From brand-new experiences to beloved places marking major milestones, the Shores & Islands Ohio region continues to evolve while honoring what makes it special. In 2026, visitors will discover fresh dining spots, new attractions, expanded lodging options, and creative community projects—alongside meaningful anniversaries that celebrate decades of local history and family traditions. Whether you’re planning a first visit or returning to a favorite getaway, these new additions and notable celebrations offer even more reasons to explore the shores.
Ghostly Manor Thrill Center recently debuted the all-new Nexus Gel Blaster. This immersive arena combines the best elements of laser tag, paintball, and video games into fast-paced team battles. Guests can choose between classic laser tag or gel blaster mode, which uses soft gellets—water beads that burst on impact. Games are an exciting, safe, and mess-free experience for players of all ages and skill levels. Nexus Gel Blaster – Laser Tag features glowing lights, thrilling sound effects, and nonstop action.
Son Rise Marina, Sandusky, is adding a new luxury RV resort to its footprint. Each of the 12 sites will feature an oversized concrete pad and patio, along with full utility hook-ups. Campers will have access to the marina’s amenities such as the swimming pool, community room, bathhouse, and laundry facilities. These sites are intended for seasonal use.
A gorgeous new mural has arrived to beautify one of the busiest intersections in Ottawa County. The 3,500 square-foot mural, on the NAPA Auto Parts building in Oak Harbor, celebrates the region’s heritage and natural beauty. Designed by Derek Brennan and the Cleveland Mural Company, the mural features wildlife of the Portage River, honoring the community’s deep connection to the river and its natural resources. It also highlights Oak Harbor’s growing appeal to birders and eco-tourists.
The Bay Bell Restaurant in Bayview has reopened under new ownership. A family-friendly, casual spot, Bay Bell features waterfront dining, all-day breakfast, steaks, and seafood, along with occasional live entertainment.
The Villa Eatery & Bar is a new restaurant on Kelleys Island, located next to the Kelleys Island Venture Resort and offering amazing waterfront views. The restaurant features American cuisine with island and coastal-inspired influences, along with both indoor and outdoor (pet-friendly) seating.
Babysitting Connection is a news service in the region, offering vetted sitters (background check, driving record, 
CPR certified) to families. If you’re a visitor with kids and need trustworthy childcare for an evening, this is a handy tool to have – this may be especially useful for frequent visitors such as those with vacation homes or regular camping spots, or business travelers with families.
Sweets & Geeks, a new addition to the Sandusky Mall, offers a unique mix of candy, collectibles, and pop culture. The collectibles you can browse run from casual finds to niche items. Plus, there is an onsite Collectible Specialist who helps curate the collection. Plushies and international candies are also offered.
Ever After Arbor is a new, picturesque wedding gazebo and outdoor venue, recently added to The Victorian Inn Bed & Breakfast in Marblehead. This charming venue is framed by weeping willow trees and offers a patio and deck with outdoor seating for up to 75 guests. The indoor dining room adds space for up to 30 guests in an intimate setting for smaller celebrations.
The BackYard is a new entertainment and recreational facility in Marblehead featuring six indoor Pickleball courts, two high-tech golf simulators, and more. While membership is available, it is not required to visit. Backyard Bites offers snacks along with a self-serve beverage wall including beers and seltzers. Shop their sport shop, take a class, participate in open play, or simply socialize. Coming soon, an outdoor gathering space with fire pits, additional outdoor pickleball courts, a grass volleyball/badminton court, corn hole lanes, and croquet. Go play in the Backyard!
Sora & Oak Sushi & Whiskey Bar debuted in late 2025 in Sandusky featuring fresh air and fresh sushi. Enjoy patio season steps away from the lake with incredible food, and plenty of space to relax and unwind. Sora & Oak is located in the former Everwild Distillery and shares space with Sandusky Pedal Co.
The all-new SpringHill Suites Hotel will open in 2026 on US 250 just south of SR 2, across from Danny Boys Pizza in Sandusky. The four-story, all-suite hotel will offer 95 guest rooms, with separate areas for relaxing and working.
Cherry City Honey in Bellevue is buzzing about their new Discovery Center, where guests of all ages can explore hands-on exhibits, learn about the history of bees in America, and connect with the sweet side of history. Additionally, Cherry City Honey is planning “Land of Milk & Honey” presentations in their Honeycomb Classroom as part of the America 250 celebration.
A new boutique hotel is opening in Vermilion! BREJE Inn is just steps away from Vermilion's dining and shopping scene and Main Street Beach. The property, named from the first initials of the owners’ children’s names, was once a lumber mill in the 1850s and has been converted into a 5-unit luxury inn and event center for up to 50 people. The inn is equipped with 2 full kitchens and high-end amenities throughout.
ANNIVERSARIES
Main Street Vermilion, an organization focused on revitalizing and promoting the downtown area of Vermilion, Ohio through historic preservation, economic development, and community beautification celebrates its 25th anniversary! It’s many events, public arts projects, and the Vermilion in Bloom program among others, make Vermilion a beautiful place to live and visit!
Sandusky Bay Pancake House commemorates its 60th anniversary as the area’s oldest family-owned breakfast restaurant. Started as a Perkins Pancake House in 1966, Sandusky Bay Pancake House rebranded in 2020 but is still the same family-owned, homemade, locally-sourced restaurant in the region.
Lagoon Deer Park celebrates 70 years as the area’s favorite walk-thru petting zoo and stocked fishing ponds. More than 75 babies are born each year – visit and interact with with over 200 animals!
