers docking, dining, prime Lake Erie sunsets, and live music. It’s also pet friendly.

The Kelleys Island Wine Co. (kelleysislandwineco.com) at the Zettler Family Farm was an early adopter of organic practices with a grow-local philosophy that has since become mainstream and in demand. Dine on meals with house-grown herbs at the KI Cantina on-site. Try them with a glass of Glacial White — named after the island’s glacial grooves and a classic German-style selection with fruity undertones.

 Kelleys Island State Park Beach gives kids a chance to dip into Lake Erie and offers amenities that include a boat launch, fishing pier, campground, hiking trail and picnic shelter. The Glacial Grooves (ohiohistory.org) are a National Natural Landmark, measuring 400 feet long, 35 feet wide and 15 feet deep — thanks to a massive glacier that created the Great Lakes and islands. For trail-lovers, check out North Shore Loop Trail close to the grooves, North Pond Boardwalk (kelleysislandchamber.com) and East
Quarry Trail.

Get on the Water
Kayak the Bay (kayakthebay.net) offers a variety of ways for visitors to explore the shores of Put-in-Bay. Rent single or double sit-in or sit-on-top kayaks, as well as paddleboards. Get directions on where to go or request a guide and take advantage of some of the most breathtaking views with a sunset tour. 

More experienced kayakers are encouraged to take the adventurous 1-mile paddle from Put-in-Bay to Middle Bass Island. Pull up on Middle Bass State Park and take in the intimacy and solace of this hidden gem. While you’re there, tour the refurbished Lonz Winery. The Island Grind at the Lonz Winery Press House is the latest addition to the island, serving up breakfast and charcuterie boards. JF Walleye’s Bar & Restaurant (jfwalleyes.net) is the island’s hot spot, featuring a pool, waterfalls and live entertainment, as well as condos and villas for those looking to extend their stay.