NORTHWEST OHIO
Port Clinton Ohio
10 ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
1. African Safari Wildlife Park
DRIVE-THROUGH SAFARI ADVENTURE | PORT CLINTON OH
African Safari Wildlife Park offers a unique drive-through safari experience in Port Clinton. Visitors can feed and interact with exotic animals like giraffes, zebras, and bison from the comfort of their vehicles. The park also features walk-through areas, animal shows, and educational presentations for a full day of wildlife adventure.
2. Jet Express
ISLAND FERRY SERVICE | PORT CLINTON OH
Jet Express provides high-speed ferry service from Port Clinton to Put-in-Bay and Kelleys Island. The modern catamarans offer a comfortable and scenic ride across Lake Erie, with indoor and outdoor seating options. It's the perfect way to explore the popular Lake Erie islands and enjoy stunning views of the coastline.
3. Liberty Aviation Museum
AVIATION HISTORY & EXHIBITS | PORT CLINTON OH
Liberty Aviation Museum showcases a fascinating collection of aircraft and military vehicles. Visitors can explore restored planes, including a B-25 Mitchell bomber, and learn about aviation history through interactive exhibits. The museum also features a 1950s-style diner, the Tin Goose Diner, serving classic American fare to complete the nostalgic experience.
4. The Watering Hole Safari and Waterpark
FAMILY FUN & WILDLIFE | PORT CLINTON OH
The Watering Hole Safari and Waterpark combines wildlife encounters with aquatic fun. Visitors can enjoy animal exhibits featuring lemurs, sloths, and kangaroos, then cool off in the waterpark's pools and slides. The park also offers educational programs, making it an ideal destination for family-friendly entertainment and learning.
5. Port Clinton Lighthouse
HISTORIC MARITIME LANDMARK | PORT CLINTON OH
Port Clinton Lighthouse stands as a restored 1896 wooden pier light on the shores of Lake Erie. Visitors can climb to the top for panoramic views of the lake and surrounding area. The lighthouse park offers informative displays about local maritime history and provides a picturesque spot for photography and relaxation.
6. Catawba Island State Park
LAKESIDE RECREATION | PORT CLINTON OH
Catawba Island State Park offers a serene lakeside retreat with stunning views of Lake Erie. Visitors can enjoy fishing, picnicking, and sunbathing on the small beach area. The park's boat ramp provides easy access for boating enthusiasts, while the scenic shoreline trails are perfect for leisurely walks and nature observation.
7. Dock's Beach House Bar & Grille
LAKEFRONT DINING | PORT CLINTON OH
Dock's Beach House Bar & Grille offers a lively lakefront dining experience in Port Clinton. Guests can savor fresh seafood and American cuisine while enjoying panoramic views of Lake Erie. The restaurant features live entertainment, a tiki bar, and a sandy beach area, creating a perfect blend of casual dining and beachside relaxation.
8. Great Lakes Popcorn Company
GOURMET POPCORN SHOP | PORT CLINTON OH
Great Lakes Popcorn Company is a local favorite, offering over 50 flavors of gourmet popcorn. Visitors can sample unique varieties like Lake Erie Salt & Vinegar or Chocolate Drizzle. The shop's charming atmosphere and friendly staff make it a must-visit spot for snack lovers and souvenir seekers in downtown Port Clinton.
9. The Listening Room
INTIMATE MUSIC VENUE | PORT CLINTON OH
The Listening Room provides an intimate setting for live music performances in Port Clinton. This cozy venue hosts local and touring musicians, offering a diverse range of genres from folk to jazz. With its excellent acoustics and relaxed atmosphere, it's the perfect spot for music enthusiasts to enjoy quality performances in a close-up setting.
10. Marblehead Lighthouse State Park
ICONIC LIGHTHOUSE | MARBLEHEAD OH
Marblehead Lighthouse State Park features the oldest continuously operating lighthouse on the Great Lakes. Visitors can climb to the top for breathtaking views of Lake Erie and nearby islands. The park offers picnic areas, fishing spots, and a museum showcasing the lighthouse's history, making it a popular destination for history buffs and nature lovers alike.
Port Clinton Attractions
THINGS TO DO IN PORT CLINTON
Port Clinton, Ohio, known as the "Walleye Capital of the World," is a charming lakeside town that offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures and small-town charm. Situated on the shores of Lake Erie, this vibrant community is renowned for its excellent fishing opportunities, attracting anglers from across the country to participate in its famous walleye fishing tournaments.
Beyond fishing, Port Clinton boasts a variety of attractions that cater to diverse interests. The African Safari Wildlife Park provides a unique drive-through safari experience, allowing visitors to interact with exotic animals up close. For those interested in aviation history, the Liberty Aviation Museum showcases an impressive collection of aircraft and military vehicles, offering a glimpse into the region's rich aviation heritage.
Water enthusiasts can enjoy the scenic beauty of Lake Erie through various activities. The Jet Express ferry service offers convenient transportation to nearby islands like Put-in-Bay and Kelleys Island, perfect for day trips or island hopping adventures. The historic Port Clinton Lighthouse stands as a testament to the area's maritime past, providing panoramic views of the lake and surrounding landscape.
With its combination of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and cultural attractions, Port Clinton offers visitors a diverse range of experiences. Whether it's exploring the lakefront, indulging in fresh seafood at local restaurants, or simply relaxing on the beach, Port Clinton provides a quintessential Lake Erie getaway that captures the essence of Ohio's north coast.