Downtown Delaware: An Extension of Campus Life

Downtown Delaware is more than just a place to grab a quick bite for many Ohio Wesleyan University students. The area sits only a short walk from campus and has become a central part of student life, offering restaurants, shops, and community events. 

Alex Foster, a junior at OWU, said visiting downtown is a regular part of her weekly routine. “I usually go downtown two or three times a week,” Foster said. “Most of the time I’m going with friends to get dinner or just spend time together.” 

Food is one of the biggest reasons students make the trip from campus. Foster said some of her favorite spots include Typhoon Asian Fusion Bistro and OPA Grill & Tavern for dinner, and Whit’s Frozen Custard for dessert. She also enjoys starting the day with breakfast at Hamburger Inn Diner or browsing outdoor gear at Goat Local. 

Events downtown also create opportunities for students to connect outside of campus. 

“There are a lot of different things to do downtown,” Foster said. “My soccer team likes going to the farmers market together, and it’s a great way for us to bond. It’s also just a really nice place to walk around on a sunny day.” 

Accessibility is another reason downtown is so popular. “It’s very accessible from campus,” Foster said. “It’s an easy walk, so it’s something we can do pretty casually.” 

Foster believes downtown has the potential for more growth. 

“I think more events like flea markets or block parties would be really fun,” she said. “Even more promotion of events could encourage students to spend more time downtown.” 

Downtown Delaware is not only a social destination for casual outings but also plays a role in student organizations and traditions. Natalie Dieball, a junior at OWU and president of Delta Gamma, said her sorority is closely connected to the downtown area. 

“Our Delta Gamma loft is located downtown near The Strand Theatre, so we spend a lot of time there.” I personally go downtown about four times a week for dinners, game nights with friends, or different sorority activities.” 

The location helps strengthen relationships within the organization and creates opportunities for members to engage with the larger Delaware community. 

“Greek life has been one of the most special parts of my college experience,” Dieball said.

“Having our space downtown helps build friendships because we’re always spending time together in that area and supporting local businesses.”

Some of the sorority’s traditions incorporate downtown itself. 

“For example, during Bid Day, our new members run through downtown to our loft,” Dieball said. “Moments like that really highlight the sense of community both within our chapter and within the town.” 

Members of Delta Gamma also regularly gather downtown for dinners, walks, and game nights, further connecting their organization to the surrounding area. 

For students like Foster and Dieball, downtown Delaware has become an extension of campus life. The combination of restaurants, events, and gathering spaces provides a place where students can relax, build friendships, and connect with the Delaware community.