Is there a train from Put-In-Bay to Mentor?

No, there is no rail service to the Lake Erie islands; you must use a ferry and then drive or take a bus.

How long is the ferry ride?

The Miller Ferry crossing from Put-In-Bay to Catawba Island takes approximately 20 minutes.

Can I take a bus from the ferry dock?

Public transit is limited at the Catawba dock; ride-sharing or personal vehicles are recommended.

What is the best route to Mentor?

Taking OH-2 East to I-90 East is the most direct route from the Catawba Island area.

Are there tolls on this route?

Most of the route via OH-2 and I-90 is toll-free, though some connecting bridges may have fees.

Put-In-Bay

Mentor

Driving Ship

Put-In-Bay to Mentor

Updated: 29 May 2026

The journey begins with the Miller Ferry from Put-In-Bay to Catawba Island. From the mainland, you drive south to OH-53 and merge onto OH-2 East. Continue onto I-90 East, which bypasses downtown Cleveland directly to Mentor. The total distance is approximately 115 kilometers. This route is the most efficient way to reach the eastern suburbs of Cleveland from the Lake Erie islands.

Total Distance: 115 km driving, 95 km air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving from Catawba Island to Mentor via OH-2 and I-90 takes roughly 1 hour 40 minutes.

Cheapest Way

Miller Ferry combined with personal vehicle is the most cost-effective method.

Compare Put-In-Bay to Mentor Routes

	Driving Direct	Ship Direct
Duration	1 hour 40 minutes	20 minutes
Avg Price	$15 - $25	$10 - $20
Operator	Personal Vehicle	Miller Ferry
Route	OH-53 to OH-2 E to I-90 E	Put-In-Bay to Catawba Island Dock
Tip	Expect heavy traffic on I-90 near the Cleveland inner belt during rush hours.	Check the Miller Ferry website for real-time wind and weather cancellations.

Travel Tips

Ferry Timing
Arrive at the Miller Ferry dock 30 minutes early during summer weekends to secure a spot.
Toll Roads
Keep an E-ZPass handy as some segments of Ohio highways may utilize electronic tolling.
Parking
If leaving your car on the mainland, use the secure long-term parking lots near the Catawba ferry terminal.
Weather Check
Always monitor Lake Erie wind speeds, as high gusts can suspend ferry service.
Route Planning
Use the OH-2 bypass to avoid downtown Cleveland traffic congestion during peak hours.

Safety Tips

Ferry Safety
Remain seated during the ferry crossing and follow all crew instructions regarding life vests.
Highway Vigilance
I-90 can experience sudden lake-effect snow squalls; adjust your speed accordingly.
Vehicle Prep
Ensure your vehicle has adequate tire tread for wet or icy conditions common in Northern Ohio.
Emergency Contacts
Save the local Ohio State Highway Patrol non-emergency number for roadside assistance.