NORTHWEST OHIO
Rocky Ridge Ohio
10 ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
1. Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge
WILDLIFE VIEWING & HIKING | OAK HARBOR OH
Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge offers 10,000 acres of wetlands and woodlands for wildlife viewing and hiking. Visitors can explore 7 miles of hiking trails, observe migratory birds, and learn about local ecosystems at the visitor center. The refuge provides a crucial habitat for waterfowl and other wildlife species.
2. Magee Marsh Wildlife Area
BIRDING & NATURE TRAILS | OAK HARBOR OH
Magee Marsh Wildlife Area is a premier birding destination, especially during spring migration. The area features a mile-long boardwalk through marshland, offering close-up views of warblers and other songbirds. Visitors can also enjoy fishing, hunting, and wildlife photography in this diverse ecosystem.
3. African Safari Wildlife Park
DRIVE-THRU ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS | PORT CLINTON OH
African Safari Wildlife Park in Port Clinton offers a unique drive-thru safari experience. Visitors can feed and interact with exotic animals like bison, alpacas, and zebras from their vehicles. The park also features walk-through exhibits, pig races, and educational animal shows for a full day of family fun.
4. Marblehead Lighthouse State Park
HISTORIC LIGHTHOUSE & VIEWS | MARBLEHEAD OH
Marblehead Lighthouse State Park is home to the oldest continuously operating lighthouse on the Great Lakes. Visitors can climb the tower for panoramic views of Lake Erie, tour the keeper's house museum, and enjoy picnicking on the rocky shoreline. The park offers beautiful sunset views and fishing opportunities.
5. Perry's Victory & International Peace Memorial
HISTORIC MONUMENT & MUSEUM | PUT-IN-BAY OH
Perry's Victory & International Peace Memorial on South Bass Island commemorates the Battle of Lake Erie. The 352-foot monument offers stunning views of Lake Erie and nearby islands. Visitors can explore the visitor center to learn about the War of 1812 and the long-lasting peace between Britain, Canada, and the US.
6. Catawba Island State Park
LAKESIDE RECREATION & FISHING | PORT CLINTON OH
Catawba Island State Park provides access to Lake Erie for fishing, boating, and swimming. The park features a boat launch, fishing pier, and picnic areas with scenic lake views. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing on the small beach or watching boats navigate the busy waters of Lake Erie.
7. Liberty Aviation Museum
VINTAGE AIRCRAFT & MEMORABILIA | PORT CLINTON OH
Liberty Aviation Museum in Port Clinton showcases vintage aircraft and military vehicles. Visitors can explore restored planes, including a B-25 Mitchell bomber, and view an extensive collection of aviation memorabilia. The museum also features a 1950s-style diner and offers flight experiences in historic aircraft.
8. Schedel Arboretum & Gardens
BOTANICAL GARDENS & ART | ELMORE OH
Schedel Arboretum & Gardens in Elmore offers 17 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds. Visitors can stroll through themed gardens, admire sculptures and rare trees, and enjoy the serenity of water features. The arboretum also hosts art exhibits, educational programs, and seasonal events throughout the year.
9. Oak Harbor Public Library
COMMUNITY HUB & RESOURCES | OAK HARBOR OH
Oak Harbor Public Library serves as a community hub for Rocky Ridge and surrounding areas. The library offers a wide selection of books, digital resources, and public computers. Visitors can participate in various programs, including story times for children, book clubs for adults, and educational workshops for all ages.
10. Turtle Point Marina
BOATING & WATERFRONT DINING | OAK HARBOR OH
Turtle Point Marina in Oak Harbor provides boating access to the Portage River and Lake Erie. Visitors can rent boats, purchase fishing supplies, or enjoy waterfront dining at the on-site restaurant. The marina offers a relaxing atmosphere for watching boats and enjoying scenic river views.
Rocky Ridge Attractions
THINGS TO DO IN ROCKY RIDGE
Rocky Ridge, Ohio, is a small village in Ottawa County known for its proximity to natural attractions and outdoor recreational opportunities. The village's location near Lake Erie and several wildlife refuges makes it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers.
One of the most popular attractions near Rocky Ridge is the Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge, which offers extensive wetlands and woodlands for wildlife viewing and hiking. Visitors can explore miles of trails and observe a diverse array of migratory birds and other wildlife species in their natural habitats.
Another notable attraction in the area is Magee Marsh Wildlife Area, renowned as one of the best birding spots in North America. During spring migration, birdwatchers flock to the area to witness the spectacular array of warblers and other songbirds that use the marsh as a stopover site.
While Rocky Ridge itself is a quiet community, its proximity to Lake Erie provides access to numerous water-based activities. Nearby marinas and state parks offer opportunities for boating, fishing, and beach activities, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the natural beauty of Ohio's north coast.