Ohio Foothills – Road Trip Itinerary #2
Cambridge – Guernsey County
If you want to experience Cambridge, Ohio, beyond a quick stop off the interstate, give yourself two days and let the miles unfold slowly. This itinerary maps out a small-town Ohio getaway with time for downtown browsing, local restaurants, historic stops, scenic side trips, and a few only-in-Guernsey-County surprises along the way.
LET’S GO
Destination: Cambridge, Ohio
Suggested trip length: Two days / one overnight
Day One: Roll Into Historic Downtown Cambridge for Local Flavor, Shopping, and Evening Entertainment
Morning Stop: Start with Something Sweet
KENNEDY’S BAKERY
1025 Wheeling Ave., Cambridge
https://kennedysbakery.com/
Make Kennedy’s Bakery your first stop in town. Since 1925, this beloved local bakery has been making donuts, breads, cakes, pies, pastries, cupcakes, and more from scratch. My go-to order is the glazed donut centers — light, flaky, and somewhere between a croissant and a donut. I also recommend picking up a loaf of English muffin bread to take home. Toast it later with a drizzle of local honey and thank yourself.
Late Morning: Shop Main Street
The Historic Downtown of Cambridge offers a nice selection of one-of-a-kind shops and boutiques, perfect for an afternoon of exploring. I share a few of the shops below:
BOOKOLOGY
646 Wheeling Ave, Cambridge, OH 43725
740-421-9671 | Facebook page.
I do love an independent bookstore and this cute bookstore offers a nice selection of books. The perfect stop to purchase a gift for yourself or someone else.
BLACK CAT VINTAGE
637 Wheeling Ave, Cambridge, OH 43725
740-995-8370 | blackcatvintageohio.com
With a name like Black Cat, you just know you are in for a treat. The minute I opened the door, I was greeted by real black cats. The cats guard this Vintage store and all the unique items that are just waiting to find their new home. So many vintage items.
COUNTRY BITS
700 Wheeling Ave, Cambridge, OH 43725
Facebook
Home decor, candles, collectibles, gifts and more. An eclectic store, a perfect stop to find that unique item.
ROOTED BOTANICALS & TEA
649 Wheeling Ave., Cambridge
facebook.com
Tea lovers rejoice. There is a shop that not only carries a nice selection of teas, but also herbs. Such a fun store.
Lunch Stop: Refuel Downtown
BRICKHOUSE DELI & MARKET
705 Wheeling Ave., Cambridge
Located downtown, this coffee shop, market, and deli is an easy lunch stop after shopping. Choose from chef-curated sandwiches, salads, soup, breakfast items, and snacks. The Salt Fork wrap with grilled chicken was delicious, and the homemade chips fried in tallow are worth ordering. They also make a nice Rueben sandwich.
History Break: The Road That Helped Build a Nation
GUERNSEY COUNTY COURTHOUSE
📍801 Wheeling Ave., Cambridge
Courthouse architect: Joseph Yost
If you enjoy local history, leave time to view a little of Cambridge’s National Road story. The National Road — now known as U.S. Route 40 — reached downtown Cambridge in 1828 and helped shape the town’s growth. Railroads, factories, natural gas, oil, pottery, and glassmaking later helped define the area’s identity. Find an original marker right in front of the courthouse. Architecture enthusiasts or not, stop and look at the architectural details on the historical Guernsey County courthouse! Lady Justice standing tall. The clock and stonework. So pretty. During the holiday season, the courthouse is part of the holiday light show.
GUERNSEY COUNTY HISTORY MUSEUM
📍218 N. 8th St., Cambridge, OH
guernseycountyhistory.org
I didn’t know what to expect when I stopped at the history museum. But what a lovely visit and informative visit I had. Judy, one of the volunteers, shared with me exactly where the name Guernsey came from. Who knew it came about because of ancestors from the Isle of Guernsey. Hence, “Guernsey was an island first, before it was a county.” (The island sits off the Normandy coast of France in the English Channel.)
I also learned the home was raised from its original location on the corner, turned 90 degrees before it was placed at its current location. The home is filled with local history including a beautiful collection of local glassware. Original contents from a one-room schoolhouse can be found upstairs, including class books and individual chalk boards. You will also find upstairs a collection of period fashions and an eclectic assortment of war memorabilia. There is even a coal mine room.
Open May through October on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday 12-3pm. | Open November through December on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday 12-5:30pm. | Open other times and days by appointment.
FAMOUS RESIDENTS
Guernsey County is not without its famous residents.
🔹U.S. Senator and astronaut John Glenn was born in Cambridge, Ohio.
🔹Famed TV & movie cowboy star Hop-along Cassidy (William Boyd) was raised in Cambridge, Ohio. You can view various Hop-along Cassidy Trail memorabilia at various locations in Downtown Cambridge.
🔹Big Foot is said to live in Salt Fork State Park. According to the Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitor & Convention Bureau, there have been over 36 sightings reported in the park since the 1908. I think we can add Big Foot to the famous residence list.
Afternoon Side Stops:
THIS & THAT
211 North 5th Street, Cambridge
facebook.com
Before leaving downtown, drive a few blocks over to browse this cute shop filled with home décor, collectibles, and a little bit of everything — just like the name promises.
Optional Snack Stop:
NOTHING BUT CHOCOLATE
Southgate Pkwy, Cambridge
nothingbutchocolate.com
If your travels allow time for a quick side trip and you enjoy chocolate, stop here for a road trip treat. It’s located a short minute ride from downtown. Specialty chocolates, fudge and more. A bag of chocolate-covered pretzels makes an excellent snack for the car.
Dinner Stop:
THEO’S RESTAURANT
📍 632 Wheeling Ave., Cambridge
theosrestaurant.us
For dinner, Theo’s is a Cambridge classic. This downtown restaurant has served home-cooked meals for more than 90 years and is especially known for their Coney Sauce and their “Mile High” pies, baked daily on-site. The menu ranges from burgers and pasta to salads, stir-fry, daily specials, and Coney-style hot dogs. Whatever you order, save room for pie.
Evening Option: The Living Word Outdoor Drama
THE LIVING WORD OUTDOOR DRAMA (Seasonal)
📍 College Hill Rd., Cambridge
livingworddrama.org/
Founded in 1975, this seasonal outdoor drama is nationally recognized for its production of the Passion of Jesus Christ. Performances take place on a 400-foot panoramic set designed to represent Old Jerusalem and typically run from mid-June through early October.
Before you go: The amphitheater seats 450. Tickets may be purchased by phone or at the box office. A concession stand and gift shop are on-site, and parking is free.
Overnight: Cambridge Lodging
The Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau can assist with lodging suggestions: During my visit, I stayed at the Hampton Inn and had a comfortable room, great service, and a breakfast buffet included. Other amenities included: indoor pool and fitness center.
HAMPTON INN
📍 8775 Georgetown Road, Cambridge
Day Two: Glassmaking, Salt Fork State Park & Local Favorites
Start day two with a short drive out of town, then loop your way through glassmaking history, Salt Fork scenery, local food, and a few flexible stops you can choose based on the season and your pace.
MOSSER GLASS COMPANY
📍9279 Cadiz Rd., Cadiz
mosserglass.com
Family-owned and operated, this glass factory still uses the art of handcrafted pressed lead-free glass to create all their beautiful tableware and designs. Depending on the season you can find decorative pieces that include holiday trees, pumpkins, and rabbits.
Today at Mosser Glass you can take a free guided tour of a working glass factory. Watch the glass making process close-up. Feel the heat from the ovens and watch a team of glassmakers work in unison to create various articles of glassware. It’s amazing to watch how each piece is fired and formed.
Every time I stop, I select another little Christmas tree to add to my collection.
Shop hours: Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Factory Tour Hours: Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Lunch break 10:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
Before visiting please note, they are open during the week. Check their website for current store and factory tour hours. Additional store hours are added during the holiday season.
OPTIONAL STOP:
NATIONAL MUSEUM OF CAMBRIDGE GLASS
136 S. 9TH St., Cambridge, OH 43725
740.432.4245 | cambridgeglassmuseum.org
The Cambridge Glass Company was operational between 1901 and 1958. The museum brings to life the history and the art of glass making, including original molds and tools and an extensive collection of Cambridge Glass glassware.
Every visitor to the museum can have the opportunity to dress up like a glassworker and hold original glassmaking tools; Step back in time to the 1920s in Cambridge; Experience the glass etching process by doing pencil rubbing; Marvel at the thousands of pieces of beautiful Cambridge Glass that are on display in the museum; and shop the glass gift shop.
Open April through October: Wednesday– Saturday 10 am – 4 pm and Sunday from 12 – 4 pm.
SALT FORK ECO-DISCOVERY CENTER
Salt Fork State Park
📍14755 Cadiz Road, Lore City
visitguernseycounty.com
A lot of planning and detail went into the construction of the Eco-Discovery Center. Outside you will see features like a green roof, rain garden, a beautiful park meadow and a trail that leads to the lake. Inside, get ready to meet the Salt Fork mythical Bigfoot. How could you not include Big Foot? Acting as a guide, he shares with visitors’ fun facts about the forests ecosystem and how we can take care of our environment. There is even a station where you can share your thoughts if he exists. The center is also a great place to fill your water bottles and use their indoor restrooms before your next park exploration. A ranger is usually on-site for any questions.
STONEHOUSE MUSEUM
📍Salt Fork State Park
kennedystonehouse.org
Circa 1840. This stone blocked house built by Benjamin Kennedy, became a generation home until 1966 when the State of Ohio purchased the land for Salt Lake State Park. The home has been restored to its 1840 Federal period. Also located on the property is an herb garden and summer kitchen. The Stone House Museum is listed in the National Registry of Historic Homes. The museum is open to the public during specific hours. (Seasonal)
360 BURGER
📍11201 Cadiz Rd., Cambridge
https://the360burger.com/
Truly farm-to-table. They raise the cattle and source local ingredients to make their delicious burgers. Executive Chef, Steve Wagner’s burger stop will leave you wanting a return visit. Regret. I didn’t try one of their hand-spun milkshakes.
GREAT GUERNSEY COUNTY TRAIL
The Corduroy Rd. trail head entrance:
📍63500 Corduroy Rd., Cambridge
I found this walking-bicycle trail to be a nice way to relax and get in some steps. The 14-mile total looping trail (7-miles one way) is paved and includes four bridges, benches and a Storybook Trail. During my stroll I heard so many birds. I can only imagine how pretty the trail is in the fall.
Dinner, Winery, or Both?
THE FORUM
2205 Southgate Parkway, Cambridge
theforumrestaurant.com
Family-owned and operated for four generations. The best way I can describe this restaurant’s cuisine, it’s a mix of Greek, Italian, and American cuisine served with a basket of breadsticks. The day of my visit I enjoyed a bowl of their Avgolemeno soup. A family recipe that is made with chicken, lemons and rice. This is a popular restaurant, and during dinner hour a line begins to form. Closed on Mondays.
YOLO WINERY
6103 Fairdale Dr., Cambridge
yolowinery.com
Just a short drive from Downtown Cambridge you will find YOLO Winery. The winery recently moved into a new location. This small-town winery does not harvest their own grapes, but they do create semi-sweet and dry wines using grapes they purchase. One of my wine flight tastes had a hint of peanut butter. That was a first for me. There is inside seating and an outdoor patio. Check their Facebook for upcoming special events and live music. Closed Wednesdays and Sunday.
PLAN A TRIP AROUND ONE OF THEIR YEARLY EVENTS.
My top picks:
SALT FORK ARTS & CRAFTS FESTIVAL
August
Cambridge City Park, 808 Edgeworth Ave., Cambridge
saltforkfestival.org
Juried Artists. Ohio Made Market Tent. Appalachian Heritage Art tent, live music and more. I met some of the nicest and talented artisans. Located in the City Park, Free parking and admission. Such a delightful event.
CAMBRIDGE MAIN STREET CLASSIC CRUISE-IN & CAR SHOW
Wheeling Ave., Downtown Cambridge
downtowncambridge.com
Car lovers will love to walk down Main Street and view all the classic cars. As well as talk to their owners who put a lot of labor and love into maintaining these classics. Who knows you may even find your next road trip car. The event is held right on Wheeling Ave. Downtown. It is a Main Street yearly event. Rain or shine. Main Street shops and restaurants are open during the event.
DICKEN’S VICTORIAN VILLAGE
November-December
dickensvictorianvillage.com
If you can only plan one road trip to visit Cambridge, I would make sure you plan to visit during their Dicken’s Victorian Village event. Every holiday season, with the help of the numerous Dickens Village volunteers and area businesses, Downtown Cambridge is transformed into a Dickens Victorian Village. Over 160 life-sized, handmade Dickens characters wearing various pieces of vintage clothing are placed throughout the town. Bob Cratchit, Tiny Tim, as well as other Dickens characters, help create the various Village scenes throughout Downtown. Not to be outdone by the town’s Dickens characters and scenes, the Historic Guernsey County Courthouse comes to life each evening during the holidays, showing off its thousands of twinkling holiday lights that are all set to Christmas music. A truly magical holiday time. Bring a chair if you want to just sit back and enjoy the show.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO:
I planned my two-day getaway to arrive in Cambridge around 10 am.
Pack a cooler. I always like to keep a cooler to keep water in and for any perishables I may purchase.
Credit cards were accepted at all the stops. But I always suggest you also bring cash.
Depending on your planned day to visit, some locations may be closed. Check before heading out.
If you are lucky, when the clock strikes Noon, you just may hear the most beautiful church bells.
Want to learn more? The staff at the Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitor and Convention Bureau can help you plan your trip, find accommodations, as well as send you a FREE visitor guide. If you find yourself in town you can also stop by there office. It is located in Downtown Cambridge near all the action.
627 Wheeling Ave., Suite 200, Cambridge, OH 43725
740.432.2022 | visitguernseycounty.com
Feel free to reach out if you have questions or need ideas to add to your Ohio Foothills itinerary, or visitohiofoothills.com.
DISTANCE –
To Cambridge, OH
From Akron – 90 miles
From Charleston, WV – 140 miles
From Cincinnati – 190 miles
From Cleveland – 120 miles
From Columbus – 85 miles
From Pittsburgh, PA – 110 miles
From Toledo – 220 miles
KEEP ON EXPLORING!
This article is part of my “Ohio Foothills” road trip series. As I continue my travels through all 10 Ohio Counties that make up the Ohio Foothills, I will be sharing additional itineraries. Stay tuned.
~Diane
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
I would like to thank the Cambridge/Guernsey County Convention & Visitors Bureau and Ohio Foothills for sponsoring my excursion. As always, my opinions are my own.
Article and photos, unless noted by: MyOhioFun.com
Diane is the owner and editor of MyOhioFun.com. She is an avid baker, gardener, Little Free Library owner, who loves to read and travel. She spends most of her days sharing her love of things to do in Ohio, as well as creating destinations and itineraries for group tours and individual travelers.
Editor’s note: Any use of the above article or images without prior permission, will be in violation of copyright laws.
***Disclosure: My Ohio Fun receives compensation from advertising banners. As always, all opinions are 100% my own.***
