Westerville, Ohio
Westerville, OH is a charming town, just 15-20 minutes away from Columbus, OH, that has it all! Home to Otterbein University, Uptown Westerville is full of adorable shops, unique experiences, delicious local eats, a brewery and rich local history. While spending the entire weekend in Westerville we felt completely safe with everyone going above and beyond to ensure the safety of all under our CDC guidelines.
History/Attractions
Westerville History Center & Museum
Located in the Westerville Public Library, the Westerville History Center & Museum is full of the incredible history this town holds. We had the opportunity to speak with Nina Thomas, Local History Manager, about how Westerville, OH became known as the “Dry Capital of the World.” Between a Christian foundation and the Anti-Saloon League calling Westerville home, the town remained “dry” until 2004.
Photo provided by David Myers Studio & Art Gallery
Relocating a few times from California (Los Angeles & San Diego) to Chicago, David Myers found his way back home and opened his Studio & Art Gallery Uptown Westerville. In addition to viewing the incredible art of David Myers you can enjoy unique art experiences including Art Instruction and Mentoring/Art Therapy. Through his journey as an artist, David Myers had a break through painting “Eye of the Tiger” which led him to the work he does today.
Inniswood Metro Garden
Westerville is home to many beautiful parks and bike paths. Nestled within a scenic nature preserve this 123-acre metro gardens is a great place to walk around and practice social distancing.
Restaurants
Napa Kitchen & Bar
One of 3 locations Napa Kitchen and Bar is where cocktail lounge meets fine dinning. Keeping guests safe with cdc guidelines we were properly distanced and felt safe. With a wide selection of wine, we kicked off our night with a bottle of Argentina Melbec Wine.
After careful consideration from the array of options on the menu we enjoyed their delicious spaghetti pesto with chicken entrée (Basil pesto, cream, grilled chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, asparagus, fresh mozzarella, shaved parmesan).
We completed our meal with a carrot cake on the go. Brought in from a bakery in the German Village, this delightful treat was full of sweet spices and topped with rich cream cheese frosting.
The overall experience was exquisite. Incredible staff, beautiful ambiance, delicious entrees and plenty of spirits to choose from. Wonderful location to enjoy a date night or a meet up with the girls.
After 100 years of being dry, Temperance Row Brewing was the first legal brewing company of Westerville, OH. They are a deli style restaurant with a signature sandwich for every palate. I went with the Scofflaw Scottish Ale and the Pimento Grilled Cheese (grilled ciabatta, pimento cheese (Option to add ham or smoked turkey)) with house chips.
Located inside of what was once a hotel, Espresso air is themed with fun vintage travel décor throughout the space even down to the details of putting their coffee in a suitcase; so cute. I went with a highlander-grog and Turkish bagel to enjoy on the outdoor seating.
Accommodations
The Renaissance Hotel has ample outdoor space to enjoy the pond and is conveniently located minutes away from Uptown Westerville and the Polaris Fashion Place. With contactless check-in and check-out process, indoor pool reservations, room service from onsite restaurant, various places to tuck away in and plenty of space to socially distance you can ensure your safety while enjoying your time away from home. With over 200 rooms to choose from we were placed in the king suite on the 7th floor with a gorgeous corner view. Complete with nautical themed décor, modern amenities and just enough charm to make you feel at home.
Shops
Westerville Antique & Rustic Revamp Decor
This building once served as First National Bank & W.C Bale Hardware. By the 1980’s it served the community as Westerville Antiques & Rustic Revamp Decor. Full of unique items you are sure to find something to spark your interest.
A Gal Name Cinda Lou
Part of Westerville for 13 years, A Gal Named Cinda Lou is full of retro items from knick-nacks to clothing. The best part is the expansive record collection they have in the store. You will also likely be greeted by Henry, the shop dog.
Pure Roots
Pure Roots carries a wide selection of gifting items made by several local artists, crafters and vendors. In addition they have a music corner with guitars, strings and picks. My personal favorite was the prayer wall.
Green Haven Living
Green Haven Living is dedicated to helping you find ecofriendly items for your home and lifestyle. From apparel and body care to kitchen and travel items; Green Haven Living works with several local ecofriendly companies to get you the items you need.
Sunbear Studios & Gallery
Sun Bear Studios and Gallery is full with unique, eclectic one of a kind pieces made using several different art mediums. In addition to shopping you can take an art class in the studio.
Edwin Loy Home
Edwin Loy Home is a curated lifestyle shop and is also known for their chalk painting services including workshops. Carrying a variety of home décor items, gifts, accessories and candles Edwin Loy Home is a charming stylish store worth checking out.
Ohio Art Market
The Ohio Art Market carries over 140 Ohio Artisans items in their store. With unique home décor signs, holiday gifts and everything in between this is another great place to support local.
Amish Originals Furniture
High quality home furnishing items crafted by more than 70 Ohio Amish families Amish Originals Furniture will have you wanting to redecorate the entire home. Plus, you can customize
A Twist on Olives
A family owned and operated business, this is an experience you have to taste for yourself. With over 30 crafted extra virgin olive oils and balsamic vinegars homemade dressings and dipping sauces are endless. Plus, it is healthier for you too!
Uptown on Main Blue Turtle
For the loose leaf tea lovers Uptown On Main Blue Turtle is a great place to check out. With a wide Varity of black, green, white, rooibos and herbal teas you are likely to go home with something.
Westerville, OH has that small town charm with big city amenities. Shop, Eat, Sleep, Play they have it all. Everyone went above and beyond to ensure safety of all. To plan your trip go to Visit Westerville and book your stay at the Renaissance Westerville.
***Disclaimer: This episode of “Small Town Charm” was in partnership with Visit Westerville, Renaissance Hotel Westerville, Napa Kitchen + Bar, David Myers Studio & Gallery and Westerville History Center & Museum. Opinions are Hayilestory’s and were not affected or influenced by the partnership. When traveling please reduce the spread of covid-19 by washing your hands, wearing your mask indoors, keeping distance from others and always abiding by the CDC and state guidelines. Small Town Charm is produced by HayRobin Media Productions LLC. Please drink responsibly. ***