DLM Distribution

The Longaberger Basket Building: A Unique Stop in Newark, Ohio

If you find yourself traveling through central Ohio and have an appreciation for unusual roadside landmarks or stories tied to American manufacturing, the Longaberger Basket Building in Newark is worth a stop. The seven-story structure, famously shaped like a woven basket, still stands along East Main Street (1500 E Main St, Newark, OH 43055)—an unmistakable reminder of a time when the Longaberger name was recognized across the country.

Built in the late 1990s as the headquarters for the Longaberger Company, the building was designed to replicate one of the brand’s handcrafted maple baskets—complete with two large handles rising from the roof. At its peak, the company employed thousands and relied on a nationwide network of independent sales consultants, becoming a recognizable part of American retail culture.

After years of financial challenges, the company closed in 2018. Since then, the building has remained vacant, occasionally returning to public attention as new ideas emerge to repurpose it into offices, a hotel, or mixed-use space. While its long-term future remains uncertain, the structure continues to draw interest simply by existing—quiet, oversized, and unlike anything around it.

Visitors can no longer access the interior, but standing outside the building is an experience in itself. The scale and design are difficult to fully appreciate in photos, making it one of those places that feels more memorable in person. It’s a natural stop for travelers who enjoy discovering locations that don’t fit neatly into a typical itinerary.

For those turning the visit into a broader Ohio trip, the surrounding region offers a strong contrast to the industrial story of Newark. Hocking Hills State Park, located to the south, is one of the state’s most visited natural areas, known for its caves, waterfalls, sandstone cliffs, and well-maintained trail system. It’s an easy addition for travelers looking to combine architecture, history, and time outdoors.

Trips like this often benefit from a flexible approach to travel. The ability to stop without overplanning, take a detour, or spend extra time in a place that catches your attention can shape the overall experience. This style of travel, explored further in traveling on your own schedule, continues to appeal to those who prefer the journey itself to guide the trip.

The Longaberger Basket Building may not always remain in its current form. Whether it’s eventually restored, repurposed, or changed entirely, it stands today as a distinctive piece of roadside Americana—quietly representing a chapter of American business history that still lingers in the landscape.

Happy travels!