The Most Delightful Small Towns to Discover in Every State

16. Put-in-Bay, Ohio

The quaint island village of Put-in-Bay, Ohio, is a ferry ride away. The name refers to the bay itself, where schooners who sailed on Lake Erie would arrive to wait out bad weather. The village has a population of 135. Most guests visit the island for either a quick day trip or a casual overnight stay. There are so many activities to partake in around the island. You can take a golf cart, moped, or rent a bike to enjoy a stroll through town.

There is a massive column at Perrys’ Victory and International Peace Memorial that commemorates the 1812 Battle of Lake Erie. Other places to visit could be a stone beach at South Bass Island State Park, the Antique Car Museum, and Perry’s Cave Family Fun Center, a limestone cave and butterfly house. Your visit to Put-in-Bay will leave you viewing stunning state parks and rocky lakeside beaches. Once it gets closer to dinner time, check out the local restaurants and bars.