Visit Downtown Sandusky
The waterfront town of Sandusky continues its amazing revival. Recently named “Best Coastal Small Town in America” by readers of USA Today, the downtown region draws visitors to its walkable city streets and parks, and to experience a variety of businesses from shopping to dining, to live entertainment and events. Visitors are experiencing the benefits of the business district, both as a destination and as a departure point for a Lake Erie ferry or cruise. So much so that Lake Erie Shores & Islands will soon open a new downtown welcome center just to be in the heart of it.
Shop
You’ll find a variety of shops and unique merchandise in and around the district, with everything from high-end men’s and ladies’ fashions to vintage and antique finds. You’ll also find snacks, market goods, wine, and craft brews. Shop clothing, jewelry, housewares, home décor, furniture, books, and much more at the upscale resale The Encore Shop, whose proceeds benefit Stein Hospice. Grab a crunchy snack or gift at Bay Popcorn Company, where free samples of over 30 flavors are offered. Or, get fresh produce and other market items, along with a coffee bar, craft cocktail, or gourmet meal at Vita Sandusky – located in a beautifully-restored 1920s bank building. Don’t miss the Marketplace at the Cooke, an indoor mall with a fun mix of dining, retail, and attractions.
Eat & Drink
Downtown Sandusky is booming when it comes to locally-sourced dining and drinking options. The downtown is indeed on the comeback trail, with a number of entrepreneurs repurposing and remodeling historic buildings and creating dining experiences the likes of which one doesn’t expect to find in a small Midwest town. The variety of cuisine offered is astounding. There is everything from quick-service fish shacks to fine French dining within a short distance. Wine bars, tap houses, breweries, and craft cocktails round out the options for spirits. Enjoy upscale dining at Crush Wine Bar and J Bistro. Nosh on the more casual fare at Sandusky Bell and Deli, OH Taco, or the outdoor Dockside Café. Looking for a distinctive sweet treat? Try edible cookie dough creations and popular Toft Dairy ice cream at Doughin’ Crazy – located inside the Marketplace at the Cooke. Or head to the edge of downtown to the Bait House Brewery for a taste of Sandusky-exclusive brews such as Sandusky Bay IPA or Sandusky Bicenetenni-Ale.
Play
While eating your way through Sandusky can be fun, guests appreciate island and Lake Erie cruises on the Goodtime I and island ferries departing from the newly-renovated Jackson Street Pier, a destination in itself. Relax on the bench swings or marvel at the view from the sunset stairs. Downtown visitors can also enjoy guided Segway tours with Sandusky Segwave and independent walking tours available from the Erie County Historical Society. Recreational activities include park playgrounds, fishing, boating, and paddleboard, kayak, and bicycle rentals, available at Paddle & Climb. You can also practice yoga in a beautiful studio with various styles offered at Open Way Yoga. Other entertainment options include an indoor rock-climbing wall, escape rooms, axe throwing, and an adult arcade at Noble Axes and Noble Pins, art galleries, and museums – including the new Sandusky Children’s Museum. While the revered Sandusky State Theatre usually hosts many live performances, it was recently damaged by severe weather. You can still view its lovely historical façade while we await the rebuilding and restoration of this icon.
Other Nearby Community Downtowns
The village of Milan boasts a remarkable town square surrounded by unique shops and restaurants. You can experience history at the Milan Museum and the Thomas Edison Birthplace just off the town square. Experience small-town charm during the annual Milan Melon Festival on Labor Day weekend.
Vermilion rolls out the red carpet to its coastal downtown, filled with unique businesses and special events. Come early for breakfast, lunch, or dinner and shop at fun stores like Brummer’s Chocolates, a family-owned candy shop since 1904. Stay for the sunset at Main Street Beach, just one block north.
When you visit downtown, not only can you expect to be entertained and fulfilled, but you will likely be supporting independent businesses and helping the local economy to continue to grow and prosper…providing for years of enjoyment to come!
