20 Best Things to Do in Cedar Point, OH

Cedar Point is known throughout Ohio, or perhaps the entire country, as a famous theme park on the shores of Lake Erie.

However, only a few people know that the area surrounding the theme park is now an official neighborhood in Sandusky, Ohio.

Life in Cedar Point seems like a vacation where people can enjoy the lake and theme park all at once.

Over the years, Cedar Point has reinvented itself with Sandusky to welcome tourists with new offerings beyond the theme park.

Cedar Point features renovated historic buildings, charming streets, and lakeside experiences.

It’s a refreshing way to reintroduce itself to tourists.

Still, you can enjoy Cedar Point’s famous roller coasters, carousels, and thrilling rides to complete your experience visiting there.

Here are the best things to do in Cedar Point, OH:

Visit Cedar Point’s Iconic Theme Park

There’s no better way to start your Cedar Point travel adventure than to visit its iconic theme park.

Cedar Point amusement park, situated on Lake Erie’s shores, is one of the top tourist destinations in Ohio.

Besides Cedar Point’s thrilling rides and wholesome fun, it’s also the best way to know the neighborhood better.

Without the amusement park, Cedar Point would be another typical neighborhood.

Don’t miss riding the famous Top Thrill Dragster, Blue Streak, the Raptor, Gemini, and Professor Delbert’s Frontier Fling.

For those who want a less adrenaline-pumping experience, there are kid-friendly rides.

Overall, Cedar Point Amusement Park is the ultimate family vacation destination that you shouldn’t miss.

Browse the Merry-Go-Round Museum

Check out the Merry-Go-Round Museum for the backstory of Cedar Point and Sandusky.

This museum was born out of an iconic carousel postal stamp circulated in 1990 by the US Postal Service.

Today, this museum in Sandusky is a famous tourist attraction whose vast halls welcome people from all walks of life.

Enjoy the exhibits, especially the painted carousel horses, miniature carousels, and its permanent collection of artifacts and memorabilia.

The massive collection of Sandusky’s artifacts and memorabilia gives visitors a deeper understanding of the city’s past.

After roaming the Merry-Go-Round Museum’s exhibits and galleries, head to its charming gift shop to buy some souvenirs.

Cruise along Lake Erie with Jet Express

After hopping from one attraction to another, it’s time to explore the vast and beautiful Lake Erie.

To experience Lake Erie’s beauty, join one of Jet Express’s Day trips.

It is famous for its day trips to Put-in-Bay and Kelleys Island, offering tourists an exciting experience with nature plus some water sports activities.

Jet Express also offers day trips to Point Pelee and nearby lighthouses.

It features the same unique and fun-filled adventure you’re looking for in Cedar Point.

Jet Express’s office is situated along W. Shoreline Drive.

Visit Another Water Park at Castaway Bay

If you haven’t had enough diving in Cedar Point, head to the Castaway Bay, known for its Caribbean-themed water park.

This massive indoor waterpark on Cleveland Road in Sandusky is similar to Kalahari Resorts and the Great Wold Lodge.

However, it features a Caribbean-themed resort, giving you tropical vibes in the middle of Ohio.

Still, it features the usual slides, lazy rivers, tubes, splash pads, wave pools, and lagoons.

Perhaps you want a break from getting wet at pools.

Head to Castaway Bay’s 6,000-square-foot arcade center, offering different entertainment for the whole family.

Have Fun at the Cedar Point Shores Waterpark

Still can’t get enough of Cedar Point’s waterparks?

Then head to Cedar Point Shores Waterpark, famous for its outdoor 18-acre facility on the side of Lake Erie.

Cedar Point Shores Waterpark is another themed waterpark worth visiting in Cedar Point and Sandusky.

It features geysers, pint-sized slides, fountains, lagoons, and Lake Erie as a gorgeous backdrop.

Kids will love Cedar Point Shores Waterpark, especially when encountering the mythical creature Lemmy at Lemmy’s Lagoon.

After a whole day of splashing around, treat yourself or your loved ones to delicious food at the park’s restaurants.

Get Wet at the Great Wolf Lodge

Perhaps you want to visit more waterparks in Sandusky and Cedar Point.

Check out the Great Wolf Lodge along Milan Road.

This massive indoor water park has numerous locations across the nation.

Like the Kalahari Resorts, the Great Wolf Lodge features themed waterslides, lazy rivers, and massive swimming pools, perfect for your family or travel buddies.

Likewise, it features cozy and welcoming accommodations, where you and your family can stay for as long as you want.

If you want to take a break from diving into swimming pools, head to the MagiQuest Magic Adventures, featuring a different themed activity in the resort.

Spend the Night at Hotel Breakers

If you want top-notch accommodation during your travel adventure in Cedar Point, book a room at Hotel Breakers.

This classic beachfront resort is one of the most recommended hotels in the Cedar Point area.

Hotel Breakers is a few steps from Cedar Point Amusement Park and the Cedar Point Shores Waterpark.

It features more than 600 suites and guestrooms with a picturesque waterfront view of Lake Erie.

You also don’t need to drive to Sandusky to grab some food or drinks because it has a chain of restaurants offering fine and casual dining.

Overall, this accommodation in Cedar Point features some of the best amenities.

Stroll along the Floral Garden of Washington Park

In downtown Sandusky, you’ll find a charming community park where locals love to hang out.

Washington Park is one of Sandusky’s oldest parks, open to the public since the early 1800s.

One of the park’s favorite spots is the floral garden.

You’ll find various outdoor activities regularly happening there.

Most Sandusky activities happen in Washington Park’s floral garden, such as concerts, shows, and outdoor activities.

Enjoy these shows and concerts while marveling at the lovely floral arrangements and flower beds throughout this garden.

One of the floral garden’s focal points is the famous 1800s Boy with the Boot Fountain, a statue and a popular place for picture-taking.

Make a Splash at the Kalahari Resorts

Besides amusement parks, Sandusky and Cedar Point are famous for numerous indoor and outdoor water parks.

If you and your loved ones want to cool down or enjoy some swimming pool activities, head to the Kalahari Resorts along Kalahari Drive.

This massive indoor and outdoor water park offers a wholesome experience for the entire family, especially kids.

It features massive indoor and outdoor pools equipped with waterslides, lazy rivers, wave pools, splash pads, etc.

In addition, proceed to the Safari Outdoor Adventure Park if you don’t want to get wet at the resort.

This portion of the resort features exciting outdoor activities such as wall-climbing, ziplining, obstacle courses, and a vast animal park.

Kalahari Resorts is a complete contrast to the Cedar Point amusement park, but it’s still worth visiting.

See Concerts at Jackson Street Pier

Head to Jackson Street Pier and join the locals watching entertaining concerts.

This pier facing Lake Erie is a famous spot in Sandusky for concerts featuring local artists and bands, serenading the public every week.

You shouldn’t miss an experience in Cedar Point because it offers you the best opportunity to do what the locals love.

Besides concerts, Jackson Street Pier also offers a picturesque view of Lake Erie.

At the same time, its green spaces are perfect for a family picnic.

If you want to end your day in Cedar Point with something relaxing and entertaining, Jackson Street Pier is your best place to hang out.

Set Off on an Adventure at the Ghostly Manor Thrill Center

Head to Ghostly Manor Thrill Center along Milan Road in Sandusky for the thrill of a lifetime.

The Ghostly Manor Thrill Center is famous for its escape rooms and escape adventures.

It features various themes that you and your crew need to solve before time runs out.

Many themed escape rooms and escape adventures await you at Ghostly Manor Thrill Center.

In addition, you can also enjoy a game of miniature golf at Wizard’s Journey.

Also, Ghostly Manor features a roller-skating rink, arcade, 4D theater, and a bounce house.

See the Cedar Point Lighthouse

Before returning home, make one last stop at the Cedar Point Lighthouse on the northern tip of Cedar Point.

Built in 1862, this 38-feet lighthouse got decommissioned in 1909.

It features a unique limestone architecture different from most lighthouses in Lake Erie.

People love to visit this lighthouse even if everyone is off-limits inside.

It is mainly because of its fascinating architecture and the picturesque view of Lake Erie.

Visit Cedar Point Lighthouse and take some lovely photos with your family or travel buddies before returning home.

Walk the Halls of the Maritime Museum of Sandusky

Visiting the Maritime Museum of Sandusky is an excellent side trip during your Cedar Point adventure.

Take a break from theme parks and water parks and explore this museum, filled with Sandusky’s rich maritime history.

The museum takes you to exhibits featuring Sandusky’s rich fishing heritage, pirate history, and numerous shipwreck stories.

Besides the usual exhibits and galleries, the Maritime Museum of Sandusky also has an interactive display featuring the region’s maritime history.

Likewise, you shouldn’t miss the museum’s Convict Ship gallery, featuring Lake Erie’s infamous floating prison.

Get Tasty Frozen Treats at Toft's Ice Cream Parlor

You’ll surely remember the good old days while enjoying scoops of ice cream at Toft’s Ice Cream Parlor.

This iconic ice cream shop on Venice Road has become a popular landmark in Sandusky, serving delightful ice cream and frozen treats for decades.

Originally, this was a small dairy farm started by Chris and Matilda Toft in the early 1900s until Oswald Dairy purchased the business in 1935.

Today, the 76,000-square-foot facility produces over 70 ice cream and yogurt flavors along with a variety of dairy products.

When you stop for visit, the fancy cow and lovely carriage will greet you outside the shop, you might as well take some photos for remembrance.

You’ll feel nostalgic once you come inside, with the original parlor seating and soda fountain still used at the ice cream parlor.

Pick your favorite ice cream flavors and have them served in a Cake Cone or Cup, Waffle Cone, or Bowl.

They also have all-time favorites like Shakes, Malts, Sodas & Floats; likewise, enjoy other sweet treats like Flurries, Sundae, and Banana Splits.

Otherwise, you can purchase dairy products from Toft's Ice Cream Parlor like Non-fat and Low-fat Milk, Buttermilk, other frozen treats like Sherbets and Ice Cream Cakes, and Juices and Sweet Tea by the gallon.

Savor Fine Wines at Firelands Winery

For extraordinary fine wines to savor and enjoy, drop by Firelands Winery located on Bardshar Road.

This winery has been producing quality, award-winning wines since the 1880s and is currently one of Ohio’s largest-producing wineries.

Visit their Wine Shop and you’ll find an impressive selection of domestic and imported wines and spirits you can purchase by the bottle; likewise, enjoy wine samples at the Tasting Room to see what suits your taste.

You can choose from several Wine Flights on the menu from Summer Sweets like the Mantey Cream Catawba and Malgra Le Stelle, or Fruity Flight items like the Schwan Orchard Peach or Lonz Sangria among others.

Likewise, you can try the different Firelands Flight from their Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Cabernet Franc, to their Cabernet Sauvignon.

Dine in at the restaurant and ask for wine-pairing options to enjoy with your meals.

Start with appetizing Shareables, then follow through with servings of gourmet pizza like Firelands White Pizza, Margherita Pizza, Sausage & Mushroom Pizza, or Pepperoni.

Try other specialties like the Tuscan Chicken or Italian Panini, delicious burgers from Classic American to Black and Blue and Pepper Jack Burgers, along with healthy salads like the Green Goddess Cobb Salad or Tuscan Apple Salad.

Firelands Winery also offers a wide variety of Spritzers, Cocktails, Beers, Wine Cocktails, Specialty Coffees, and desserts.

You can visit Firelands Winery from Wednesdays to Sundays, and they’re also open all year round.

Catch the Races at Sandusky Speedway

Watch the cars go full speed ahead at Sandusky Speedway and join the crowd’s excitement.

This half-mile racing venue is located on Perkins Avenue with seasons open from April through October.

Catch racing machines from Spectators, Pure, and Street Stocks to Renegades and Trucks bag for the prize on the race tracks.

There are also plenty of special events throughout the season like the Family Fun Night, Bump and Run, Hot Dog Race you can enjoy with the family.

You can check the website for race schedules, times, and exciting events.

Bring your family for a fun weekend at Sandusky Speedway.

Join the Attractions at the Frontier Festival

You’ll get to enjoy Cedar Point’s unique traditions at the annual Frontier Festival.

The event was originally called Brew & BBQ which started in 2015 and has evolved to become a family-oriented street festival.

From the last week of May to the middle of June, you’ll enjoy with locals in celebration of Frontier Town’s hope, health, and harvest.

With park admissions, your whole family can enjoy lots of entertaining live bands, street characters, and local crafters selling their goods.

You’ll also enjoy an array of specialty food items and beverages from craft brews to signature cocktails and spiked seltzers.

Little ones can join the fun at the amusement park along with kids’ games and activities they’ll surely enjoy.

Frontier Festival also started the Wild Frontier Nights, an evening for adult fun, entertainment, and activities like bourbon trail and cocktail tasting.

Enjoy Delicious Seafood Dishes at Bay Harbor

Have a delicious seafood feast at Bay Harbor at the Cedar Point Marina.

The restaurant is open from Wednesday to Saturday and offers a casual fine-dining experience perfect for a date night or family dinner.

Aside from the sumptuous food, you’ll also enjoy the stunning view of Lake Erie on the waterfront patio.

For starters, you can order tasty appetizers like Artichoke Stuffed Mushrooms, Fried Calamari, Escargot, Shrimp Cocktail, or Crab Cakes.

Follow through with a hearty French Onion or creamy Lobster Bisque, then add healthy servings like Bay Harbor, Caesar, Garden, or Spinach Salads.

Savor the taste of Main Seafood Courses like the delicious Blackened Salmon and Blackened Grouper Oscar, or go for the Seafood Risotto and Shrimp & Scallop Pesto Linguine; likewise, the Alaskan King Crab Legs and Lobster Tail are definitely worth the try.

Bay Harbor also serves other delectable fares including Char-Grilled Prime Cut Steaks like New York Strip, Filet Mignon, Rib Eye, and Chef’s Special, all served with your choice of additional items like seafood, vegetables, and more.

Other Things to Do Nearby

Take Photos of the Famous Marblehead Lighthouse

This 1800s lighthouse facing Lake Erie is one of the most photographed lighthouses at Cedar Point.

Marblehead Lighthouse has operated since 1821, the oldest functioning lighthouse on the Great Lakes.

This lighthouse is in Marblehead, Ohio, 36 minutes away from Cedar Point.

If you’re fascinated with its history and beauty, join guided tours at the lighthouse.

Climb to the top to see a panoramic view of Lake Erie, Cedar Point, and Kelleys Island during your tour.

Marblehead Lighthouse’s surrounding area is also a well-known picnic location featuring an excellent view of Sandusky, Cedar Point, and other islands.

Final Thoughts

Cedar Point and its surrounding communities offer tourists a whole new perspective than the famous theme park.

It has outdoor adventures on Lake Erie, a bit of history in Sandusky, and other exciting activities.

Of course, Cedar Point has more hidden gems that you should check out.

Start planning your Cedar Point adventure today!