The National Road - Things to See and Do

In Ohio

Traveling the National Road in Ohio: Places to See and Things to Do

The National Road, also known as U.S. Route 40, is a historic highway that stretches across Ohio, offering travelers a journey through time, culture, and scenic beauty. As the first federally funded highway in the United States, completed in the early 19th century, it played a pivotal role in westward expansion, connecting communities and fostering trade. Spanning roughly 225 miles from the Indiana state line near Richmond to the West Virginia border near Wheeling, Ohio’s section of the National Road is a treasure trove of historical sites, charming small towns, and unique attractions. In May 2025, with pleasant spring weather and vibrant local events, it’s an ideal time to embark on a road trip along this iconic route. Here’s a guide to the must-see places and things to do while traveling the National Road in Ohio.

Why Travel the National Road?

The National Road, often called the “Main Street of America,” is steeped in history, with old inns, bridges, and milestones marking its path. It was a key route for stagecoaches, settlers, and the Underground Railroad, and today, it offers a blend of nostalgia and modern charm. Ohio’s portion, designated as a National Scenic Byway, passes through rolling farmland, historic downtowns, and vibrant cities like Columbus, making it perfect for history buffs, families, and adventure seekers. The road’s accessibility, with well-maintained routes and plenty of stops, ensures a leisurely and enriching experience.

Key Stops Along the National Road in Ohio

1. Richmond, Indiana Border to Dayton: The Western Gateway
Start your journey at the Indiana-Ohio state line near Richmond, Indiana, where the National Road enters Ohio. As you head east, the landscape transitions from flat farmland to gentle hills, setting the stage for your adventure.

Englewood MetroPark (Englewood)
Just west of Dayton, this 1,700-acre park is a great spot to stretch your legs. Explore its trails, waterfalls, and wetlands, or enjoy a picnic by the Stillwater River. In May, spring wildflowers add color to the scenery, making it a photographer’s delight.
National Museum of the United States Air Force (Dayton)
Located on Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, this is the world’s largest and oldest military aviation museum, with over 360 aerospace exhibits. Walk through presidential planes used by Roosevelt and Eisenhower, or marvel at the Wright brothers’ contributions to flight, fitting for Dayton, the birthplace of aviation. Admission is free, though simulator rides cost extra. It’s a must for families and history enthusiasts.
Things to Do in Dayton: Visit the Dayton Art Institute for its diverse collections or grab a Hungarian hot dog at Tony Packo’s, a local favorite along the National Road. Dayton’s vibrant dining scene also includes craft brews along the Dayton Ale Trail.

2. Springfield: Architectural Gems and Outdoor Fun
Springfield, about 25 miles east of Dayton, blends history with natural beauty.

Westcott House (Springfield)
Architecture lovers will adore this Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Prairie Style home, built in 1908. Its unique design, with a central fireplace and nature-inspired elements, offers a glimpse into Wright’s genius. Book a docent-led tour to fully appreciate its history.
Clifton Mill (Clifton, near Springfield)
A short detour off Route 40, this historic water-powered grist mill is one of Ohio’s most picturesque sites. Walk across its 90-foot bridge over the Little Miami River for stunning views of the mill, Clifton Gorge, and nearby waterfalls. The on-site restaurant serves hearty breakfasts all day, perfect for a mid-trip meal.
Things to Do: Explore Carlisle Park for a quick walk or attend a local farmers market in May for fresh produce and crafts. Springfield’s proximity to the National Road makes it an easy stop for a half-day visit.

3. Columbus: Urban Energy and Cultural Hubs
As Ohio’s capital, Columbus is a major stop along the National Road, offering urban attractions and historic charm.

German Village
This historic neighborhood, just south of downtown, features brick streets, quaint shops, and cozy cafes. Pop into Schmidt’s Sausage Haus for authentic German fare or browse The Book Loft, a 32-room independent bookstore. Its old-world vibe is perfect for a romantic stroll or family outing.
Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
A 4-acre oasis, this conservatory showcases seasonal blooms, an apiary, and art installations. In May, spring flowers are in full display, and the community garden campus offers cooking demos. Admission is around $20, but travelers rave about its serene beauty.
Things to Do: Catch a Columbus Clippers baseball game at Huntington Park or explore the Scioto Mile for walking and biking trails. For foodies, Columbus Taco Fest (May 24-25) at Genoa Park features taco vendors, live music, and a drone show, aligning perfectly with your trip.

4. Zanesville: The Heart of the National Road
Zanesville, known for its pottery heritage and historic Y-Bridge, is a highlight of the National Road’s Ohio stretch.

National Road/Zane Grey Museum (Norwich, near Zanesville)
This museum tells the story of the National Road’s construction and its role in American expansion. Exhibits include vintage vehicles and milestones, while a section honors Zane Grey, the Western novelist born in Zanesville. Admission is about $7, and it’s a compact stop for history buffs.
Y-Bridge (Zanesville)
One of the few three-way bridges in the world, the Y-Bridge spans the Muskingum River and is a National Road landmark. Drive across it or view it from Putnam Hill Park for a scenic photo op. Its quirky design has made it a local icon.
Lorena Sternwheeler (Zanesville)
Take a relaxing cruise on the Muskingum River aboard this historic sternwheeler, moored at Zane’s Landing Park. May cruises offer scenic views of woodlands and wide waters, with tickets around $15. It’s a peaceful way to experience Zanesville’s riverfront heritage.
Things to Do: Visit Alan Cottrill Sculpture Studio & Gallery for impressive bronze works or explore Zanesville’s pottery shops, like Hartstone Pottery, for unique souvenirs.
Between Cambridge and Zanesville, Ohio at exit 164 is Historic Baker’s Motel built before 1937 and still operating today.

5. Cambridge: Victorian Charm and Glassworks

East of Zanesville, Cambridge offers a taste of Victorian-era architecture and Ohio’s glassmaking legacy.

Dickens Victorian Village (Cambridge)
While the full holiday display runs from November to January, Cambridge’s downtown is worth a May visit for its historic charm. Stroll Market Street to see Victorian-era buildings and pop into Kennedy’s Bakery for fresh pastries. The Guernsey County History Museum provides context on the area’s past.
Mosser Glass Factory Tour (Cambridge)
Cambridge is famous for its glass industry, and Mosser Glass offers free tours (Monday-Friday) showcasing handcrafted glassware. The factory store is perfect for picking up colorful keepsakes. Call ahead to confirm tour times.
Things to Do: Stop by The Wilds, a short detour south, for a safari-style tour of one of North America’s largest conservation centers. Open-air tours in May cost about $30 and offer sightings of rhinos, giraffes, and zebras.

6. St. Clairsville to Wheeling: The Eastern End
The final stretch of the National Road in Ohio passes through Belmont County, ending at the West Virginia border.

Belmont County Heritage Museum (St. Clairsville)
Housed in a restored 1890 sheriff’s residence, this museum highlights the National Road’s impact on the region, with exhibits on local history and the Underground Railroad. Admission is free, though donations are appreciated.
Jamboree in the Hills Site (Morristown)
While the music festival is no longer active, this site along Route 40 is a nod to Ohio’s country music heritage. Stop for a quick photo or enjoy the rolling hills’ scenery.
Things to Do: Visit Belmont County Victorian Mansion Museum in Barnesville for a glimpse into 19th-century life, or explore Epworth Park in Bethesda for a peaceful picnic. As you near Wheeling, cross the historic Blaine Hill Viaduct, one of the oldest bridges on the National Road.

Things to Do Along the National Road

Historical Exploration
The National Road is dotted with markers, old inns, and bridges. Look for Madonna of the Trail statues in Springfield and near Richmond, honoring pioneer women. The Ohio National Road Association offers a free interpretive center in Norwich (near the Zane Grey Museum) with maps and exhibits.
Outdoor Adventures
Pair your road trip with hikes at nearby state parks. Hocking Hills State Park, a detour south of Columbus, features stunning trails like Old Man’s Cave and Cedar Falls. Closer to the route, Blackhand Gorge State Nature Preserve near Zanesville offers a dramatic river gorge for kayaking or hiking.
Local Dining
Savor classic American fare at diners along the route. Clays Café in Hebron, a nostalgic small-town spot since 1934, serves hearty comfort food. In Columbus, Schmidt’s Sausage Haus offers German specialties, while The Old Bag of Nails Pub in Zanesville is great for craft beers and pub grub.
Events in May 2025
Time your trip with local events. In addition to Columbus’s Taco Fest, check out Zanesville’s Pottery Lovers Show (early May) for artisan crafts or Cambridge’s Salt Fork Arts & Crafts Festival (late May) for regional art. Farmers markets in Springfield, Zanesville, and St. Clairsville offer fresh produce and local vibes.
Unique Attractions
For offbeat stops, visit Cornhenge in Dublin (near Columbus), a field of 109 concrete corn cobs, or the World’s Largest Basket in Dresden, a nod to Longaberger’s legacy. These quirky sites add fun to your itinerary.

Travel Tips for the National Road

Best Time to Go: May offers mild temperatures (50s-70s°F) and blooming landscapes. Avoid peak traffic in Columbus by traveling midweek.
Route Planning: Use U.S. Route 40 as your main path, but check ohio.org or byways.org for detailed maps of historic markers. The drive takes about 5 hours without stops, so plan 2-3 days for a leisurely trip.
Accommodations: Stay at historic inns like The Golden Lamb in Lebanon (near Dayton) or modern hotels in Columbus. For a unique experience, book a treehouse in Hocking Hills or a boutique room at Hotel Versailles near Dayton.
Budget-Friendly: Many attractions, like the Air Force Museum and Belmont County Heritage Museum, are free. Pack snacks for rural stretches, but indulge in local diners for authentic flavors.
Safety: Rural sections have limited cell service, so download offline maps. Check attraction hours, as some, like Mosser Glass, are closed on weekends.
Plan a stay at Historic Baker’s Motel in Norwich, Ohio, in Muskingum County, one of the first motels on the National Road, first built in 1917 and moved just up the hill to its present location in the 30’s. Still family owned and operated! https://www.bakersmotel.com

Why It’s Hot in May 2025

The National Road is particularly appealing this spring due to its blend of history and modern vibrancy. Columbus’s cultural events, like Taco Fest and farmers markets, align with the season, while Southeastern Ohio’s natural beauty, accessible via short detours, is in full bloom. Despite national challenges like tariff-related tourism declines, domestic travel along routes like the National Road remains strong, with 94% of Americans planning trips in 2025, per the U.S. Travel Association. The route’s affordability, with many free or low-cost attractions, makes it a budget-friendly adventure.

Final Thoughts

Traveling the National Road in Ohio is a journey through America’s past and present, from the aviation history of Dayton to the Victorian charm of Cambridge. Whether you’re hiking in state parks, savoring local cuisine, or marveling at historic bridges, this road trip offers something for everyone. Pack your bags, hit Route 40, and discover the heart of the Buckeye State. For more inspiration, visit ohio.org, byways.org, or My Ohio Fun for event updates and travel guides.