Put-in-Bay Frequently Asked Questions
Their are plenty of options for lodging for all the travelers to Put-in-Bay. With so many options, you are bound to have questions. Here are some of Put-in-Bay’s most frequently asked questions!
Unanswered FAQS
If your questions or FAQS are not answered here, just e-mail us!
Can I bring alcohol to my hotel room?
Yes, the Put-in-Bay hotels featured on www.putinbay.com allow beverages to be brought into your own hotel room or rental home, but you are not allowed to bring outside beverages to any of the bars on the island because they are considered part of the liquor permit premises. Wine and beer prices on the island are comparable to that of the mainland so consider with when coming to the island, but there is no proof liquor store on the island.
What is the population year round on Put-in-Bay?
There are about 480 residents that stay year round on the island. The island has k-12 schooling that enrolls students from the surrounding islands as well as South Bass Island residents.
Can you camp on the island?
Yes, the island offers a state park with a campground outside of the downtown area for a more quiet night. However, the downtown area is not out of walking distance if you wish to visit some of the bars and restaurants!
Why is Put-in-Bay significant?
Put-in-Bay played a significant role in the War of 1812 as the location of the squadron of U.S. naval commander Oliver Hazard Perry, who sailed from the port on September 10, 1813, to engage a British squadron just north of the island in the Battle of Lake Erie.
Can I walk from bar to bar with a drink in Put-in-Bay?
No! As anywhere in Ohio, we have an open container law. No alcoholic beverages may leave a liquor permit establishment. This is strictly enforced.
Where is the best place to eat?
That is a tough one since there are so many restaurants on the island that offer such a wide variety of food! Check out the Things to Do page and look at the Bars and Restaurants there to find something that best fits your appetite!
What time do the bars close?
Most bars close around 1:30am. There are three late night bars on the island, The Skyway, Mr. Ed's Bar and Grill, and the Brewery.
Is there a grocery store and a place to buy beer and wine?
Yes, there is a full service grocery store located on Catawba Avenue and there is a drive through with beer and wine next to the Boathouse Bar and Grill on Hartford Avenue.
How old do I have to be to rent a moped?
You must be 18 years old.
How far in advance should I book Put-in-Bay lodging reservations?
We suggest booking as far in advance as you can, especially if you plan on booking a weekend. The summer months book up fast, so make sure to plan ahead. Check out our lodging page to plan ahead!
How do I get back and forth from the Island in the winter?
The ferry boats stop running in the winter months, but there are several charter airlines that fly in and out of the islands. There also happens to be a hovercraft that offers ferry service across the ice to the mainland!
Do Put-in-Bay hotels have a minimum stay?
On weekends, the hotels require a two night minimum stay, but on holiday weekends there is a three night minimum stay, but there is no minimum stay requirement Sunday through Thursday when Sunday is not part of a holiday weekend.
Do I need a car on the Island?
We recommend to not bring a car because of the cost, amount of parking on the island, and the hassle of getting it on and off of the ferry. There are plenty of golf cart rentals on the island that offer easy transportation around the island.
Do I need a license to drive a golf cart?
Yes! The golf carts on the island have to follow all of the motor vehicle laws including the open container law and no drinking and driving law.
Book Today
Hopefully that answers most of your questions! Are you ready to book your stay? Check out our lodging and book today at the Island Club! The sooner you book, the sooner you can get on a Put-in-Bay ferry!