Escape to Shores & Islands Ohio with your partner on a getaway designed to match your perfect pace. Whether you're seeking adventure, tranquility, or a balance of both, we've curated three unforgettable itineraries for couples seeking whatever kind of relaxation sounds good to you. From heart-pounding outdoor excursions to serene walks and a mix of both, each itinerary promises a unique way to connect and create lasting memories.
ITINERARY 1
HEART-RACING ADVENTURE
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Get energized for your day with an espresso or tea at Gathering Grounds Coffee House in Huron before you head to Common Grounds Canopy Tours for an exhilarating zipline tour!
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Head to Sandusky for lunch at Sandusky Bay Pancake House before continuing your thrills at Noble Axes, where you can test your skills at axe throwing along with trying some tasty craft brews.
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Or for those wanting to explore the water, after lunch, head to Huron to explore the Huron River on a River Monster boat tour. Enjoy the beauty of the maritime scenery and wildlife and watch out for a mythological prehistoric “sea monster” that legend says lurks beneath the waves.
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If axe throwing was your route, you can enjoy a delicious dinner at Crush Wine Bar before taking a beautiful Sunset Cruise on Goodtime Lake Erie Island Cruises.
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If the River Monster was your choice, you can spend the evening in Downtown Vermilion, enjoy a walk to see the Vermilion Lighthouse and beach, and enjoy dinner at one of the many eateries from a French dining experience at Chez Francois or if a burger and beer sound more tempting, head to Rudy’s Bar and Grill.
ITINERARY 2
ROMANTIC RELAXATION
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Start your day with breakfast at a local favorite! If you’re looking for smoothies and healthier options to energize you for the day, Root to Rise Wellness Café is the perfect spot! If you’d rather start your day watching the rolling waves of Lake Erie, grab a coffee at Red Bicycle Coffee in Marblehead and head to the Marblehead Lighthouse just down the road!
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To continue taking in nature’s beauty, the next destination is Schedel Arboretum & Gardens in Elmore, where you can view gorgeous gardens, magical bonsai, and the largest collection of 19th Century Lithophanes in the nation. On your way to the gardens, you may notice several painted “barn quilts” on various barns in the region, which are part of a larger Barn Quilt Trail through Ottawa County.
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Alternatively, if wild nature is more your fancy, head to Magee Marsh Wildlife Area to tour the newly renovated Visitor Center, and walk the boardwalk to see an amazing array of flora and fauna.
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If all this nature has worked up your appetite, we will head back toward Port Clinton and in season stop at Dock’s Beach House for the views, or head into downtown Port Clinton for a delicious meal at Rosie’s Bar & Grill.
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If an afternoon on an island sounds like your ideal romantic getaway, Kelleys Island will be perfect for you! Enjoy a leisurely ferry ride on the Kelleys Island Ferry, rent a golf cart, and fill your afternoon exploring the many beautiful nature areas, extraordinarily preserved glacial grooves, the downtown shops and eateries, two wineries, and Charles Herndon Galleries and Sculpture Garden. Enjoy dinner at one of the many downtown restaurants, or wine and dine at Kelley’s Island Wine Company. Stay and enjoy live entertainment on the island or head back to the mainland and enjoy a nightcap at Gideon Owen Wine Co.
ITINERARY 3
THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS
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Begin your day with a great breakfast at The Clinton House in Port Clinton before heading to a safari adventure at African Safari Wildlife Park. Feed bison, deer, highland cattle, and even giraffe from your car at the drive-thru safari. Don’t miss out on the walk-thru portion as well where you can have the chance to get up close and personal with a sloth, feed a capybara, and more!
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Now we will head from adventure, to relaxation, and from mainland to island! Take the Jet Express or Miller Ferry to Put-in-Bay and begin your island relaxation with a drink and some lunch at the Put-in-Bay Brewery & Distillery (don’t forget to check in for your Cheers Trail points).
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After lunch, if you’re in the mood for some history, head to Perry’s International Victory & Peace Memorial to learn about the island’s place in the War of 1812. If relaxation is calling, head to one of the many nature areas like Jane Coates Wildflower Trail, the South Bass Island State Park (don’t forget to get your selfie with the Put-in-Bay Sign!).
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If you’re ready for happy hour, head downtown to the Red Moon Speakeasy for a delectable hand-crafted cocktail. If you aren’t quite ready for a cocktail, then get your hearts fluttering by visiting The Butterfly House at Perry’s Cave Family Fun Center to be surrounded by 100s of colorful and exotic butterflies.
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Explore the shops and bars around downtown Put-in-Bay before heading to The Boardwalk Upper Deck for a romantic dinner overlooking Put-in-Bay Harbor. End your evening enjoying downtown Put-in-Bay’s lively nightlife!