Zanesville Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Zanesville, Ohio with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best attractions, activities, food, and accommodations in the area.


Introduction to Zanesville

Located in Southeast Ohio in the Midwest region of the United States, Zanesville is a charming city with a rich history. It was founded in 1797 and grew as an important Ohio River shipping port, which led to it becoming the state capital for two years. Today, the city is known for its beautiful architecture, scenic views, outdoor recreation options, and cultural landmarks.

List of Places to Visit in Zanesville

Whether you’re interested in history, outdoor adventure, or local culture, Zanesville has something for everyone. Here is a list of some of the must-see attractions in the area:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The National Road and Zane Grey Museum: This museum is dedicated to the history of the National Road, America’s first federally funded highway, and the life and work of author Zane Grey. It features exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays.

  • The Y-Bridge: This unique bridge crosses over the confluence of the Licking and Muskingum Rivers and is a popular spot for taking photos and enjoying the views.

  • The Lorena Sternwheeler: This restored sternwheeler offers daily tours of the Muskingum River and is a great way to learn about the history of the area’s waterways.

  • Muskingum County Courthouse: This historic courthouse with its towering clock tower is an architectural gem and one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city.

Natural Attractions of Zanesville: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Wilds: This wildlife conservation center spans over 9,000 acres and is home to rare and endangered animals such as cheetahs, rhinoceros, and giraffes. Visitors can take a safari tour, zip line, or go horseback riding.

  • Dillon State Park: Located just a few miles outside of Zanesville, this beautiful park offers over 1,300 acres of outdoor recreational opportunities such as camping, fishing, boating, and hiking.

  • The Zanesville’s Arboretum: This urban park features over 10 acres of gardens, trails, and outdoor sculptures.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Zanesville

Zanesville is a great place for outdoor enthusiasts, with several hiking and biking trails to explore. Here are some of the best:

  • The Muskingum Recreational Trail: This trail spans over 11 miles and follows the Muskingum River from Zanesville to Dresden. It’s perfect for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.

  • The Dillon State Park Trail System: This system contains over 20 miles of hiking and biking trails that wind through the park’s forested hills and around the lake.

  • The Flint Ridge Trail: This 4.5-mile trail runs through the lush, green forest of the Flint Ridge State Memorial.

Best Things to Do in Zanesville: Activities and Tours

In addition to its natural and cultural attractions, Zanesville also offers a variety of fun activities and tours. Here are some of the best:

  • Ghost Tours: Explore Zanesville’s haunted history on a ghost tour, which takes you through some of the city’s most historic and spookiest locations.

  • Wine Tours: Southeast Ohio is home to many wineries, and there are several tours available that take you to several of them in one day.

  • Zanesville Art Walk: On the first Friday of every month, downtown Zanesville turns into an art walk, with galleries, studios, and local shops showcasing their works.

Week-Long Itinerary for Zanesville

If you have a week to spend in Zanesville, here’s a sample itinerary to make the most of your time:

Day 1: Arrive in Zanesville and explore downtown, including the Y-Bridge, the Muskingum County Courthouse, and the Zanesville Museum of Art.

Day 2-3: Spend the next two days at The Wilds, where you can take a safari tour, zip line, or go horseback riding.

Day 4: Visit the National Road and Zane Grey Museum, and then take a hike on the Flint Ridge Trail.

Day 5: Explore Dillon State Park, where you can camp, fish, boat, hike, or just relax on the beach.

Day 6: Take a wine tour of some of the local wineries, and then enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants in the downtown area.

Day 7: Take a ghost tour before departing from Zanesville.

Food and Drink Scene of Zanesville

Zanesville has a thriving food and drink scene, with many locally-owned restaurants, cafes, and bars. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Zanesville’s Famous Y-Bridge Sundae: This classic ice cream sundae is named after the city’s famous Y-Bridge and features vanilla ice cream, hot fudge, whipped cream, and a cherry on top.

  • Ohio Style Pizza: Zanesville has several local pizza shops offering unique Ohio-style pizza. It’s a must-try for pizza lovers.

  • Buckeye Candy: This delicious treat is made with peanut butter and chocolate and is a favorite in the Midwest.

Local Beverages

  • Buckeye Beer: This locally-brewed ale is named after the Ohio state tree and features a nutty flavor.

  • Muskingum Valley Wine: This winery produces a variety of award-winning wines, including many made from locally grown grapes.

Where to Stay in Zanesville: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Zanesville offers a variety of accommodations, from budget-friendly options to luxurious hotels. Here are some of the best:

  • Hampton Inn Zanesville: This hotel offers affordable rooms and amenities such as a fitness center and indoor pool.

  • Inn at Dresden: Located just a few miles outside of Zanesville, this charming bed and breakfast offers cozy rooms and a complimentary breakfast.

  • Travelodge by Wyndham Zanesville: This budget-friendly hotel is located in the heart of downtown Zanesville and offers comfortable rooms at an affordable price.

  • Quality INN & Suites: This modern hotel features an indoor pool and hot tub, as well as a complimentary breakfast.

What to Buy in Zanesville: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for a unique souvenir or gift from Zanesville, here are some great options:

  • Pottery: Zanesville has a long history of pottery production, and you can find many locally made pieces at stores and galleries throughout the area.

  • Local Wine: Bring home a bottle of Ohio wine from one of the many local wineries.

  • Amish-made goods: Southeast Ohio is home to many Amish communities, and you can find a variety of handmade goods such as quilts, baskets, and furniture in the area.

Local Culture and Customs of Zanesville

Zanesville is known for its friendly locals and welcoming community. Here are a few tips to help you fit in:

  • Small talk is appreciated: Zanesville residents are known for being friendly and welcoming, and small talk is a common way to make connections.

  • Be respectful of local customs: Zanesville is a diverse community with many different cultural and religious traditions. Be respectful of local customs and dress modestly when visiting religious landmarks.

Best Time to Visit Zanesville

The best time to visit Zanesville is during the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and the foliage is at its peak. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter can be cold and snowy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Zanesville

Do:

  • Explore the city on foot: Zanesville’s downtown area is easily walkable and full of interesting shops, galleries, and landmarks.

  • Visit local wineries: Southeast Ohio is home to many wineries, and there are several tours available that take you to several of them in one day.

Don’t:

  • Litter: Zanesville is a beautiful city, and it’s important to keep it that way by properly disposing of your trash.

  • Make assumptions about local traditions: Zanesville is a diverse community with many different cultural and religious traditions. Be respectful of local customs and dress modestly when visiting religious landmarks.

Safety and Health

Safety in Zanesville

Zanesville is generally a safe city, but like any place, it’s important to take precautions when traveling. Here are a few safety tips:

  • Be aware of your surroundings: When walking around downtown Zanesville, be aware of your surroundings and avoid poorly lit areas at night.

  • Lock your doors: Make sure your car and hotel room are locked at all times to prevent theft.

Health in Zanesville

Zanesville has several hospitals and medical clinics to serve both residents and visitors. It’s always a good idea to have travel insurance when traveling to ensure you are covered in case of an emergency.

Getting to Zanesville: Transportation Options and Logistics

There are several options for getting to Zanesville, including:

Airports Near Zanesville

  • John Glenn Columbus International Airport: Columbus, Ohio (60 miles from Zanesville)
  • Pittsburgh International Airport: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (133 miles from Zanesville)

Bus Stations Near Zanesville

  • Greyhound Bus Station: Columbus, Ohio (50 miles from Zanesville)
  • Zanesville Transit Center: Zanesville, Ohio

Other Options

  • Car rental: There are several car rental options available in both Columbus and Pittsburgh.
  • Train: The closest Amtrak station is in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

How to Get Around in Zanesville

Zanesville is a small city and is easily walkable, but if you’d like to explore further or don’t want to walk, there are several transportation options available:

  • Zanesville Taxis: There are several taxi services available in the city.
  • Zanesville Transit System: The city’s public transportation system offers several bus routes throughout the area.

Where to Go Next from Zanesville: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Zanesville is conveniently located near several other great destinations in Southeast Ohio. Here are some nearby destinations to consider:

  • Amish Country: Head east to explore the picturesque Amish community of Holmes County, Ohio.
  • Hocking Hills State Park: This beautiful park is known for its rugged, scenic trails and stunning waterfalls.
  • Columbus, Ohio: Just an hour’s drive from Zanesville, Columbus has a thriving food and drink scene, as well as several museums and attractions to explore.

Conclusion

Whether you’re interested in history, outdoor adventure, or local culture, Zanesville has something for everyone. Plan your trip today and experience all that this charming city has to offer.

Muskingum County Courthouse, built 1877 in a Second Empire architecture style. Muskingum County Courthouse, built 1877 in a Second Empire architecture style. Y Shaped Bridge Y Shaped Bridge St. Nicholas Catholic Church, built in 1899. St. Nicholas Catholic Church, built in 1899. Zanesville canal. Zanesville canal.