Shores & Islands Ohio: The Perfect Fall Setting for Your Group Getaway

If summer slipped by too quickly and you didn't make it to Shores & Islands Ohio—don't worry! It's never too soon to start planning your next group tour.

Fall is a spectacular time to explore the region. With cooler temperatures, lower costs, and a season bursting with harvest festivals, apple and pumpkin picking, spirited experiences, and more, autumn offers the perfect setting for your group getaway.

Start your adventure with a scenic ride to Put-in-Bay aboard the Jet Express or Miller Ferry. From the water, you'll enjoy a unique perspective of the shoreline and the brilliant fall foliage. Once on the island, explore aboard Island Transportation's Tour Train, stopping at popular attractions, or join seasonal favorites like Historic Weekend, Art in the Park, and the Put-in-Bay Road Races. Time your return to the mainland just right, and you'll be rewarded with a breathtaking sunset over the lake.

Fall also means fewer crowds, making African Safari Wildlife Park an even more memorable stop. The relaxed Drive-Thru Safari gives visitors extra time to feed and interact with the animals, while the Walk-Thru Safari brings close-up encounters with even more species—including the park's newest residents, the playful capybaras. Groups enjoy special discounts, and the fun continues all year long.

Of course, no fall visit to Shores & Islands Ohio is complete without a stop at Cedar Point for HalloWeekends. This seasonal tradition blends the park's world-famous rides with family-friendly fall activities by day and spine-tingling haunted attractions by night. From pumpkin displays and live entertainment to scare zones and haunted houses, there's something for every thrill level—making it a perfect group outing in October.

Lakeside Chautauqua, a beloved summer destination for reunions, camps, and conferences, transforms into a peaceful retreat after Labor Day. Visitors can enjoy a slower pace, the beauty of nature, and time for true connection. That doesn't mean the fun stops—events like the Lakeside Marblehead Lighthouse Festival add seasonal charm to the serenity.

Ready to plan your fall visit—or even start building your group itinerary for 2026 and beyond? Contact Joe Sugalski at joe@shoresandislands.com or visit shoresandislands.com/groups for personalized itinerary development and more ideas.

Written by Tiffany Frisch, Director of Group Accounts, Shores & Islands Ohio.

Courtesy of Shores & Islands Ohio.