Discover the Natural Wonders of Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center
Explore the Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center: A Nature Lover's Paradise in Ohio, Home to Diverse Wildlife and Scenic Trails.
Nestled in the heart of Ohio, the Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center offers an immersive experience for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Explore diverse ecosystems and observe a variety of wildlife in their natural habitat while enjoying educational programs and scenic trails.
A brief summary to Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center
- 14000 OH-2, Oak Harbor, Ohio, 43449, US
- +1419-898-0014
- Visit website
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching and a camera to capture the stunning landscapes.
- Check the calendar for special events and guided tours that enhance your visit.
- Dress in layers, as temperatures can vary throughout the day, especially in spring and fall.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic spots within the refuge.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving from Put-in-Bay or Kelleys Island, you will first need to take a ferry back to the mainland. From Put-in-Bay, board the Miller Ferry to Catawba Island. The ferry ride takes about 20 minutes. From Kelleys Island, take the Kelleys Island Ferry to Marblehead. Once on the mainland, follow these directions: From Catawba Island, take OH-53 South towards Oak Harbor. Merge onto OH-2 East. Continue on OH-2 for approximately 14 miles. Take exit 4 for OH-19 South toward Oak Harbor. Turn left onto OH-19 South, and then in about 2 miles, turn right onto OH-2 West. The Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center will be on your right at 14000 OH-2, Oak Harbor, OH 43449. The total journey takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes from the ferry docks.
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Public Transportation
Public transportation options are limited in the Lake Erie Islands area. However, you can take a ferry to the mainland and then use a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft to get to the Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center. After arriving at the ferry terminal on the mainland (Catawba Island or Marblehead), open your rideshare app and enter the destination address: 14000 OH-2, Oak Harbor, OH 43449. The approximate cost of a rideshare from Catawba Island to the Visitor Center is around $25-$35, depending on demand and time of day.
Discover more about Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center
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