Are you planning a day trip or vacation to Lake Erie? There are places all along Lake Erie to visit in all seasons. Here, we highlight the Top 10 Best Places Along Lake Erie!
Summary of the Best Places Along Lake Erie
| Place | Why Visit? | Top Activities | Travel Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Presque Isle State Park (PA) | A 3,200-acre sandy peninsula with beaches. | Beaches, birdwatching, kayaking, hiking, and fishing. | Visit in spring/summer; arrive early in summer for parking. |
| Cedar Point & Sandusky (OH) | Home to Cedar Point amusement park and access to Lake Erie islands. | Roller coasters, waterparks, dining, ferry trips to Put-in-Bay & Kelley’s Island. | Visit midweek for fewer crowds; buy tickets online for discounts. |
| Put-in-Bay (OH) | A lively island destination with history, nightlife, and outdoor fun. | Historical sites, jet skiing, kayaking, wineries, golf cart rentals. | Take a ferry from Port Clinton; rent a golf cart for easy travel. |
| Port Stanley (ON, Canada) | A peaceful beach town with excellent fishing. | Art galleries and Fishing | Stay in local inns |
| Cleveland (OH) | A mix of urban culture and lakeside beauty. | Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and Edgewater Park | Try pierogis and craft beer |
| Maumee Bay State Park (OH) | Top fishing spot. | Nature trails, fishing, golf. | Visit in spring for the Walleye Run; stay in lodges or cabins. |
| Erieau (ON, Canada) | Small Harbor Vibe | Fishing charters and seafood dining. | Stay in cozy cottages |
| Geneva-on-the-Lake (OH) | A classic vacation spot with family-friendly attractions. | The Strip (restaurants, arcades), wineries, state park. | Plan around summer festivals; stay in lakeside cabins. |
| Long Point (ON, Canada) | A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. | Birdwatching, camping, eco-tourism. | Stay in Short Term Rentals |
| Buffalo (NY) | Urban and Outdoor | Niagara River | Stay in Downtown |
Deciding on a place to visit along Lake Erie comes down to personal preference. Choose a place that will keep your trip full of activities you enjoy. Maybe you want to be close to a city, there are places for that. If you want to be in a rural secluded area, there are plenty of parks/places to visit.
1. Presque Isle State Park (Pennsylvania)
What Makes Presque Isle State Park Special?
Presque Isle State Park is a favorite for locals and visitors. This 3,200-acre sandy peninsula juts into Lake Erie, creating a unique combination of beaches, forests, and wetlands. Recognized as a National Natural Landmark, Presque Isle is a sanctuary for wildlife enthusiasts and outdoor lovers. This park is also a popular place to fish from shore or a boat. Smallmouth Bass, Perch, and Steelhead are the target species in the bay.
Popular Activities at Presque Isle
- Beaches: With 11 sandy beaches, it’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and picnics.
- Birdwatching: Over 300 bird species can be spotted here, especially during migration seasons.
- Water activities: Kayaking, paddleboarding, and boating opportunities abound.
- Biking and hiking: The park boasts over 13 miles of trails.
Travel Tips for Presque Isle
- Best time to visit: Spring and summer for warmer weather; fall for fewer crowds.
- Facilities: The park offers restrooms, picnic areas, and seasonal concessions.
- Pro tip: Arrive early in the summer to secure parking near your preferred beach.
2. Cedar Point and Sandusky (Ohio)
Why Sandusky is one of the Best Places Along Lake Erie
Known as the “Roller Coaster Capital of the World,” Cedar Point in Sandusky, Ohio, is a thrill-seeker’s paradise. Beyond the amusement park, Sandusky offers family-friendly attractions, a lively downtown, and access to Lake Erie islands. There are plenty of places to stay and endless things to do for your whole family. Cedar Point may need to be a 2-day trip!
Activities Beyond the Rides
- Waterparks: Visit Castaway Bay or Kalahari Resorts for water fun.
- Dining and shopping: Explore unique restaurants and boutique shops downtown.
- Ferries: Take a ferry to Put-in-Bay or Kelley’s Island for a day trip.
Tips for Planning Your Trip
- Cedar Point crowds: Visit midweek to avoid weekend lines.
- Accommodations: Options range from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hotels.
- Tickets: Buy passes online for discounts and package deals.
3. Put-in-Bay (Ohio)
Why is Put-in-Bay One of the Best Places Along Lake Erie?
Put-in-Bay, a small village on South Bass Island, is a top destination for both relaxation and adventure. Known for its lively atmosphere, historical sites, and natural beauty, it’s a hotspot for tourists during the summer months. There are bars and restaurants all over downtown that serve a variety of foods. You can rent a golf cart to tour the island on also!
Top Things to Do in Put-in-Bay
- Historical exploration: Visit Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial.
- Outdoor fun: Jet skiing, kayaking, and fishing.
- Wineries: Enjoy a glass at Heineman’s Winery or Put-in-Bay Winery.
How to Get to Put-in-Bay
- Ferry services: Ferries like Jet Express operate from Port Clinton.
- Getting around: Rent a golf cart or bicycle to explore the island.
4. Port Stanley (Ontario, Canada)
Why Is Port Stanley the Best Place Along Lake Erie?
Port Stanley is a charming village along Lake Erie known for its peaceful beaches and artistic vibe. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a quieter destination. This is a top fishing destination for walleye, perch, and smallmouth bass in the Canadian waters of Lake Erie.
What to Do in Port Stanley
- Art galleries: Explore local art and handmade crafts.
- Beach relaxation: The Main Beach is a Blue Flag-certified clean beach.
- Fishing: Join charter trips for excellent catches.
Planning Your Visit
- Local inns: Stay at cozy bed-and-breakfasts for a personalized experience.
- Seasonal visits: Summer is ideal for beach activities.
5. Cleveland (Ohio)
What Makes Cleveland One of the Best Places Along Lake Erie?
Cleveland combines urban culture with natural beauty. Its vibrant arts scene, waterfront parks, and world-class attractions make it a standout destination. This is the most popular spot to shore fish from. You can fish for walleye in the fall or catch perch all year!
Things to See and Do in Cleveland
- Rock and Roll Hall of Fame: A must-see for music enthusiasts.
- Edgewater Park: Enjoy stunning sunsets over Lake Erie.
- The Flats: A revitalized riverside district with nightlife and dining.
Where to Stay and Eat in Cleveland
- Stay: Consider downtown hotels for proximity to attractions.
- Eat: Don’t miss Cleveland’s iconic pierogis and craft beer.
6. Maumee Bay State Park (Ohio)
What Makes Maumee Bay One of the Best Places Along Lake Erie?
Maumee Bay is an ecological treasure, offering pristine wetlands and diverse wildlife habitats. It’s a peaceful escape for nature lovers. Maumee Bay State Park is a must-see in the area. Also, if you are there in the spring, check out the walleye run in the Maumee River!
Activities at Maumee Bay
- Nature trails: Explore boardwalks that wind through marshes.
- Fishing: Try your luck at catching walleye.
- Golf: Play a round at the park’s championship golf course.
Tips for Visitors
- Amenities: Lodges, cabins, and campsites are available for overnight stays.
- Best seasons: Visit in spring or fall for mild weather and fewer crowds.
7. Erieau (Ontario, Canada)
Erieau is one of the Best Places Along Lake Erie
This small fishing village is a peaceful retreat along Lake Erie. Its proximity to Rondeau Provincial Park adds to its appeal. This area has some of the best scenery on Lake Erie from the Canadian side. The area gives off small harbor vibes!
Activities in Erieau
- Fishing charters: Known for abundant bass and perch.
- Beach walks: Erieau Beach is clean and uncrowded.
Visiting Tips
- Dining: Try the local catch at Erieau’s seafood restaurants.
- Stay: Quaint cottages and motels offer a cozy atmosphere.
8. Geneva-on-the-Lake (Ohio)
Why Visit Geneva-on-the-Lake?
As Ohio’s first summer resort, this lakeside town has charmed visitors for over a century. This area is a vacation spot for many every year. There are plenty of places to visit and things to do for kids also. There is a strip of stores and restaurants. You can stay at the State Park or rent a house in the area. Lastly, this gets a top vote as one of the best places along Lake Erie.
Top Attractions and Activities
- The Strip: A lively area with restaurants, arcades, and shops.
- Wineries: Discover award-winning wines at local vineyards.
Travel Tips for Geneva-on-the-Lake
- Festivals: Plan your trip around summer events for added fun.
- Accommodations: Stay in lakeside cabins or luxury suites.
9. Long Point (Ontario, Canada)
Why Is Long Point an Important Destination?
Designated a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, Long Point is a haven for nature enthusiasts. The fishing and scenery in the area are fantastic. Hiring a fishing guide in the area is a popular activity.
Things to Do in Long Point
- Birdwatching: Spot rare and migratory birds.
- Camping: Enjoy waterfront sites with serene views.
Planning Your Visit
- Eco-tourism: Follow guidelines to preserve its delicate environment.
10. Buffalo (New York)
Why is Buffalo One of the Best Places Along Lake Erie?
Buffalo boasts a mix of urban attractions and stunning lakefront access, making it a gateway to both Lake Erie and Niagara Falls. You can hike along the cliffs at Art Park or take a ride on a boat in the Niagara River. The activities in the area aren’t just limited to the city.
Highlights of Buffalo
- Canalside: Enjoy concerts, paddleboarding, and waterfront dining.
- Food: Don’t leave without trying Buffalo Wings.
Tips for Visiting Buffalo
- Accommodations: Stay downtown or at waterfront hotels for the best views.
- Seasonal events: Look for festivals like Taste of Buffalo.
Hopefully, this year you will get to visit one of the best places along Lake Erie. Accordingly, the focus of this post was to give you ideas that your whole family can enjoy. Remember, if you are just on a solo or couples trip, these places are great for that too!