DLM Distribution

A Landmark in Limbo

If you're traveling through Ohio and have an appreciation for unique architecture or American manufacturing history, a stop at the Longaberger Basket Building in Newark, Ohio, is well worth it. (As long as it is still there) the iconic seven-story building, shaped like a giant handcrafted Longaberger basket, still stands. Once the headquarters of the Longaberger Company, this massive, one-of-a-kind structure remains an eye-catching sight along 1500 E Main St, Newark, OH 43055, even though its future remains uncertain.

The Longaberger Company, known for its handcrafted maple wood baskets, was once a household name, with an army of independent consultants selling baskets nationwide. However, after financial struggles, the company shut down in 2018, leaving behind its famous headquarters. Though plans to repurpose the building have surfaced over the years—including proposals for turning it into a hotel—nothing has yet materialized, and it remains vacant.

For those who love roadside Americana, this is a must-see. While you can’t go inside, standing outside and taking in the sheer scale of the basket-shaped structure is an experience in itself. Seeing it in person truly makes you appreciate the craftsmanship and dedication that once defined the Longaberger brand.

A Great Place to Camp in Your Mini-T Campervan: Hocking Hills State Park

If you're making a trip to check out the Longaberger Basket Building and want to turn it into a camping adventure, Hocking Hills State Park is an excellent place to stay in your Mini-T Campervan. Located about an hour and a half south of Newark, Hocking Hills State Park Campground offers well-maintained campsites with electric hookups, shower facilities, and easy access to the park’s famous trails, waterfalls, and rock formations.

With the Mini-T Campervan, you can enjoy a comfortable stay while being right in the middle of one of Ohio’s most scenic areas. Whether you're exploring Old Man’s Cave, Ash Cave, or Cedar Falls, you’ll have the perfect home base with all the conveniences of your campervan—without the need for a large RV or hotel stay.

Worth the Stop While You Still Can

Though the Longaberger Basket Building’s fate is uncertain, it remains standing today, offering a glimpse into a fascinating chapter of American manufacturing history. If you’re in the area, it’s a fun and quirky stop—one of those places you’ll be glad you saw in person before it potentially changes forever. Pair it with a Mini-T Campervan camping trip to Hocking Hills, and you’ve got the perfect mix of history, architecture, and nature in one trip.

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