Zanesville, Ohio Travel Guide

Discover Zanesville, Ohio: Where history meets scenic beauty, and vibrant arts blend with nature. Explore iconic landmarks, unique shopping, and outdoor adventures.

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Nestled in the heart of Ohio, Zanesville is a charming city that offers a blend of scenic beauty and rich history. Known for its unique Y-shaped bridge, Zanesville provides a picturesque setting along the banks of the Muskingum River. This iconic bridge, a marvel of engineering, is a must-see and offers a great photo opportunity for visitors. The city is steeped in history and culture, with numerous historical landmarks and museums to explore. One such gem is the Zanesville Museum of Art, which houses an impressive collection of American and European art, as well as pottery and glassware. Another highlight is the Alan Cottrill Sculpture Studio and Gallery, where you can see the artist at work and admire his lifelike bronze sculptures. For nature enthusiasts, Zanesville boasts several parks and outdoor spaces. Dillon State Park is perfect for hiking, fishing, and picnicking, while the Mission Oaks Gardens offers a serene escape with its beautiful gardens and walking paths. Don't miss the chance to explore the nearby Blue Rock State Park, known for its scenic trails and tranquil lake. Zanesville is also a hub for unique shopping and dining experiences. The city’s historic downtown area is dotted with quaint boutiques, antique shops, and local eateries. Be sure to visit the local farmers’ market for fresh produce and homemade goods. Additionally, the Zanesville Pottery Factory Outlet is a must-visit for those looking to take home a piece of the city’s famous pottery. With its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and beautiful natural surroundings, Zanesville is a delightful destination for tourists looking to experience the best of Ohio.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Zanesville.

Visit the Y-Bridge and take plenty of photos; it's one of the few bridges of its kind in the world.
Stop by the Zanesville Museum of Art on a Thursday evening for free admission.
Explore the Alan Cottrill Sculpture Studio to see the artist at work and learn about bronze sculpting.
Dillon State Park is great for a day trip filled with outdoor activities like hiking and fishing.
Check out the local farmers' market on Saturday mornings for fresh produce and local crafts.
Don't miss the chance to visit the Zanesville Pottery Factory Outlet for unique pottery pieces.
Enjoy a peaceful stroll through Mission Oaks Gardens, especially in the springtime when flowers are in full bloom.

Explore Zanesville: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Zanesville

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Zane Landing Park

Experience the natural beauty and recreational charm of Zane Landing Park in Zanesville, Ohio – a perfect escape for families and nature lovers.

4.3

Mission Oaks Gardens

Explore the exquisite beauty of Mission Oaks Gardens, a serene oasis in Zanesville, Ohio, featuring stunning landscapes and tranquil waterfalls.

4.7

Putnam Hill Park

Explore the natural beauty and recreational offerings of Putnam Hill Park, a serene oasis in Zanesville, Ohio, perfect for family activities and relaxation.

4.1

Muskingum River Y Bridge

Discover the Muskingum River Y Bridge, a stunning architectural gem in Zanesville, Ohio, offering breathtaking views and rich history.

4.5

Best landmarks in Zanesville

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Tlaquepaque Mexican Restaurant - Zanesville

Savor authentic Mexican cuisine at Tlaquepaque Mexican Restaurant in Zanesville, where every dish is a celebration of flavor and tradition.

4.4

El Parian Steaks & Tequila - Zanesville

Experience the vibrant taste of Mexico at El Parian Steaks & Tequila in Zanesville, where authentic cuisine meets a lively atmosphere.

4.4

Muskingum County Fairgrounds

Experience the heart of Ohio's rural traditions at Muskingum County Fairgrounds, where community spirit and vibrant events come alive.

4.0

Olde Falls Inn

Discover the heart of Zanesville at Olde Falls Inn, where cozy ambiance meets delicious, locally-sourced cuisine for an unforgettable dining experience.

4.3

Best restaurants in Zanesville

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Cracker Barrel Old Country Store

Discover Cracker Barrel Old Country Store in Zanesville for authentic Southern cuisine and charming Americana gifts.

4.3

Olive Garden Italian Restaurant

Savor authentic Italian cuisine at Olive Garden in Zanesville - where family dining meets flavorful dishes and warm hospitality.

4.5

Steak 'n Shake

Experience classic American dining at Steak 'n Shake in Zanesville with delicious burgers and creamy shakes at great prices.

3.7

Oriental Super Buffet

Discover a world of flavors at Oriental Super Buffet in Zanesville - where Asian cuisine meets endless variety in a welcoming atmosphere.

4.0

Best bars in Zanesville

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The Barn

Experience the vibrant ambiance and delicious American flavors at The Barn, Zanesville's favorite bar and grill, perfect for a memorable night out.

4.4

Olde Falls Inn

Discover the exquisite flavors of Olde Falls Inn, where local ingredients meet warm hospitality in Zanesville, Ohio.

4.3

Terry's Tavern

Discover Terry's Tavern in Zanesville, where delicious grilled meals and a friendly atmosphere create the perfect dining experience for every visitor.

4.4

Weasel Boy Brewing Company

Discover Weasel Boy Brewing Company: A Craft Brew Haven with Delicious Pizzas and Live Music in Zanesville, Ohio.

4.7

Best nightclubs in Zanesville

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The Barn

Experience the heart of Zanesville at The Barn, where American cuisine meets live music in a warm and inviting atmosphere.

4.4

Lucky's Bar

Experience the lively ambiance and delicious offerings at Lucky's Bar in Zanesville, where great food meets friendly vibes.

4.3

Just one more

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious grilled cuisine at Just One More in Zanesville, Ohio, a perfect spot for food lovers.

4.2

Putnam Tavern

Discover a cozy retreat at Putnam Tavern, Zanesville's beloved bar offering a warm atmosphere and delightful drinks.

4.4

Best shops in Zanesville

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Colony Square Mall

Experience retail therapy and entertainment at Colony Square Mall, Zanesville's premier shopping destination with diverse stores and dining options.

3.8

Gabe's

Discover unbeatable deals on fashion and home goods at Gabe's, the ultimate discount store in Zanesville, Ohio.

4.3

Kohl's

Explore the diverse offerings at Kohl's Zanesville, where you can find everything from trendy clothing to essential home goods at great prices.

4.2

Country Fair Shopping Center

Explore unique shopping and dining at the Country Fair Shopping Center in Zanesville, Ohio - a vibrant destination for every traveler.

4.2

Explore Zanesville on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Zanesville, mapped for you.

Zanesville Essentials

Zanesville is located in Muskingum County, Ohio. The nearest major airport is John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH), approximately 55 miles to the west. From the airport, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service to Zanesville. Additionally, Zanesville is accessible via Interstate 70, which runs east-west through the city. Greyhound bus services also operate routes to Zanesville from various cities.
Zanesville offers a range of transportation options. The city has a local public transit system called South East Area Transit (SEAT), which operates bus routes throughout the area. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also available. For those looking to explore the surrounding countryside, renting a car is a convenient option. Biking and walking are feasible for shorter distances, as many attractions are within close proximity.
The official currency is the U.S. Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are plentiful around the city, making it easy to withdraw cash if needed. Contactless payments and mobile payment options like Apple Pay and Google Wallet are increasingly accepted.
Zanesville is generally safe for tourists, but it's advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone in unfamiliar or poorly lit areas at night. Some neighborhoods, particularly those in the downtown area, have higher crime rates, so it's wise to stay vigilant. Keep your belongings secure and be cautious of your surroundings.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Zanesville has several medical facilities, including Genesis Hospital, which provides comprehensive emergency services. Pharmacies are readily available for minor health issues. It is also advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For non-urgent issues, local clinics and urgent care centers are accessible.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably and casually, but avoid overly revealing clothing, especially when visiting religious sites. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting churches, dress modestly. Public Transport: Do be courteous to fellow passengers and give up your seat to the elderly. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly smile or a handshake. A simple 'hello' or 'hi' is customary. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties and be open to different cuisines. Don’t forget to tip your servers, as it is customary in the U.S.
To experience Zanesville like a local, visit the Zanesville Farmers Market for fresh produce and homemade goods. Explore the historic Y Bridge and take a stroll along the Muskingum River. Engage with locals at community events and festivals, which are frequent in Zanesville. Don’t miss the Zanesville Museum of Art and the Alan Cottrill Sculpture Studio & Gallery for a taste of local culture and creativity.

When is the best time to visit Zanesville?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Zanesville

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Zanesville. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHowdy
  [haw-dee]
- GoodbyeSee ya
  [see yuh]
- YesYep
  [yep]
- NoNah
  [nah]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [pleez/no problem]
- Thank youThanks
  [thanks]
- Excuse me/SorryExcuse me/Sorry
  [ex-kyoos me/sorry]
- How are you?How ya doin'?
  [how yuh doin']
- Fine. And you?Fine. And you?
  [fine. and yuh?]
- Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [yah speak ing-glish?]
- I don't understandI dunno
  [eye duh-no]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseI wanna see the menu, please
  [eye wanna see the menu, please]
- I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [eye dun't eat meat]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
- I would like to pay, pleaseI'd like to pay, please
  [eye'd like to pay, please]
- Help!Help!
  [help]
- Go away!Git outta here!
  [git out-ta here!]
- Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [call the cops!]
- Call a doctor!Call a doc!
  [call a doc!]
- I'm lostI'm lost
  [eye'm lost]
- I'm illI'm sick
  [eye'm sick]
- I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [eye wanna buy...]
- I'm just lookingI'm just lookin'
  [eye'm just lookin']
- How much is it?How much is it?
  [how much is it?]
- That's too expensiveThat's too much
  [thats too much]
- Can you lower the price?Can ya do any better?
  [can yuh do any bet-ter?]
- What time is it?What time is it?
  [what time is it?]
- It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
  [its one o'clock]
- Half past (10)Half past ten
  [half past ten]
- MorningMorning
  [morning]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [afternoon]
- EveningEvening
  [evening]
- YesterdayYesterday
  [yesterday]
- TodayToday
  [today]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [tomorrow]
- 1One
  [wun]
- 2Two
  [too]
- 3Three
  [three]
- 4Four
  [four]
- 5Five
  [five]
- 6Six
  [six]
- 7Seven
  [seven]
- 8Eight
  [eight]
- 9Nine
  [nine]
- 10Ten
  [ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [where's the...?]
- What's the address?What's the address?
  [what's the address?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can ya show me (on the map)?
  [can yuh show me (on the map)?]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [when's the next (bus)?]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [a ticket (to ....)]

History of Zanesville

Zanesville, Ohio, was founded in 1797 by Ebenezer Zane, a pioneer and trail blazer. Zane was granted land by the federal government in exchange for constructing a road known as Zane's Trace, which ran from Wheeling, Virginia (now West Virginia) to Limestone, Kentucky. Zane's Trace served as a critical route for settlers moving westward and played a vital role in the early development of the region.
From 1810 to 1812, Zanesville served as the state capital of Ohio. The Ohio General Assembly decided to move the capital from Chillicothe to Zanesville with the aim of finding a more centralized location. However, after only two years, the capital was moved back to Chillicothe, and eventually to Columbus in 1816. Despite its brief tenure as the capital, this period significantly boosted Zanesville's profile and growth.
Zanesville is renowned for its unique Y-Bridge, which spans the confluence of the Licking and Muskingum Rivers. The first Y-Bridge was constructed in 1814, and several iterations followed due to flooding and structural issues. The current version of the bridge, completed in 1984, remains an iconic symbol of the city. The Muskingum River itself has been integral to Zanesville's development, serving as a major transportation route for goods and contributing to the city's economic growth.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Zanesville became known as the 'Pottery Capital of the World.' The area’s rich clay deposits led to the establishment of numerous pottery companies, including the well-known Roseville Pottery, Weller Pottery, and McCoy Pottery. These companies produced a wide range of ceramic products, from art pottery to utilitarian wares, and their legacy continues to be celebrated through local museums and annual pottery festivals.
Zanesville played a significant role in the Underground Railroad, serving as a key stop for escaping slaves seeking freedom in the North. Local abolitionists, including members of the Putnam Presbyterian Church, provided shelter and assistance to fugitive slaves. The historic Putnam Historic District, now a preserved area, contains several homes and buildings that were part of this clandestine network, highlighting Zanesville's commitment to the fight against slavery.
In recent years, Zanesville has sought to revitalize its rich artistic heritage through initiatives like the Zanesville Prize for Contemporary Ceramics. Launched in 2013, this international competition attracts ceramic artists from around the world, celebrating innovative and high-quality ceramic art. The event underscores Zanesville's ongoing commitment to the arts and its historical significance in the world of ceramics.