Head To Put-In-Bay For A Spooky Ghost Walk This Season
By Nikki Rhoades|Published August 22, 2019
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Nikki Rhoades
Author
Nikki is a lifelong Ohioan with a love for literature. She holds a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Akron and has enjoyed publishing her written work since 2007. She has a love of travel and does so frequently, though she believes that home is where the heart is — she continues to work in and around Cleveland as a digital content specialist to this day, working on everything from commercial scripts and social media posts to grassroots marketing initiatives.
As mundane as life can be, it’s impossible not to crave a bit of excitement. We’re inexplicably drawn to dark things, it seems – just think about the last time you were passing an accident on the highway, unable to tear your gaze away from the destruction. Curiosity is a normal part of human nature, and there are actually perfectly healthy ways to explore that darkness. For example, if you call Cleveland home, you can embark on this nearby island ghost walk for an opportunity to come face-to-face with a spirit. If you’re ready to kick off a season of spook, mark your calendar and gather some friends. This is one event you won’t want to miss!
Often considered to be the Key West of Ohio, South Bass Island is an incredible little slice of paradise that's just outside of Greater Cleveland. It's accessible by ferry and makes for an incredible weekend trip.
The island is rich in history and natural features, all of which can be toured during your visit.
You'll adore descending beneath the ground to get to the heart of what makes this island so special. Crystal Cave is absolutely incredible, and Perry's Cave is just as fascinating.
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But some whisper that this incredible and scenic island has a few ghostly residents that just can't part with its charms...
T&J's Smokehouse is a delicious place to dine on the island... and it apparently is more than a few individuals' favorite haunt. Stage actor T.B. Alexander went down in history as one of the community's beloved mayors, and some say that his spirit still haunts this delightful site.
Speaking of spirits, you simply must visit Put-In-Bay Brewery & Distillery while you're in town. However, be warned that this charming distillery is said to be haunted! Benny is the ghost said to toss things around, causing a bit of a ruckus when he's ready for attention.
...And some are caught in an eternal state of heartbreak.
Ever heard of Samuel "Sam" Anderson? He was the assistant of Put-in-Bay's first lighthouse keeper, Harry H. Riley, and he joined the lighthouse keeper in the summer of 1898. Unfortunately, a smallpox outbreak impacted the community that summer. Just 22 days after moving to the island, Sam fell off a cliff. It was ruled a suicide, perhaps in connection to paranoia induced by the outbreak, but authorities noted that Harry was found wandering in a delirium around the Sandusky area. After a stint in an asylum, Harry returned to the lighthouse. Perhaps it was upon his return that Sam started haunted the area, but locals claim to see Sam to this day.
If you'd like to experience the island's hauntings for yourself, you simply must take part in the upcoming Ghost Walk.
Based on the Haunted Put-in-Bay book by William G. Krejci, this incredible tour is the spookiest way to kick off autumn. It starts before The Boardwalk and will take you to the most incredible places on the island. You can find a coupon here!
The event takes place on Tuesdays and Fridays at 7:30 p.m., typically operating from late June through mid-October.
This cash-only walking tour is $15 for adults and free for children under 12 with an accompanying adult. You'll purchase your tickets 10 minutes prior to the start of the walking tour.
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While remnants of local history abound on the island, you've never experienced history quite like this.
Think you're brave enough to face the spirits of Put-in-Bay? Mark your calendar and gather some friends, because this spooky tour is sure to leave you impressed.
