New to Colombia

**🙋‍♀️**Welcome to FREE FRIDAY Social + language ​exchange meetup. Meet people from many countries and make new friends. 👉We always have MANY people attending our Friday event since this event is listed in 3 different meetup groups. Some people come early some come late, best time is between 6:30pm to 9:30pm. 👉This is a great opportunity to learn to speak English with native and non-native speakers. Many English speakers, Europeans, Chinese, Japanese, Koreans, and other Asians attend our fun and friendly party. 👉It is suitable for international students, working holiday people, professional ex-pats, and local Australians.

[Instagram: Road Trips by The Dancing Voyager: Ron Singh](https://www.instagram.com/the_dancing_voyager_ron_trips) Spontaneous day trip to Port Campbell/12 Apostles/Lake Colac! Very short notice! These are always fun! Over 60 road trips done in 4 years! I run 3 Meetup groups (shown on my profile). This road trip is for people new to Australia who have not been to this location (International Students, Working Holiday Makers and tourists)! No evidence is required. I will trust you! **Details given below in sections: (1) Questions / (2) Road trip itinerary / (3) Payment / (4) Responsibility / (5) Breaks / (6) Weather / (7) Phone charging / (8) Contact** **\-\-\- \(1\) QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS \-\-\-** **Your questions for me:** Why is the total fee so low at $20, covering a new, large rental (SUV), fuel and driver, on something that seems really high quality and well planned, like a private tour company? Sounds too good to be true or that there is a catch. Is this genuine? **My answers to you:** Because this project is my community service to give back. I explain this further below. The low fee is just a formality to confirm your place, so that I know you are serious on attending. This is genuine. Over 60 road trips done in 4 years! I have created precious memories for many people new to Australia. Photos on Instagram link further above. **\-\-\- \(2\) ROAD TRIP SUMMARY AND ITINERARY \-\-\-** Day trip to Port Campbell/12 Apostles/Lake Colac. Going to 12 Apostles on a direct, inland route. This will allow more time to enjoy this inspiring place, millions of years in the making! **Itinerary: Lookout at Geelong - Colac - Lake Colac - 12 Apostles lookout - Loch Ard Gorge lookout - Port Campbell - Gibson Steps lookout - 12 Apostles beach walk - Lake Colac encore** **Meeting point: Fed Square, 8:45 am**. Back there by **8:45 pm**. Meet by the steps (main entrance, opposite the Swanston Street tram stop). **\-\-\- \(3\) PAYMENT \-\-\-** **Total fee: $20 in total (no other costs). This covers a new, large rental (SUV), fuel and driver.** **Eventbrite link for payment:** [https://12apostles-road-trip.eventbrite.com.au](https://12apostles-road-trip.eventbrite.com.au/) **Cancellations:** If I cancel the road trip for any unforeseen issues, a full refund will be given. If you cancel, there is no refund. **Why is the fee so low?** The low fee is just a formality. It might sound too good to be true or that there is a catch. There is no catch. I am simply someone who has been giving back for many years. I playfully call this project a “Melbourne travel secret”! There are people in this world who want to genuinely give back without any expectations because they are truly fulfilled and grateful for what they have. I am one of those people. This is my community service. I am not doing this for money and I never have. Money cannot buy passion. The nature of majestic Australia helped me find peace and passion and I want to give back by sharing that inspiring nature with people new to this country. If they are also inspired by that nature, then that is my reward. There is no hidden agenda in doing this project. The reason I am being quite upfront is because in this day and age, there is always a catch when people do something like this. There is none with me and I am not selling or promoting anything. I do not need anything because I have peace, passion and fulfilment. I have everything. I am truly humbled and grateful. Photos from road trips are on Instagram link below: [Instagram: Road Trips by The Dancing Voyager: Ron Singh](https://www.instagram.com/the_dancing_voyager_ron_trips) **\-\-\- \(4\) RESPONSIBILITY\, LIABILITY\, SAFETY \-\-\-** As your driver, I am responsible and liable for your safety while we are in the vehicle. Passengers are insured as per the Australian law. For times we are outside the vehicle, we then become responsible for our own liability and safety, just like every other capable adult in society. **\-\-\- \(5\) BREAKS/MEALS \-\-\-** There will be many breaks for sightseeing/walks. I will stop at places where food/snacks will be sold but you are welcome to bring your own as well. There will be a lunch break at either a cafe or takeaway shop. **\-\-\- \(6\) WEATHER AND WHAT TO WEAR \-\-\-** I plan events when weather looks good but please also see itinerary for location details and check the forecast to dress accordingly. My advice is to always be prepared! Recommend to have something to cover you if rain suddenly appears or if winds suddenly get cool. Also recommend to carry sunscreen and a hat. Please also wear good, comfortable shoes that can provide protection from water (in case there are muddy areas). You can bring many things, as the vehicle will have a lot of storage space. My road trips do not have a lot of long walks. The focus is on sightseeing, relaxing and appreciating the beauty of nature. **\-\-\- \(7\) PHONE CHARGING \-\-\-** Please charge your phone before joining. In the past, people have taken lots of videos and photos and used up their batteries! You can bring your charging cable if you want. The vehicle will have various charging ports. **\-\-\- \(8\) CONTACT \-\-\-** If you need to contact me, please reach out through Meetup, Eventbrite or Instagram. If you wanted my mobile number, please let me know.

**Ballarat Day Trip: Autumn Special** 🍂 **Saturday\, 23 May \| 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM** 🌟 Experience the charm of Ballarat in autumn with Bondaroo! Join us for a scenic day trip filled with historic landmarks, cultural discoveries, and beautiful seasonal landscapes. 🏛️✨ Designed especially for international students, this trip blends exploration, connection, and fun group experiences - a great opportunity to discover regional Victoria while enjoying the colours and atmosphere of the autumn season. **📍 Starting Point:** Southern Cross Station platform 5A or 6A **Time:** 8:45 AM sharp **📅 Date:** Saturday (23 May) **💬 RSVP:** Secure your spot on [Eventbrite ](https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/ballarat-day-trip-with-bondaroo-registration-1989444505069?aff=oddtdtcreator)now! **Highlights:** Lake Wendouree, Ballarat Farmers Market, Ballarat Botanical Gardens, Ballarat Tramway Museum, Saint Patrick's Cathedral, Ballarat Town Hall, Chinese Library, and Art Gallery of Ballarat **🎟 Ticket Information** • Please register via **Eventbrite**. This Meetup page is for promotion only — RSVPs here will not be counted in the final attendee list. • **$10 deposit** (secures your spot, non-refundable if cancelled within 24 hours of the event) • **$49 total price including the deposit** (includes BBQ and light refreshments, pay the rest on the day) **⚠️ Important Notes** • Please ensure you have a **valid Myki with sufficient balance** for V/Line travel • Wear comfortable clothing and check the weather * Bring your water bottle to stay hydrated 👉 Limited spots – **book now on Eventbrite:** https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/ballarat-day-trip-with-bondaroo-registration-1989444505069?aff=oddtdtcreator Pack your cameras and ready your senses for a day full of discovery and enchantment in Ballarat with Bondaroo! 🌿🎨 ✨ **Community Rules** ✨ * This is a rain-or-shine event. * 18+ only. * Maintain respect and no unsolicited contact. * No advertising and selling during the event. * By attending this event, you accept our [Terms and Conditions](https://docs.google.com/document/d/11Afnnu5xW6Yhtgl4LGDAVEMSdJ-7M3aC7Cs-s_t0uOo/edit?usp=sharing), including [media consent policy](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1rgNOcewZs-tKYUEBt3gV84hob1HdDXydjrGf_tEiXjQ/edit?usp=drive_link), and agree to adhere to our [liability waiver ](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hKqVIMcXMFdzvpjqO3KRf_uQ5xAzd-jt/view?usp=drive_link)

TO MAINTAIN A GENDER BALANCE ALL MALES MUST ATTEND WITH A FEMALE FRIEND, NO EXCEPTIONS. All females are welcome to attend alone but encouraged to attend with a female friend too for free drinks and food! MUST TAP “ATTEND” and include all guests. UNLIKE other meetups which are overwhelmingly male dominant, we provide ONLY gender balanced events where females also have a chance to meet other females, not only men. 8PM EVERY FRIDAY & SATURDAY (LAST ENTRY STRICTLY 8.30PM) AT 215 QUEEN’S Calling all introverts! Meet other introverts in Melbourne and make new friends in a safe environment with board games to help break the ice! Feel free but not obliged to socialise! ALL WELCOME!

**Meet new people in a relaxed, inclusive and welcoming space! 🤗** **(FREE EVENT).** Join us as we return to one of our favourite drinking spots in Brunswick East to spend a Friday night of chilled mingling over drinks.🍻 The moment you walk into **CRAFTSMAN'S CORNER**, you can't help but feel the welcoming vibes – like entering your local, even though it might be your first time there. Owner Alex is not only a super friendly guy, but he also makes one hell of a cocktail (try his Lemon Meringue Pie! ). 🍹🍸 There are also plenty of tasty bar eats to order on the day if you are feeling peckish. 🌮🍔 **Happy Hour (7pm - 8pm):** **$10** Beer / Wine + Bubbles / Basic Spirits 🍺🍷🥃 **$15** Cocktails 🍹 (select – TBA which ones the day) Come along for some drinks and conversation with new people in a relaxed environment. If you are coming alone, you don't need to worry about not knowing anyone. **Most people attend our events solo!** Just remember, we are all there for the same reason – to meet new people and have fun. 🎉 Check out Melbourne Mingle on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/melbourne_mingle) or [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567494869532) 👀

​Looking to meet people in Melbourne or practice a new language? Get your Tix: https://luma.com/1zsmr7e2 ​Aloha Melbourne is a fun and welcoming weekly social where backpackers, expats and locals come together to connect, chat and make new friends. ​The venue energy is international, social and lively, which makes it especially strong for newcomers to the city. ​Come solo or with friends, most people come alone and quickly meet others. ​**Highlights** * ​Meet internationals, backpackers and locals 🌍 * ​Practice languages in a natural way 🗣️ * ​Karaoke 🎤 * ​Board games and icebreakers such as Jenga, Uno and more 🎲 * ​Pool, ping pong and darts 🎱 * ​One free drink included 🍸 * ​Fun, high-energy but still social vibe ​**How it works / flow** ​Arrive, use your included drink and join a conversation. ​The event is easy to join for solo attendees and works especially well for backpackers and internationals. ​Games and karaoke help break the ice quickly. ​Join the group chat to connect before the event 💬 [https://chat.whatsapp.com/J7UUKaYxxtY6EQQX3xz6IR?mode=gi_t](https://chat.whatsapp.com/J7UUKaYxxtY6EQQX3xz6IR?mode=gi_t&utm_source=luma)

No agenda. No awkward intros. Just good people. Just Gutsy is a weekly meetup for solo travelers, nomads and locals who love meeting them, a simple way to find your people in a new city. Who comes: Solo travelers in transit · digital nomads · curious locals who love meeting travelers What to expect: casual and self-led · small group energy · show up, talk to someone, see where it goes Not sure how to talk to strangers? I put together a set of questions that actually make it easy — find them here: [justgutsy.com/icebreakers](http://justgutsy.com/icebreakers) The only things you need to do: → Comment below so others know you're coming → If plans change, update your RSVP → When you arrive: comment "Here, [what you're wearing]" so people find you When & where: • Every Sunday · 4PM local time Meetup.com sometimes shows a different timezone — ignore it, it's always 4PM where you are • Location: in front of the Dolphin Fountain (inside Fitzroy Gardens) Join Just Gutsy → [justgutsy.com](http://justgutsy.com/) · Early members get lifetime premium access to the app

Join me for a family friendly afternoon walk, coffee and a game of bocce in the Royal Botanic Gardens. This environment is a stunning place to relax, explore, and make new connections in all seasons. There are winding paths, groves, lakes, lawns and more than 8,500 species of plants. We will stop in at the Terrace cafe for takeaways, or bring your own drinks and snacks and we can stop for a chat and a game on the lawns. Our walk will finish at the Shrine of Remembrance to see the beautiful views of the city. This walk is rated easy, it is relatively flat and we will walk at a slow to moderate pace so we can socialise along the way. There are a few sections with stairs but there are alternative pathways close by. **Agenda:** I will meet you at **2pm** at the circular sculpture near the Observatory & Visitors Centre, 100 Birdwood Avenue. There is a map and photo of the meeting place below. We will head off no later than **2.15pm** We will reach the Terrace Cafe by **3pm**, have a coffee and a game of bocce on the lawns, then explore the gardens finishing at the Shrine of Remembrance at 5pm. When you RSVP **please click Attend** on the event page and I will be in touch about the details via direct message. As this is a rain or shine event I will also be available in the Event Comments on the day, and add any updates there if needed regarding weather conditions.

It's Jugger time! Get on down to Hawthorn for fun, sun, exercise, and silly shenanigans! * ✅ Free to attend * ⚔️ Jugger Equipment is supplied * 🍜 Post-training social lunch - all welcome * ➡️ [Find us on Discord](https://discord.gg/WHnMyk56Cu) Jugger is an exciting, mixed-gender soft combat sport. Two teams use a selection of padded foam spars to tag opponents as they aim to put the jugg (the game ball) into their opponent's goal. **Watch Jugger being played in [this excellent short demo video](https://vimeo.com/28592980).** Jugger Melbourne training sessions include both full games of jugger, as well as a variety of training drills designed to promote **teamwork, communication, exercise, health and fitness, and teach core game skills.** After training we head across to Glenferrie Rd for lunch and socializing, which you are welcome (and encouraged!) to join. **‍🏃‍♀️‍➡️ New Player Info / Who Can Join** New players are always welcome! Our experienced coaches will teach you basics to get you and and swinging in no time Jugger is easy to pickup the basics while deep to master. We have a minimum age policy of 16 years (please note, anyone under 18 must be accompanied by a guardian), but other than that we welcome anyone of all fitness levels. Jugger is a great way to keep active, and a fun way to meet new people in a friendly and inclusive community! **👟 How to Join a Session and What to Bring** Joining is simple - just show up! RSVPing on Meetup or Discord is a big help as it helps us plan around expected numbers. You are also welcome to bring along any interested friends and family. **⚔️ Jugger equipment is supplied.** We have a collection of gear to loan out to new players. Bring a water bottle (there is a tap nearby), sunscreen, and wear comfortable clothes and shoes for running around in - and that you don't mind getting a bit dirty! Recommend but not required items include: sunglasses, football boots, kneepads, and gloves if you have them. You don't need any of these to get started, but you may find you want them if you become a regular. **✅ Are there any costs are involved?** Our training sessions are **free to attend** as often as you like, we are essentially just a group of friends that meet for training and socializing on the weekend. The Australian Jugger League has a voluntary annual membership that helps to support the sport (including maintaining equipment and paying for Meetup), and we encourage people to join once they become a regular attendee or begin attending tournaments. However there's no obligation so spend any money when you're first trying it out or just attending casually. **➡️ External Links** We organise our regular players through our Discord group and their attendance is not often represented in the Meetup attendance numbers (we use Meetup to reach out to new people). Events are also (though less regularly) posted to Facebook, while event photos and videos are shared on our Instagram. * [Join our Discord](https://discord.gg/WHnMyk56Cu) * [Jugger Melbourne on Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/groups/JuggerMelbourne) * [Follow us on Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/jugger_melbourne/) * [Australian Jugger League website](https://www.jugger.au/) \*\* See you on Sunday \*\*

We’re heading to Ararat - historic former gold-mining town. Please follow **all three steps to confirm your spot**. Please remember to get the free V/Line tickets right after you get the Trybooking ticket. Step 1: Please RSVP to this event on meetup. Step 2: Please pay the organizer fee ($20 - Early Bird, $25 - Regular) via Trybooking - [https://www.trybooking.com/DMFZZ](https://www.trybooking.com/DMFZZ) Step 3: Please get the free return V/Line ticket ($0.00). [https://bit.ly/48XyAUU](https://bit.ly/48XyAUU) Onward: 10:35 Return: 16:14 Trybooking tickets will be scanned at the meeting point. Please note that the ticket will be only refunded if the event is moved or cancelled. There are no refunds. The tickets also cannot be transferred to a different event. Payments are managed through Trybooking and not Meetup. You will see an "Unpaid" status on your RSVP. The only thing you need is the Trybooking ticket which you will receive by email. **Meeting Point:** Let's meet in the Corner of Spencer Street and Bourke Street (Station Side - Near the steps) at 10:00 AM and head to take the train. We are meeting much earlier than departure time to ensure we get seats. We should be back in the city around 7 PM. Meeting Point Photo: [https://bit.ly/2SkyVL2](https://bit.ly/2SkyVL2) Map: [https://www.google.com.au/maps/place/Spencer+St+%26+Bourke+St,+Docklands+VIC+3008/@-37.8171681,144.9534121,20z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x6ad65d4e4c1a2cad:0x5d63752e26275ea0!8m2!3d-37.8171007!4d144.9531805](https://www.google.com.au/maps/place/Spencer+St+%26+Bourke+St,+Docklands+VIC+3008/@-37.8171681,144.9534121,20z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x6ad65d4e4c1a2cad:0x5d63752e26275ea0!8m2!3d-37.8171007!4d144.9531805) Cost: Organizer Fee: $20 - Early Bird, $25 - Regular Transport: V/Line - Free J Ward Museum (Optional): $17 Gum San Chinese Heritage Centre (Optional): $14 Photos: All the photos will be uploaded to our Facebook Group (Explore Melbourne) - [https://www.facebook.com/groups/exploremelb](https://www.facebook.com/groups/exploremelb) and to meetup. Tentative places we plan to visit by walking around town: \* Langi Morgala Museum \* Ararat Gallery TAMA \* Ararat and Grampians Visitor Information Centre \* Alexandra Gardens Park \* Ararat Town Hall Optional ones you can walk to: \* J Ward Museum (Optional): $17 \* Gum San Chinese Heritage Centre (Optional): $14 Please follow us on Social Media for photos, videos & updates: [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/@explore-melbourne) \| [Facebook Page](https://www.facebook.com/exploremelb) \| [Facebook Group](https://www.facebook.com/groups/exploremelb) \| [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/xpmelb/) \| [TikTok](https://www.tiktok.com/@exploremelbourne) \| [ExploreMelbourne.AU](https://exploremelbourne.au/) Explore Melbourne is the largest meetup group in Australia. We have seven simple rules in place to protect our community and for everyone to have a positive experience. ❌ **Not a dating group!** – We’re here to make friends, not find soulmates. No flirty business, please! 📵 **No phone numbers**, please! – Feel free to swap social media if both parties are cool with it, but let’s keep our digits private. Please **don’t add people to WhatsApp or other groups**. 🔞 Our events are only **open to people aged 18 and older**. 📢 Please **do not advertise other events or groups**. 😅 **Don’t be a social octopus!** – Give people space to chat with others. Please don't be clingy. 🚗 We **don't allow carpooling** due to safety incidents/our public liability insurance not covering motor related accidents. 💰 **No sales pitches!** – No selling, no MLMs, no pyramid schemes, no “life-changing mentorship” offers—let’s keep things scam-free. By joining this event, you’re giving us a virtual pinky promise 🤝 that you’ll follow the rules. Break them, and—poof!—you’re out for good. No second chances, no do-overs. Let’s keep it fun, friendly, and drama-free! **Liability Waiver:** The organizer of this group cannot accept any liability for any loss, damage, injury, or accident to participants or their property at this event. By participating in this event, you're taking responsibility for your safety and well-being. By joining this event, you agree to the liability waiver mentioned here: [https://exploremelbourne.au/explore-melbourne-liability-waiver/](https://exploremelbourne.au/explore-melbourne-liability-waiver/)

We will meet at the starting point and take a round trip within Elsternwick Park (See **Getting There** 👇 for direction). Please feel free to BYO a coffee or a drink bottle. Dress for comfort and outdoor walking. Come along & simply say, "Hi, it's my first time joining the group event." or ask the organisers to introduce you. You can take it slow and start from there. If you enjoyed the conversation, you're welcome to continue on afterwards. **\-\-\- Running Late \-\-\-** If you are running late, please message at least 30 mins in advance. We will wait up to 15 mins before heading off. We won't be able to keep track of messages once we start. **\-\-\- Getting There \-\-\-** Via Sandringham Train Line : Elsternwick Station Via tram: Take tram line no. 67 Via bus: Take no. 630 bus Via car: parking is available at the park **\-\-\- RSVP / Change of Plan \-\-\-** Change of plan or decide not to attend is absolutely okay. Please do update your RSVP to "NO", so others can have the opportunity to attend. **\-\-\- Intro \-\-\-** Kudos 2 Friends is a Melbourne based community created for individuals who are looking to expand their social circle and form long term friendship overtime. Join us on a fun journey as we explore cafes, restaurants and bars, including drinks, meals, outings, hiking, sporting, chilling, etc. Above all, we’d like to celebrate the importance of friendships. So if you are looking to expand your social circle and explore new adventures and venues in Melbourne, come join us! **— Heylo App Group —** We use Heylo App for more fluid communication, including ideas, interest groups, questions etc. Please let the organizer know if you would like to be added to the WhatsApp Group at the event. We will send an invite to attendees to the group. (give us some time) **\-\-\- Rules \-\-\-** Admin will only add members to the group with a clear profile picture. (No hidden behind sunglasses, masks, drawings) **You might be removed from the group in the case of…** * no show * without a clear profile picture * anti-social behaviour (i.e. acts rude / disrespectful regularly) * take advantage of individuals for personal gain(s) **\-\-\- Privacy \-\-\-** Do not disclose your contact number in this post comment. We will delete your comment/info as soon as we see it to protect your privacy.

Join us for a friendly and relaxed English meetup in South Melbourne! This gathering is perfect for anyone who wants to practise English, meet new friends, and feel part of a welcoming community. Whether you’re an international student, new to Melbourne, or simply looking to connect with others, you’ll find a supportive space to learn and grow. Each week, we run **two simple sessions**: **Daily English**, where you learn useful everyday vocabulary, and **Learning English from the Bible**, where we explore short passages in clear, beginner-friendly English. You’ll also meet people from different cultures and enjoy meaningful conversations in a warm, inclusive environment. Come along, make new friends, and enjoy learning English in a place where everyone is welcome. We’d love to meet you!

Ease into the new week with our “Sunday Reset: Coffee + Chats” a calm and welcoming space to slow down, reflect, and connect. Join us for a relaxed catch-up over coffee, where conversations flow easily and there’s no pressure to be anywhere else. Whether you’re looking to recharge, meet new people, or simply enjoy a peaceful start to your Sunday, this is the perfect way to reset and refocus for the week ahead.

⚠️ **IMPORTANT: You must sign up and buy a ticket here to attend:** [https://groupvibe.com/](https://groupvibe.com/) **Join the Columbus City Brunch Club and make new friends!** Each meetup brings together 4–6 people for casual conversations over brunch. We use the Groupvibe platform to facilitate the meetup and ensure everyone’s a good fit. 👉 **To attend, you’ll need to complete registration via this link:** [https://groupvibe.com/](https://groupvibe.com/) We’ll share the exact location of the upcoming meetup the night before only if you have bought a ticket or membership plan. **Why this works:** \* Smaller groups make real conversations easier. \* Discover new restaurants in your city, together. \* Curated lunch venues with good food and vibe. \* If you hit it off with your group, there’s plenty of time to hang out afterwards. **Note:** RSVPs on Meetup don’t reflect total attendance. Many attendees register directly via our website. The event on [Meetup.com](http://meetup.com/) is only a placeholder. This meetup is organized by Groupvibe, a small team passionate about helping people form meaningful friendships offline.

**History** The [Franklin Park Conservatory](https://www.fpconservatory.org/)’s roots trace back to 1852 when the Franklin County Agricultural Society purchased 88 acres of land to host the Ohio State Fair. After the fair moved to its permanent home, the city of Columbus transformed the grounds into Franklin Park in 1884. This transition shifted the space from a temporary event site to a dedicated public green space for the growing community. The park became a central hub for outdoor recreation and early civic gatherings in the neighborhood. In 1895, the landmark Victorian-style Palm House opened its doors, drawing heavy inspiration from the Glass Palace of the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago. This iron and glass structure became an immediate icon, housing exotic plants that residents would otherwise never see in the Midwest. It remains the oldest part of the facility and serves as a primary link to the conservatory’s 19th-century origins. For decades, it stood as a singular testament to grand horticultural architecture in Central Ohio. A major turning point arrived in 1992 when Columbus hosted AmeriFlora '92, an international horticultural exhibition. This massive event prompted a $16 million renovation and expansion, adding significantly more greenhouse space and the Dorothy M. Davis Showhouse. The festival put the conservatory on the international map and fundamentally changed its scale and ambition. Following the event, the facility transitioned from a city-run park to a private, non-profit organization. In 2003, the conservatory’s identity was further defined through a long-term partnership with world-renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly. After a successful exhibition, the Friends of the Conservatory purchased most of the glass installations, creating the largest permanent collection of Chihuly’s work in a botanical setting. These vibrant glass sculptures are now woven throughout the biomes, blending art with nature. This addition helped cement the conservatory as a premier cultural destination rather than just a botanical garden. Recent years have seen the site expand beyond the glass walls to emphasize community engagement and outdoor education. The 2018 opening of the Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation Children’s Garden added two acres of interactive landscape designed for hands-on learning. The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Community Garden Campus also provides local residents with space to grow their own food and learn sustainable practices. Today, the conservatory balances its historic Victorian charm with modern commitments to local ecology and the Columbus community. **Maps of the Conservatory** Here is the [main map](https://www.fpconservatory.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/franklin-park-zones-scaled.jpg) of the Conservatory grounds. Here's a [map of the areas](https://www.fpconservatory.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/ConstructionMap-2026.jpg) in which the Conservatory has ongoing construction (see below). **Summary** For this event, we'll explore Columbus's highly-rated and very popular Conservatory. As mentioned above, the Conservatory is doing renovations on parts of the facility. These renovations are scheduled to be ongoing until the Fall of next year. Basically, no matter when you go to the Conservatory over the next 18 months, you're going to see some metaphorical orange barrels. So let's just go now. **Tickets and pricing** On the first Sunday of every month, the Conservatory is free for residents of Franklin County and the city of Columbus. You must bring an ID to receive this discount. (Yes, they do check.) Otherwise, tickets are $25.20. Members of the Columbus Zoo (of which I am one) do get a discount on tickets, though I have never actually bought a ticket to the Conservatory (I've always gone on free days). I believe the discount is $4. Parking is always free. If you have additional questions about pricing or whether and for what you qualify, you can reach the Conservatory at 614-715-8000. **Where we'll meet** We will meet just outside the main entrance. I guarantee there's going to be a line. The Conservatory is always popular on free days, and especially in nice weather. **Your GPS is stupid!** Be careful simply typing "Franklin Park Conservatory" in your GPS and going where it tells you. The only way to access the parking lot to the Conservatory is off of Broad Street. Unfortunately, since Google Maps is unable to find its way out of a wet paper bag, it has a tendency to want to take people to a mythical, non-existent Conservatory entrance on Nelson Road. If your GPS does this, just drive to the north side of the Conservatory along Broad Street. Your GPS should then redirect you to the main Conservatory entrance. If your GPS doesn't, then throw your phone away\* and look for the big Conservatory sign on the south side of Broad Street between Nelson Road and Franklin Park West. You also should be able to use the map pin I've provided, below, and it should properly direct you to where you need to drive. \* Don't really do this. **After the event** After stopping to smell the roses, for those that are interested, we'll head to the nearby [Columbus Brewing Company Beer Hall](https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/) for [drinks](https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/#draft-list) and [lunch](https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/#food-menu). The Beer Hall's actual address is [200 Kelton Ave, Columbus, OH 43205](https://www.google.com/maps/place/200+Kelton+Ave,+Columbus,+OH+43205/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x883889a94ac4acad:0xadb2e60240dbc38b?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111) (it's literally just on the south side of the Conservatory). Be sure this is where your GPS is taking you when you use it, as the Brewing Company has a taproom on Harrison Avenue that is *not* what you want for this event. We should be at the Beer Hall by 1 if you can't make the Conservatory and just want to join us for drinks.

Let's grab some coffee/food and share a morning chat! The East Market has an ample parking lot and outdoor and indoor seating. Grab a cup of coffee from Winston's Coffee & Waffles or on your way to East Market and meet us on the second floor - table behind or east of the elevator. Per what this group is about: "Everyone is welcome! International transplants to Columbus who want to improve language skills, Columbus residents who enjoy talking to people from other countries, and those who would like to discuss international travel and culture, and who enjoy getting together for good conversations."

Let’s meet and wander the galleries! General admission on Sundays is free.

Communication is everything in life You are only as successful as your ability to communicate. \- What if you could confidently talk to anyone? \- What if you had the ability to calmly control every conversation? \- What if you could close that sale\, ask for that date\, make new friends\, repair problematic relationships\, get that raise\, or effortlessly express any idea with confidence? You can! The secret to success relies on your ability or inability to effectively communicate. Attend a free seminar and gain a better ability to communicate. Hosted by the Church of Scientology of Central Ohio 1266 Dublin Road, Columbus, OH 43215 For more information, contact Rhiannon, the Event Host at 614-221-5024

Who else is ready to sit outside? Join us for a casual chat over coffee & tea at Grandview Grind! Come out and meet some new people, enjoy your favorite drink, and make some new friends!