Historic Downtown Sandusky is home to iconic 19th century architecture, was a critical terminal on the Underground Railroad, and was once world-renowned for its ice harvesting and winemaking.
Today, Downtown Sandusky has evolved from a major industrial hub to one of the best and most walkable downtown on the Great Lakes. Visitors will find locally owned restaurants, shops, ice cream, ferry services to the Lake Erie Islands, and near daily events.
Come visit beloved Downtown Sandusky and experience a destination rich in history, a vibrant waterfront culture, locally owned businesses, and a one-of-a-kind experience that creates lasting memories for visitors of all ages.
Transforming Downtown
Projects that are reshaping the city.
Dining
Outdoor Recreation
The Sandusky Bay Pathway is a multi-modal trail designed to create a continuous, scenic, waterfront route for walking, running, and biking along Sandusky Bay. It stretches from Bay View on the Western End to Sheldon’s Marsh Nature Preserve on the eastern end.
Jackson Street Pier is a 4-acre waterfront public space featuring the Great Lawn and Mylander Pavilion. It is home to the Goodtime Café and serves as the boarding location for the Goodtime I, which offers sunset and island cruises, as well as the Pelee Islander ferry to Pelee Island, Ontario. Jackson Street Pier hosts many popular community events, including Movies by the Bay and Party at the Pier, making it a vibrant destination for residents and visitors alike.
Washington Park is a historic green space established in 1818. Serving as a community gathering place, the park features vibrant seasonal floral displays and beautifully landscaped grounds. It is home to several iconic landmarks including The Boy with the Boot Fountain and the Frohman Clock, making it one of Sandusky’s most beloved public spaces.
Facer Park is a waterfront memorial that commemorates Sandusky’s significant role in the Underground Railroad. The park features Path To Freedom, a striking sculpture created by local artist Susan Shultz, honoring the courage and determination of those who sought freedom through this historic network. Visitors can also explore a series of plaques depicting the city’s role as a major terminal in the Underground Railroad. A beautiful gazebo, colorful flower beds, and scenic views of Sandusky Bay create a peaceful setting for community gathering.
Shoreline Park is an eight-acre waterfront park that offers panoramic views of Sandusky Bay as well as the Cedar Point Peninsula. The park offers expansive green spaces for recreation, picnics, outdoor gatherings, as well as a playground for children. Fishing is a very popular activity at Shoreline Park due to the accessible waterfront. There is also a small boat launch that is ADA wheelchair accessible. Local food vendors such as Great Lakes Grinders can be found at Shoreline Park in the summer season.
Pedego is a locally owned bicycle shop specializing in sales, rentals, service, and custom accessory fitting. The store offers hourly and daily rentals, allowing riders to glide along the scenic trails and enjoy everything the Sandusky area has to offer at your own pace.
Rainy Day Options
Located in the Merry-Go-Round Museum, the Cedar Point Historical Museum preserves and celebrates the rich history, heritage, and memorabilia of the Cedar Point Peninsula.
The Merry-Go-Round Museum preserves the art and history of carousels, featuring over 200 hand carved antique figures, band organs, and an operating 1939 Allan Herschell carousel.
The Sandusky History Museum is operated by the Sandusky Library and showcases the history of Sandusky and Erie County. Built between 1834 and 1837, the home once belonged to Oran Follett, a businessman, state representative, and early founder of the Republican Party.
The house also served as a known stop on the Underground Railroad, as Oran Follet’s wife, Eliza, was a heavily involved abolitionist. Today, the museum features a large Civil War collection, local history exhibits, and even rooftop access when weather permits, AND they’re celebrating their 50th anniversary in 2026!
The Maritime Museum celebrates the rich harbor and freight heritage of Lake Erie through exhibits on commercial fishing, boat building, historic vessels, and a half-scale replica of the Cedar Point Lighthouse.
The Sandusky Library provides the community with traditional book lending, digital media, computers, and free educational events. It is a welcoming space filled with meeting rooms, learning areas, and spaces for events and programming.
The Marketplace Downtown is a year-round, indoor shopping and entertainment hub. It brings together local small businesses, eateries, and recreational activities all under one roof, along with beautiful murals, historic photographs, and a timeline detailing Sandusky’s rich heritage.