Marblehead Lighthouse is the oldest continuously operated lighthouse on the Great Lakes. Opened in 1822, and still in operation today, the 50-foot tower of native limestone situated at the tip of the Marblehead Peninsula, keeps sailors safe from the rocky shores of Sandusky Bay. The park surrounding the structure offers several spots for picnicking with expansive views of Lake Erie, Kelly's Island, South Bass Island and Sandusky Bay. Take a weekday tour of the lighthouse during summer months. The "Keeper's House," the historic home of the first lighthouse keeper, Benejah Wolcott, has also been preserved and is open to the public on the second Saturday of each month from June through September.
Marblehead Lighthouse State Park
110 Lighthouse Drive
Marblehead, OH 43440
419-734-4424
dnr.state.oh.us
This 1,831-acre park is on the shores of Lake Erie and boasts an expansive, sandy 1,500-foot beach. Spend the day soaking up the sun and swimming, or stay overnight in one of the 570 campsites. The park offers seven miles of scenic hiking trails through wetlands rich in wildlife and waterfowl. Rent bikes at the park and explore off the beaten track. Other activities at East Harbor State Park include boating, fishing, hunting, volleyball and basketball. A seasonal restaurant and camp store is also available. The park is open year round and does not charge admission.
East Harbor State Park
1169 N. Buck Road
Marblehead, OH 43440
419-734-4424
dnr.state.oh.us
Located about six miles west of Marblehead in the town of Port Clinton, the African Safari Wildlife Park features a drive-through safari experience. Feed the zebras, giraffes, ocelots, gibbons, bison and Galapagos tortoise as you tour through the park in your vehicle. Let the kids experience a pony or camel ride at Safari Junction or enjoy the playground at Jungle Junction Playland. The park gift shop offers a variety of gifts and novelty items, and the on-site Mombasa Café and Grill can satisfy your hunger with everything from burgers and hotdogs to ice cream and popcorn. The African Safari Wildlife Park is open daily from mid-March through October.
African Safari Wildlife Park
267 S. Lightner Road
Port Clinton, OH 43452
419-732-3606
africansafariwildlifepark.com
