Everything from relaxing outdoor recreation to notable historical sites to unique shopping and fine dining is on offered in Zanesville, located in Muskingum County. Zanesville was founded in 1797 and named after Ebenezer Zane. He had constructed Zane's Trace, a pioneer road from Wheeling, VA (now WV) to Maysville, KY through present-day Ohio. Novelist Zane Grey, a descendant of the Zane family, was born in the city. Early in its history, Zanesville was known as "Clay City" and "Pottery Capital of the World" for its production of utilitarian and art pottery, traditions that continue to this day. To see American decorative ceramics in the early 20th century but also the work of European artists and an expansive collection of pottery, sculptures, furniture and paintings, treat yourself to Zanesville Museum of Art. Amelia Earhart referred to Zanesville "the most recognizable city in the country," because of its famous Y Bridge's usefulness as a navigational aid to pilots. The Y-shaped bridge spans the meeting of the Muskingum and Licking Rivers.
The current structure is the fifth Y Bridge since 1814 and the only such structure in the United States still in use. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and has been designated a National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark as has the Muskingum River Canal. Not to be confused with the Y Bridge, the S bridge can boast of having a bridge that one can cross without ever leaving the side of the river from which he started! Once you venture to downtown Zanesville, you’ll want to visit the Alan Cottrill Sculpture Studio & Gallery, which has two floors of sculptures including a large selection of life-size (and larger-than-life-size) statues in front of the gallery. The artist himself is often in the studio and is happy to show you around and answer questions. While downtown, you can go shopping at the enclosed Colony Square Mall. As you appreciate this American frontier city then and now, you’ll have a convenient location to rest and recharge when you stay at one of our Choice Hotels in Zanesville, OH. Book a room online now!