Location: Newark
Top Things to do in Newark
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The 5 Best Budget-friendly Things to do in Newark, Ohio (OH)
Newark is a city in and the county seat of Licking County, Ohio, United States, 33 miles (53 km) east of Columbus, at the junction of the forks of the Licking River. The estimated population was 49,134 at the 2016 census, which makes it the 20th largest city in Ohio.
Restaurants in Newark
1. Dawes Arboretum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 253 reviews
Located approximately 30 miles east of Columbus, The Dawes Arboretum is a nearly 2,000-acre tree museum dedicated to enriching lives through the conservation of trees and nature. We invite you to take part in our fun and informative programs or visit our grounds to experience the extraordinary collection of trees, beautiful gardens and distinctive natural areas. Arboretum admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children ages 5 -15. Children younger than 5 will be admitted for free. Arboretum members receive free admission.
Reviewed By LABDRB
Beman and Bertie Dawes created The Arboretum in 1929. There are 15,400 plants on grounds on almost 2,000 acres. Take the “tunnel” over to Arboretum East consisting of woodlands, a pond, agriculture fields and a gorge not to be missed. The trails are well marked and you can download a map from their website. The visitor center is still closed due to covid but the restrooms are open. Every season is different and beautiful. Climb up the 36-foot Observation Tower and check out the 2,040-foot-long Hedge Lettering, spelling out Dawes Arboretum. Admission price is $10 per person, but worth every penny and more! Definitely consider becoming a member if you live in the area. This place is dog friendly too! You can also do a “self driving” tour of the entire property in your car.
2. Blackhand Gorge State Nature Preserve
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 83 reviews
Reviewed By paulsY5534PS
There are gorges even in Ohio that are longer or deeper ( Clear Fork, Tinkers Creek) but there simply are not enough positive adjectives in the English language to describe this hidden gem just east of Newark and just south of the highway. Everyone whizzing by doesn't know what they are missing. It is so close to civilization yet relatively remote so you should have a regular map along as the gps routed us to a locked gate on the dirt road leading to a couple trails olong the north side bluffs. This portion of the preserve is above the cliffs and across the river from the path through the gorge we were trying to reach. To save you some frustration, here are better directions. To reach the west trail head, follow the signs for Flint Ridge. Turn left after crossing the LIcking River and then take another immediate left to the gravel parking lot (no facilities). It is just over four miles to go through the entire gorge so a car shuttle to the east lot would be a good idea. If you are short on time or stamina, the deepest part of the gorge is less than a mile down the paved trail from the paved east lot which also has pit toilets. To get to this side, take the Gratiot exit (hwy 278) south from hwy 16. The parking lot will be on the right after you cross the river. Scenic and historical sites are designated and posted with a letter starting at A and distances between each point are clearly marked as well. The main path is fine for strollers and wheelchairs although I would not recommend either on the dirt paths on the side hikes, especially the quarry rim trail. Dogs are allowed ON LEASH on the primary path as well but not on the other routes because the area is a state nature preserve.
3. The WORKS MUSEUM
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 51 reviews
Reviewed By Exploringontheroad
The Works provides lots of educational opportunities that are unique and interesting. The museum is always updating and adding upgrades. There is a Sci-Dome, outdoor train car, glass blowing studio, a history floor with local history, a mastodon skeleton, a plane, and a history walk through time, a little tots area, and other science related activities. For a few years, we were members and it is worth a membership. During the years we had it, we went weekly for their curious kids activities. We've had a birthday party there which was great because we had a mixed group of ages (2-10) and everyone was excited to explore the museum. In the summers, they have free outdoor concerts with free ice cream and lots of science activities for the kids. Many times we'd bring a picnic lunch while listening to some really nice bands. Our most recent trip was to do a glass blowing class. Tickets can be purchased online and are not much more than a piece would cost just purchased in the gift shop. I'd recommend watching glass blowing on a day before your class, so you are somewhat familiar with the process. It makes it easier to be ready for your class and to know what is expected. The museum also houses an art gallery that is free to walk through.They also have different events throughout the year for adults and kids. Lots of opportunities. We like going on weekdays. The weekends get quite busy. Go early because parking is somewhat limited with area businesses reserving quite a bit of it.
4. National Heisey Glass Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 21 reviews
Reviewed By happyegghead - Las Cruces, United States
We stopped at the Heisey Museum on our way to West Virginia and the glass museum. The quality of the displays and the information presented makes this museum a gem! We spent 3 hours at the museum and really enjoyed the "Heisey Goes to Hollywood" exhibits of Heisey glass appearing in movies and with celebrities. The explanation of the glass making process and the video at the beginning of our visit helped to put everything into its proper perspective in time. The curator is a glass collector and has put comparisons of "fakes" so that collectors and casual observers can learn to tell the difference! The Heisey enthusiasts have created a wonderful salute to the craftspeople who created this beautiful glassware!
5. World's Largest Basket
Overall Ratings
3.5 based on 129 reviews
Reviewed By jrshue - Newark, United States
This is a building that can be seen from a distance, especially the basket handles. Since the building is no longer being used we have not had a chance to tour the building, however we did tour the Longaberger Basket Company and see how the beautiful baskets are made. Since the death of the owner the company has been going down hill and I believe the company has actually closed. I read about how this basket building came to be built and it is very interesting. At the height of the company, the owner drew out an ideal basket building on a napkin and an architect crew up the plans. Inside the building is an atrium from the ground floor to the top of the 7th floor. There was also a movie theater for employees and families.
