Hanby Park
About
Hanby Park is Westerville's beloved community hub where families can easily spend a full morning or afternoon. The combination of well-maintained playgrounds, a refreshing splash pad for hot days, and shaded picnic areas makes it a go-to destination for parents seeking quality outdoor time without driving far from the suburbs.
Highlights
- ✓Interactive splash pad that keeps kids cool all summer long
- ✓Playground equipment suitable for multiple age groups
- ✓Shaded picnic shelters and open lawn areas perfect for family gatherings
- ✓Paved walking paths ideal for strollers, bikes, and scooters
- ✓Free summer concert series and community events
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive early on summer weekends to claim a picnic shelter before they fill up,or reserve one in advance through Westerville Parks & Recreation for birthday parties
- 2.Bring water shoes for the splash pad as the concrete can get hot, plus a change of clothes and towels
- 3.Pack a picnic and take advantage of the numerous shaded tables,there are no food vendors on-site
- 4.Check the city's summer concert series schedule and arrive early with blankets for family-friendly evening entertainment
- 5.Parking fills quickly during peak times, so consider visiting weekday mornings for a more relaxed experience
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings (9-11 AM) offer the most peaceful experience with fewer crowds and cooler temperatures. Summer evenings are magical for the concert series, though you'll share the space with many other families. The splash pad season (typically Memorial Day through Labor Day) is the biggest draw.
What to Know
The park is free to visit with ample street and lot parking available. No on-site food vendors, so pack snacks and water. Restrooms are available, and the park is stroller-friendly with paved walking paths throughout.
Seasonal Notes
The splash pad operates Memorial Day through Labor Day, weather permitting. Summer months offer the most activities including concerts and special events. Fall brings beautiful foliage for walks, while winter and early spring are quieter with playground-only access. Check the city website for seasonal event schedules.
Nearby Eats
Westerville's Uptown district is just a few blocks away with family favorites like Schneider's Bakery (perfect for post-park treats) and Barley's Brewing Company which offers a kids menu and casual atmosphere. Main Street is walkable and features numerous pizza and sandwich shops ideal for hungry families.
More Activities Near Westerville
Heritage Park
Heritage Park is a Westerville gem that offers something for every family member with its expansive playgrounds, wide-open fields perfect for kite flying or frisbee, and shaded walking trails that wind through peaceful wooded areas. With a stellar 4.6-star rating from local families, this well-maintained neighborhood park provides the perfect backdrop for everything from toddler exploration to family picnics and nature walks.
Highlands Park Aquatic Center
Highlands Park Aquatic Center is Westerville's go-to summer destination for families looking to beat the heat. This well-maintained outdoor water park offers something for every age, from a zero-depth entry pool perfect for toddlers to thrilling waterslides that keep older kids entertained for hours, all at a fraction of the cost of major theme parks.
Uptown Westerville Inc
Uptown Westerville offers families a delightful small-town downtown experience where kids can safely explore tree-lined streets filled with ice cream shops, toy stores, and family-friendly eateries. The walkable historic district makes it easy to navigate with strollers and young children, while seasonal festivals and community events throughout the year provide entertainment for all ages.
Alum Creek Trail
Alum Creek Trail in Westerville offers families a beautiful, paved pathway perfect for bikes, scooters, strollers, and little legs learning to walk. This scenic multi-use trail winds through natural areas where kids can spot wildlife, explore creekside views, and burn energy in a safe, car-free environment that's accessible for all skill levels.