Catawba OhioATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Catawba, Ohio.
1. Catawba Island State Park
LAKE ERIE GATEWAY
Catawba Island State Park serves as a gateway to Ohio's Great Lake with four boat ramps and a cobblestone beach area for launching kayaks and canoes. The 10-acre park offers beachfront walks on Lake Erie and is perfect for birdwatching and photography. Its greenspace provides an ideal spot for family gatherings with a rustic stone shelter available for visitors.
2. Twin Oast Brewery
CRAFT BEER DESTINATION
Twin Oast Brewery is a popular craft beer destination on Catawba Island offering unique brews in a scenic setting. Visitors can enjoy locally crafted beers while taking in the beautiful surroundings of the island. The brewery has become one of the must-visit attractions for those exploring the Catawba Island area.
3. Gideon Owen Wine Company
PREMIUM WINE EXPERIENCE
Gideon Owen Wine Company provides a premium wine tasting experience on Catawba Island. Guests can sample locally produced wines in an elegant setting surrounded by vineyard views. The winery offers both indoor and outdoor spaces for visitors to relax and enjoy their wine selections.
4. Cedar Meadow Preserve
NATURAL ISLAND SANCTUARY
Cedar Meadow Preserve offers a natural sanctuary for wildlife and plant species native to Catawba Island. Visitors can explore walking trails that showcase the diverse ecosystem of the Lake Erie islands region. The preserve provides an opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Catawba Island away from the more developed areas.
5. Heigel Park
LAKESIDE RECREATION AREA
Heigel Park provides recreational space for residents and visitors to Catawba Island with Lake Erie views. The park features open green spaces and areas for outdoor activities throughout the year. Families particularly enjoy the park's amenities and its proximity to the water.
6. John Braun Park
COMMUNITY GATHERING SPACE
John Braun Park serves as a community gathering space on Catawba Island with facilities for various recreational activities. The park offers amenities for both active sports and passive enjoyment of the outdoors. Its central location makes it a convenient spot for island visitors looking for a place to relax or play.
7. West Harbor Landing
SCENIC WATERFRONT ACCESS
West Harbor Landing provides public access to the waterfront with boat launching facilities and fishing opportunities. Visitors can enjoy views of the harbor and watch boats coming and going throughout the day. The landing serves as both a functional marina area and a scenic spot for tourists exploring Catawba Island.
8. Catawba Island Brewing Company
LOCAL CRAFT BEER
Catawba Island Brewing Company offers locally crafted beers in a relaxed atmosphere near Catawba Island. The brewery features a variety of beer styles produced in small batches with attention to quality and flavor. Visitors can sample flights of beer while learning about the brewing process from knowledgeable staff.
9. Port Clinton Lighthouse
HISTORIC MARITIME LANDMARK
The Port Clinton Lighthouse stands as a historic landmark built in 1896 that remained active for 30 years as a beacon for harbor boats. Following a major renovation from 2010-2014, the lighthouse now welcomes visitors who can climb to the top for panoramic harbor views. This preserved piece of maritime history provides insight into the region's important relationship with Lake Erie navigation.
10. African Safari Wildlife Park
DRIVE-THROUGH ANIMAL EXPERIENCE
African Safari Wildlife Park offers a drive-through safari experience where visitors can observe and interact with various exotic animals from their vehicles. The park features both drive-through and walk-through sections with opportunities to feed some of the animals. This unique attraction brings wildlife encounters to the Lake Erie shores region, making it popular with families.
11. The Jet Express
ISLAND FERRY SERVICE
The Jet Express provides high-speed ferry service between the mainland and the popular Lake Erie islands including Put-in-Bay and Kelleys Island. The passenger ferry offers a comfortable and scenic transportation option with indoor and outdoor seating available. Many visitors to Catawba Island incorporate a day trip to the islands using this convenient service.
12. Miller Boat Line
VEHICLE & PASSENGER FERRY
Miller Boat Line offers ferry transportation for both vehicles and passengers between the mainland and South Bass Island (Put-in-Bay). The service allows visitors to bring their own cars to explore the islands or travel as walk-on passengers. The ferry has been a vital transportation link in the region for decades, connecting the Lake Erie islands to the greater Catawba area.
13. Liberty Aviation Museum
MILITARY AVIATION HISTORY
Liberty Aviation Museum showcases military aviation history with restored aircraft and exhibits dedicated to America's flying heritage. The museum houses notable aircraft alongside military memorabilia and historical artifacts that tell the story of aviation development. Visitors especially appreciate the meticulously restored planes and the opportunity to learn about both civilian and military aviation history.
14. Dock's Beach House
WATERFRONT DINING EXPERIENCE
Dock's Beach House offers waterfront dining with Lake Erie views and a menu featuring fresh seafood and local favorites. The restaurant provides both indoor and outdoor seating options, allowing guests to enjoy the lakeside atmosphere in any weather. Its location makes it a popular stop for visitors exploring the Catawba Island and Port Clinton areas.
15. Lake Erie Sailing Charters
ON-WATER ADVENTURE SERVICE
Lake Erie Sailing Charters provides opportunities to experience Lake Erie from the water with guided sailing excursions. Visitors can book various types of sailing trips, from short scenic cruises to longer adventures exploring the lake. The charter service offers a unique perspective on the Catawba Island region and the beauty of Lake Erie.