Known fondly to some as the Waterpark Capital of Ohio, Sandusky is the definition of fun for the whole family. From the thrills of their well-known amusement park, Cedar Point, to the island-hopping cruises on Lake Erie, there is much to be explored in and around this unassuming Ohio town.
Needless to say, there’s a reason Sandusky, Ohio ranks among America’s best small coastal towns. But we’re here to say it anyway— and help you plan your trip!
In this blog, we’ll discuss all things Sandusky, including:
- What to do
- When to visit
- Where to stay
Let’s get into it!
Things to Do in Sandusky, Ohio
Amusement parks, wildlife, and water activities, oh my! Sandusky has plenty to do, whether you’re looking for amusement, history, or something more.
If you aren’t sure where to start, we recommend at least one day for each type of activity for a well-rounded trip.
Sandusky Amusement Parks and Attractions
One major thing Sandusky is known for is its assortment of amusement parks and family-friendly attractions. So, if you’re an RVer with kids in tow or even just a lover of thrill rides, this section is for you.
Cedar Point Amusement Park
The talk of the town, Cedar Point, opens for its 155th summer season this May. Because time is of the essence here, we think it’s only right to cover this world-class amusement park first.
Home to 18 world-class coasters and an 18-acre water park called Cedar Point Shores, Cedar Point is an Ohio attraction you’ll want to stop and scream for. Here, you’ll find 108 attractions ranging from kid-friendly coasters to real level five thrillers, like the new Top Thrill 2 – the world’s tallest and fastest triple-launch strata coaster set to debut this season.
Operating dates: May 4 – October 27, 2024
Cost: $49.99-79.99 daily admission
Cedar Point Shores Waterpark
Sandusky has plenty of water park options, but one of the most popular is Cedar Point Shores Waterpark. Tickets are sold separately, but the park is a perfect addition to your itinerary in the hot summer months.
Operating dates: May 25 – September 2, 2024
Cost: $49.99 daily admission
If Cedar Point Shores doesn’t give you your fill of waterpark fun, Castaway Bay or Kalahari Resorts’ indoor waterpark are both great options for year-round water activities.
Ghostly Manor Thrill Center
Ghostly Manor’s haunted house offers a spookier thrill than other Sandusky attractions. But that’s not all they have in store—roller skating, VR games, laser mazes, and more await at the center! And it’s only 3 miles from Cedar Point.
Operating hours: Opens daily at 12 pm
Cost: $23-30 for passes; prices vary per activity
African Safari Wildlife Park
Drive or walk on the wild side at African Safari Wildlife Park, where alpacas, bison, giraffes, and more wildlife welcome you.
Operating dates: March 22 – December 1, 2024
Cost: $20.95-32.95
Sandusky History and Museums
Not only is Sandusky home to many thrills and chills, but it is also home to a rich history in many forms.
Maritime Museum of Sandusky
The history of the Sandusky Bay area is on full display at the Maritime Museum. Here, you can learn everything from boat-building to shipwrecks on Lake Erie.
Operating hours: Friday-Sunday, 10 am-4 pm,
Cost: $7-8
Merry-Go-Round Museum
If you thirst for fun and knowledge, the Merry-Go-Round Museum is the place to be. Since 1990, the museum has hosted artifacts, including its very own Allan Herschell Carousel, that allow visitors to experience the rich history of carousels and their place in American culture.
Operating dates: February – December
Cost: $6-8, FREE for children ages four and under
Follett House Museum
Registered as a historic landmark, the four floors of the Follet House Museum tell a robust story of Sandusky—everything from conflicts like the Sandusky Campaign and the Battle of Lake Erie to booming industry and local life.
You can also take the Rooftop Widow’s Walk for one of the best views of downtown and Sandusky Bay.
Operating hours: Saturday, 1- 4 pm
Cost: FREE
Outdoor and Lake-Based Activities
With its proximity to Lake Erie, Sandusky offers a plethora of outdoor fun.
Lake Erie Island Cruises
Cruise the coast of Sandusky aboard Goodtime I. Depending on how much time you have in Sandusky, you can book a full day of island hopping from Kelleys Island to Put-in-Bay or opt for a shorter, two-hour sunset cruise on Lake Erie.
Operating dates: June – August
Cost: $12-32
Sandusky State Parks
If you’re looking for more outdoor activities near Cedar Point, there are a few state parks not far from Sandusky.
- Catawba Island State Park
- Marblehead Lighthouse State Park
- East Harbor State Park
At these state parks, you’ll have every opportunity to enjoy the beauty of coastal Ohio while hiking, swimming, fishing, or boating.
Operating dates: Every day
Cost: FREE – Ohio does not charge entrance fees to state parks.
Planning Your Visit to Sandusky, Ohio
When planning your Sandusky RV trip, it’s important to consider more than your daily itinerary.
When to Visit
Every season brings something new to Sandusky, so timing is something to consider when planning your trip.
That said, if you want to take advantage of everything Sandusky has to offer, summer to mid-fall is the best time to visit. During this time, all attractions and parks are open to visitors. Some places, like Cedar Point, close mid-fall and don’t reopen until late May.
Where to Stay
Looking for year-round camping near Cedar Point? Sandusky RV Resort, only minutes from the coast of Lake Erie and Cedar Point Amusement Park, is the ideal Ohio resting place. Bring your kids, your pets, and your big rig. All are welcome and can be accommodated at the resort!
Sandusky RV Resort amenities include:
- Spacious sites with 30/50 amp service, water, and sewer hookups
- Picnic tables
- Charcoal grills and fire rings
- Cable TV and wifi
- On-site bark park
- Laundry facilities
- Clean bath houses
- Fitness center
- Jumping Pillow
- GaGa Ball Pit
- And more!
Other Activities Near Sandusky RV Resort
All activities we’ve discussed here are close to the resort. But there is even more to explore! Other notable mentions include:
- Sheldon Marsh State Nature Preserve
- Sports Force Parks
- Lake Erie Arms
- Everwild Spirits
- Firelands Winery
Not to mention, you’ll find various on-site activities like fishing ponds, pickleball courts, a pool, and more— all without ever having to leave the property!
Ready to RV to Sandusky?
Summer is coming! Time to book your site and get to packing.
Here are some more articles to help you get started:
Safe Sandusky travels!
