What comes to mind when you think of Port Clinton, Ohio? Is it the stunning natural beauty of Lake Erie or the quaint, charming small-town atmosphere?
No matter what you think of Port Clinton, one thing is for sure; there are plenty of fun and exciting things to do in this beautiful corner of Ohio.
And I mean more than just soaking up the sun on the beach or taking a leisurely walk along the shoreline.
In this article, I’ll be exploring 12 of the best and most fun things to do in port Clinton.
Things To Do In Port Clinton, Ohio
1. Tour The African Safari Wildlife Park
One of the best places to experience African wildlife in the United States is the African Safari Wildlife Park.
This park offers visitors the opportunity to see and learn about a variety of exotic animals in a natural setting.
The park is home to over 50 species of animals, including zebras, giraffes, Bactrian camels, dromedary, bison, elk, llama, and many more.
You can take a tour of the park in your own vehicle or on a guided tour bus, allowing you to get an up-close look at the animals as they roam freely through the park.
Along the way, you can stop and feed the animals in designated areas.
The park also offers educational talks and presentations about animals, making it the perfect destination for wildlife enthusiast or anybody looking for a fun and exciting day out.
Overall, a trip to the African Safari Wildlife Park is a truly unforgettable experience.
It offers you the chance to get up close and personal with some of the world’s most majestic and beautiful animals.
2. Have Fun Paddling Down The Portage River
Are you an adventure seeker looking for fun and exciting things to do in Port Clinton?
Then why not try paddling on the Portage River? There are several companies that offer guided paddling tours, and one of the best is the Portage River Paddling Company.
This local company offers guided kayaking and canoeing trips on the river, which winds through the heart of the Port Clinton area.
With a variety of trip options available, you’re sure to find one that suits you. That is, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paddler.
The company’s knowledgeable guides will take you on a journey through the region’s stunning scenery, including wetlands, forests, and more.
Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to spot a variety of wildlife, including birds, butterflies, and more.
Therefore, don’t let boredom set in during your visit to Port Clinton.
Just head and try out paddling with any company of your choice and discover the region’s natural beauty.
3. Take In The Scenic Views From Port Clinton Lighthouse
The Port Clinton Lighthouse is a historic and iconic landmark located on the waterfront of Port Clinton.
It was first established in 1833 and later renovated in 1896, making it one of the oldest lighthouses on the Great Lakes.
It used to guide ships through the dangerous waters of Lake Erie and played a vital role in the history and development of the Port Clinton area.
Today, this lighthouse is a popular tourist attraction in Port Clinton and is open for tours.
Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse for a panoramic view of the lake and the surrounding area.
The lighthouse is also home to a museum showcasing the history of the lighthouse and its role.
Overall, the Port Clinton Lighthouse is a beautiful and historic attraction that offers visitors a unique educational experience.
It is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Port Clinton and is easily accessible from the waterfront and surrounding area.
4. Hop On The Amazing Jet Express Tour
You can’t visit Port Clinton and miss the Amazing Jet Express Tour. This tour takes you on a thrilling ride on a high-speed ferry across Lake Erie to the beautiful islands of Put-in-Bay, Kelleys Island, and Cedar Point.
The jet express is equipped with comfortable seating and large windows, providing spectacular views of the lake and the islands.
The trip is exceptionally scenic, with breathtaking views of the water and surrounding nature, and is perfect for those who love the outdoors and want to experience the beauty of the lake and its islands.
In addition to the tours, the Amazing Jet Express Tour also offers late-night adventures, which include other fun activities like live entertainment, food, and drinks.
Overall, taking a Jet Express Tour is a great way to experience the beauty of Lake Erie and its islands.
Therefore, when you’re planning for fun activities to do in Port Clinton, be sure to include this tour in your itinerary.
5. Have A Fun-Filled Day At Catawba Island State Park
When looking for a place with all the fun things to do in Port Clinton, Catawba Island State Park is a great choice.
Located on Mooresdock Road, this state park offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy.
The park is home to a sandy beach that is popular for swimming and sunbathing, as well as a boat ramp, to launch your boat.
Additionally, there are several fishing areas located throughout the park, making it a great spot for anglers.
Shaded trees provide a perfect place to relax and a playground for the kids to enjoy.
There are also picnic tables in the park, perfect for families to enjoy a meal together.
Overall, Catawba Island State Park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families.
It is open throughout the year and a great place to spend a day enjoying the sights and sounds of the region.
6. Visit The Fascinating Liberty Aviation Museum
Established on December 7th, 1991, the Liberty Aviation Museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of aviation.
The museum is located at the Erie-Ottawa International Airport and features a variety of aircraft and aviation-related exhibits.
The museum occupies 88,000 square feet of space home to a collection of vintage aircraft, including a 1945 WWII bomber “Georgie’s Gal,” B-25 Mitchell bomber, as well as a collection of military vehicles such as German 37mm AA gun, 2 Jeeps, a 1941 Dodge ambulance, and many more.
The museum also hosts a variety of special events and educational programs throughout the year. These events include airshows, fly-ins, and aircraft restoration workshops.
The museum also offers a variety of interactive exhibits and hands-on activities, some of which let you sit in the cockpit of a real aircraft and learn about the history of aviation.
This makes it one of the best places to visit in Port Clinton for families and aviation enthusiasts alike.
7. Visit Ottawa County Visitor’s Bureau For Information Regarding Port Clinton Attractions
The Ottawa County Visitor’s Bureau is a body dedicated to promoting tourism and economic development in Ottawa County, Ohio.
The bureau serves as a resource for visitors to the area, providing information about local attractions, events, and accommodations.
Here, you’ll find a wide range of resources and materials for visitors, including free brochures to guide you, free WI-FI, restrooms, and much more.
In addition, the staffs here are incredibly friendly and helpful, and they are always happy to answer any questions you may have.
They can also help you plan your trip if you need assistance.
Therefore, if you’re in Ottawa County for the first time, then this is a great place to learn about local attractions.
8. Sample The Best Beers At Twin Oast Brewing
After a day spent exploring all the top sights in Port Clinton, be sure to stop by Twin Oast Brewing for a refreshing drink.
The brewery was founded in May 2018 by Quintin and Donna Smith and their son Cory who were passionate about craft beer and wanted to create a space where people could come together and enjoy high-quality, locally-made beer and foods.
Twin Oast Brewing is known for its wide variety of beers, which include a range of styles such as IPA, pale ale, porter, and stout. It has a taproom and outdoor patio area where visitors can relax and enjoy their favorite brews.
The taproom has a laid-back and welcoming atmosphere and often hosts events and live music.
The brewery also offers tours and tastings, which allow you to learn about the brewing process and try a variety of different beers.
9. Unwind At Lakeview Park
Spending quality time at Lakeview Park is a great way to enjoy the area’s natural beauty and relax with friends and family.
The park is located on the shores of Lake Erie and offers a variety of recreational activities and amenities for visitors.
Most people come here to spend time on the sandy beach. The beach is a great place to swim, sunbathe, and enjoy the beauty of the lake. The park also has a playground and picnic areas for families and groups.
In addition, there are several hiking and biking trails that offer the opportunity to explore the park and see a variety of flora and fauna.
The park is home to a variety of birds and other animals, and is a great place for birdwatching and nature photography.
Spending quality time at Lakeview Park is a great way to relax and enjoy the beauty of the region.
So whether you are looking to swim or just relax and take in the views, Lakeview Park should definitely be high on your list of top things to things to do in Port Clinton.
10. Shop For Fish At Fisherman’s Wharf
Do you love fresh fish and seafood? If yes, Fisherman’s Wharf is a must-visit. This family-owned business is located on the shores of Lake Erie and has been in operation since 1960.
The market is known for its wide selection of fresh fish and seafood caught by local fishermen.
In fact, it’s here where you’re sure to get high-quality, locally-caught fish that is fresh and flavorful.
Some of the most popular fish sold here include yellow perch, walleye, and small-mouth bass, all of which are caught in the lake.
In addition, this area is filled with a number of boats that offer fishing charters and sightseeing tours.
Therefore, this makes it one of the best sites in Port Clinton to combine a day of shopping with a lake tour.
11. Enjoy The Best Rides At Cedar Point Amusement Park
It will only take you approximately 21 min to drive from Port Clinton to this amusement park, which is the second-oldest operating amusement park in the US, founded in 1870.
This amusement park is best known for its wide range of rides and attractions to choose from.
In total, there are 70 rides, and the most popular are the adrenaline-pumping Steel Vengeance roller coasters, the family-friendly Snake River Expedition, and also the thrilling Millennium Force.
In addition to the rides, Cedar Point also has a variety of other attractions and activities to enjoy, including live entertainment, dining options, and shopping.
The park is open seasonally and offers a variety of special events and promotions throughout the year.
And being of the famous attractions in Port Clinton, a visit to Cedar Point Amusement Park is a great way to enjoy a day of thrills and excitement with friends and family.
12. Dine At Cheese Haven
Last on my list of the best things to do in Port Clinton is dining atCheese Haven. This is a specialty cheese shop known for its wide selection of high-quality, artisanal cheeses from around the world, as well as its friendly and knowledgeable staff.
At Cheese Haven, you will find a variety of cheeses to suit every taste and preference.
The shop has over 100 selections of hard and soft cheeses, including cheddar, brie, and blue cheese, as well as a variety of specialty cheeses, such as truffle cheese and goat cheese.
The shop also has a variety of other products and gifts, including knives, cheese boards, and other cheese-related accessories.
But it’s not just the cheese that makes Cheese Haven special. The shop also offers a variety of other products, including a wide selection of wine and beer.