Main Street Shopping: Westerville

Although this suburb located 15 miles north of Columbus is home to around 41,000 residents and Otterbein University, the local businesses in Uptown Westerville create a distinctly small-town feel. Historic brick buildings and plenty of places to sit and take a break make for a great shopping destination, especially for those interested in art, culture and history. “Over the last 10 years we’ve had several artists move in,” says Marie VanDervoort, executive director of Visit Westerville. “That move organically brought a lot of very unique art talent and culture. … Art is a very important part of our story.” With 36 shops and 24 eateries located within Uptown Westerville, there is plenty to explore. 

Megan Lee Designs: Artist Megan Lee sells comfortable T-shirts and baby apparelfeaturing her original, hand-drawn designs. Sizes range from newborn to adult and there are a variety of different collections from which to choose. Lee has even started to sell fun face coverings and neck gaiters. 20-22 E. College Ave., Westerville 43081, 773/459-0380, meganleedesigns.com

A Gal Named Cinda Lou: This family-owned store is packed with fun and funky apparel, gifts and more. Check out the selection of new and used classic vinyl records and a curated selection of great used books. You can even hang a few minutes with Henry the Boston terrier, the shop’s resident dog. 20 N. State St., Westerville 43081, 614/423-8091, cindaloushop.com

Westerville Antiques & Rustic Revamp Decor: The history buff will feel right at home at this store featuring thousands of antique items and vintage pieces, such as old signs remade into something new. Books, furniture and other finds from the past mean a visit often turns into a great treasure hunt. 2 N. State St., Westerville 43081, 614/882-2354, westervilleantiques.com

Captivating Canines: This store devoted to premium foods, treats and toys for dogs and cats also sells pet-themed gifts for the home. One wall of the store is filled with mugs decorated with different dog breeds. Another display has all the toys your best friend could need. You can even bring your pup with you to shop. 12 E. Main St., Westerville 43081, 614/882-8863, captivating-canines.com


Ohio Art Market: This spot celebrates the art of Ohioans by featuring a wide selection of works from dozens of artists based in Westerville and other areas of the state. Pieces for sale here range from paintings, sculpture and glass to paper art, woodworking and jewelry. 30 N. State St., Westerville 43081, 614/882-1015, ohioartmarket.net

Java Central: This quaint coffee shop is the perfect stop for a quick bite to eat or a caffeine boost while shopping in Uptown Westerville. The friendly baristas put care into their creations and are quick to recommend a drink based on what you like. 20 S. State St., Suite B, 614/839-0698, Westerville 43081, javacentral.coffee

Old Skool Skate Shop: From traditional skateboards to longboards, this spot caters to beginning skaters and experts alike. The shop also stocks decals and a variety of skateboard decks with creative designs. Above all, you can stop in to get advice and insight from Old Skool’s owner, Wally Carl. 11 E. College Ave., Westerville 43081, 614/865-0421, oldskoolskateshop.com


Green Haven Living (now closed): If you’re looking for environmentally friendly products, this is the place. The shop stocks a variety of natural and sustainable items, many from local sources. Products include healthy foods, home decor, organic cleaning solutions and clothing made from recycled plastics. 20 W. Main St., Westerville 43081, 614/400-5779, greenhavenliving.org

Uptown Deli and Brew: The nearly 20 signature sandwiches here range from the State & Main (rye, corned beef, pastrami and coleslaw) to the Figaboudit (grilled ciabatta, prosciutto, fig jam, goat cheese and arugula). Tucked in the back, you’ll find Temperance Brewing Co., a nod to the city’s Anti-Saloon League history. 41 N State St., Westerville 43081, 614/891-2337, uptowndeliandbrew.com

Naturally Curious Kids (now closed): Inspired by a shop she visited on a trip to San Francisco, owner Jerilyn Rademacher stocks her toy store with favorite gift items for kids. From classic toys to beloved board games, they have it all. The shop also stocks an array of Funko POP! figurines. 13 E. College Ave., Westerville 43081, 614/568-8590, naturallycuriouskids.com

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