THINGS TO DO IN
  SANDUSKY

Things To Do In Sandusky This Weekend

Entertainment & Family Fun in Sandusky

1. Great Wolf Lodge Resort Hotel
2. Ghostly Manor Thrill Center
3. Seneca Caverns
4. Cedar Point
5. Sandusky State Theatre (Schine State Theatre)
6. Follett House Museum

Wildlife & Outdoor Nature Near Sandusky

1. African Safari Wildlife Park
2. Castalia State Fish Hatchery
3. Lagoon Deer Park
4. Old Woman Creek State Nature Preserve
5. Sheldon Marsh State Nature Preserve
6. Battery Park Marina & Park
7. Pipe Creek Wildlife Area

History & Museums in Sandusky

1. Edison Birthplace
2. Maritime Museum of Sandusky
3. Merry-Go-Round Museum
4. Milan Historical Museum
5. National Museum of the Great Lakes
6. Marblehead Lighthouse
7. Perry's Victory & International Peace Memorial

Wine & Culinary Tastings Near Sandusky

1. Firelands Winery
2. Heineman Winery
3. Kelley’s Island Wine Company

Island Excursions & Scenic Travel Near Sandusky

1. Kelleys Island
2. Pelee Island, Ontario
3. Put-In-Bay
4. Miller Boatline

Sports & Recreation in Sandusky

1. Sawmill Creek Golf Club
2. Woussickett Golf
3. Sandusky Speedway

Things To Do In Cleveland, OH

1. Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
2. Cleveland Museum of Art
3. West Side Market
4. Playhouse Square
5. Pro Sports Stadiums and Tours

Things To Do In Toldeo, OH

1. Toledo Zoo & Aquarium
2. Toledo Museum of Art
3. Imagination Station
4. Toledo Botanical Garden
5. Toledo Mud Hens Game at Fifth Third Field

Things to Do in Sandusky This Weekend

Looking for things to do near Lake Erie? Sandusky is a vibrant waterfront destination packed with attractions, family activities, and scenic spots just minutes from the shoreline. Whether you’re planning a getaway or just searching for things to do near Great Wolf Lodge Sandusky Ohio, you’ll find amusement parks, cultural experiences, and unique local landmarks all within easy reach. From thrilling rides to relaxing lake views, Sandusky has something for every kind of traveler.

Entertainment & Family Fun in Sandusky

Beyond the waterpark, Sandusky is packed with family-friendly entertainment. Thrilling attractions, indoor fun centers, and unique local destinations make it easy to keep the excitement going all day long. Continue reading to learn more about some of the best things to do in Sandusky, Ohio with kids.

1. Great Wolf Lodge Resort Hotel
Great Wolf Lodge in Sandusky is more than a hotel—it’s a full-scale family resort with its own massive indoor water park. Guests can splash year-round at our Sandusky water park, enjoy kid-friendly activities, themed suites, and multiple dining options, all under one roof. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or an extended stay, the lodge combines non-stop entertainment with cozy accommodations just minutes from Sandusky’s top attractions. For the best water park in Sandusky, Ohio, look no further than Great Wolf Lodge.

2. Ghostly Manor Thrill Center
Rated Top 10 in the U.S. Walk through this haunted mansion filled with thrills, chills and unbelievable special effects. Visit the bounce houses, XD Theatre or Skateworld for hours of fun.

3. Seneca Caverns
A registered Natural Landmark, discovered in 1872, where you can explore the earth's depths. Take an hour long guided tour, pan for gemstones at Seneca Mining Company and picnic in the shade.

4. Cedar Point
Known as “The Roller Coaster Capital of the World,” Cedar Point Park Sandusky offers record-breaking rides, live shows, and family attractions right on the Lake Erie shoreline. With nearly 20 world-class coasters, it’s a must-visit destination for thrill seekers and families alike. Continue reading for more things to do near Cedar Point or things to do around Cedar Point.

5. Sandusky State Theatre (Schine State Theatre)
A restored 1928 vaudeville theater that recently reopened after renovations, now hosting live performances, films, and community events—an elegant touch to Sandusky’s cultural scene.

6. Follett House Museum
A historic Greek Revival-style mansion offering free tours and rich exhibits that span local history, domestic life, and panoramic views of Cedar Point and Sandusky Bay.

Wildlife & Outdoor Nature Near Sandusky

Sandusky and the surrounding Lake Erie region are rich with opportunities to connect with nature. From drive-through safari parks to peaceful nature preserves, there’s plenty to explore outdoors for families and wildlife lovers alike.

1. African Safari Wildlife Park
Experience this drive-through safari with exotic animals, pony rides, pig races, a gift shop, picnic facilities, a snack bar, and entertaining as well as educational animal shows. Free parking and free animal food.

2. Castalia State Fish Hatchery
This 90-acre facility raises over 470,000 steelhead and rainbow trout annually to stock Lake Erie tributaries and inland lakes. Open for self-guided tours year-round, Monday - Friday.

3. Lagoon Deer Park
View over 200 exotic animals from Europe, Japan, Asia, North and South America as well as Africa. Pet and hand-feed the animals as you stroll through the park or, for a fee, fish in a stocked lagoon with a wide variety of species to catch.

4. Old Woman Creek State Nature Preserve
Old Woman Creek National Estuarine Research Reserve and State Nature Preserve is one of the state’s few remaining examples of a natural estuary. As a transition zone between land and water, the site contains a variety of habitats, upland forests, open water, tributary streams, barrier beach and near the shores of Lake Erie. Learn about this unique estuary by visiting the indoor nature center or hiking the trails.

5. Sheldon Marsh State Nature Preserve
Sheldon Marsh State Nature Preserve and contiguous wetlands comprise some of the last remaining undeveloped stretches of shoreline in the Sandusky Bay region. Hike the paved trails surrounded by forests, swamps, marshlands and a barrier beach. Bird checklists and brochures available.

6. Battery Park Marina & Park
A lakeside complex with a swimming pool, tennis courts, and shopping, all set on five acres with beautiful views and a marina feel.

7. Pipe Creek Wildlife Area
A quiet 97-acre wetland park along Sandusky Bay—ideal for birdwatchers and nature lovers looking for scenic trails and native wildlife.

History & Museums in Sandusky

Step back in time with Sandusky’s unique mix of historical landmarks and hands-on museums. Whether you’re fascinated by maritime heritage, local inventors, or classic Americana, these attractions offer an educational and memorable experience.
 

1. Edison Birthplace
Visit Thomas Edison's 1847 birthplace. Tour his boyhood home, and see displays of some of his accomplishments as the world's greatest inventor.

2. Maritime Museum of Sandusky
Explore Sandusky's rich maritime history through local artifacts, photos, and maps; view displays of Lyman Boat Works, local passenger boats and freighters, and many other boats built in Sandusky. Also visit the nautical gift shop. Open year-round.

3. Merry-Go-Round Museum
Visit the Merry-Go-Round Museum and see historic downtown Sandusky-on-the-Bay. Ride into history on an antique carousel, meet wood carvers as they create new horses, listen to the familiar music of band organs, take a guided tour of the art and learn the history of the carousel!

4. Milan Historical Museum
During the 1840's this quaint town was the second largest inland seas shipping port for wheat in the world! Visit this seven-building museum complex and explore Milan's unique canal history. Featuring an extensive collection of 400 antique dolls and the 1,400 piece world-class art glass exhibit. The museum also includes a blacksmith shop, general store, arts building and gift shop.

5. National Museum of the Great Lakes
The National Museum of the Great Lakes features interactive exhibits, hands-on experiences, shipwreck artifacts, and over thirty ship models. Hours may vary depending on day of week and seasonally, there are also special discounts and group rates available.

6. Marblehead Lighthouse
Visit the oldest lighthouse in continuous operation on the Great Lakes. Daily tours are offered during the summer. A museum, located in the Keeper’s House is open on the same schedule as the tower.

7. Perry's Victory & International Peace Memorial
A unit of the National Park Service, this monument commemorates the victory of Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry in the Battle of Lake Erie, as well as the peaceful relations between Canada and the United States that resulted from the signing of The Rush-Bagot Agreement in 1817.

Wine & Culinary Tastings Near Sandusky

Ohio’s Lake Erie shoreline is home to a thriving wine country. Enjoy local wineries where you can sample regional flavors, tour scenic vineyards, and relax with a glass overlooking the water. Next are some of the best things to do in Sandusky, Ohio for adults.

1. Firelands Winery
Award-winning local winery offering tours and tastings. Visit the tasting room where you will find gifts, wines, and home winemaking supplies. Toll free: 1-800-548-WINE.

2. Heineman Winery
Tour the winery and the famous Crystal Cave, the world's largest geode. The winery also features a gift shop, tasting room and courtyard.

3. Kelley’s Island Wine Company
The Kelley’s Island Wine Company features a tasting room, gift shop, full restaurant, and the largest outdoor facility on the island, complete with picnic tables, horseshoes and volleyball.

Island Excursions & Scenic Travel Near Sandusky

The islands off the coast of Sandusky are some of Ohio’s best-kept secrets. Take a short ferry ride to enjoy charming villages, beautiful shorelines, and unforgettable views of Lake Erie. There are so many things to do near Lake Erie.

1. Kelleys Island
The largest American island in Lake Erie, Kelleys Island, is home to Inscription Rock and Glacial Grooves State Park with family restaurants and pubs.

2. Pelee Island, Ontario
This island is the southernmost inhabited point in Canada and is a wildlife enthusiast's paradise. Over 10,000 unique species can be found here. Wonderful opportunities for fishing, biking, and hiking await you on this unique island just a ferry ride from Sandusky.

3. Put-In-Bay
There is no doubt Put-In-Bay Ohio is one of the most unique places you will ever visit. The tiny two by four mile island is dotted with historic homes, the nation's third tallest monument, quaint restaurants and local pubs. Beautiful water surrounds Put-In-Bay where you will find some of the best walleye and perch fishing in the United States.

4. Miller Boatline
Something special begins as you board the Miller Ferry. Discover the sights, sounds and smiles of Lake Erie and the Islands. Ferries to Put-In-Bay (South Bass Island) and Middle Bass Island from Catawba.

Sports & Recreation in Sandusky

Golfers and outdoor recreation enthusiasts will find no shortage of options in and around Sandusky. Play a round at well-maintained courses or enjoy other active pursuits under the Lake Erie sun.

1. Sawmill Creek Golf Club
Public, daily-fee, 18-hole golf club located on the shores of Lake Erie was designed by renowned golf architect, Tom Fazio. Call for available tee times.

2. Woussickett Golf
Since it first opened more than 20 years ago, Woussickett Golf Course has earned a reputation as one of the most scenic, picturesque layouts in the Sandusky golf community. Play this unique 18-hole championship course. Schedule a tee time.

3. Sandusky Speedway
This local racetrack delivers high-energy entertainment with stock car races, special events, and a family-friendly atmosphere. Located just minutes from downtown Sandusky, the speedway has been a regional favorite for decades, offering affordable excitement for motorsports fans. It’s the perfect stop for anyone looking to add some fast-paced fun to their trip.

Things to Do in Cleveland, OH

Located just about an hour from Great Wolf Lodge Sandusky, Cleveland offers a vibrant mix of culture, history, and entertainment. Whether you’re into world-class museums, music landmarks, or professional sports, it’s an easy day trip packed with big-city excitement.

1. Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
An iconic lakeside museum honoring the legends of rock music, featuring immersive exhibits, historic instruments, and memorabilia from music’s greatest performers.

2. Cleveland Museum of Art
A world-class art institution offering free general admission, with a vast collection ranging from Asian and Egyptian masterpieces to Renaissance and contemporary works.

3. West Side Market
Cleveland’s oldest public market, housed in a historic building, offering a vibrant array of fresh produce, meats, baked goods, and international flavors.

4. Playhouse Square
The nation’s largest regional performing arts center outside New York City, this theater district and its stunning restored venues host Broadway shows, concerts, and cultural events.

5. Pro Sports Stadiums and Tours
Cleveland is home to the Browns (NFL), Guardians (MLB), and Cavaliers (NBA). Visitors can catch a game or take behind-the-scenes tours of FirstEnergy Stadium, Progressive Field, and Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse to experience the city’s passionate sports culture.

Things to Do in Toledo, OH

Roughly an hour west of Great Wolf Lodge Sandusky, Toledo combines family-friendly fun with rich cultural experiences. From interactive science exhibits to beautiful gardens and a renowned zoo, this city offers plenty of reasons to make the short drive.

1. Toledo Zoo & Aquarium
One of the country’s premier zoos, home to over 10,000 animals and 720 species, including immersive exhibits like the Hippoquarium, Arctic Encounter, and Aquarium.

2. Toledo Museum of Art
A stunning Greek Revival museum known for its international art collection—with strengths in glasswork—and an elegant Glass Pavilion designed by SANAA. Admission remains free, making it a cultural gem.

3. Imagination Station
A hands-on science center offering interactive exhibits designed to spark curiosity, ideal for families and visitors eager to explore STEM through play and experimentation.

4. Toledo Botanical Garden
A 60-acre garden featuring art installations, expansive plant collections, and tranquil walking paths—managed by MetroparksToledo and perfect for a peaceful stroll.

5. Toledo Mud Hens Game at Fifth Third Field
Enjoy minor league baseball at the fun and lively home of the Toledo Mud Hens, located in downtown Toledo’s vibrant entertainment district.