You know that I love a road trip! (And if you’re new to the Catching Katie blog- welcome, thanks for coming, I’m Katie and I love a road trip). Sometimes you don’t need to take a long road trip in order to explore someplace new. And while I love driving around and exploring other countries and states, weekends are great for an Ohio road trip, like you can find on these previous blog posts. Nestled along the Muskingum River in southeastern Ohio, Zanesville offers a charming mix of history, art, and natural beauty. I’ve taken a few short road trips to Zanesville, Ohio, and I have done lots of exploring in and around the area. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or just looking for a new weekend destination, here’s how to make the most of a visit exploring in and around Zanesville, Ohio.
About Zanesville, OH
Zanesville is about 55 miles east of Columbus, Ohio- roughly a one-hour drive via Interstate 70. Founded in 1797 by Revolutionary War veteran Ebenezer Zane, the city began as part of Zane’s Trace, one of the first major pioneer roads through the Northwest Territory. Its location at the junction of the Muskingum and Licking Rivers made it a key early hub for canal and river trade. Zanesville even served briefly as Ohio’s capital from 1810 to 1812. Though its political role faded, the city thrived in the 19th century, becoming a center for manufacturing and a national leader in ceramics thanks to renowned pottery companies like Roseville, Weller, and McCoy- a legacy that endures today.
Known for its iconic Y-Bridge, and those deep pottery roots, Zanesville is also surrounded by fascinating nearby attractions. From the boyhood home of astronaut and senator John Glenn to the great outdoors with Dillon State Park, there’s no shortage of places for exploring in and around Zanesville, Ohio.
Zanesville’s Y-Bridge
The city’s distinctive Y-Bridge is a point of pride and curiosity for Zanesville. It allows travelers to cross the river and end up on the same side they started. This local quirk even supposedly earned it a mention by author Mark Twain when he said “You can stand in the middle of the bridge and see someone leaving town in all three directions.” While it’s not 100 percent certain that he was talking abut the Zanesville Y-Bridge, there are only 3 bridges like this in the world. The Y-Bridge was initially built in 1814 to connect four communities at the confluence of the Muskingum and Licking rivers. However it has since been rebuilt several times, The current fifth iteration was constructed in 1984. Amelia Earhart even remarked that the Y-Bridge made Zanesville the “most recognizable city in the country”.
Zanesville Museum of Art
If you’re even a little curious about art, don’t skip the Zanesville Museum of Art. This local gem has a surprisingly impressive collection with over 7,000 pieces. Pieces include classic American paintings, European works, and a standout selection of Zanesville’s own art pottery from makers like Roseville, Weller, and McCoy. You’ll also find rotating exhibits, contemporary pieces, and plenty of opportunities to support local Ohio artists. It’s approachable, and great for all ages thanks to their family-friendly programs and hands-on activities. Best of all, it’s free to visit!! The museum is open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Alan Cottrill Sculpture Studio & Gallery
Just a few blocks away, the Alan Cottrill Sculpture Studio & Gallery is another must-visit, especially if you want to see something unique. Alan Cottrill is an internationally recognized sculptor whose larger-than-life bronze statues are found all over the U.S.. And you can see many of them up close right here in his hometown. The studio is both a working space and a gallery. Therefore you might catch the artist or his team at work as you wander through the studio and gallery. The rooms are filled with detailed sculptures of historical figures, athletes, and everyday people. It’s open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and admission is free.
Putnam Underground Railroad Interpretive Center
If you’re interested in history, check out the Putnam Underground Railroad Interpretive Center. Located in the historic Stone Academy, this museum offers a powerful glimpse into Zanesville’s abolitionist legacy. The Stone Academy was built in 1809 and was once a candidate for Ohio’s state capitol. It later became a hub for anti-slavery activism. It hosted abolitionist meetings and as well as served as a safe space for freedom seekers passing through the Putnam neighborhood. This area was known stronghold on the Underground Railroad.
The Interpretive Center features exhibits on local figures like Dr. William Beecher (brother of Uncle Tom’s Cabin author Harriet Beecher Stowe) and the wider efforts to fight slavery in the region. The museum is open May-September, on Fridays and Saturdays from noon to 4 p.m., or by appointment. Admission is $5, and the stories you’ll discover make it well worth the stop for anyone interested in Ohio’s deep and often untold history.
Day Trips & Nearby Attractions
Just outside and around the area of Zanesville there are all kinds of great options for adventuring. Here are some more suggestions for you when you’re exploring in and around Zanesville, Ohio.
The John & Annie Glenn Museum
The John & Annie Glenn Museum in New Concord, Ohio, is an incredible museum that offers visitors a chance to step into the early life of astronaut and senator John Glenn. I recently visited with my friend Sheri and my nephew Gabriel and we were all very impressed with it! The museum is located in his actual boyhood home, carefully restored to reflect life during the Great Depression and World War II. The museum has tons of information about John Glenn, including a short movie, signs and artifacts. I loved seeing their wedding clothes and the flight jackets Glenn wore.
The guided, living history tours bring the era to life. The tour takes you through the house with interpreters portraying family members and neighbors share stories about Glenn’s upbringing, values, and legacy. Visitors first explore the main floor, which is designed to reflect life in the 1930s and 1940s, during John Glenn’s boyhood. It explains what life was like while Glenn grew up, and the impact his career had on his parents. Then head upstairs to see a recreation of John Glenn’s bedroom as it would have looked when he was 15. The museum also highlights the life and contributions of Annie Glenn, an advocate for those with speech disorders.
The museum is typically open from May through October, with guided tours offered Wednesday through Saturday from 10-4, and Sunday 1-4. Tours last about an hour with the final tour of the day beginning at 3 PM. Admission is $7 for adults, $6 for seniors, and $3 for students, with children under 6 admitted free. The museum is part of the Ohio History Connection system and visitors with a membership receive free admission. Group tours can be arranged in advance, and parking is available on-site.
National Road & Zane Grey Museum
The National Road & Zane Grey Museum is located just outside Zanesville in Norwich, Ohio. The museum highlights the history of the National Road, historically known as U.S. Route 40, America’s first federally funded highway. This road stretches westward from Maryland to Illinois. The museum showcases the roads role in westward expansion and 19th-century transportation. Visitors can explore antique vehicles, maps, and dioramas that bring this important era of travel to life. When we visited we opted for a free guided tour, but visitors can also explore on their own.
In addition, the museum celebrates the life and legacy of Zane Grey. The “father of the Western novel,” was born in Zanesville in 1872. Exhibits feature Grey’s prolific writing career, including first editions, memorabilia, and a recreated study that offers insight into his creative process. The museum also has a section dedicated to local pottery, reflecting the region’s rich ceramic heritage.
Also part of the Ohio History Connection, the museum is typically open May through October, Wednesday through Saturday from 10 AM to 4 PM, and Sunday from 12 PM to 4 PM. Admission is free with an Ohio History Connection membership; otherwise, it’s $7 for adults, $6 for seniors, and $3 for students, with children under 6 admitted free.
Dillon State Park
Dillon State Park, located just northwest of Zanesville, Ohio, offers over 2,300 acres of natural beauty and outdoor recreation. Centered around Dillon Lake, the park is a popular spot for boating, fishing, swimming, and kayaking. It has a public beach and no horsepower limit on boats. Managed by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, the park features a variety of overnight options, including cabins, electric and non-electric campsites, and group camping areas. Additional amenities include a nature center, disc golf course, playgrounds, and picnic shelters.
Though I’m not a big fan of water activities, I love hiking. Dillon State Park offers a variety of scenic hiking trails that range from easy to moderate. Popular options include the Ridge Trail (1.5 miles), which winds through wooded hills, and the Blackberry Ridge Trail (2.6 miles), a longer loop through dense forest. For a shorter, relaxing walk, the Lake View Trail (0.9 miles) offers peaceful views of Dillon Lake. Families with young children will enjoy the Storybook Trail (0.5 miles), which features pages from a children’s book along the path. The park also includes multi-use trails for mountain biking and horseback riding, especially around the northern section of the lake.
The Wilds
If you’re up for a bigger outdoor adventure, The Wilds in nearby Cumberland is a must. Spanning over 9,000 acres, it’s one of the largest wildlife conservation centers in North America. It is home to rare and endangered animals from around the world, including rhinos, giraffes, cheetahs, zebras, and more. Animals roam in large pastures, mimicking their natural habitats, and guests can observe them on guided open-air safari tours.
In addition to safaris, The Wilds offers zipline adventures, fishing safaris, wildside tours (more intimate, behind-the-scenes experiences), and seasonal horseback riding. For overnight stays, visitors can book yurts overlooking the animal pastures or enjoy a luxury adults-only getaway at Nomad Ridge. The Wilds is operated by the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium and is dedicated to conservation, education, and research. It’s typically open May through October, and advance reservations are recommended, especially for safari tours and lodging.
Where to Eat & Drink in Zanesville
Zanesville’s culinary scene is cozy and satisfying, with several standout spots. From breweries, ice cream and more, here is my list of paces to eat and drink while exploring in and around Zanesville, Ohio.
Tom’s Ice Cream Bowl
Does anyone else love to start with dessert? Tom’s Ice Cream Bowl is a beloved Zanesville institution that’s been serving up classic, hand-dipped ice cream since 1948. Known for its retro charm and famously generous portions, Tom’s offers a variety of flavors along with sundaes, banana splits, roasted nuts, and old-fashioned candy. I absolutely loved the retro vibe and delicious sundae I enjoyed during my visit. They also serve sandwiches and light fare, making it a perfect stop for lunch or a nostalgic treat. Hours are Monday through Saturday from 11 AM to 8 PM; Tom’s Ice Cream Bowl is closed on Sunday.
The Barn
The Barn is a popular sports bar in Zanesville, known for its energetic vibe, classic pub fare, and strong local following. It’s a top spot for catching Ohio State games (like I was doing when I visiting) and other major sporting events, with plenty of TVs throughout the space. The menu features crowd-pleasers like wings, burgers, and loaded fries, and the bar offers a wide selection of drinks. Live music, karaoke, and special events add to the fun, making it a favorite hangout any night of the week. Check it out Monday through Saturday from 11 AM to 2:30 AM and Sunday from 12 PM to 12 AM.
Y-Bridge Brewing
My favorite brewery in Zanesville is Y-Bridge Brewing. The brewery, with eclectic decorations in a renovated industrial space, offers a rotating selection of handcrafted beers- lagers, stouts, sours, beers with tons of flavor- there were so many I loved. And it all comes along with a casual, welcoming atmosphere. In fact, guests are greeted by the bar cats who sit wherever they please. While no food is available at the brewery, guests are welcome to bring in outside food. There are darts and games available as well. It’s a great stop for craft beer lovers exploring the area. Hours are Wednesday and Thursday from 4-9 PM, Friday 4-10 PM, Saturday 12-10 PM, and Sunday 12-6 PM.
Weasel Boy Brewing
Weasel Boy Brewing is another brewery located along the Muskingum River in Zanesville. I enjoyed the relaxed vibe and eclectic decor, complete with living room furniture and riverfront views on the patio. The brewery offers a rotating selection of small-batch beers, including IPAs, porters, and Belgian-style ales. There is also often live music and artisan pizza that smelled so good. Hours are Wednesday and Thursday from 4-10 PM, Friday 4-11 PM, Saturday 12-11 PM, and Sunday 1-7 PM, but it is closed Monday and Tuesday.
Georgetown Tavern on the Hill
Georgetown Tavern on the Hill, located less than half an hour outside Zanesville, is a popular spot known for its stunning panoramic views of the surrounding hills and countryside. This cozy tavern offers a welcoming atmosphere, a diverse menu featuring burgers, sandwiches, and appetizers. It also produces its own wines, including dry reds, sweet whites, and fruit-infused varieties. They also offer craft beers and cocktails, all which can be enjoyed in the tavern area, in the dining room, or on their spacious multi-leveled patio. The tavern often hosts live music from local bands, especially on weekends, as well as seasonal events, trivia nights, and other community gatherings. Its a great atmosphere and I recommend visiting when in the area at least for the views. Hours are typically Thursday through Saturday from 4 PM to 10 PM and Sunday from 12 PM to 8 PM.
More dining options
For something more refined, Bryan Place Restaurant serves up classic American fare in a restored 19th-century mansion, perfect for a special dinner. And don’t miss Muddy Misers, a casual favorite located near the Y-Bridge, offering a relaxed atmosphere, river views, and a menu of sandwiches, seafood, and comfort food. Both spots are local favorites that capture the charm and character of Zanesville’s dining scene.
Final Thoughts
Zanesville is more than just a dot on the map- it’s a vibrant community with deep roots and a welcoming spirit. Whether you’re crossing the Y-Bridge, admiring a sculpture, learning about Ohio history, or sipping a craft beer by the river, you’re bound to find something that resonates. With so many options for exploring, the area in and around Zanesville makes for a great destination. Thanks for checking out my blog today, and hope to catch you soon!
-Catching Katie
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