One thing that I have learned in college is to embrace saying that I am from Cedar Point. Going to a big university has shown me that even if I am an hour from home, not many people know where Sandusky is. Sandusky, Ohio sits on the shore of Lake Erie and is roughly an hour southeast of Toledo. Many who come to the area are here for one thing and one thing only; Cedar Point. Even though Cedar Point is the “Roller Coaster Capital of the World”, there is so much else to do and explore in the area. Here are a few of the many attractions (other than the mall that seems to lose a store every year and our billions of mattress stores).

1. Kalahari

Many tourists that come to Sandusky in the summer come for Cedar Point and Soak City, but Sandusky is also the home to America’s largest indoor waterpark; Kalahari. Kalahari is also a hotel and convention center, with restaurants, shops, a petting zoo, and even a game room. There is something for everyone in your family to enjoy, whether it’s riding the water slides, or sitting (indoor) poolside with a drink in their hand.

2. Merry-Go-Round Museum

A hidden gem in the city, the Merry-Go-Round Museum is the home to items from the classic fair ride that we remember as a child. The museum has a functioning Merry-Go-Round that visitors can ride, as well as pieces that have been in the White House, and a few ghost stories to tell.

3. Ghostly Manor

Ghostly Manor has been rated in the top best and frightening haunted houses in the U.S. If you aren’t up for the scare, Ghostly Manor also houses a roller skating rink, indoor playground, bounce houses, and blacklight mini golf.

4. Firelands Winery

If you are of age, Sandusky and the surrounding area is the home of many wineries. Firelands Winery is one of the few, but one of the most popular in the area with their award winning wines. Those who come can tour the winery, taste their craft, and even buy a bottle before they go home.

5. Toft's Dairy

If you are from Ohio or the surrounding area, you have probably heard or eaten Tofts ice cream. Tofts is Ohio’s oldest dairy, creating milk, ice cream, chip dip, and non dairy drinks. Stop by one of their locations in Sandusky, Port Clinton, or on Cedar Point to try one of their many flavors!

6. Maritime Museum

If you are from the area, the lake is your life. Spending countless summer days on the lake means plenty of one thing; boats. This museum is the home of boat and shipwreck memorabilia from the past and present, as well as local history. Located right by the Sandusky Bay, the Maritime Museum has fun for every lake loving family.

7. Lake Erie Islands

Just a short drive away is the Jet Express and Miller Ferry. Both of these boat lines can take you straight to the islands of Lake Erie. Take a trip to Kelley’s Island, Put-in-Bay, or even Middle Bass. Put-In-Bay is the most popular, where most of the visitors go. Filled with adventures, restaurants, shops, and bed and breakfasts, visitors will always have something to do, whether you're local and stay for the day, or explore the islands for a weekend.

8. The beach

Being by the lake is always the best in the summer. Locals and visitors will always be seen at the beach, sun tanning, swimming, building sand castles, and even throwing a football around. Whether you're sitting on Cedar Point’s beaches, or just 20 minutes away in Lakeside, Ohio, the Sandusky area will always be a relaxing destination.