Set in a sandy bay on the south shore of Lake Erie in Ohio, Sandusky was originally a British military outpost established in 1794. The Seneca Indians, also found throughout what is now New York, called this region home until being displaced by European settlers. Since its inception as Portland in 1816, and a name change two years afterwards, the city has risen to prominence in the state and pulls in a fair number of tourists every year with its major them park, Cedar Point, which draws people from far and wide to ride its massive rollercoasters.
The Cedar Point flagship amusement park is in Sandusky since the Cedar Fair Entertainment Company has its headquarters here, but there are some other amusement options other than spinning upside down and propelling yourself towards the ground at 90 degree angles. For the lighter traveller, a number of cruises are available to the islands beyond the bay.
The downtown core still has many of its original buildings standing, all built in the 19th century, many of which are entered in the city’s historic register. Down at the docks, it’s easy to charter a fishing boat and head out into Lake Erie for a day of fishing. There are many places to launch a boat, either a rental or your own craft.
Highlights
Cedar Point Amusement Park: Come in second and check out the world’s second tallest and second fastest rollercoaster, the ‘Top Thrill Dragster’ at the flagship park.
The Jet Express: Take this catamaran around the many islands in Lake Erie; it makes for a great daytrip in any weather.
Follett House Museum: Catch a glimpse of Victorian domesticity in this 1830s house full of artifacts from the 19th century.