Put-in-Bay, Ohio

Bars & Pubs

From Breweries to Distilleries, Craft Beer to Custom Cocktails, Our Vibrant Nightlife & Entertainers Can’t Be Missed!

Bars & Pubs At Put-in-Bay

Often referred to as the Key West of the North Put-in-Bay offers appealing entertainment for all ages!

Put-in-Bay Restaurants

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YOUR GUIDE TO ALL BARS & PUBS ON THE ISLAND

Put-in-Bay has no shortage of great Bars & Pubs! From craft beer & pizza in the Key West of the north to a live entertainment experience, you will find the vibe to seek from the list below. Many of our island Bars and Pubs offer indoor and outdoor patio seating.

Photo Of Lesters Taco Shop One of the Put-in-Bay Restaurants

BLUE MARLIN BAR & GRILL

Located within the Put-in-Bay Resort complex, the Blue Marlin Tiki Bar is one of Put-in-Bay’s most popular bars for both guests & islanders alike. Offering thirst-quenching frozen tropical drinks and a full-service bar, this hot spot will surely cool you off. Voted the island’s best pool bar! The Blue Marlin Grill serves some of the best food available on the island. Be sure to stop by and swim on up to the bar and cool off with us. The pool and bar are open to the public. Don’t miss out on this Put-in-Bay favorite!

Phone: (419) 285-7427

MR EDS BAR AND GRILL

No Crawl of Put-in-Bay Bars And Pubs would be complete without a stop at Mr. Ed’s! The happy hour prices are unbeatable, with some of the best on Put-in-Bay. Mr. Ed’s hosts some of the best Put-in-Bay Live Entertainment, and the rooftop bar, the Green Room, offers a stunning view of downtown Put-in-Bay. Enjoy the sports bar feel of the afternoon, where you can eat wings and watch the game on one of 15 big-screen TVs, and by night, the pulsing beat of the rooftop DJ or live band on the main floor.

Phone: (419) 285-3101

MOJITO BAY

A tropical shangri-la at Put-in-Bay, Mojito Bay is the ideal location for mojitos on Put-in-Bay. This captivating, rustic tiki hut welcomes guests at the corner of Catawba & Delaware Avenue. Enjoy one of their many flavored mojitos. The circular bar is surrounded by swings instead of bar stools suspended from the ceiling; visitors gently swing & sink their toes in the sand while enjoying live local entertainment. One of the outdoor bars & pubs, a light jacket may be helpful in Spring & Fall!

Phone: (419) 285-5282

RITAS CANTINA

Located in the Boardwalk waterfront restaurant complex, Rita’s Cantina offers a large selection of Tequila’s, Hand Crafted Specialty Margaritas, and unique Mexican & Latin-influenced foods. One of our Put-in-Bay Bars and pubs that offers an excellent view of the Put-in-Bay waterfront and marina district docks.

Phone: (419) 285-3695

Photo Of Joes Bar One of the Put-in-Bay Restaurants

JOES BAR AND GRILL

When it’s local color, you seek Press House Joe’s is the place to seek out. Located in the Red Building near the entrance to the State Park, Joes’s has a variety of great ice-cold beer with inside & outside seating! Think 5-Star Dive Bars! Located near the South Bass Island State Park. Ample Golf Cart Parking is provided!

Phone: (419) 285-5637

A Photo of Frostys A Put-in-Bay Bars And Pubs Option

FROSTY BAR & PIZZA

Enjoy a crisp and refreshing ice-cold island beer in one of Frosty Bars’ frosted beer mugs! For over 60 years, the Frosty Bar has been an island tradition. This Put-in-Bay Bar is also a popular place for breakfast and a Bloody Mary with a view of the park and Put-in-Bay Docks. In the evening, entertainment is often featured.

Phone: (419) 285-3278

GOAT SOUP AND WHISKEY

This popular Put-in-Bay Bar is located in the island’s center and features inside, outside, and patio bar options. Formally a winery, the Goat is well known for their freshly made soups and sauces, perch tacos, meatloaf, and an extensive menu with a large selection of premium quality Whiskys! A great place to stop for a beverage while touring Put-in-Bay!

Phone: (419) 285-4628

TIPPERS BAR

Locate the world’s longest bar, the Beer Barrel Saloon, and right on the corner, you will find Tippers Bar. This well-known Put-in-Bay Restaurant is also one of the local’s favorite bars and pubs &serves up delicious surf and turf in a friendly, hospitable environment. Tippers is known for its weekend buffets, a local favorite!

Phone: (419) 285-8477

Photo of Put-in-Bay Restaurants Old Forge

THE OLD FORGE

Alongside an impressive and varied menu, The Old Forge Offers visitors a relaxing place to stop for a cocktail. The Forge, located on Catawba Avenue in downtown Put-In-Bay, is an excellent choice any time of day! Serving breakfast, Lunch & Dinner with indoor seating or some of the best people-watching seats on the island!

Phone: (419) 285-0022

TOPSY TURVEYS

Topsy Turvey’s is a comfortable waterfront bar & grill in downtown Put-in-Bay. Guests of Topsy Turvey’s will enjoy the beautiful views of the waterfront and Gibraltar Island, home to Cooks Castle. It features spectacular lake views and is known for its delicious drinks and food options. It is also a lovely retreat from the bustling downtown and a relaxing place to visit after a day of boating. For sure, this friendly bar delivers.

Phone: (419) 285-4511

Photo of the Green Room Put-in-Bay Bars And Pubs

THE GREEN ROOM AT MR. ED’S

Ready for a magical evening under the stars dancing at Put-in-Bay’s busiest nightclub? The Green Room at Mr. Ed’s ensures your visit is one to be remembered. With beautiful views of Lake Erie, DeRivera Park, & downtown Put-in-Bay Marina District this is the spot to be when the sun goes down on Lake Erie. The heightened energy vibe pulses through the dance floor as patrons get down & get dancing to the area’s best DJ’s.

Phone: (419) 285-3101

THE ROUND HOUSE BAR

The Round House Bar is summer on Put-in-Bay, defined in one classic, iconic bar. Put-in-Bay is the oldest operating establishment for over 140 years. Visitors flock here when they see the red “Whiskey” light illuminated each April. That means the season has officially started. This iconic round tavern is open daily from 12 pm – 2 am during summer. Located on Delaware Avenue across from DeRivera Park and next to the Chicken Patio.

Phone: (419) 285-3581

RED MOON

A personal and refined old-fashioned speakeasy, the Red Moon takes patrons back to the to the days of Prohibition. Found next to the Round House Bar and Chicken Pation, this spot feels like your own private refuge. Speakeasy, or “speak easy,” is a bar term. This term was used to stimulate folks to act relaxed when consuming illegal booze. The Red Moon offers craft cocktails and a limited menu. A great place to sneak off and getaway from the crowds.

Phone: (419) 285-3581

THE FISH BOWL

The Fish Bowl at Put-in-Bay is an excellent place to hang out for island visitors. This historic building, once a hardware store, was recently renovated, providing island guests with a comfortable, relaxed environment. A large expanded deck on the south side of the building is a great place to grab a bite, sit and people-watch! The downtown location overlooks the DeRivera Park next to Mossbacks Restaurant, keeping you close to everything!

Phone: (419) 285-8888

Photo of Reel Bar a Put-in-Bay Restaurants

THE REEL BAR

In 2014The Reel Bar was opened by local musician Ray Fogg & Andy Christiansen. The Reel Bar rapidly built its reputation as one of the favored bars and pubs on Put-in-Bay. Referenced by locals affectionately as a “Reel New Bar in a Reel Old Place,” this congenial bar is decorated to honor all things fishing. The Reel Bar is located at the same site as Tony’s, an aged favorite on the island. The Reel Bar is neighbors with the Old Forge Restaurant on Catawba Avenue.

Phone: (419) 285-1318

Photo of the Beer Barrell Saloon Put-in-Bay

BEER BARREL SALOON

Home to the longest bar in the world, Put-in-Bay’s Beer Barrel Saloon is a lively venue with excellent live music & the largest of Put-in-Bay Bars And Pubs. Located on Delaware Avenue, this spacious venue is home to the finest live shows on the island. Nationally known acts tour here along with local entertainers. Beer Barrel Saloon offers live entertainment April thru October. Beer Barrel Saloon is open from 11 am – 1 am every day. Live music starts in April on weekends & expands to a daily schedule in June thru the end of August.

Phone: (419) 285-7281

MARGARITAS ON THE ROCK

Located on the east end of the village of Put-in-Bay and across from the Perrys Peace Memorial Visitors Office, Margaritas On The Rock serves up tasty hand-crafted Margaritas under a tiki hut. They frequently have live entertainment with smaller, more up-close entertainers. Their outdoor seating is a perfect place to people-watch or take in the stunning views of the Perry peace Memorial Monument. They feature a tasty menu with a Latin Flair. Ample Gole Cart Parking is provided making this an easy stop!

Phone: (419) 285-3040

Photo of the Boathouse Bar And Grill Put-in-Bay

BOATHOUSE BAR & GRILL

The Boathouse Bar on Put-in-Bay has been one of the island’s longest-serving bars and pubs. They have been offering great drinks & live entertainment for over 50 years. Good eats & great bands is their motto & they certainly live up to it. The location is nothing short of perfect! The Boathouse is located in downtown Put-in-Bay on Hartford Avenue. The Jet Express terminal & downtown marinas are just a short stroll away. A favorite among Put-in-Bay boaters due to the proximity to the docks!

Phone: (419) 285-5665

MOSSBACKS

Located in a pleasant, comfortable environment, Mossbacks serves tasty meals of high quality. Mossbacks has a neighborhood bar with an antique bar, warm oak paneling, and time period correct fixtures. The bar offers specialty cocktails & a large variety of beer and wine. Mossbacks shares the same building as the famous Fish Bowl & was once the home of the Put-in-Bay Hardware Store.

Phone: (419) 285-8888

BIERGARTEN AT THE BOATHOUSE

Oktoberfest is a daily event at the fun Biergarten at the Boathouse. One of the newest additions to Put-in-Bay Bars and the restaurant scene, The Biergarten at the Boathouse serves German food that’s hearty and filling! Enjoy a tremendous international drink menu featuring liqueurs and beers from around the world. Located downtown on Hartforn Ave near DeRivera Park & Jet Express Ferry

Phone: (419) 285-2113

THE SAND BAR

Found at the Adventure Bay complex off of Main Street behind the Put-in-Bay Resort Hotel. The Sand Bar is your favorite fun pool bar with all the amenities you would expect and then some. They offer a large Tiki-style bar entirely surrounded by white Florida Beach Sand. Beach volleyball, corn hole, pool games, cabanas, and a great menu will keep you happy all day long. Go Carts, Batting Cages, & more!

Phone: (419) 341-4716

Put-in-Bay Bars And Pubs: Important Things To Know!

In Put-in-Bay downtown alone, there are so many great put in bay bars and pubs you can please just about anyone! Each of our local bars and pubs features a brief menu sampling on our website to get your mouth watering immediately! Discover what’s happening in Put-in-Bay’s local bars and pubs. Our island entertainment venues attract some of the best nationally known traveling acts who come to Put-in-Bay each season to perform.

The Pool bars and swim-up bars at Put-in-Bay are the places to be and be seen in the Put-in-Bay summer season. The Spring Fling and Fall Ball held each year at the Put-in-Bay Resort are always a fun weekend to plan a Put-in-Bay Vacation. Some of our Bars And Pubs offer karaoke, live music, DJs, dancing, drink specials, cocktails, and more. There are plenty of bars and pubs at Put-in The Put-in-Bay Resort, voted the best pool bar on Put-in-Bay for eight straight seasons, is always a popular option.

No matter what your preference is, you’re certain to have fun! From casual to dress-up, club to bar atmosphere, indoor to outdoor, Put in Bay Bars and Pubs offer it all! Easy access from all over the island via Put-in-Bay Taxi Service.

Bars And Pubs For All Occasions

Whether spending quality time with your family or going for drinks with buddies, the bars and pubs in downtown Put-in-Bay come to life after dusk. After a long day of sipping Pink Catawba Wine, grabbing a beer and a few Tacos From Lesters Taco Shop is a great option. With bands every weekend and live music concerts during the day throughout the summer, the Put-in-Bay Bars And Pubs are better than ever.

Island Entertainment And Bands

Each weekend, Put-in-Bay sees an influx of DJs and live entertainment from all over Ohio and the Midwest. Watch a first-rate regional band in the incredible Beer Barrel Saloon next to the popular Mr. Ed’s Bar. Shows begin nightly at 7:30 pm. Somebody is almost always playing during the season from early April to late October.

Other evening hot spots in Put-in-Bay include the infamous Roundhouse Bar, Frostys, Reel Bar, and Fishbowl, all found in the heart of downtown Put-in-Bay—easy walking from downtown Put-in-Bay Hotels And Resorts or home rentals. Check out the island’s favorite Irish pub, Hooligans! Also found on Catawba Avenue, the Reel Bar, and the Fishbowl rarely disappoint. Some Put-in-Bay Attractions are seasonal, so check specific locations for details.

At Joe’s Bar and Restaurant, located a Put-in-bay Golf Cart Ride away from downtown, you can rely on a festive time after the sun goes down, even without entertainment. Residents flock to this dive bar, and knowledgeable island guests stop by as well. There’s no view, but there is an excellent food and beverage menu! Enjoy dancing under the stars at the Caribbean-themed bar, the Keys Patio, most weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Grab a cocktail and appreciate the view!

Put-in-Bay Bars And Pubs Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

What kind of bars are there on Put-in-Bay?

There are many various types of bars and pubs on the island! The main types of bars are Pool and swim-up bars, live music bars, dancing DJ-type bars, and casual bars! You can find whatever vibe you are looking for on South Bass Island. Check out the featured Put-in-Bay bars and pubs, or better yet, try them all!

How many bars and pubs are there at Put-in-Bay?

There are over 30 bars on the island including the two wineries, the iconic Joe’s Bar, Mr. Ed’s, Frosty Bar, and more! Most offer entertainment and all offer a great time!

Do I have to be 21 years old to go to Put-in-Bay?

No! It is noteworthy that each of the bars and pubs is independently owned, and each sets its policy regarding the age of admission. Some permit under 21 during daytime hours or when accompanied by parents. All bars and pubs strictly enforce Ohio law which states you must be 21 years of age or older to drink alcohol.

What is the best pool bar in Put-in-Bay?

Hands down the Best Pool Bar and Swim Up bar at Put-in-Bay is at the Put-in-Bay Resort. They have won the best of the bay awards for eight years running!

What bars have outdoor seating on Put-in-Bay?

Just about all of the bars and pubs on the island offer some type of outdoor or patio style seating. Many are known for being great places to people-watch!

What is the best place to grab a bite to eat at Put-in-Bay

There are so many wonderful put-in-bay bars and restaurants that it is difficult to determine the best. For Casual dining Lesters Taco shop is a must for every trip to the island. Enjoy one of their authentic Latin Tacos, Al Pastor in the park. The Boardwalk Restaurant Complex has four different dining options in one location and a great view. It also has great food options. Stop by the Fish Shack or Little Galley for a burger and fries or Rita’s Cantina for tacos or a burrito.

Darrell P.

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

During the day, this island is absolutely stunning, with plenty of activities to keep you occupied. You can swim in the lake, rent a kayak or jet ski, go boating, learn about the War of 1812 at the Visitor Center, enjoy the view from Perry's Monument, or relax and soak in the views while riding a golf cart or bike. There are also caves, lighthouses, Cooke's castle, golf courses, camping sites, and two activity centers for families. You can spend a relaxing afternoon at one of the island's two great wineries or enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants - Tippers (located by the Beer Barrel) is an outstanding value, with nightly specials and a nice salad bar. However, suppose you're not a fan of loud music and raucous crowds of young adults. In that case, it's best to avoid going into town at night - especially on Saturdays when the bachelor and bachelorette parties are in full swing at the Bars And Pubs. But if you're like me, you may find "people watching" a fun pastime while sitting on a park bench and taking in the sights of the boats docking and the beautiful sunset.

Elania S.

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

At first, I was intrigued by the idea of visiting Put-In-Bay, but then I heard rumors that it was primarily a destination for wild partying, particularly at night. As someone who no longer finds that activity appealing, I almost canceled the trip. However, since I had not seen Lake Erie and the prospect of driving a golf cart around the island seemed amusing, my companions and I left our car on the mainland and took the Miller Ferry to Put-In-Bay. We arrived early in the morning and caught a shuttle to pick up our rented golf cart, which can be leased by the hour, day, or week. There are many golf cart rental agencies on the island to choose from. A helpful hint: if you struggle to walk uphill, keep an eye out for the Miller Ferry employee in the golf cart, who provides a complimentary ride up the steep hill from the ferry dock - it's a real killer! Our first stop was the lighthouse, where we enjoyed a view of Lake Erie. We also played miniature golf, went to the top of Perry's Victory & International Peace Memorial - a national monument with stunning vistas of the island and lake - did some shopping, and had a lovely lunch. By late afternoon, the downtown area was becoming packed, with music blasting from nearly all the bars and pubs, and we realized we had a wonderful day. So, at 4 pm, we returned to the ferry, feeling as though we had a delightful time on the island. My recommendation is to go early and have a good time if you're not interested in the "party scene" or the bars and pubs. Put-In-Bay is a great spot for a fun and relaxing day trip.

William J.

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

Our first trip to Put in Bay was everything we expected it to be - a great escape from home. We decided to stay for two nights at the state park, and it was worth every penny. The park is beautiful, and if you're lucky enough to get a site by the water, you may never want to leave. Plus, it's within walking distance of all the bars, but if you're not up for a walk, a taxi ride is just $3 per person. It was surprising to see all the people wandering around the bars and pubs at night, but the island is known for its party scene. Despite this, we had a fantastic time and are already planning our next visit. There's so much to do and see that two days wasn't enough to experience everything the island has to offer.

Mike K.

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

Since 1979, I have been visiting this island, which has been well-known in boating circles for many years. In recent years, I have been staying at the State Park to save on costs. The island has so much to offer, with numerous restaurants, bars and pubs, shops, and sites such as caves, an island tour, and a monument, that one could easily stay busy for days. My children spent their summer vacations here growing up, living on our boat at the public docks, and they both have fond memories of the island. My wife and I also love the island, and we continue to visit it regularly.

Larry H.

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

South Bass Island and Put In Bay were wonderful experiences, except for the scorching heat during our 4th of July visit. We were disappointed to have to shorten our day trip due to the extreme temperatures, but we plan to return in the future! Despite the heat, we enjoyed playing miniature golf, visiting Perry's Cave and the Butterfly House, and exploring the parks, shops, bars and pubs, and restaurants. The food was delicious, and we especially enjoyed renting a golf cart to tour the island. If the weather had been cooler, we would have loved to extend our trip to two days.

Perry C.

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

During our family vacation in the Sandusky, Ohio area over the July 4th holiday, we spent the first two days at Kalahari Resort and Cedar Point, which was fantastic. However, we were looking for a more relaxing activity to do afterward. I was a bit worried about my kids (10 and 13) getting bored at Put-in-Bay and all the bars and pubs, but they ended up having a great time. We rented a golf cart and explored the island, taking in the Peace Monument and visiting an arcade, as well as Heineman Winery for a grape juice tasting. The reasonably priced Miller Ferry provided a relaxing 18-minute ride. Our half-day trip to Put-in-Bay was a great way for our family to cool down after the amusement and water parks, and I would definitely recommend it to other families.

Charlie V..

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

Put in Bay, also known as "the Key West of the North," exceeded my expectations. Despite having been there as a young child, I wasn't expecting much. But upon arriving, I was pleasantly surprised by the island atmosphere of Put in Bay village. You wouldn't think you were in Ohio if you didn't know better. The main street is lined with bars and pubs, restaurants, and shops (mostly bars), making it an ideal spot for adults looking to have a good time. However, there are also activities for kids, such as swimming in the lake, exploring the caves or the butterfly garden, or renting a boat and paddling around.

For a great dining experience, I highly recommend the Upper Deck, which boasts fantastic views, drinks, and food. The Beer Barrel, with the longest bar in the world, had a bit of a redneck vibe when I visited and featured a not-so-great country music band. However, browsing the shops on the main drag is a fun way to spend some time if you're in the market for beachwear. Overall, I highly recommend a day trip to Put in Bay, especially if you're an Ohio resident. It's an affordable and quick way to escape to a tropical-feeling island for a day.

Rolland D.

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

A group of 15 parents and teenage kids visited Put in Bay and had a blast exploring the island on rented golf carts. They stumbled upon a "beach" and let the kids play in the water. Parasailing with Put in Bay Parasail was enjoyable, although the equipment seemed basic and only allowed for a height of 500 feet. The boat ride was a highlight and a good break from the island's hustle and bustle. The group highly recommends trying the chicken at the Chicken Patio restaurant, but they missed out on the supposedly excellent lobster bisque due to time constraints. The makeup of the crowd was diverse, with families during the day and partygoers emerging later in the day for the bars and pubs. Overall, it made for an interesting atmosphere. The Jet Express Ferry from Port Clinton was a great way to get to the island, taking only 20 minutes to get from point A to B.

Vargas M.

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

I must disclose my bias, as I grew up in the Port Clinton area, but I always make sure to visit South Bass Island (Put in Bay) when I am in the area. Unfortunately, during my last visit, Perry's Monument was closed for repairs, but I was told it should be open again by July 4. If you get the chance to visit, the monument offers a great view of the surrounding islands.

For the best value in fares, I recommend taking the Miller ferry from Catawba, which also offers free parking. Once you arrive at the Lime Kiln Dock on Put in Bay, head to the right and rent a golf cart from Put-in-Bay Golf Carts to easily explore the island.

If you're traveling with family, I suggest visiting during the week and earlier in the day, as the atmosphere tends to change toward evening. While on the island, take some time to learn about Commander Perry and the Battle of Lake Erie from the War of 1812. You can also enjoy browsing the shops and dining at the restaurants while exploring the island on your golf cart. Put in Bay offers a relaxing and delightful way to spend a day, great bars and pubs, and I highly recommend it to anyone visiting the area.

Teddy C.

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

My partner and I celebrated our third anniversary at Put In Bay, a place we had never been to before. We were pleasantly surprised by its relaxed seaside feel. Our hotel provided a complimentary golf cart rental, which we used to explore the island from end to end. Golf carts are a popular mode of transportation on the island, but if you plan on buying something big or expensive from the shops, be aware that you'll have to carry it with you or take it directly to your lodging. We made several stops along the way and then went back to the shops to purchase items when we were ready to head back to our hotel. The atmosphere was laid back during the week, but it transformed into a weekend party destination in the bars and pubs. There's something for everyone on the island, and we enjoyed it so much that we plan to return in a few weeks!

Dallas L.

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

During our visit on Memorial Day weekend, we had a great time exploring Put In Bay and are already planning another trip this summer. The island is easily walkable, with a variety of attractions such as restaurants, bars and pubs, parks, a memorial park, and a winery. I would suggest renting a golf cart for an afternoon to drive around the island and appreciate the beautiful homes and parks scattered throughout.

Jeff B.

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

Despite its reputation as a party island in the bars and pubs, South Bass Island offers plenty of family-friendly activities. However, I suggest avoiding bringing children after 8 pm or on weekends. You must visit the Perry International Peace Memorial, which is set to reopen in July. Another attraction worth checking out is Heineman Winery, which even children will enjoy. Take a guided tour of the winery and Crystal Caves, and sample unique wines and grape juice at the end of the tour. This region boasts some of the most exceptional grapes and wines.

Franklin V.

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

Put-In-Bay is situated on South Bass Island in Lake Erie, which can be reached by ferries from Catawba Island and Port Clinton, OH. If you are seeking a tranquil and serene vacation, Kelleys Island to the east might be a better option. However, if you desire an energetic and lively atmosphere with ample nightlife in the bars and pubs, then South Bass Island is the perfect place for you. Although there are some family-friendly activities like Perry's Monument, the island's primary appeal lies in its vibrant bars and restaurants, which offer adults a plethora of entertainment, particularly on the weekends.