Pickerel Creek WIldlife Area
Pickerel Creek Wildlife Area, a restored wetland with abundant wildlife, is a 20-minute drive west of Sandusky. The 3,200-acre site is open for fishing, and its observation tower (located along Route 6) offers many opportunities for spotting bald eagles, white-tailed deer, and rare bird species, particularly during the spring and fall migrations. The area is crossed by wooden walkways and trails along the top of dikes. Note that some parts are closed during the hunting season from late November to early spring.
Island Hopping
Sandusky’s stretch of Lake Erie coastline is a popular destination for chilling out, but if you’re up for a little more adventure, you can catch a ferry to visit Kelleys Island, South Bass Island, Middle Bass Island, and North Bass Island, many of which promise inland trails, beautiful beaches, and little restaurants where you can sit by the water. Once you land, you can rent a bike or a golf cart to take in the sights.
Maritime Museum of Sandusky
Dive into the maritime history of Sandusky at this museum through interactive exhibits on local pirates, ancient shipwrecks, and the Battle of Lake Erie during the War of 1812. Sandusky was a major stop on the pre-Civil War Underground Railroad, which helped slaves gain their freedom; a well-known American author paid homage to the town in one of her famous novels.