Not Just for Roller Coasters: The Ultimate Guide to Things to Do in Sandusky

Known as “The Roller Coaster Capital of the World,” Cedar Point boasts 17 coasters, including thrillers like Steel Vengeance and the upcoming 2025 re-launch of Top Thrill 2, which promises to be the tallest and fastest triple-launch coaster at 420 feet high and reaching speeds of 120 mph. This season, visitors can also look forward to the debut of the Siren’s Curse coaster in this amusement park. Arrive before 10 a.m. to secure parking close to the entrance.

Preferred parking is worth considering for easier exits. Don’t forget to snap a pic of your parking row to avoid confusion later. From HalloWeekends brings thrills and chills with themed entertainment that rivals any big-league amusement park during its special seasonal run.

Ghostly Manor Thrill Center is the perfect indoor amusement destination for families and groups craving excitement throughout the year. Expect roller skating, a VR arena, bounce house, escape rooms, 4D theater, arcade games, and a scream-worthy haunted house. Easily one of the most unique attractions in Sandusky Ohio.

African Safari Wildlife Park offers an exciting opportunity to encounter a wide range of animals up-close. You can drive through the park and meet bison, zebras, alpacas, and even giraffes who might pop their heads into your car for a treat. The walking section adds even more value with kangaroos and reptiles, making it one of the most memorable group attractions in the area.

Great Wolf Lodge Indoor Water Park goes beyond being just a hotel—it’s also an all-in-one indoor water park resort. The park features twisty slides, lazy rivers, splash zones, and play areas perfect for toddlers to tweens. The facility stays heated for year-round enjoyment. Families can also delight in kid-friendly shows, MagiQuest interactive adventures, and on-site dining options, including pizza. Best for off-season trips or rainy days. Weekday stays mean shorter lines for slides and easier access to activities.

Goofy Golf Sandusky Ohio is a vintage-style mini golf course packed with fun obstacles like windmills, loop-de-loops, and water hazards. Its unique charm and nostalgic vibe make it a great spot for hanging out with family or friends. Sure, the loser might end up treating everyone to milkshakes, but the best part is the friendly competition and all the laughs along the way.

Hop aboard the Jet Express from Sandusky or Port Clinton, or catch the Miller Ferry from Catawba, to reach Put-in-Bay, a vibrant locale famed for its spirited vibe, golf cart rentals, and historic landmarks. While there, indulge in its buzzing bars and restaurants. The Jet Express promises speedy, cozy, and picturesque ferry journeys, complete with options for indoor and open-air seating and guided tours to enhance your travel experience.

Pro Tip: Parking lots for the Jet Express fill up quickly on weekends, so arrive at least 1 hour early. If you’re traveling with a lot of gear, consider packing light as some lots require a shuttle.

Located in a charming historic post office, the Merry-Go-Round Museum showcases beautifully restored, hand-carved carousel animals, accompanied by the delightful tunes of a Wurlitzer band organ. With hand-carved carousel animals and working rides, it’s the kind of quirky outing that delivers major fun attractions energy.

Open throughout the year with seasonal hours, the museum provides a one-of-a-kind, nostalgic adventure perfect for guests of all ages. Looking for a nearby stay? The Holiday Inn Express & Suites Sandusky is just a short drive away and offers cozy rooms, free breakfast, and an indoor pool—ideal for relaxing after a fun day exploring.

Lagoon Deer Park is a charming petting zoo where you can hand-feed deer and meet other animals like llamas, goats, donkeys, and even some exotic species. The park also offers fishing ponds and paddle boats for extra fun. It’s a great spot for families, but keep in mind that some animals, especially llamas, can get a little pushy when food is around.

Stay nearby at the Hampton Inn by Hilton Sandusky-Central, just 5 minutes away. Enjoy perks like free breakfast, an indoor pool, and fresh cookies upon check-in to round out your family trip.

The Maritime Museum of Sandusky dives into the area’s fascinating maritime history, covering everything from boat-building and commercial fishing to ice harvesting and shipwrecks. It also highlights Sandusky’s role in the Underground Railroad. With hands-on exhibits, Lyman boats, a restoration workshop, and year-round events, the museum has everything for everyone to explore.

Downtown Sandusky has transformed into a vibrant lakefront destination filled with historic charm, boutique stores, local art galleries, and an exciting food scene. Highlights include the Marketplace at the Cooke, an indoor space with a mix of local vendors.

Whether you’re shopping for handmade art, sipping local wine, or popping into a gift shop, downtown Sandusky is where you’ll find the heart of the city—and maybe your next favorite Instagram story backdrop.

Berardi’s Family Kitchen is a must-visit in Sandusky, known for its delicious homestyle American and Italian dishes—and especially its famous French fries. Fun fact: Berardi’s used to supply their fries to Cedar Point before the park started making their own, so yes, the stories about “those Cedar Point fries” are true. Beyond the fries, Berardi’s is loved for its hearty breakfasts, satisfying sandwiches, and comforting classic meals.

Small City Taphouse is a favorite spot for its unique menu that combines Asian flavors like sushi and Vietnamese dishes with a huge craft beer selection. People love the sushi rolls (especially the Small City Taphouse Roll and spicy tuna), pork belly bao buns, pho, and pad Thai. It’s a great place for families, with choices for both adventurous eaters and those who prefer classic options. The lively vibe and great service make it a standout.

Doughin’ Crazy is a dessert spot in the mall specializing in edible cookie dough and other sweet treats. They’ve got a range of cookie dough flavors (with at least one vegan option), plus ice cream and plenty of toppings. It’s a fun, family-friendly place that’s perfect for anyone who loves sweets!

Firelands Winery is one of Ohio’s most historic and respected wineries, around since 1880. They serve award-winning wines like Rieslings, ice wines, and Gewürztraminer, and their restaurant has a menu perfectly paired to match the wines. This cozy waterfront winery is open year-round and perfect for couples looking for a relaxing experience.

The Volstead Bar is a hidden gem with a cozy, Prohibition-era vibe. Known for its expertly crafted cocktails like old-fashioneds and smoked bourbon drinks, it’s the perfect spot for cocktail lovers. With limited seating and a secret entrance behind a law office door, this locally owned speakeasy offers a one-of-a-kind experience in Sandusky.

Bait House Brewery is the perfect spot to kick back by the dock with a cold, in-house-brewed beer. Casual beer garden with live music and Lake Erie views? Yes, please.

This one’s especially good for families during the day and grown-up hangouts after dark. Don’t miss the hand-cut fries, perch sandwiches, and great craft beer selection. With nautical décor and amazing sunset views, it’s an ideal place for casual hangouts and drinks.

Another great speakeasy-style pub, Moseley’s Rooftop Bar combines vintage vibes with modern cocktails. Known for its creative drink menu and cozy atmosphere, it’s a hidden gem tucked away in the heart of Sandusky. It’s a must-visit spot for cocktail enthusiasts, perfect for a night out with friends or an intimate date.