
Perry's Cave
Explore a cool limestone cave, wander through a butterfly haven, and enjoy mini-golf and gem mining at this fun-filled island attraction.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, smoother travel

Perry's Cave
Best Time
Fewer crowds, smoother travel

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a cool limestone cave, wander through a butterfly haven, and enjoy mini-golf and gem mining at this fun-filled island attraction.
"A must-visit for families, offering a unique cave adventure and diverse activities for lasting memories."

👟 Wear Grippy Shoes
Cave steps are steep & slippery. Closed-toe shoes with good traction are a must for safety!
🚗 Golf Cart Rental
Consider renting a golf cart on Put-in-Bay for easier island exploration, especially for groups.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Perry's Cave Tour
Underground
Descend into a cool, 52-57 degree limestone cave with unique copper-infused pools. A short but memorable underground adventure.

Butterfly House
Part of Family Fun Center
Wander through an aviary filled with exotic butterflies and a soothing waterfall. A tranquil escape for all ages.

Mini-Golf & Gem Mining
Family Fun Center grounds
Challenge yourself on a well-maintained mini-golf course with water hazards, or try your luck at gem mining for hidden treasures.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Weekday Wonders
Footwear is Key for Cave Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Grippy Shoes
Cave steps are steep & slippery. Closed-toe shoes with good traction are a must for safety!
🚗 Golf Cart Rental
Consider renting a golf cart on Put-in-Bay for easier island exploration, especially for groups.
🦋 Butterfly House Magic
Don't miss the Butterfly House for a serene walk among hundreds of colorful butterflies.
💎 Gem Mining Fun
Kids (and adults!) love the gem mining activity for a chance to find cool stones.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Grippy Shoes
Cave steps are steep & slippery. Closed-toe shoes with good traction are a must for safety!
🚗 Golf Cart Rental
Consider renting a golf cart on Put-in-Bay for easier island exploration, especially for groups.
🦋 Butterfly House Magic
Don't miss the Butterfly House for a serene walk among hundreds of colorful butterflies.
💎 Gem Mining Fun
Kids (and adults!) love the gem mining activity for a chance to find cool stones.
🎁 Unique Gift Shop
The gift shop offers beautiful jewelry and geodes that can be cracked open on-site.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Perry's Cave Family Fun Center for its diverse activities, particularly the unique cave tour and the enchanting Butterfly House. The mini-golf course is a hit for its challenging design, and the gem mining adds an element of discovery. The staff are often noted as friendly and helpful, contributing to a positive overall experience. Some find the cave tour a bit short, and slippery steps require caution, but it's generally considered a great family-friendly spot on Put-in-Bay.
"Loved Put in Bay! Would recommend going on a weekday so the ferry isn't too crowded. Such a fun day trip for families and friends! Definitely get a golf cart for larger groups, as the hike back from our rental place was very long. The Keys restaurant was a favorite. Went to Perry's Monument for a fabulous view! Overall, great for kids, giving them lasting memories!"
katelyn pickett
"The guide was entertaining and knowledgeable. The stairs are steep, you have to duck your head if tall not to hit the cave ceiling. You can see the whole cave from the entrance. I wish it were longer, with more to see. Cute lil short trip."
Devon murrray
"The cave tour is actually quite nice. It's an amazing little cave. It's nicer than others in the area, and the tour guide does give some interesting history surrounding the caves lore and previous owners. It is a very short tour, though but the views are very nice. It's a good family activity on the island for sure. The steps going down into the cave, though, are very thin and slippery, so just watch out for those."
Zach Boggs
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Perry's Cave is located on Put-in-Bay, an island in Lake Erie. You'll need to take a ferry from mainland Ohio ports like Port Clinton or Catawba. Consider weekday ferry trips to avoid larger crowds.
Once on the island, golf carts are a popular and convenient way to explore, especially for groups. Walking is also an option for shorter distances.
Yes, Put-in-Bay is a popular day trip destination from cities like Columbus and Cleveland, Ohio. Ferries run frequently during the season.
Perry's Cave is part of a larger family fun center and is located on Put-in-Bay island, which offers other attractions like Perry's Monument and various shops and restaurants.
The main ferry services are the Put-in-Bay Ferry (from Catawba) and the Jet Express (from Port Clinton, Sandusky, and Put-in-Bay). Check their schedules and pricing online.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices vary for the cave tour and other attractions like the butterfly house and mini-golf. It's best to check the official Perry's Cave Family Fun Center website for current pricing and package deals.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance, especially for peak season or weekends, can save you time and guarantee entry. Check their website for online booking options.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. Generally, the attraction is open daily during the warmer months. Always confirm the latest hours on their official website before your visit.
Yes, Perry's Cave Family Fun Center often offers combo tickets that bundle access to the cave tour, butterfly house, and other activities, providing better value.
There are no specific age or height requirements for the cave tour itself, but the slippery steps and narrow passages mean it's best suited for those who can navigate them safely.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The cave tour is a short but interesting experience, descending about 50 feet below ground. You'll see unique rock formations and copper-infused water pools. The guide provides historical context.
The center boasts a challenging mini-golf course, gem mining, a rock climbing wall, an antique car museum, and the popular Butterfly House.
Absolutely! The Butterfly House is a beautiful aviary filled with exotic butterflies and a tranquil waterfall, offering a peaceful and visually stunning experience.
The mini-golf course is described as well-maintained and challenging, with water hazards that add an extra layer of fun without being overly difficult.
Yes, there's a gift shop that offers a variety of items, including unique jewelry and geodes that can be cracked open on-site, making for a memorable souvenir.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While Perry's Cave Family Fun Center focuses on activities, Put-in-Bay island has numerous restaurants and eateries. The Keys restaurant is a local favorite mentioned by visitors.
Typically, outside food and drinks are not permitted within the main attractions of the Family Fun Center. It's best to enjoy meals at the island's restaurants before or after your visit.
Put-in-Bay offers a range of dining, from casual pubs and cafes to sit-down restaurants, catering to various tastes and budgets.
📸 📸 Photography
The Butterfly House offers vibrant and colorful shots with butterflies. The cave interior, with its unique formations and pools, also provides interesting photographic subjects.
Photography is generally allowed inside the cave, but be mindful of the lighting conditions and the slippery surfaces. Avoid using flash if it disturbs others or the environment.
Use a camera or phone with good low-light capabilities. Patience is key to capturing butterflies in flight or resting on flowers.
While generally permitted, always be respectful of other visitors and the attraction's rules. Avoid blocking pathways or using professional equipment without prior permission.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
couples
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Limestone Wonder: Perry's Cave
One interesting historical tidbit shared is that in the late 1800s, the original owner removed many stalactites and stalagmites to sell in the gift shop above, which is why there are no large columns formed by stalactites and stalagmites meeting. This practice, while unfortunate for the cave's natural development, adds a layer of human history to the underground exploration. The views within the cave are described as very nice, making it a good family activity on the island.
Beyond the Cave: The Family Fun Center Experience
For those seeking a bit of treasure hunting, the gem mining activity allows visitors to sift through material to discover various stones and minerals, a hit with kids and adults alike. Adding a touch of natural beauty and tranquility is the Butterfly House, an aviary where visitors can walk among numerous species of exotic butterflies, often accompanied by the soothing sounds of a waterfall. This offers a peaceful contrast to the more active attractions. The center also features a rock climbing wall and an antique car museum, rounding out the diverse offerings and ensuring there's something to capture everyone's interest.
Put-in-Bay Island: A Midwest Gem
Beyond Perry's Cave, key landmarks include Perry's Monument, offering panoramic views of Lake Erie and the surrounding islands. The island also hosts events like the Put-in-Bay Pyrate Fest, adding to its appeal throughout the season. Dining options are plentiful, with the Keys restaurant being a frequently mentioned favorite among visitors. The overall experience on Put-in-Bay is often described as a fun island adventure suitable for families and friends, providing lasting memories.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit