In the middle of Lake Erie, near the Canadian border, you'll find an island that's been called "the Key West of the North." Since no roads lead to the island, the fastest way to South Bass Island, also known as "Put-In-Bay," is aboard the Jet Express.
“We see a lot of islands along the way,” says Jet Express Captain Ralph Brumby of the other islands the high-speed catamaran will pass in route to Put-In-Bay. The Jet Express departs from a dock in Sandusky, Ohio and a second location in Port Clinton, Ohio.
Once docked in the island of Put-In-Bay, you'll find a village with several watering holes.
“As far as I know, it’s always been a bar,” says Round House Manager Paula Garsteck . “They did sell ice cream back then.”
The Round House first opened in 1873 and survived prohibition years. The iconic round building was always painted red, until an American Flag was painted on the façade this spring.
The Frosty Bar down the block is a popular spot for lunch.
“We have great pizza and it’s a great place to bring the kids,” remarks co-owner Kim Morrisson.
Kim is the third generation to run the family business where most folks can't leave the island without an iconic a Frosty T-shirt.
“We were super surprised at how much demand there was for the shirts!” Kim admits.
Ready to explore this island with its thick canopy of mature trees and picturesque views of Lake Erie? Rent a golf cart and get lost on the island that's home to only 200 full-time residents.
In the harsh winters, wine making became a way of life. The Heineman Winery, founded in 1888, still cranks out the bottles of vino. The tree-lined groves are perfect for sitting down and sipping wine and enjoying a cheese plate in the middle of a slow afternoon.
Across the street from the Heineman Winery, go underground into Perry's Cave. The cave rests 52 feet below the surface and is always a balmy 50 degrees.
“Of course you may think it’s going to be cold, but it’s just refreshing after being outside in the hot sun,” explains cave owner Pinky Bat (who prefers to go by his nickname).
There’s also a large historical significance to Put-In-Bay. Ohioans here may have been Canadians if the British got their way during the War of 1812. In September 2013, the island will mark the 200th anniversary of the “Battle of Lake Erie” that established the boundary between the United States and Canada.
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