Things To Do
in Zanesville
Zanesville, Ohio is a small Midwestern city perched at the confluence of the Muskingum and Licking rivers, best known for its iconic Y-Bridge and working-class, riverfront character. The town has a long ceramic and pottery heritage and a compact historic downtown with museums, parks, and local shops. Outdoor recreation along the rivers and nearby state parks draws visitors seeking paddling, hiking, and scenic drives.
Zanesville mixes small-town friendliness with seasonal festivals, regional breweries, and easy access to larger Ohio cities by road.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a stroll through Zanesville's Historic Center, where you can admire beautiful architecture and charming storefronts. Stop by the Zanesville Museum of Art to view a collection of American art, including works by local artists. Grab a coffee at a nearby café and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this quaint area.
After lunch at a local bistro, visit the Y Bridge, an iconic structure that uniquely spans the Muskingum River. Spend some time at the nearby Riverside Park, where you can walk along the riverbank or relax under the trees. As the afternoon light sets in, take a guided tour of the historic Masonic Temple to learn about its fascinating history.
As evening approaches, head to a local restaurant known for its farm-to-table cuisine and enjoy a delicious meal. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the riverfront, soaking in the peaceful ambiance of the water. End your day with a visit to a local pub where you can enjoy some live music and meet the friendly locals.
Start your day at the Zanesville Museum of Art, delving deep into the local art scene and appreciating various exhibitions. Engage with the exhibits and take some time to sketch or write about your favorite pieces. Afterward, grab a light breakfast at a nearby café, fueling up for a day filled with creativity.
Spend the afternoon at the Alan Cottrill Sculpture Studio, where you can watch sculptors at work and even participate in a hands-on workshop. Explore the nearby art galleries showcasing local talent and unique crafts. Enjoy lunch at a nearby eatery that features art from local artists, creating an immersive experience.
As the sun sets, attend a local theater performance at the Zanesville Community Theatre, immersing yourself in the local performing arts scene. After the show, enjoy dinner at a restaurant with a vibrant atmosphere, discussing the performance with fellow attendees. Conclude your evening with a stroll through downtown, admiring the art installations adorning the streets.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee (regular) | $2.50-4.50 |
| 🚗Local taxi / rideshare short ride | $6-15 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $80-140 |
| 🛒Grocery basket for a couple of days | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact downtown with historic charm and easy access to riverfront scenery
- Strong pottery and cultural heritage with nearby outdoor recreation options
- Lower travel costs compared with larger cities and friendly small-town hospitality
- Limited nightlife and fewer fine-dining or niche shopping options
- Public transportation is limited — car is the most convenient way to explore
Places to Visit in Zanesville
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic three-way bridge spanning the Muskingum and Licking rivers — best at sunrise or sunset for dramatic light and reflections.
Long riverside paths, boat ramps and green spaces that provide scenic views, especially during colorful fall foliage or river mist mornings.
Brick storefronts, murals and antique signage make for classic small-town street photography and candid shots of local life.
Formal gardens, old trees and landscaped trails — excellent for nature photography, especially in spring and autumn.
Wide-water vistas, boat activity and shoreline sunsets; good for long exposures and wildlife shots.
Food in Zanesville
Zanesville Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Biscuits and gravy, eggs, sausage or bacon, and home fries — widely available at local diners and a great way to start a day of exploring.
Must-Try!
Slow-cooked barbecue is popular at local smokehouses and taverns; try pulled pork or smoked ribs with classic sides like coleslaw and baked beans.
Seasonal fried or grilled fish at local restaurants draws on nearby waterway fishing traditions—ask locals where fresh-caught offerings are available.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Open seasonally (typically spring–fall), a good spot to sample local produce, baked goods, and sometimes prepared foods from small vendors.
During festivals and summer events you’ll find food trucks and stands offering everything from grilled meats to sweet treats — great for sampling local flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Residents tend to be friendly and direct; a polite greeting and small talk (weather, local sports) go a long way. Respect quiet hours in residential neighborhoods.
Many scenic spots are adjacent to privately owned land—observe signage and stick to public paths to avoid trespassing.
Religious and community events are common; be respectful if visiting places of worship or community gatherings, and follow dress or behavior guidelines if posted.
Safety
Tipping in Zanesville
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary: 15–20% for full-service restaurants, $1–2 per drink at bars or $2–5 for good service, and rounding up or $1–2 for taxis/ride-shares. Tip hotel staff, delivery drivers and tour guides where service is provided.
Major credit and debit cards are widely accepted in town; smaller diners, farmers’ markets and some local vendors may prefer cash. Contactless payments and digital wallets are increasingly supported but carry some local variability.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with variable showers and budding foliage; a good time for birdwatching and lower tourist crowds. Pack a waterproof jacket and expect muddy trails after rain.
Warm and humid with temperatures often in the 70s–80s°F (20s–30s°C); great for boating, paddling and outdoor festivals but bring sunscreen and stay hydrated. Mosquitoes can be active near rivers and lakes.
Crisp air and attractive fall colors (peaking mid-October in many years) — ideal for scenic drives, hiking and photography. Layer clothing for cool mornings and warmer afternoons.
Cold with occasional snow and ice; many outdoor activities slow down, but winter scenes along the river can be picturesque. Road conditions may be slick—dress warmly and check forecasts.
Zanesville at Night
Hiking in Zanesville
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Approximately 25–35 minutes away, offers landscaped trails, thematic gardens and easy-to-moderate hikes suitable for families and photographers.
Around 20–30 minutes by car; lakeside paths and woodlands good for hiking, birdwatching and scenic picnics.
Roughly 40–50 minutes away, features more extensive hiking trails, river gorges, and popular outdoor recreation areas favored for longer day hikes and camping.
About 1.5–2 hours drive for dramatic cliffs, waterfalls and popular hiking trails—excellent for a day trip or overnight excursion to experience iconic Ohio scenery.
Airports
How to reach Zanesville by plane.
Small general aviation airport serving private planes and charters located close to town; not a major commercial hub.
The nearest major commercial airport, roughly a 50–75 minute drive depending on traffic, with numerous domestic flights and car rental options.
About 1.5–2 hours by car; useful for select regional flights and an alternative to Columbus.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many multi-generational families and residents who value local traditions, community events and steady hometown life.
Zanesville has a working-class heritage with industry and manufacturing contributing to the local economy.
Visitors and locals who enjoy fishing, kayaking, hiking and seasonal outdoor pursuits drawn to the river and nearby parks.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Friday night high school football is a community focus in fall with strong local support and spirited crowds.
Recreational fishing and boating on the Muskingum River and nearby lakes are popular year-round activities for residents and visitors.
Many locals follow Ohio State University sports and larger pro teams; watching college football is a common social pastime.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Zanesville.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist but can be limited at traditional diners; look for salads, veggie sandwiches, or request modifications. Some cafés and newer restaurants offer dedicated vegetarian plates.
Vegan choices may be sparse; plan ahead by checking menus online or asking restaurants to adapt dishes (salads, grain bowls). Larger supermarkets carry vegan staples if you need to self-cater.
Gluten-free options are increasingly available but cross-contamination is possible in diner kitchens; call ahead to confirm if you have strong sensitivity.