Daytime Activities

Get outside and join us for a day of planting trees and shrubs on a beautiful property near Trentham. Come and help to protect waterways, improve ecosystems and create habitat for wildlife. Share the day with a fun bunch of outdoorsy folk who like doing good! No experience required - we will train you on the day. Morning tea and lunch are provided for free. **[YOU MUST REGISTER VIA THIS LINK!](https://events.humanitix.com/help-plant-native-seedlings-at-little-hampton-farm)** This link tells you everything you need to know - what to bring, where to go, FAQs - you MUST register and get your free ticket on this page! (This is a FREE event - large Corporate Groups are asked to pay a supporter's charge, but NOT individuals) You'll meet friendly, like-minded people, and return home knowing that you've done something meaningful. You'll need your own transport, approximately 90 minutes' drive north-west from Melbourne CBD. TreeProject is an award-winning, not-for-profit organisation that has been growing and planting native seedlings for farmers and Landcare groups for over 30 years. We have grown over 2 million trees! This year alone we are growing over 150,000 trees, and helping landowners plant about 50,000 trees! Come and join us!

Hi Radiant Ladies, Get ready for one of our most popular and glamorous days out! We’re off to the Myer Champagne Bar for a gorgeous lunch together — think beautiful food, wonderful conversation, and the best company around! And because we’re already in Myer, we simply have to take a stroll through the ladies fashion! Shop, treat yourself, browse, try things on — no judgement, all fun! 👗🛍️ This event is always a favourite and fills up quickly, so don’t miss your spot! Come and treat yourself — you deserve it! 💛 Lyn 🌸

Meet in the car park right at the end of Breen Drive at Dendy Park past the tennis courts. We’ll walk around Dendy Park, some do 1 lap, others 2. As the Dendy cafe is currently closed, we'll head to Rustica on Hampton st. for a coffee & chat Any concerns, don't hesitate to get in touch on 0432098716 Kay

Come along for a casual board game night in the Principal’s Office room at Boyd Community Hub. I’ve booked the room from 7:00pm to 10:00pm, and we’ll meet outside the venue first at 6:45pm so everyone can find the group before we head in together. This will be a small, relaxed meetup with a maximum of 10 people. I’ll bring a mix of social, party, strategy, and light games, including: Camel Up, Catan, Codenames, Decrypto, Dixit Odyssey, Wavelength, UNO Show ’Em No Mercy, and Chess. We’ll decide what to play depending on the group size and what people feel like on the night. You don’t need to know the rules beforehand — we can explain games as we go. This is more of a relaxed social board game night than a serious competitive session. It’s totally fine if you’re new to board games, coming solo, or only know a few simple games. **Who this is for** This event is good for: * People who enjoy casual board games * Beginners and occasional players * Solo attendees who want a relaxed social evening * Anyone happy with a small-group, low-pressure vibe **Links** Meetup start point: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/7JLM3q6tyn7fepBi8](https://maps.app.goo.gl/7JLM3q6tyn7fepBi8) **Timeline** * 6:45pm – Meet outside Boyd Community Hub * 7:00pm – Head into the Principal’s Office room * 7:00pm–7:15pm – Quick introductions and choose games * 7:15pm–9:45pm – Play board games * 9:45pm–10:00pm – Pack up and return the room setup * 10:00pm – Meetup ends **Tickets / cost** No ticket required. I’ve booked the room and will cover the room hire cost, so there is no cost for attendees. Please only RSVP if you genuinely plan to attend, as the room has a small capacity. **Transport** Boyd Community Hub is in Southbank, near City Road. Please check your own public transport route before coming, especially for the trip home after 10:00pm. **Bring** * Water bottle * Any beginner-friendly board/card game you’d like to bring (optional) * A relaxed attitude — we’ll choose games based on the group **Expect** * Group size: maximum 10 people * Vibe: relaxed, social, beginner-friendly * Game style: casual, mixed experience levels * Can leave early: yes, but please message or update your RSVP if your plans change **Important notes** The room is booked from 7:00pm to 10:00pm, so we’ll meet outside at 6:45pm and enter the room at 7:00pm. Please be respectful of the venue and help keep the room tidy. We’ll need to pack up and leave the room by 10:00pm. Because this is a small-room booking, please update your RSVP if you can’t make it.

* 🌏 **MELBOURNE → KINGLAKE**🏙️ * 📅SUN 31 MAY**, DAY TRIP ☀️** * ***\*Feel alive in every journey\**** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ✨ **NEW TRAIL + NEW PROGRAM!** ✨ Join us for a soul-refreshing escape to serene **Kinglake** — where adventure and relaxation blend in perfect harmony. 🌿 We’ll easy **hike** through lush forest trails, share a joyful **picnic** in nature, explore an inspiring **sculpture walk**, ground ourselves with **meditation,** and finish with **Devonshire tea** & scones experience at a charming country tea house. 🍵🍰 Whether you’re here for the views, the laughs, or the quiet moments — this trip is about connection, joy, and memories that linger. 💫 \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **PACKAGE INCLUDES:** **🎒 All-Inclusive for $99** ✅ Round-trip **transport** in a comfortable **MERCEDES minivan** 🚐 ✅ **Devonshire** **tea** & **scone** 🍵 experience ✅ Guided **hike** + all gears 🥾 ✅ Unlimited **snacks, soft drinks, coffee & tea** ☕ ✅ **Meditation** \- with great company 🧘 ✅ Visit **stunning scenic lookouts** 🌄 \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- So here’s the plan: **🕒 ITINERARY:** ⏰ 07:30 — Pick up at **St Paul’s Cathedra**l, Flinders St ☕ 08:00 — Short break **stop** 🍵 09:00 — **Welcome coffee**/tea/drinks/snacks (provided) 🥾 09:15 — Easy **9 km hike** (190m elevation) 🦘 🍉 12:30 — **Lunch** picnic (BYO) + snacks, drinks & music (provided) 🎨 14:00 — Sculpture **Garden Walk** 🍰 15:00 — Devonshire Tea & Scones experiene (included) 🌺 16:00 — Estate & **Garden Tour** (optional) 🧘 16:00 — **Meditation** & Grounding 🌄 17:00 — Scenic drive & **Lookout** visit 🚐 18:00 — Return to Melbourne (drop-off at **Hamer Hall)** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **💰 How to Book?** Secure your spot with a **$99 transfer** **Please note:** An RSVP alone does not secure your spot — only a transfer confirms your place on the trip. Thanks for understanding! 🔹 **PayID:** 0414 661 458 🔹 **Bank Transfer:** **NAME:** KARAPETIAN G **BSB:** 013233 **ACCOUNT:** 226325836 **Ref:** Ki 🌟 **Limited spots available—RSVP now!** S*pots are only confirmed once payment is received !!!* \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **🎒 What to Bring?** ✔️ **Comfortable hiking shoes (or able to supply, let me know size)** **✔️ Wind/water-resistant jacket**🧥 ✔️ **Long pants & long sleeves** 🌿 ✔️ **Hat/beanie** 🧢 ✔️ **A positive mindset & big smile!** 😊 \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 📢 **Questions?** Feel free to **DM me anytime!** 📩 ✨ **Let’s make this an adventure to remember** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Visit our sources: [https://www.facebook.com/groups/812911556223655/?ref=share](https://www.facebook.com/groups/812911556223655/?ref=share) Instagram: [nogeography.hike.kayak](http://nogeography.hike.kayak/) [https://www.meetup.com/en-AU/no-geography-hike-and-kayak/](https://www.meetup.com/en-AU/no-geography-hike-and-kayak/) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ❗️**Please Note:** **Payments are only credited or refunded if the event is canceled or rescheduled by the organizer.** In all other circumstances, payments are **non-refundable and non-transferable**. ❗️Thank you for understanding and supporting the planning involved in creating these experiences! 🌿 \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **\*\*\*Nature & Nurture, Talks & Tastes\*\*\*** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **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 own safety and well-being. By joining this event you agree to these terms. ## **COVID-19 Safety Measures** * The event host is instituting the above safety measures for this event. * Please do not attend if you are experiencing any flu-like symptoms, such as fever, cough, or sore throat. * If you have recently tested positive for COVID-19 or have been in close contact with someone who has, we kindly ask that you refrain from attending. * Thank you for your understanding and cooperation in keeping our community safe!

**Please note:** We meet at 11am and start walking towards Elwood soon after. Please be on time or message us. Thanks! :) Walk and talk with us. Meet on St Kilda Beach in front of Republica near the Rhinocerous statue, Walk to Ormond Point Elwood 🏃🏼‍♀️‍➡️🏃🏻‍➡️ We practice English conversation plus our first and second languages on the way. Bring a friend, dog and perhaps a ✍🏽 and notepad to remember new words and phrases. Meet new people. We look forward to chatting with you!🤗 ***Please note:*** *For attendance at this beach walk read the disclaimer below:* *By signing up and participating in this **Language Practice and Walking on the Beach** today I agree to do so at my own risk. I know that my attendance and this agreement operates to exclude any liability in negligence for harm that I may suffer. I have been warned that this recreational activity may cause physical harm to me or to someone under my control or accompanying me, and I confirm that I do not have a condition, medical or physical, that could prevent me from, or be aggravated by, participating in this activity. Examples of the risks I have been warned about include: Tripping, slipping and falling • Collision with someone or something • Something giving way unexpectedly • Back injury, strains • Spillage and burns • Trip hazard• Bites and stings • Sun • Injury from falling branches*

**🌿 YARRA RIVER WALK, MEDITATION & CONNECTION 🌿** **📅 Studley Park Boathouse CAR PARK - Meeting point** **☀️ Calm minds • Gentle movement • Peaceful company** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Come join us for a relaxed morning in nature — a chance to slow down, meet new people, make new friends, and reconnect with yourself away from the noise of everyday life. This gathering is for like-minded people who enjoy peaceful walks, meaningful conversations, calm energy, and mindful moments in nature. No pressure, no rush, no fitness goals — just fresh air, gentle movement, warm drinks, soft music, and good company. Whether you come for the social connection, peaceful meditation, spending time outdoors, or simply to reset your mind for a few hours — you are warmly welcome. ✨ *Walk gently. Breathe deeply. Experience fully.* \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 🌟 **What’s Included** ☕ Coffee & tea, soft drinks 🥐 Snacks 🚶 Guided peaceful nature walk 🎶 Relaxing ambient music atmosphere 🧘 Guided meditation session 🌿 Meditation mat provided 👥 Friendly and mindful group atmosphere \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 🌿 Morning Flow - Meeting Point - **Studley Park Boathouse CAR PARK - check my banner.** **🕣 8:15 AM** — Welcome & Warm Drinks **Coffee, tea, snacks**, and relaxed introductions near the Yarra River. **🚶 8:30 AM** — Peaceful **Nature Walk** (\~7 km Easy Walk) A gentle group walk with calm conversations, soft ambient music, and time to enjoy nature at an easy pace. **🧘 10:30 AM** — Guided Outdoor **Meditation** A grounding meditation session in a peaceful natural setting. Meditation mats provided. 💧 **11:00 AM** — Finish & Goodbyes Leave refreshed, lighter, calmer, and more connected. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **💰 How to Book?** Secure your spot with a **$19 transfer**: 🔹 **PayID:** 0414 661 458 🔹 **Bank Transfer:** **NAME:** KARAPETIAN G **BSB:** 013233 **ACCOUNT:** 226325836 **Ref:** CN 🌟 **Limited spots available—RSVP now!** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ❗️**Please Note:** **Payments are only credited or refunded if the event is canceled or rescheduled by the organizer.** In all other circumstances, payments are **non-refundable and non-transferable**. ❗️Thank you for understanding and supporting the planning involved in creating these experiences! 🌿 \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 🎒 BYO: 👟 Comfortable walking shoes 🧥 Comfortable clothing suitable for the weather 🌦️ Rain/wind jacket if needed 💧 Water bottle (optional) 😊 Positive and relaxed mindset \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 📢 **Questions?** Feel free to **DM me anytime!** 📩 \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Visit our sources: [https://www.facebook.com/groups/812911556223655/?ref=share](https://www.facebook.com/groups/812911556223655/?ref=share) Instagram: [nogeography.hike.kayak](http://nogeography.hike.kayak/) [https://www.meetup.com/en-AU/no-geography-hike-and-kayak/](https://www.meetup.com/en-AU/no-geography-hike-and-kayak/) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **\*A day in nature is a day well spent** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **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 own safety and well-being. By joining this event you agree to these terms. ## **COVID-19 Safety Measures** * The event host is instituting the above safety measures for this event. * Please do not attend if you are experiencing any flu-like symptoms, such as fever, cough, or sore throat. * If you have recently tested positive for COVID-19 or have been in close contact with someone who has, we kindly ask that you refrain from attending. * Thank you for your understanding and cooperation in keeping our community safe! *

Start point: WE HAVE A NEW CAFE! **Truffles Patisserie** **192/194 Carlisle St, St Kilda, 3182** It's at the corner of Carlisle and Chapel St's. End point: Who knows? Distance: Approx 4 to 6km (each way) Estimated time: 60 to 90 minutes (stopping and starting).

We’re heading to Trentham - often referred to as the top tiny 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/DMGAL](https://www.trybooking.com/DMGAL) Step 3: Please get the free return V/Line ticket ($0.00). [https://bit.ly/4nw3Nok](https://bit.ly/4nw3Nok) Onward: 09:01 Return: 14:44 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 8:30 AM and head to take the train. We should be back in the city around 4:30 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 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: \* Historic Trentham Railway Station \* Old rail bridge \* Trentham Visitor Information Service (The Mechanics Trentham) \* Dancing a Jig with Dad sculpture \* Sisko Chocolate Trentham \* RedBeard Historic Bakery 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/)

**Welcome to Incubator Melbourne!** Curious about how board games are made? This is our regular event to test prototype games. Newcomers are very welcome and no experience is needed. You don’t need to bring a game to join and play. ***Please RSVP here and cancel if you cannot attend.*** *Total attendance is higher than the Meetup RSVP list, and we typically have a good-sized group on the day.* 🗺️ **HOW TO FIND US** The Lion Hotel is on level 3 of Melbourne Central. We’ll be down the back at Jac’s Bar. Look for our tables and grab a seat. 👀 **WHAT TO EXPECT** • Bring a game to test, or just join in others’ games • Two sessions: short games first, longer games after lunch • Quick intros, setup, lunch break, then afternoon games ⏰ **TIMES** • 11:00–11:30am: Intros and setup • 11:30–1:00pm: Short games • 1:00–1:30pm: Lunch • 1:30–4:00pm: Longer games

Hi Radiant Ladies, Join us for a refreshing Saturday walk at Ruffey Lake Park. 👭 Walk at your own pace 🐕 Dogs welcome ☕ Coffee after 🌦️ We walk every Saturday (unless it’s pouring) New ladies welcome. See you! 

Leanne & Lyn 💕

# Stop Scrolling. Start Living. Sometimes the best way to meet new people is simple **get out of the house and do something in real life.** With weather still unpredictable, we’re keeping this one simple **we’ll be walking indoor or outdoor at Polaris.** Most people who attend often come alone. **This is a casual social walk designed to meet new people.** No awkward networking. No pressure. Just walking, talking, and good company. Whether you're new to the group or a regular, this is a great way to **get some steps in, meet new people, and do something different on a Tuesday evening.** Location **Polaris Fashion Place** **Meeting Spot:** Outside or just inside **"Dicks Main entrance"** from parking lot Look for the **Meetup sign and green or gold wristbands.** The Plan **6:45 PM — Meetup / Check-in** Arrive, say hello, meet a few people, and get checked in. *The first 15 minutes are usually the best time to meet people before we start walking.* **7:00 PM — Walk Starts (Sharp)** We’ll begin a **casual indoor or outdoor social walk around Polaris Mall.** by the end of the hour we should be near 3 miles approx. 6k steps **8:00 PM — Walk Ends** Anyone who wants to keep the fun going can join us for Topgolf. **Optional Activity** After We’ll head over to **Topgolf** No golf experience needed — **beginners welcome.** **Let’s** **see your best Happy Gilmore swing!!!** To reduce no-shows and keep events sustainable: **$2 — Walk RSVP** **$15 — Optional Topgolf add-on** or **$17 TOTAL** Topgolf is **limited to the first 6 paid players per bay.** If the first bay fills, I’ll open another lane if enough people want to join. **To keep group sizes manageable and reduce no-shows, this event is limited to paid attendees. RSVP alone does not reserve a spot.** Use payment link in comments to confirm your reservation. Even if only 1 person signs up and confirms their rsvp the event will happen! **Important** RSVP alone **does not guarantee a spot.** Paid attendees receive: • Event wristband • Guaranteed Topgolf spot (if purchased) • Inclusion in group activities Why These Events Exist Wise Unlimited events exist to help people: • meet new friends • get off their phones • **do more things in real life** Too many people **want to go do things** but **don’t want to go alone.** This solves that. **Stop scrolling. Start doing stuff.**

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

**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.

Dodgeball is back again! If you’ve been wanting to come out, this is an easy one to join. We’ll be playing for about 1.5 to 2 hours, you do not need to bring any equipment, and no experience is needed. We use a specific set of rules and equipment to make the games run better and keep them fun for everybody, not just people who already know how to play. If it rains, the event will be canceled.