When should you visit Port Clinton, Ohio?
Every time of year is a great time to visit Port Clinton, but you'll want to consider your vacation budget and weather preferences before booking your trip. Port Clinton experiences four distinct seasons every year, with warm summers and cold winters. Spring and fall usually bring high temperatures in the mid-60s, while winter brings lows in the low 20s and upper teens, along with about 3 feet of snow. Summer is high season here, thanks to average highs in the mid-80s and sunny skies.
Summer is also festival season in Port Clinton. The season kicks off in late May with the Main Street Port Clinton Walleye Festival, which features a parade, a fishing derby for kids, a 5K run, rides, and over 100 local vendors. In early August, Arts in the Park welcomes art lovers with dozens of arts and craft vendors, demonstrations, and family-friendly fun.
Hotel prices tend to be highest from late spring to early fall because of the pleasant weather and seasonal attractions. If you book your accommodations in advance and seek out group discounts, however, you can find an affordable place to stay in Port Clinton just about any time of year.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Port Clinton, OH:
Port Clinton by Star Rating
Below are 3 charts demonstrating mean rate trends by star rating class in Port Clinton, OH. You can use these charts to evaluate the best time to book a room in Port Clinton for any future trips.
Where are the luxury hotels in Port Clinton, OH?
Want to treat your group to an upscale stay? Check out Port Clinton's best upscale hotels.
For an upscale stay in downtown Port Clinton, you can't go wrong with the historic Island House Port Clinton. This boutique hotel has 38 guest rooms and several suite options, so you can customize your stay. Use the free Wi-Fi to stay in touch with family and friends, and enjoy the free continental breakfast, which includes pastries, juice, coffee, and more. In the evening, choose between the hotel's two restaurants, both which are full service. The waterfront and Port Clinton's downtown attractions are within easy walking distance of the Island House.
Located just north of Highway 269, the Country Inn & Suites by Radisson is ideal for an upscale stay between Lake Erie and scenic Sandusky Bay. Get a great night's sleep in your spacious room, fuel up with the complimentary Be Our Guest breakfast, and stay in shape using the hotel's fitness center and indoor pool. This Country Inn & Suites also offers easy access to over a dozen roller coasters and plenty of thrill rides at Cedar Point, just a short drive away.
What are the best budget-friendly hotels around Port Clinton, Ohio?
3 Star Average Prices: $120.17
Need to keep your costs in check when you visit Port Clinton? Book one of the area's best budget-friendly hotels.
Conveniently located near the lakefront and Highway 269, the Super 8 Port Clinton is a smart choice for travelers on a budget. This affordable property has 36 guest rooms featuring essentials such as free Wi-Fi and complimentary HBO. With complimentary breakfast, free coffee, and several restaurants and waterfront attractions within walking distance, this Super 8 has what you need for a fun stay in the Port Clinton area. Ask about the free shuttle to the Jet Express, which operates on select days.
Whether you're planning a one-night stay or you're considering a longer trip, Americas Best Value Inn Port Clinton has just the budget-priced rooms you need. Guest rooms include minifridges and free Wi-Fi, and all guests can enjoy the hotel's complimentary breakfast buffet each morning. This waterfront hotel has a dedicated marina, so be sure to ask about docking your boat. This Americas Best Inn also offers quick access to downtown Port Clinton, and you'll find several bars and restaurants within walking distance.
For an affordable stay in the middle of the action, you can't go wrong with the Travelodge Port Clinton OH. This budget-friendly hotel has all the essentials you need, such as free Wi-Fi and guest laundry facilities, along with extras such as a seasonal outdoor swimming pool and a complimentary breakfast buffet. The lakefront and your choice of museums and outdoor attractions are all just a short drive away from this Travelodge.
2 Star Average Prices: $132.95
What hotels in Port Clinton offer the best discounts?
Getting a great deal on your Port Clinton hotel is a breeze. Browse the area's best group rates and hotel discounts.
Government employees get special rates at the Sandusky Inn & Suites in nearby Sandusky. This budget-friendly property has an outdoor swimming pool the whole family will love, along with free breakfast and a convenient location near Cedar Point.
AARP members and senior travelers can get discounts at the Baymont Inn & Suites, a midscale hotel in Sandusky. With free breakfast, free HBO, free Wi-Fi, and complimentary parking, this conveniently located hotel offers plenty of value.
AAA members can save at the Fremont Days Inn, which is just north of Interstate 80 and a short drive from the lakefront. This affordable property is a great pick for travelers on a budget and offers guest laundry facilities, in-room microwaves and minifridges, and an indoor pool.
Where are the hotels with the most value in Port Clinton, Ohio?
Looking for a mix of wallet-friendly rates and ample amenities? You will love Port Clinton's top-rated midrange hotels.
Book your stay at the Best Western Port Clinton, and you will get access to countless amenities and your choice of comfortable guest rooms. Kick back with free HBO and Wi-Fi in your double or king room, go for a swim in the outdoor pool, or use the convenient guest laundry facilities. Start your day with the complimentary breakfast bar, and in the evening, grab a bite to eat at one of the nearby restaurants. Fido is welcome at this pet-friendly hotel.
Whether you opt for a standard room or you upgrade to a suite, you'll enjoy a comfortable stay at the Sleep Inn & Suites. In addition to over 70 well-equipped guest rooms, this Port Clinton hotel has guest laundry facilities, free high-speed wireless internet access, and complimentary breakfast. Fuel up with eggs, bacon, waffles, and hot coffee each morning of your stay.
Located just a short drive from the Lake Erie waterfront, the Holiday Inn Express has all the extras you want on vacation. Use the free Wi-Fi to book excursions in Port Clinton, help yourself to freshly brewed coffee, and start your day with cinnamon rolls and other goodies from the free Express Start Breakfast Bar. This midrange hotel also has an indoor pool and two available meeting rooms, making it a great pick for groups and get-togethers.
What attractions should you check out while visiting Port Clinton, OH?
From museums to outdoor attractions, Port Clinton has plenty to keep the whole family entertained. Start your visit at the Ottawa County Museum, which features a variety of historical exhibitions and contemporary photography shows that highlight local icons and attractions. Be sure to check the museum's opening hours before you go, as it is typically open one day a week during the off-season.
Aviation enthusiasts will also want to Liberty Aviation Museum, which has an impressive collection of World War II-era aircraft. Stop by for a tour, and be sure to grab a bite to eat at the Tin Goose Diner, a full-service vintage spot connected to the museum.
Ready to get outside and explore? Head straight for Lakeview Park, which is perched right on the shores of Lake Erie. Whether you want to let the kids run around in the play area, enjoy a picnic or a cookout, or take in the beautiful views, this park is the perfect spot.
If you're traveling with kids, you will also want to pay a visit to the African Safari Wildlife Park. Choose from a walk-through or a drive-thru safari and spot camels, giraffes, bison, zebras, and many more animals. Want to get up close and personal with camels, rabbits, or kangaroos? Join one of the park's special animal experiences, most which are open during high season.
The Watering Hole Safari and Waterpark is another popular spot for families and kids of all ages. Visit the zoo and safari park, make a splash at the water park, rev your engine at the Montego Bay Raceway, or find something sparkly in the gem mining zone. You'll find a little something for everyone at the Watering Hole.
For an even bigger outdoor adventure, head to Catawba Island State Park, a 10-acre park right on Lake Erie. Hike through the red cedar groves, spot snakes and songbirds, or go fishing for yellow perch and white bass. In the winter, you can even go ice fishing or ice skating here.
Whether you're planning a quick weekend visit or you want to stay for a week or longer, don't wait to start planning your trip. Port Clinton and the Lake Erie shore await!
FAQs about hotels in Port Clinton
How much does a cheap hotel in Port Clinton cost per night?
In the last year, a 2 star hotel in Port Clinton can be as cheap as $132.95 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
How much does a 3 star hotel in Port Clinton cost per night?
In the last year, the average 3 star hotel in Port Clinton has been $120.17 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
What did travelers think of the city of Port Clinton?
Below are reviews of the city of Port Clinton, OH from an actual visitor's perspective.
"Great Restaurants & Views of Lake Erie!"
Score
5.0 / 5
The people were extremely friendly, the restaurants had great food at reasonable prices and the view of Lake Erie was beautiful!
Karen F., from 28-Mar-2024
"Lots to Do Close by Hotel"
Score
4.0 / 5
Everyone is friendly and there's a lot to do close by without seeming like a tourist location.
Emily E., from 26-Mar-2024
"Love being by the lake!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Love being by the lake. A very nice city; went to McCarthy Irish pub, very good food!
Trish D., from 16-Jan-2024
"The Views!"
Score
4.0 / 5
The views!
Michael O., from 11-Oct-2023
"FISHIN!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Fishin!
Richard K., from 10-Oct-2023
"The Views!"
Score
5.0 / 5
The views!
Michael O., from 07-Oct-2023
"Great location, enjoyable stay!"
Score
5.0 / 5
I was able to get to any amenities easily and enjoyed the stay.
Derek M., from 04-Aug-2023
"Great Location"
Score
4.0 / 5
I was able to get to any amenities easily and enjoyed the stay.
Derek M., from 03-Aug-2023
"Classy Town with Great Views of Lake Erie!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Great place for a beer and some good food, I really like the history and old classy style of the town, some great old bars and hangouts, great views of Lake Erie. A homerun for me and my family!
David L., from 27-Jul-2023
"Lake View!"
Score
5.0 / 5
The view of the lake!
Clayton J., from 17-Jul-2023
"Lake Erie"
Score
5.0 / 5
Lake Erie
Robert M., from 17-Jul-2023
"Easy access to Put in Bay"
Score
4.0 / 5
Easy access to Put in Bay
Roger S., from 07-Jul-2023
"Love the pool and the lake!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Love the pool and the lake!
Mark C., from 16-Jun-2023
"Great Place to Visit with Lots to Do!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Port Clinton is a great place to visit. Lots to do.
Ann A., from 26-May-2023
"Lake Erie, Magee Marsh, ONWR, Brick House, Popcorn Shop!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Lake Erie, Magee Marsh, ONWR, Brick House, Popcorn Shop!
Virginia R., from 08-May-2023
"Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge & Magee Marsh"
Score
5.0 / 5
Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge and Magee Marsh. The birding was fantastic!
Virginia R., from 07-May-2023
"Great Fishing!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Great fishing city!
Chuck G., from 24-Apr-2023
"Jolly Roger serves great Lake Erie perch!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Check out the Jolly Roger in Port Clinton for great Lake Erie perch in a low key setting.
Leonard S., from 30-Oct-2022
"Put-in-Bay"
Score
4.0 / 5
I love coming to Port Clinton and going over to Put-in-Bay.
Gail B., from 13-Oct-2022
"Fishing at Port Clinton!"
Score
4.0 / 5
We like to go fishing in Port Clinton; there are many restaurants to choose from also.
Brenda T., from 16-Jul-2022
"Clean City"
Score
5.0 / 5
City was clean, quite and calm.
Alberto H., from 12-Jun-2022
"Beautiful Place"
Score
4.0 / 5
Gideon Owen Winery is a beautiful place.
Norman C., from 30-May-2022
"Loved the entire experience!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Proximity to the water, location and cleanliness, loved the entire experience. Thank you.
Janene J., from 12-May-2022
"I like the location and fishing on Lake Erie."
Score
5.0 / 5
I like the location and fishing on Lake Erie.
Dennis F., from 28-Apr-2022
"Nice location near winery."
Score
5.0 / 5
Nice location near the big stone winery and restaurant.
William G., from 08-Nov-2021
"Great Food,Great Location!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Great restaurants around and very close.
Alyssa G., from 18-Aug-2019
"Plan a Visit"
Score
5.0 / 5
It was beautiful. Close enough to a lot of attractions. Can go to Cedar Point, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Football Hall of Fame. I would love to come back in the future.
Paddy J., from 09-Sep-2014
The average traveler rating of the city of Port Clinton, OH shown above is
4.5 out of 5 based on 27 reviews