Introduction
When I first planned a trip to Sandusky, Ohio, it was really all about one thing: visiting Cedar Point — the legendary amusement park on Lake Erie. But as it turns out, my short getaway turned into something richer: a weekend of coasters, lake breezes, quirky museums, water-parks, and surprises around every corner. I left thinking: this little Ohio town is much more than just a “roller-coaster stop”. If you’re thinking of heading there yourself, here are the 12 best & fun things to do in Sandusky, based on what I experienced and researched — plus a few hidden gems you might not expect.
12 Best & Fun Things To Do In Sandusky, OH (2025)
1. Ride the thrills at Cedar Point
We’ll start with the big one: Cedar Point, often called the “Roller-Coaster Capital of the World”. Located right on a peninsula of Lake Erie in Sandusky, it’s been operating since 1870.
There’s no understatement: if you love thrill rides, this is the place. But even if you’re more moderate in your adrenaline tastes, you’ll find scenic views, beach access, and fun for all ages. I spent a full day just cycling between rides, grabbing lunch, walking by the water and stopping for the horizon views.
Tip: Go early, stay late, enjoy the lake breeze between rides.
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2. Explore the indoor fun at Great Wolf Lodge
After a full-on coaster day, one morning I opted for something more relaxed — or at least wetter: Great Wolf Lodge Sandusky. This indoor water-park resort is perfect for families, but honestly, even grown-ups can enjoy the lazy river, slides and wave pool.
It felt good to have that balance — part adrenaline, part chill.
Tip: Bring swim gear, even if you’re just planning a short visit.
3. Visit the Merry-Go-Round Museum
Here’s a gem that caught me by surprise: the Merry‑Go‑Round Museum. Located downtown Sandusky, this museum celebrates the art, history and craft of carved carousels — and yes, you can ride a restored 1930s-era carousel.
It’s whimsical, nostalgic and a great break from the high-octane fun.
Tip: Great spot for photos and something different.
4. Dive into maritime history at the Maritime Museum
If you’re into history or curiosities, the Maritime Museum of Sandusky is worth your time. Located at 125 Meigs Street, it explores the shipping, boating, and lake-life of Sandusky Bay and Lake Erie. Exhibits include shipwrecks, fishing history and even the Underground Railroad connections.
I appreciated how it grounded the town’s fun with a deeper sense of place and story.
Tip: Combine a museum stop with a downtown meal or stroll.
5. Walk the waterfront at Jackson Street Pier
After all the rides and slides, I found one of the most relaxing moments of my trip just sitting at the Jackson Street Pier, watching the sun go down over Sandusky Bay. A renovated waterfront space, it offers benches, live music in summer, nice views and a calm pace.
Tip: Go at golden hour for the best view-and-photo combo.
6. Take a ferry to Put-In-Bay or explore Lake Erie islands
One of the fun extras: from Sandusky you can hop a ferry to nearby islands like Put‑In‑Bay or Kelleys Island. These are charming spots for a day trip — bike rides, wineries, lake views, different pace.
If you have time, I’d recommend dedicating half a day.
Tip: Check ferry schedules early in the day.
7. Enjoy family fun at Lagoon Deer Park
For something quieter and especially good if you’re travelling with kids, the Lagoon Deer Park offers petting zoo style animal encounters (deer, peacocks, emus) plus optional fishing.
I visited in the afternoon when I needed a slower-paced activity.
Tip: Great for families — allocate 1-2 hours.
8. Experience Ghostly Manor Thrill Center
Want something indoor and fun in a different way? The Ghostly Manor Thrill Center offers escape rooms, VR experiences, mini-golf, arcade games and more. I popped in for an hour and found it a fun alternative to theme parks.
Tip: Good backup if the weather isn’t cooperating.
9. Check out water-parks & resorts: Kalahari & Castaway Bay
Sandusky is unusual in how many indoor/outdoor water park options exist. Besides Great Wolf, there’s the impressive Kalahari Resorts Sandusky (with slides and resort treatments) and the old favourite Castaway Bay.
Even if you don’t spend overnight, allocating a half-day works well.
Tip: Excellent on rainy or cooler days — or for families wanting variety.
10. Walk downtown Sandusky & visit historical spots
It’s easy to think “theme park town” and stop there — but downtown Sandusky surprised me with charming streets, lakeside views, and historical architecture like the Eleutheros Cooke House (built 1844) in Greek-Revival style.
Strolling the downtown area, grabbing ice cream or dinner at a local place, was one of my favourite evenings.
Tip: Combine this with waterfront sunset strolls.
11. Take a scenic break at the lake or beach by Cedar Point
Even with all the activities, one of the most memorable moments for me was simply sitting by the lake. The peninsula where Cedar Point sits also has beach access and lake-front scenery. You’ll want a calm day or early evening just to soak it in.
Tip: Bring a blanket, maybe a picnic. Sunset here is peaceful.
12. Attend a live show or event at Jackson Street Pier or State Theatre
Finally, for an evening treat: check if there’s a concert, festival or show. At Jackson Street Pier outdoor concerts happen. There’s also the historic Schine State Theatre (The State Theatre) in Sandusky — although check status due to past storm damage.
If you align your trip with an event, it adds an extra dimension to your visit.
Tip: Check local listings ahead of time.
Final Thoughts
My trip to Sandusky was more than a day at a theme park. It became a fun, balanced escape: thrill rides, water parks, history, lake views, quiet moments and surprises. The fact that a small town by Lake Erie can deliver so many different moods – adventure, chill-out, culture – was the big takeaway.
If you’re planning your own visit, here are a few parting thoughts:
- Stay flexible: Build in at least one “free” or unplanned hour — strolling waterfront, grabbing a local ice-cream, or just relaxing.
- Mix high and low: One adrenaline day (Cedar Point), one calm or indoor day (museum/water-park), one scenic or slow moment (lake, downtown).
- Check weather & schedule: Even lake towns have shifting seasons and event timing matters.
- Don’t just stay in the park zone: Downtown Sandusky, the pier, the other parks water-parks – they all bring texture.
- Evening matters: Sunset by the lake or a show adds memories you’ll remember long after the rides.
- Bring swim gear: Especially if water parks or beach spots are on your list.
- Capture simple moments: It was sitting by the lake or riding an old carousel that I remember most fondly.
So whether you’re heading there with family, friends, or just as a couple of days away — Sandusky has more to offer than you might expect. Plan the big hits, but also allow for the smaller joys. And leave some time just to wander by the water and soak in the Lake Erie breeze.
Here’s to a trip full of fun, discovery, laughter and maybe the best sunset you didn’t expect. Happy travels to Sandusky!