Local Adventure Awaits Near Granville, Ohio

Posted on: April 26, 2024

This blog was originally published in 2021. It was updated in April 2024.

Whether you’re walking on our nature trails, playing bocce ball, or exploring the surrounding communities, there are endless opportunities to stay active and engaged in and around Otterbein Granville.

Adventure Is Closer Than You Think

Granville, Newark, and Columbus are the top destinations for residents who want to do a little exploring. Each offers unique sights, dining, and experiences. Otterbein Granville’s location lends a hand for convenient travel to all three: the Village of Granville is just over one mile away, Newark is eight miles away, and Columbus is easy to travel to, just 31 miles from campus.

Local Fun in Granville, Ohio

Granville Farmer's MarketIf you prefer to stay closer to home, the Village of Granville hosts several events in the spring and summer months. The Granville Farmers Market, a popular destination, occurs every Saturday morning from the beginning of May to the end of October. The market also offers an afternoon event on Tuesdays from June through September in Ross’ Granville IGA parking lot. Over 50 vendors gather to sell locally and organically grown produce, freshly baked bread, bouquets of flowers, and more.

The Fourth of July holiday brings plenty to do in the village. A large parade procession is held on the main downtown road, Broadway, stretching over one mile. This Independence Day tradition began in 1964 and includes fireworks and amusement rides.

When summer starts to wind down, the Hot Licks Blues Festival comes to town. This annual music festival is held every September and features blues bands and food trucks with easy access to various nearby restaurants.

If you enjoy music, you’ll want to check out the Concerts on the Green series spanning from May to August. Located on the lawn of the historical Bryn Du Mansion, attendees bring their lawn chairs and a picnic for an evening of music, food, and community.

Related: Dining Around Granville, Ohio: Our Top Picks >>

Experience Newark, Ohio

The city of Newark is only a stone’s throw away from Otterbein Granville. With an array of entertainment and stimulating activities, our residents enjoy several popular destinations in Newark.

The Works, a year-round destination, is an interactive science museum appealing to all — young and old. The museum recently added a multi-million dollar feature: the Scidome Planetarium. The planetarium features starry night and layered Earth simulations using 4K digital projection with theatre-style seating. 

Wildlife at the Works

If you like outdoor adventures, you’ll want to visit The Dawes Arboretum. Spanning nearly 2,000 acres with numerous trees and plants, the arboretum is dedicated to enriching lives through the conservation of trees, nature, and history.

Related: Otterbein Granville Accredited as Level I Arboretum >>

Get Away to Columbus, Ohio

Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical GardensWhen you get away to Columbus, there are many places to explore in this lively urban area. The Short North Arts District in Columbus is home to a variety of unique local businesses, including shops, galleries, salons, spas, and world-class dining. There’s something for everyone.

You’ll find the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens just east of downtown Columbus. The conservatory offers wonderful exhibitions that change throughout the year, featuring exotic plant species, interesting artwork, and an ethereal butterfly garden.

Another must-see attraction in the area is the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. The zoo is home to over 10,000 animals spread across six regions throughout the property.

Adventures at Otterbein Granville

It’s clear to see that there’s much to do in central Ohio, and we’ve only scratched the surface with these popular destinations and event highlights. Opportunity awaits nearly anywhere you look, whether from your own backyard here at Otterbein Granville or beyond. What will your next adventure be?

To learn about lifelong learning and other exciting adventures at Otterbein Granville, view our homepage. You’ll find helpful information about our campus, including services, amenities, virtual tours, floor plans, and more. 

Learn More About Otterbein Granville