Things to Do in Sandusky

Originally sculpted into the landscape in 1958, Green Hills Golf Course winds through 5,933 yards of smoothly rolling terrain bordered by clusters of mature arbors. To compensate for its relatively short length, the 18-hole course catches clubbers off-guard with strategically placed ponds, subtle slopes, and self-destructing yardage markers. Each round takes spiky-shoed golfers gliding around tranquil ponds and past rippling creeks, which add to the course’s shot-impeding obstacles. A nine-hole par 3 executive course stretches out alongside the full-length monolith, beckoning to greenhorns, youngsters, and experienced pin-hunters still seeking their first hole-in-one. A driving range, practice green, and full regimen of golf clinics nurse withering swings back to life, while the onsite restaurant fuels muscles and carnivorous golf carts with all-beef hot dogs and other savory grill fare.

Surrounded by a semicircle of hills, the main lodge at Clear Fork Resort serves as the access point to miles of alpine and cross-country skiing, ATVing, and snow-tubing trails that populate the surrounding countryside. The downhill skiing trail map contains terrain suitable for every level of skier or snowboarder, with a beginner's area and numerous difficult runs serviced by triple and quad chairlifts. When Old Man Winter hits the snooze button, a fleet of Snow Guns stands ready to bombard the slopes with artificial snow and passive-aggressive taunts skyward. Resort visitors can always check current weather conditions, which are constantly monitored by the resort's snow report.

After spotting vacationers parasail over Florida's beaches, the founder of Put in Bay Parasail decided to create a way for North Coasters to get the same thrill above Lake Erie's waters. Since then, thousands of parasailers have taken flight and sailed up to 300 feet over the water, enjoying beach views and attempting to touch the sun while USCG-licensed captains safely steer. Setting forth from South Bass Island, Captain Jason Hall outfits guests with life vests and valuable knowledge nuggets, gleaned during more than two decades of water adventuring. Alternatively, high-quality paddleboards send aqua explorers on adventures closer to Erie's water. Staff point boarders in the direction of great spots for sunbathing, bobbing, or surfing based on their skill level and fluency at communing with lake trout.