Weekly Feature: Hidden Gems

Today's Hidden Gem: Lake Erie Islands

The more I travel this great land (it sounds like I am about to bust into a scene from Yankee Doodle Dandy!!), I realize how lucky we have it here in Ohio. From the rich history to the diverse landscape, to all of the fun events to experience year round.

Don't get me wrong, I love traveling the globe and have been to some amazing places including Paris, Venezuela, Aruba...the list is endless!

But there is nothing like standing on Hidden Gem Beach at Catawba in the dark of night viewing shooting star after shooting star.

I was fortunate to have the opportunity to meet up with some very dear friends over the weekend.

We met in Catawba and popped over to Put-in-Bay on Sunday.

I believe I've stated this before and re-stated it for my friends: I could not live somewhere not attached to a body of water.

All of the Islands have their own special charm: Kelleys Island, Middle Bass, South Bass, Put-in-Bay...there are other smaller islands not quite developed that carry the same ambiance.

This weekend was the annual 'Christmas in July' on Put-in-Bay. The entire experience was a hoot. That's not the reason we went over there but an added bonus!

We boarded the Ferry at Catawba Point. Before we left, we saw a snake just minding his own business. Once on board, you can stay downstairs and take the chance you will get drenched by the waves in motion or go upstairs to enjoy the sun, the breeze, and the view (as well as the humor factor of watching the travelers below get pounded with water).

As we were approaching the island, a plane flew directly over us. What a vision.

Once on Put-in-Bay, the options endless. You can visit the caves, winery, monuments, fishery, multitude of stores and restaurants, beach, marina, miniature golf, go-karts, etc....and the 'way' to visit all of these places is just as exciting --via golf cart, bike, moped, trolley, car, boat or on foot.

What an exhilarating day. The weather perfect! Could not have asked for better weather to take in the sights, spend quality time with friends and enjoy a nice meal on the island.

Every store or restaurant decorated accordingly with the "Christmas in July" theme though it was in the 80's! There was a boat parade and a land parade. The land parade featured a whole slew of old, historic vehicles leading the way to the guest of honor, Santa Claus & his entourage

Kimberly's Carousel all decked out for the holiday as well as piping out everyone's favorite Christmas tunes the little children could sing along to as they circled around and around.

At nightfall, the sky totally different from the city sky, which is usually clogged with pollution and lights galore.

On the contrary, the Catawba sky pitch black. We were able to locate the big dipper, the little dipper and witnessed shooting star after shooting star. Make a wish!

Whether or not you are the 'outdoorsy type' or not, there is quite a lot to do and enjoy on the Lake Erie Islands. If you have not had the Island experience yet, I strongly suggest you make the trip. Take the Ferry to the Island of your choice and, you too, will experience first hand why the Lake Erie Islands are this week's Hidden Gem!