It was a crisp October morning, and I was preparing for a weekend getaway with the girls. Fall was in full swing, with leaves turning brilliant shades of amber and gold, and I knew we needed a peaceful escape—somewhere off the beaten path. That’s when the idea of heading to Kelleys Island and Put-in-Bay for a quiet retreat came up. The Lake Erie islands, usually packed during summer, seemed like the perfect fall hideaway to unwind, sip local wine, and soak in the season’s beauty.
Lake Erie Island Hopping
Day 1: Kelleys Island Charm
We started the weekend with a ferry ride to Kelleys Island, leaving the mainland hustle behind. Upon arrival, we dropped our bags at the Kelleys Island Venture Resort. The resort was cozy, offering lakefront views that were just what we needed to kickstart the relaxation. After settling in, we explored the island, heading for the famous glacial grooves. Without the summer crowds, we had the geological marvel all to ourselves. And we felt no rush as we marveled at the ancient formations in the crisp autumn air.
In the afternoon, we strolled over to the Kelleys Island Wine Co. The vineyard was peaceful, and we spent the afternoon sampling their wines and sharing a cheese board. The setting sun cast a golden glow over the vines. It was exactly what we had envisioned—a serene, unrushed moment, sipping wine as the cool breeze reminded us that summer’s chaos was long gone.
Day 2: Exploring Put-in-Bay
The next day, after a leisurely breakfast, we took another ferry to Put-in-Bay, where the pace was equally laid-back. With summer’s party atmosphere fading, Put-in-Bay had transformed into a calm, picturesque spot. We rented bikes and cycled around the island, stopping at Perry’s Victory & International Peace Memorial, where the fall foliage framed the monument perfectly. It felt like we had the island to ourselves.
We visited the Put-in-Bay Brewery & Distillery for lunch, enjoying craft beers and seasonal bites. Afterward, we spent the afternoon exploring the island’s quieter spots, taking in the views of Lake Erie and appreciating the autumn serenity.
The Perfect End to a Quiet Escape
For our last night, we stayed at one of Put-in-Bay’s charming bed-and-breakfasts, where we enjoyed a simple, home-cooked meal. As the sun set on our final evening, we found a spot by the water to sip hot cider and reflect. This getaway was exactly what we needed—an escape from the noise, surrounded by nature, history, and the beauty of Ohio’s Lake Erie islands.
Fall Retreat to Kelleys Island & Put-in-Bay
If you’re looking for a peaceful fall weekend getaway, Kelleys Island and Put-in-Bay offer the perfect balance of relaxation and quiet adventure. From the ancient glacial grooves and local wineries to biking through colorful foliage, these islands provide a serene retreat far from the typical tourist traps.
Put-in-Bay takes on a completely different vibe in the fall compared to its lively summer scene. The island transforms into a serene getaway with thin crowds and a calmer atmosphere, perfect for those looking to unwind. It’s a great time to enjoy the island’s beaches, parks, and waterfront views without the usual bustle of tourists. Fortunately, some of the famous bars and restaurants remain open. However, others close for the season, contributing to the island’s quieter charm.
That doesn’t mean the fun disappears, though. Fall still brings seasonal events like the Put-in-Bay Wine Festival and the ever-popular Halloween Bash in October. These events draw visitors throughout the fall.
Nature lovers will appreciate the island’s walking and biking trails, where the changing leaves provide a beautiful backdrop. This is especially true around Perry’s Victory & International Peace Memorial, which remains open for a scenic experience.
For those craving a peaceful autumn escape, Put-in-Bay and Kelleys Island offer a laid-back, picturesque retreat during this season. Visit Shores and Islands Ohio for more information on this area.
For further reading about Lake Erie, check out Guardians of the Lake: The Haunting Secrets of Lake Erie Lighthouses.
