Perry Monument Put-in-Bay
A towering memorial on Lake Erie, commemorating a pivotal naval victory and offering stunning island vistas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Beat the weekend crowds
Perry Monument Put-in-Bay
Best Time
Beat the weekend crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A towering memorial on Lake Erie, commemorating a pivotal naval victory and offering stunning island vistas.
"A beautiful place to enjoy the beauty and calmness of nature with historical significance."
🎟️ Book Ferry Tickets Early
Secure your ferry passage to Put-in-Bay in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid long waits.
🚴♀️ Rent a Bike or Cart
Explore the island at your own pace. Bikes and golf carts are popular and convenient for getting around.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Perry's Monument
South Bass Island
Towering memorial to the Battle of Lake Erie, offering panoramic views from its observation deck.
Lake Erie Views
Monument Observation Deck
Breathtaking 360-degree vistas of Lake Erie and surrounding islands.
Battle of Lake Erie History
Monument Interpretive Center
Learn about Commodore Perry's pivotal victory during the War of 1812.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Fewer Crowds
Island Exploration Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Ferry Tickets Early
Secure your ferry passage to Put-in-Bay in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid long waits.
🚴♀️ Rent a Bike or Cart
Explore the island at your own pace. Bikes and golf carts are popular and convenient for getting around.
📸 Capture the Views
The monument's observation deck offers stunning photo opportunities of Lake Erie.
🚶♂️ Explore Island Trails
Enjoy nature walks and scenic paths around the monument and island.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Ferry Tickets Early
Secure your ferry passage to Put-in-Bay in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid long waits.
🚴♀️ Rent a Bike or Cart
Explore the island at your own pace. Bikes and golf carts are popular and convenient for getting around.
📸 Capture the Views
The monument's observation deck offers stunning photo opportunities of Lake Erie.
🚶♂️ Explore Island Trails
Enjoy nature walks and scenic paths around the monument and island.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring water, especially during warmer months, as you'll be doing a lot of exploring.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Perry Monument for its stunning architecture, breathtaking views from the observation deck, and its significant historical importance. The surrounding island offers a charming atmosphere with opportunities for recreation and relaxation, making it a well-rounded destination. Some find the ferry and island transportation costs add up, and peak season can lead to crowds.
"Perry Monument is located on the Presque Islands, Eerie, PA. This monument was erected to commemorate the victory of American forces lead by Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry over the British. This victory was a morale booster for America in the Independence struggle.
I visited the place during noon and there was not much rush... I was on the way to Columbus from Niagara.
The island is a great get away place for the families, good for cycling, plenty of place to unwind and relax."
Sunny M A
"Very pretty area and interesting monument. There is some signage around that gives you information. The monument is beautiful and very large in person. It is in a quaint and beautiful part of the island with water and lots of nature. Great place to come and relax."
Katarina Swendrowski
"Excellent. Marvelous. A very beautiful place to enjoy the beauty and calmness of nature. I just love the place. Very good for cycle lovers and skaters. Also if you want you can go for a rented boat ride, that enhance the facilities to a higher level along with that quadruple family cycle ride. Very exciting place for nature lovers only."
Adnan Nayem
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Perry Monument is located on South Bass Island, accessible by ferry from Port Clinton, Catawba, or Sandusky, Ohio. The ferry ride itself offers scenic views of Lake Erie.
The main ferry services are Jet Express and Miller Ferry. Jet Express offers passenger-only service and is generally faster, while Miller Ferry accommodates both passengers and vehicles.
You can take your car on the Miller Ferry to South Bass Island, but parking on the island can be limited and expensive. Many visitors opt to park on the mainland and take the passenger ferry.
Once on the island, you can rent bicycles, scooters, or golf carts to get around. There are also island taxis and a trolley tour available.
The monument is a short walk or bike ride from the ferry docks. Golf cart rentals are readily available near the docks for convenient transport.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the grounds of Perry Monument is free. However, there is a fee to ascend to the observation deck at the top of the monument.
Ticket prices for the observation deck vary, but typically range from $10-$15 for adults. Check the official National Park Service website for current pricing.
The monument grounds are generally open daily from late spring through early fall. The observation deck has specific operating hours, which can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official NPS website for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, you can often purchase tickets for the observation deck online in advance through the National Park Service website or authorized third-party vendors. This can save you time.
Presque Isle State Park, where Perry Monument is located, is free to enter. There are no entrance fees for the park itself.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the monument's grounds, learn about the Battle of Lake Erie at the interpretive center, and ascend to the observation deck for stunning views.
From the observation deck, you'll get panoramic views of Lake Erie, the surrounding islands, and the mainland. It's a fantastic vantage point for photography.
The grounds are generally accessible. However, ascending to the observation deck may involve stairs or elevators, so it's best to check with the park for specific accessibility details.
Yes, there are restrooms available at the monument site.
It commemorates Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry's decisive victory over the British in the Battle of Lake Erie during the War of 1812, a crucial moment in American history.
📸 📸 Photography
The observation deck offers incredible panoramic shots. The base of the monument against the lake and sky also makes for dramatic photos.
Sunrise and sunset provide beautiful lighting for photography. Midday offers clear views from the observation deck.
Drone usage is typically restricted in National Parks and historical sites. Check the National Park Service regulations for specific rules regarding drones.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the monument's scale and the expansive lake views. A telephoto lens can be useful for distant island shots.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or filming may require permits. Always respect signage and park rules.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the monument, consider renting a family-friendly golf cart or quadricycle to tour the island. Attractions like Perry's Cave Family Fun Center offer activities that are sure to entertain the whole family. The island's relaxed vibe and natural beauty make it a great place for creating lasting memories.
🚴♀️ Active Travelers & Cyclists
Beyond cycling, the island is great for walking and exploring its natural trails. The area around the monument itself is well-maintained for walking, and many visitors enjoy leisurely strolls along the shoreline. The opportunity for boat rentals also appeals to water sports enthusiasts.
🏛️ History Buffs
Take your time to read the wayside historical markers around the monument and consider a guided tour if available. Understanding the context of Commodore Perry's leadership and the naval strategies employed will greatly enhance your visit. The monument itself is a powerful symbol of this historical event.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial
The monument itself is an impressive Doric column, standing 352 feet tall, symbolizing the lasting peace between the United States, Canada, and Great Britain. Construction began in 1912 and was completed in 1915, coinciding with the centennial of the battle. The memorial serves not only as a historical marker but also as a symbol of international friendship and cooperation. Visitors can explore exhibits detailing the battle and its significance.
Many visitors find the historical context deeply enriching. The interpretive center provides a comprehensive overview, making the monument more than just a landmark but a gateway to understanding a significant chapter in North American history. The sheer scale of the monument is often described as awe-inspiring, especially when contrasted with the vastness of Lake Erie.
Exploring Put-in-Bay: Beyond the Monument
Popular activities include visiting the Put-in-Bay Winery, exploring the caves at Perry's Cave Family Fun Center, and enjoying the natural beauty of the island's parks. The island also hosts various events and festivals throughout the season, adding to its energetic appeal. For those seeking a more relaxed pace, simply enjoying the lake views and the quaint shops can be a delightful experience.
Many travelers recommend taking a boat tour, such as the Lady Kate, to see the island from the water and gain a different perspective of the monument and surrounding landscape. The island's natural setting, with its water access and green spaces, makes it a great place for unwinding and enjoying outdoor activities.
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