Columbus, OH

Visitors to central Ohio who are fans of the Longaberger basket should schedule a day or two to head east and check out all the fun that the Longaberger Basket Company has to offer. This is my suggested itinerary.

First, take St. Rt. 16 (Broad St.) east out of Columbus and head to the far east side of Newark, where you will find the amazing building that is the national headquarters for the company. This seven story building is shaped like one of the company’s market baskets and is complete with three story handles and the “brass” ID plate that adorns the company’s flagship product.

Call 740-322-5588 or e-mail guestrelations@longaberger.com to schedule a tour.

Next, head out to Frazeysburg and experience the Longaberger Homestead. The way I like to describe Longaberger homestead is this–close your eyes and think of the feeling you get and the fun you have just walking into your favorite amusement park. That’s it. Now, don’t expect roller coasters, but for adults who like Longaberger it’s just as good. Enjoy the rest of the day shopping, eating at one of the many restaurants or enjoying one of their special events. You can even make your very own Longaberger basket with some guidance from seasoned basket weavers.

At the end of your first day, head back into Newark and spend the night at The Place Off the Square, Longaberger’s own hotel. I do not know much about this hotel other than it is one of Newark’s nicest, eclipsed only by Cherry Valley Lodge.

In the morning, head out for an early tee time at Longaberger Golf Club. “The par-72 course, designed by Arthur Hills, was named one of the “Top 100 You Can Play” by Golf Magazine and Golf Digest, and continues to receive rave reviews from golfers of all skill levels.”* Before leaving, have lunch at the Golf Club Restaurant.

Finally, head out to historic Dresden. This was the long time home of company founder Dave Longaberger. Here you’ll see the world’s largest picnic basket. Walk the quaint streets, do a little more shopping at the Patio Shops and Clothing Company and have dinner at Popeye’s**, which features hot, juicy burgers and old fashioned malts and milkshakes.

*quote courtesy of the Longaberger Golf Club website.

**no affiliation with the chicken chain.

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