979 Catawba Ave.
Put-in-Bay, OH 43456
419-285-2405
Gemstone Mining

Gemstone Mining At Put-in-Bay

Perry’s Cave and Family Fun Center offers several fun activities, all under one roof. One could easily spend an entire afternoon here. Gemstone Mining is one of the more unique activities offered and just like minors of the past, you mine for treasure including precious stones. After purchasing a bag of the rough mix at the gift shop, you can head over to the mining area. Here, you let the water rush over the mix, and you can begin panning, gems and fossils will soon begin to appear. When you’re all done you get to keep your treasures, having a reminder of the fun you had at Put-In-Bay. Geode cutting is also offered here. You can purchase an uncut geode from the gift shop and the specially trained staff will cut it for you with a diamond blade saw to reveal the hidden beauty inside. Every geode is special and unique!

Perry’s Cave and Fun Center

 If you’re looking for fun on Put-In-Bay, Perry’s is the place to be. Located about a mile outside of town, they offer everything from mini golf to rock climbing as well as a maze, cave exploration and is also home to the famous Put-in-Bay Butterfly House.

The star of the show is Perry’s Cave. This unique limestone cave lies 52 feet under the surface of the earth. Visitors descend a flight of stairs into the cave where you are able to take in the natural wonder and even see an underground lake! The temperature hovers right around 50 degrees all year round and can be a nice escape from the summer sun. During the war of 1812, Commodore Perry used this lake for drinking water for his troops. The historically famous Hotel Victory also took advantage of this island secret, serving to many prestigious guests. Unfortunately, the hotel burned down in 1919, leaving ruins still available in South Bass Island State Park.

The War of 18 Holes mini golf course is an interesting treat. Each hole tells the story of a battle during the War of 1812. Not only is this course challenging and fun, but it’s also educational!

The Rock Wall Climb is another interesting activity available at Perry’s. Rising straight up, the 25-foot rock wall is available to climb with staff on-site to help learn the ins and outs of wall climbing. The Butterfly House is a gorgeous escape with butterflies flying throughout the aviary while soothing music plays in the background.

Last but not least, DanDee’s Snack Shack offers delicious quick treats like mac and cheese balls, fried perch, and mozzarella sticks. They also have a nice selection of ice cream treats to help you cool down after some fun activities.

Around The Neighborhood

This part of the island is full of exciting and interesting attractions. Looking for a nice restaurant for date night? The Goat Soup and Whiskey is an island favorite. The Chocolate Café is located right underneath. Stop in for a variety of chocolate truffles, popcorn, chocolate covered pretzels, or a deluxe hot chocolate.

Dodge Woods Preserve is a lovely forest full of many different tree and wildflower species. Take a walk on the maintained path and take in the serenity and beauty nature offers.

South Bass Island State Park includes a public beach, plenty of picnic tables, and a boat launch. Joe’s Bar is the island’s best-kept secret, stop in and have an ice-cold beer in their backyard complete with live music, cornhole, and picnic tables. Heineman Winery is also close by, providing islanders with delicious, island made wine served in their peaceful wine garden. They also have their own cave, the Crystal Cave. The world’ largest Geode resides there and the cave is open for tours.