Ohio Foothills – Road Trip Itinerary #3
Zanesville and Muskingum County
Pack an overnight bag and point the car toward Zanesville for a road-trip getaway filled with art, local flavor, and unexpected finds. Explore working artists’ studios, browse one-of-a-kind shops, and savor hometown food favorites. Add a museum showcasing American and European paintings, Ohio pottery, and glass—and “The Wilds” for a chance to see live animals—for a weekend that goes beyond the usual stops. Arrive Friday afternoon, spend the evening exploring downtown, and save Saturday for local foodie favorites, pottery, vintage treasures, and more art. Wake up Sunday and hit the road to spend the day at the largest wildlife conservation center and safari park in North America.
Trip at a Glance
Destination: Zanesville and Muskingum County, Ohio
Trip length: Two days w/ optional 3rd day at The Wilds.
Suggested schedule: Friday afternoon through Sunday.
For the Art Walk: Plan your visit for the first Friday of the month.
Overnight: Arrange accommodations for Friday & Saturday night; Visit Zanesville can help you explore options.
Once known as the “Pottery Capital of the World,” Zanesville embraces its creative heritage through studios, galleries, and museums. This Ohio Foothills road trip pairs that artsy charm with local dining and leisurely shopping—an inviting mix for three days on the road.
Day One: Friday — Downtown Art and Local Dining
2 p.m. | Visit Alan Cottrill’s Studio
Begin your getaway at Alan Cottrill’s studio, where sculptures are displayed both indoors and outside. Born in Zanesville, Cottrill worked as a truck driver, served in the U.S. Army, owned a food franchise, and became an international entrepreneur before pursuing sculpture. His work can be seen around the world, including in the U.S. Capitol Building. If he is working during your visit, you may have the opportunity to see his creative process firsthand. Take time to study the details of each piece, then explore the upstairs gallery. A small donation is requested to visit the museum.
Alan Cottrill Sculpture Studio & Museum
📍110 S. 6th Street, Zanesville, OH 43701
740-453-9822 |alancottrill.com
4 p.m. | Pause at the Veterans Memorial
Next, head to the corner of 5th and Main streets.
Pause to honor the 297 Muskingum County servicemen killed in World War II and the Korean War. Dedicated in 2010, the memorial by sculpture Alan Cottrill features three soldier figures and a collection of individually named soldier helmets. It’s a beautiful tribute to those who gave so much.
4:30 p.m. | Early Dinner at Market Street Prime
Dine before the Art Walk or save dinner for later in the evening.
Start your Zanesville food journey at Market Street Prime. Its downtown setting, convenient parking, white tablecloths, and historic atmosphere make it an inviting dinner stop before an evening of gallery hopping.
On my visit, I enjoyed sampling the truffle fries, sliders, Italian zuppa, and pasta primavera. A small sorbet cone served as a palate cleanser added a memorable touch. Reserve your table ahead of time to secure a spot. Make sure you take a minute and view the artwork throughout the main hallway that depicts the areas history.
Market Street Prime
📍424 Market St., Zanesville
Hours: confirm before visiting.
marketstreetprime.com
From 5 p.m. | Explore the First Friday Art Walk
Downtown Zanesville, OH
On the first Friday of each month, downtown galleries and local artisans welcome visitors to see current work, ask questions, and glimpse their creative spaces. The Art Walk was a highlight of my trip and a wonderful opportunity to shop for one-of-a-kind gifts. Use the stops below to shape your evening.
Timing note: 5pm-8pm. Visit artcoz.org/ for First Friday theme and spotlights.
Here are a few of my favorite artist studio stops:
COLE’S AIRCRAFT AVIATION ART
📍 616 Main St., Zanesville
roncole.net
Step back in time at the studio of artist and aviation collector Ron Cole. His paintings range from thought-provoking scenes of wartime history to works with a certain unique flair, making his studio a delightful stop along the trail.
ELK’S EYE ART MARKET
📍22 S. 4th St., Zanesville
facebook.com/ElksEyeEndeavors
Browse work by more than 30 artists, including pottery and woven goods. It is a rewarding stop for a distinctive gift—or something to bring home for yourself.
LARRY ZINK ART STUDIO
📍627 Main St. Zanesville
larryzinkart.com
How often do you get to sit down with an artist in their studio and discuss art? Larry shared with me how he came to open a studio in Zanesville and why in some of his pieces there is a New Orleans influence.
PAUL EMORY STUDIO & GALLERY
📍621 Rear Main St., Zanesville
paul-emory.pixels.com
Seriously, how can you not like art that includes cows or the artist that paints them, as well as other whimsical pieces. You know you are entering a unique studio when the outside door looks like a piece of art.
THE ART LOFT
📍 26 North 3rd St., Zanesville
theartloftzanesville.com
You may have to climb stairs to this studio, but you will be rewarded. Featuring four artists, The Art Loft is working studio and gallery. Being a fabric hoarder, I loved see the beautiful artistic mixed media creations by Susan Nash.
YAN SUN ART MUSEUM & GALLERY
📍604 Main St., Zanesville
yansun.us
Yan Sun is an accomplished fine artist specializing in acrylic and oil paintings, with works held in museums and private collections. The Museum and Gallery showcases works by Yan Sun alongside those of other local artists, making it a worthwhile stop along the way. Make sure you take a minute and find the Mona Lisa depiction.
ZAAP GALLERY
📍 625 Main St., Zanesville
zaapgallery.org
“Z.A.A.P. is a nonprofit organization of artists and arts advocates that supports artists and the arts of southeastern Ohio.” The day of my visit, I was treated to live music and inspiring pieces of local art. Such a beautiful collection of pieces.
After the Art Walk
Stay Downtown and enjoy “A Taste of Ohio, Wine, Bourbon & Beer”. Located in the heart of all the action. A full menu that is inspired by local farmers and a rotating list of wines, bourbon, beer, and cigar options, A Taste of Ohio is a great stop to finish off your first night.
📍524 Main St., Zanesville, Oh
atasteofohiowbb.com
Settle In for the Night
Head to your chosen accommodations for the overnight portion of the trip. If you saved dinner for after the galleries, check your reservation time and the restaurant’s hours before wrapping up downtown.
Day Two: Saturday — Donuts, Shopping, and Museum Time
Early Morning | Breakfast at Donald’s Donuts
Donald’s Donuts
📍2622 Maple Ave., Zanesville, OH
facebook.com/DonaldsDonuts
Rise early for this road-trip-worthy donut stop. Donald’s made my favorites list, and the original draft notes that it earned the No. 1 donut shop spot in America in the USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards in June. The award year should be confirmed before publication.
What to order: Start with a cream stick. The light, airy dough has just the right balance of filling and frosting; the maple-frosted version was my favorite. The fritters are another popular choice, and I found the donuts reasonably priced.
Take your time: Pull up a diner stool and enjoy a freshly baked donut with brewed coffee. During my visit, locals shared their favorite orders and explained why arriving early matters: cream sticks and fritters can sell out.
11 a.m.–2 p.m. | Pottery, Christmas Finds, and Vintage Shopping
Spend late morning and early afternoon browsing the East Pike stops below. Explore locally made pottery, Christmas collectibles, antiques, vintage treasures, and cozy fashions choosing how long to linger at each shop.
ZANESVILLE POTTERY INC
📍 7395 East Pike, Zanesville
zanesvillepottery.com
Browse locally made pottery, Fiesta ware, and distinctive pottery from Mexico. They feature a nice selection of bird baths and other outdoor pieces. If you have been looking for a ceramic Christmas tree, this is your stop.
WHITE PILLARS CHRISTMAS HOUSE
📍 7405 E. Pike, Norwich
whitepillarschristmashouse.com
If you love ornaments and all things Christmas, allow time to browse this historic home that has been turned into a year-round Christmas stop. Its selections include nativity pieces, snow globes, candles, holiday gifts. and plenty of tress ornaments and decorations.
WHITE PILLARS ANTIQUES MALL
📍7405 East Pike, Zanesville
Explore rooms filled with antiques, vintage finds, and unexpected collectibles, with even more to browse outside. It is a treasure-hunter’s kind of stop.
A FEW STEPS AWAY
CASA BELLA
📍7529 East Pike, Norwich
casabellagifts.com
Don’t let the simple exterior fool you—this hometown favorite is worth a stop on your next road trip. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but stepping inside was a pleasant surprise. Browse racks of trendy clothes, accessories, handbags, and jewelry, then explore the baby and children’s section for adorable outfits and thoughtful gifts. You’ll also find home furnishings and seasonal treasures. Whether you’re picking up a gift or just enjoying a break from the road, this shop makes a delightful detour.
LUCKY FIND ANTIQUES
📍5700 East Pike, Zanesville, OH
Hours noted in this itinerary: daily, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.; confirm before visiting.
facebook.com/luckyfindsantiqueszanesville
The shop may appear small from the outside, but there are plenty of treasures within—especially for anyone who enjoys finding pieces of history. Look for vintage glass, furniture, home décor, and advertising signs. Many of the v
2–3 p.m. | Lunch Break and Return to Zanesville
Leave this hour flexible for lunch and the drive to the museum. Adjust your shopping time so you can arrive for the afternoon visit without rushing.
3–5 p.m. | Explore the Zanesville Museum of Art
ZANESVILLE MUSEUM OF ART
📍620 Military Rd., Zanesville
zanesvilleart.org
Allow about two hours to explore the museum’s 18 galleries, featuring American, European, and Asian art. The pottery galleries celebrate the manufacturing heritage that once made Zanesville the “Pottery Capital of the World,” with regional pieces by Roseville, Weller, and others.
In the wood-paneled Ayers Gallery, look for works highlighted in the draft, including the early-16th-century Master of the Parrot and Adoration of the Magi.
Move at your own pace: each gallery offers a different mix of media and styles.
Exhibition note: Tiffany’s Gardens in Glass is on exhibit from October 22 through January 9, 2027.
Admission: Free.
Accessibility: The museum is accessible to visitors with disabilities.
Hours noted in this itinerary: Wednesday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; Thursday, 10 a.m.–7:30 p.m.; Friday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; Saturday, noon–5 p.m. Confirm current hours, accessibility details, and holiday closures before visiting.
After the Museum | Dinner at Adornetto’s
ADORNETTO’S
📍2224 Maple Ave., Zanesville
adornettos.com
Finish your sightseeing with Italian food at Adornetto’s. Established in 1958, this family-owned local restaurant serves pizza and pasta. During my visit, the dining room was bustling, and the dishes coming out of the kitchen made choosing just one a challenge.
Hours noted in this itinerary: Monday–Thursday, 4–9 p.m.; Friday–Saturday, 11:30 a.m.–10 p.m.; closed Sunday. Confirm before visiting.
One Last Stop | Dessert at Tom’s Ice Cream Bowl
TOM’S ICE CREAM BOWL
📍 532 McIntire Avenue, Zanesville, OH 43701
tomsicecreambowl.com
Make room on your road-trip itinerary for Tom’s—a must-stop for homemade ice cream. For more than 70 years, this hometown favorite has welcomed locals and visitors with sweet treats, including bowls of ice cream piled high. Hungry for more than dessert? Tom’s also serves meals, so you can enjoy dinner and dessert in one stop. Before getting back on the road, browse the candy and nut selection for snacks to enjoy along the way. (If you would like to enjoy a meal at Tom’s, make Tom’s your 2nd day lunch stop.)
Day Three: Sunday — Enjoy winding roads and wild animals.
Time to experience “The Wilds”.
After miles of winding roads and rolling Ohio Foothills countryside, arriving at The Wilds feels like pulling into another world. More than 10,000 acres of reclaimed land have become a sanctuary for endangered species and one of North America’s largest conservation centers—a remarkable success story and a memorable road trip destination.
More Reasons to Return
Consider planning another visit around the annual Y-Bridge Art Festival (July) or yearly holiday happenings. Explore other popular Muskingum County destinations including Dresden and the John and Annie Glenn Museum. Itinerary ideas and travel assistance can be found at Visit Zanesville.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO:
Plan for Friday arrival. This two-day route begins Friday afternoon and ends Saturday evening. Choose the first Friday of the month if the Art Walk is a priority.
Book your overnight stay. Visit Zanesville can help you find accommodations and plan your visit.
🔹Pack a cooler. Keep water and any perishable purchases cool along the way.
Bring a payment backup. Credit cards were accepted at every stop on my visit, but I recommend carrying cash as well.
Check before heading out. Business hours, gallery participation, exhibition schedules, and holiday closures may vary. The hours and dated claims retained here come from the original draft and have not been independently verified.
Local planning help: Visit Zanesville can provide trip ideas, accommodation information, and a free visitor guide. Its downtown office is near the itinerary’s first-day stops.
📍 205 N. 5th St., Zanesville, OH 43701 | visitzanesville.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 Zanesville, OH
From Akron – 110 miles
From Charleston, WV – 145 miles
From Cincinnati – 160 miles
From Cleveland – 145 miles
From Columbus – 55 miles
From Pittsburgh, PA – 130 miles
From Toledo – 195 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 Visit Zanesville 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. Has spent the last 30+ years promoting things to do all over Ohio. When she is not on the road she is creating road trip inspiration 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.***
