Put-in-Bay

Put-in-Bay sits on South Bass Island in Lake Erie and is a small settlement spread along the bay across 1.6 km² (0.63 square miles). Streets run parallel to the shore, with wooden houses, shops and boat docks standing between tall trees along the waterfront.

The bay served as a base for the American fleet during the 1813 Battle of Lake Erie, where Commander Oliver Hazard Perry defeated British ships. Later the island developed into a wine-growing area before tourism gained importance in the early 1900s.

The island harbor remains a safe anchorage for sailors and boaters crossing the Great Lakes, especially during rough weather. On summer evenings, small bars and restaurants along the waterfront fill with guests sitting between wooden tables, watching the activity on the lake.

Ferries from Port Clinton and Sandusky bring visitors to the island several times daily, while the airfield on South Bass Island also receives small private planes. Most places in the village can be reached on foot or by rented golf carts, as streets are narrow and lack sidewalks.

The village name comes from the harbor shape, which resembled an old pudding bag as sailors noticed when arriving. An underground well near the harbor has supplied drinking water to the island for over a century and remains accessible even in winter.

Location: Ottawa County

Website: http://villageofpib.com

GPS coordinates: 41.65310,-82.81750

Latest update: December 17, 2025 07:32