Midway between Toledo and Cleveland, a fine natural harbor has enabled Sandusky to remain a busy port, albeit now more for recreational ferries to the offshore islands than for the coal and iron ore it once handled. The waterfront is good for a short stroll, and the town is rich in elaborate mid-1800s houses like the Follett House Museum (daily 1–4 pm; free) at 404 Wayne Street, a well-preserved 1827 Greek Revival house filled with period artifacts and a few displays on the area’s history. Stop for a bite to eat at Markley’s (419/627-9441), a classic little 1950s diner on the corner of Market and Wayne Streets, a block east of Columbus.
On South Bass Island in Lake Erie, 15 miles by boat from Sandusky, a stone column commemorates the victory of Adm. Oliver Perry, who defeated a British fleet here on September 10, 1813, announcing his success with the laconic words, “We have met the enemy, and they are ours.” The second biggest thing on the island, which is a very popular vacation spot, may well be the “World’s Longest Bar,” a 406-footer running inside the Beer Barrel Saloon.
If the weather’s too bad to brave a boat trip, or the coasters of Cedar Point, families may want to head to the Great Wolf Lodge ($175 and up; 419/609-6000), a kid-friendly hotel and massive indoor water park (guests only), south of Sandusky at 4608 Milan Road.
