Perry’s Cave & Family Fun Center

Picture of Perrys Cave979 Catawba Ave.
Put-in-Bay, OH 43456
419-285-2405
Perry’s Cave & Family Fun Center

Perrys Cave – Ohio Natural Landmark!

Ohio has many attractions listed as Natural Landmarks, but few are as stunning as Perrys Cave, which lies 52 feet below the surface. Located at Put-in-Bay On South Bass Island, this underground lake and cave is not only a geological wonder but historical as well. Perrys Cave is one of the must-see attractions at Put-in-Bay.

Perrys Cave Particulars

In 1813, Perrys cave was discovered by its namesake Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry. Perry was the hero in the Battle Of Lake Erie, an essential part of Put-in-Bay History. And a turning point in the war of 1812 against the British. The cave measures 208 feet long and 165 wide. Inside the cave, you will see stalagmites, cave pearls, and stalactites on the cave’s floor, walls,  and ceiling. These are created by heavily encrusted deposits of calcium carbonate from hundreds of years of water dripping from the ceiling.

The temperature of Perrys Cave remains near 50° year-round. The cave is also home to a rare underground freshwater lake. Its water level rises and falls with that of Lake Erie, demonstrating subterranean connections. History experts have determined after Perry’s men became ill, the fresh cold water from Perry’s Cave Lake was used to treat the men and to drink. The Victory Hotel, once the largest hotel in the world, used water from the cave’s lake to supply the hotel. The hotel burnt to the ground in 1919, and today its ruins can be seen at the South Bass Island State Park.

Tours & Cave Information

Perrys Cave tours start by descending from the gift shop area. Tours are offered at frequent intervals. Perrys Cave Tour tour takes about 15-20 minutes. However, you may need to allow longer because our knowledgeable guides often stop to answer your questions. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, and a light wrap is suggested due to the chilly environment.

Cave Tour Pricing

Adults: $8.00

Children – Ages six to twelve: $5.00

Children age five and under: FREE

Cave Hours

Early May til Memorial Day: 7 Days a Week: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Memorial Day til Labor Day: 7 Days a week: 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

September 10th till September 30th: 7 Days a week: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00

Open October: Weekends only: 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Weather permitting

Other Attractions To See Nearby

It’s not called a fun center! After your cave tour, you will have the opportunity to enjoy several other popular Put-in-Bay Attractions without leaving the area! The War Of 18 Holes Mini Golf will test the family’s skills in a fun yet educational setting. For car buffs, the Antique Car Museum holds some of America’s greatest automotive treasures. DanDees Snack Shack is located on-site just in case you get a little hungry from all the activities.