Fall in Westerville is a Visitor’s Dream
There’s nothing like autumn in the Midwest. The weather begins to turn cooler and the leaves start changing vibrant shades of red, orange and yellow. Known as a “city within a park”, Westerville is not to be missed when wanting to take in the colors of fall. Here are some of the must-see spots to check out in Westerville for fall foliage and fun – and you can enjoy public art along the way!
THE COLORS OF FALL
Parks and Trails
Westerville’s 650 acres of parkland and 51 miles of trails make it a visitor’s dream for fall foliage. Inniswood Metro Gardens is one of the best places to take in the fall colors. Autumn is the perfect time of year to hike, bike or stroll through any of the parks or trails throughout the city.
Otterbein University
Otterbein University is a picturesque site to see in the fall. Stroll through campus to see gorgeous oak trees among historic brick buildings. Pop in to one of the University’s art galleries to see emerging artists to internationally renowned creatives.
Uptown Westerville
The streets in Uptown feature unique shops and restaurants in historic buildings highlighted by colorful trees as you stroll. Take in public art on the sides of buildings that add to the ambiance of the fall colors. Be sure to stop into one of Westerville’s designated DORA establishments to purchase a seasonal adult beverage or brew to sip on while you explore.
Public Art
Adding to the beautiful colors of fall in Westerville, public art can be found all throughout the city through murals on the sides of buildings, historical monuments and inspiring sculptures. While strolling for fall foliage, make sure to take notice of the public art along the way. It makes for a variety of colors in all kinds of art, by artists and by nature. New art installations include the Mural by artist Nick Stull outside Java Central that pays tribute to Westerville’s rich history, the Conversation Cubes by local artist Amanda McGee of the Daylight Artist Collective in Uptown on the lawn at City Hall which are meant to be portable seats and conversation starters and the Megan Lee Designs mural encouraging those to “use your voice.”
THE SPORTS OF FALL
Whether you’re in Westerville cheering on a high school team, attending an Otterbein Cardinals game, or cheering on The Ohio State Buckeyes or your favorite professional team, there are plenty of places to pre-game, watch a game, or celebrate post-game.
Otterbein athletics feature a wide variety of sports throughout the year and are a force to be reckoned with in Division III sports. Many Otterbein teams have won conference titles and gone to nationals. Fall and winter sports include men’s football and men and women’s soccer, basketball, golf, tennis and more. Catch many of the sports games at Memorial Stadium on Otterbein’s campus.
Pregame
Get your day started with a bite to eat or take something with you to your tailgate:
Watch a game
Watch your team on one of many big screen tv’s around Westerville:
- Classic Pizza
- Harry Buffalo
- Jimmy V's Grill & Pub
- North High Brewing
- The Two-One Restaurant (inside the Renaissance Hotel)
Postgame
Catch game highlights, grab dinner or a snack and celebrate a win with friends:
THE TASTES OF FALL
Westerville is known for their food scene and diverse restaurants. New restaurants continue to be added to create excitement. Many Westerville eateries feature seasonal menus - see some of our favorites below and check out all the restaurants in Westerville for fall menus.
Seasonal Menus:
101 Beer Kitchen - Known for its’ rustic style and handcrafted seasonal specialties along with house favorites.
Must Try: Butternut Squash Perogies
Asterisk Supper Club - This sophisticated American restaurant switches up their menu seasonally offering a fresh take that complement any time of year.
Must Try: Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie
The Two-One Restaurant - Local, fresh cuisine is the focus for this restaurant offering seasonal fare in a relaxed lake house atmosphere with live music. The Two-One is located inside the Renaissance Westerville hotel.
Must Try: Harvest Flatbread
Schneider's Bakery - Located in the heart of Uptown Westerville, Schneider's is a neighborhood staple since the 1950s. The bakery makes mouthwatering baked goods from cakes, donuts and pastries. Get there early before the favorites sell out for the day.
Must Try: Pumpkin Spice Donut with cream cheese icing
New Openings:
Blue Santa - Located in the old Barrel & Boar location in the heart of Uptown, Blue Santa serves authentic Mexican food and house-made margaritas, cervezas, and Mexican tequilas.
Everbowl - Everbowls are loaded with stuff straight from the earth that energizes the body and grounds the mind. Find the new Acai bowl restaurant in the heart of Uptown Westerville and try something new this fall with their colorful bowls.
North High Brewing – Sitting right next door to the new COhatch on S. State Street, the brewery’s 2nd location brings local beers, a full restaurant, outdoor space and a new energy and vibe to Westerville. Located just off of the Ohio to Erie Trail , cycling visitors can easily pop in for a bite or a brew while traveling this popular trail.
Family Room Coffee & Bake Shop – Opening on November 6 at 4 p.m., this new addition to Westerville promises a warm and welcoming atmosphere featuring mouth-watering cinnamon rolls made fresh daily, hand-crafted beverages, an expansive selection of kids foods (and books!), top-notch service and best of all, no waiting in line to order!
No matter what you're looking for in the fall, Westerville is sure to provide a beautiful backdrop while out exploring and enjoying all the colors, sports and tastes of fall.
Post by Michelle Downar