Top Five Best Places to Visit Between Byesville and Zanesville, Ohio
If you're heading from Byesville to Zanesville or the other way around, you'll be pleasantly surprised at the variety of attractions within reach of the route. Here are our top five picks for the best places to visit on a trip between these two charming Ohio towns.
The Halfway Point: New Concord, OH
If you're looking to break up the drive, New Concord is a great spot to stretch your legs and explore. This small, friendly town is home to Muskingum University and boasts a variety of local shops and eateries. Visit the childhood home of John Glenn, who was the first American to orbit the Earth, at the John and Annie Glenn Museum. Or take a hike through the beautiful rolling hills of the nearby Wilds conservation park.
1. Salt Fork State Park
Located just a few miles south of Byesville, Salt Fork State Park is home to the largest lake in Ohio, which makes it a prime destination for outdoor adventure. The park features over 12,000 acres of woodlands, rolling hills, and diverse wildlife. Hiking trails, horseback riding, swimming, disc golf, and even a large dog park are just some of the activities available at Salt Fork. The park is also home to several cabin and camping sites, making it perfect for a weekend getaway.
2. The Lorena Sternwheeler
The Lorena Sternwheeler is a restored riverboat that offers delightful excursions on the Muskingum River in Zanesville. The charming vessel is host to narrated tours that provide visitors a peek into the rich history of the river and the surrounding land. The trips are available from May through October, and include a variety of options, such as lunch and dinner cruises, as well as special events like fall foliage tours.
3. National Road/Zane Grey Museum
The National Road/Zane Grey Museum in New Concord is a tribute to the rich history of the National Road, which was the first major roadway in the United States. The museum features various exhibits showcasing the history of transportation, including the National Road Scenic Byway, the longest of its kind in America. The museum also houses exhibits dedicated to the life and works of Zane Grey, a prolific American author who spent his summers in Ohio.
4. The Wilds
The Wilds, located in Cumberland, is an incredible conservation park that comprises over 9,000 acres of grasslands, forests, and wetlands. The park is home to a variety of endangered species, and visitors can take a guided safari tour to see animals like zebras, cheetahs, giraffes, and rhinos in their natural habitats. The park also offers zip-lining, horseback riding, and fishing opportunities.
5. The Muskingum County Courthouse
Built in 1877, the Muskingum County Courthouse in downtown Zanesville is a true architectural masterpiece. The courthouse, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, features an ornate exterior and a stunning interior rotunda. Visitors can enjoy a guided tour of the courthouse to learn more about its history and design, or simply appreciate the beauty of this historical gem from the outside.
All in all, a trip between Byesville and Zanesville is full of adventure and historical significance. And with this top five list, you can enjoy some of the best attractions this beautiful region of Ohio has to offer.