From music festivals to waterfront biking: Why Westerville should be on your summer bucket list

614now Staff

Looking for an easy summer day trip—or an excuse to spend a weekend exploring
somewhere new? Westerville delivers with a mix of live music, outdoor adventures, hands-on experiences, local shopping, and one of Central Ohio’s favorite summer
festivals.

At the top of the list is the Westerville Area Chamber Music & Arts Festival, returning July 11 & 12 at Heritage Park. Spend the day browsing artwork from talented makers, grabbing a bite from local food vendors, and enjoying live performances throughout the park.

Then stick around Saturday evening when the festival transforms into an outdoor concert experience complete with live music, beer sales, and a laid-back summer atmosphere. This year’s headliner, LDNL, takes the stage from 6:30–8 p.m., bringing their high-energy mix of pop, dance, Top 40, hip-hop, and crowd favorites that have made them one of Central Ohio’s most popular live acts.

If your ideal summer day starts outdoors, Westerville has plenty to offer. The city
features 26 parks, 51 miles of paved recreational trails, 67 acres of wetlands, and more than 650 acres of parkland.

Bike a portion of the Ohio to Erie Trail, hike the scenic paths at Hoover Reservoir,
explore the beauty of Inniswood Metro Gardens, or spend the afternoon at Hanby Park & Splash Pad with the family. Nature lovers can also venture to Boyer Nature Preserve, where wetlands, wildlife, and quiet walking trails offer a welcome escape from the everyday.

Westerville’s growing collection of experiential businesses makes it easy to create your own memorable outing.

At Blend Candle Co., visitors can craft custom candles and home fragrance products while enjoying one of Uptown’s most unique experiences. Just down the street, Uptown Art & Clay invites guests to get their hands dirty creating pottery and other artistic projects from scratch. At The Westerville Florist & The Giving Room, bouquet bars and seasonal workshops provide another creative way to spend an afternoon.

The best part? You leave with something you made yourself.

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