Amusement Parks

**Note:** *We receive bookings from many different platforms, so you can expect a lively group with people joining from all over the world. When you join this tour, you’ll be part of a fun, social crowd ready to explore the city together.* **The Original Budapest Alternative Street Art & Jewish Tour 🎨✡️** Step off the beaten path and uncover Budapest’s vibrant street art culture and rich Jewish heritage on this immersive walking tour. Led by passionate local guides, this experience dives deep into the creative soul of Budapest’s 7th District—the historic Jewish Quarter—where history, art, and urban culture collide. Stroll through colorful streets filled with murals, hidden galleries, and cultural hubs, while learning how the city’s Jewish roots and post-communist era inspired a wave of artistic freedom. From synagogues and memorials to alternative bars, design studios, and community spaces, every stop tells a unique story about resilience, identity, and creativity. Whether you’re an art lover, a history buff, or a curious traveler, this tour offers a new perspective on Budapest’s most dynamic neighborhood. **🌟 Highlights** * Discover Budapest’s underground art scene and creative community * Explore the Jewish Quarter, its landmarks, and living heritage * See murals, installations, and street art masterpieces * Visit local galleries, ruin bars, and design spaces * Learn how Budapest’s history shaped its modern identity **✅ What’s Included** * Professional local guide * Walking tour through the Jewish Quarter & alternative neighborhoods * Insights into art, history, and local culture * Small-group experience for an authentic connection

**Survival Practice · Adult Group** 📅 **Sunday, February 1** What will you do if your phone dies, GPS fails, or the trail disappears? This practice is about **real navigation**, not theory. We go into the forest and **learn how to find our way out** — calmly, confidently, and without panic. ### What you’ll learn: ✔ How to determine your location using a **map and compass** ✔ How to choose the right trail — or move **without a trail at all** ✔ How to navigate terrain instead of following apps ✔ How to reach people and roads **without knowing your exact direction** These skills make every hike safer — and in critical situations, they can explain the difference between stress and control. *** 🥾 **Route:** \~ **17 km** of forest terrain ⬆️⬇️ **+690 / –690 m elevation** Physically challenging, mentally empowering. *** 📍 **Start & finish:** Letkés village, **Sport utca bus stop** [https://maps.app.goo.gl/AztaUtKqpiqD5y4m8](https://maps.app.goo.gl/AztaUtKqpiqD5y4m8) 🕘 **Meeting time:** 09:30 on site 🚆 Optional group travel from **Nyugati at 08:00** ⏰ Return after **16:00**, arrival at Nyugati around **17:55** *** 💶 **Participation fee:** Early payment (Friday until 20:00): **18,000 HUF** Saturday until 14:00: **20,000 HUF** Standard: **22,000 HUF** 🚌 Transport not included. 🎒 **What to bring:** * 1–1.5 L of water * Solid lunch * Comfortable clothes & shoes you can get dirty (mud guaranteed 😉) * Wind/rain jacket * Warm layers + hat * Optional: compass and **Börzsöny map** (Tape the fold lines. I’ll have a map too, but your own is better.) *** 🧠 **This is not a walk.** **This is a skill you keep for life.** Whatsapp: +36305183643 , Telegram: @Rudra_AM , Facebook: [https://www.facebook.com/leonid.syrovyatkin](https://www.facebook.com/leonid.syrovyatkin)

Hey everyone, here we go again with our next event on **Sunday**!. Leon will host and please follow his instruction. IMPORTANT NOTE: Free Cancellation is only until Saturday, 18:00. If you cancel after that without noticing the host, You must pay the fee to compensate the court and shuttlecock. Also note that due to Meetup Organizer Subscription fee is increased significantly, The on-duty host will add an extra fee based on the number of attendees. Please do not come if you are in the WAITLIST. Level of Expectation: Beginner - Intermediate. Please watch the video if you are first timer of playing Badminton : https://youtu.be/tAS7rOKtpgQ?si=IDm9UEV55nUzU5Oc Venue: Tüskecsarnok Sportscentre: 1117 Budapest, Hevesy György út, Sportscentre Map: http://tuskecsarnok.hu/wp-content/uploads/tuske-map-1-full.png Look for #7 on the map. More info in the "How to find us" section of the Meetup event. Our venue does not provide rackets, which means that you'll have to bring your own racket! Should you get lost, feel free to text me on Meetup. There are 3 courts booked for us for 1,5 hours from 12:00 till 13:30. Showers and changing rooms are available! Extra Note Attendance fee: We will divide the court fee by the number of people showing up. However, in certain circumstance, when the number of people cannot is less than and equal to 10, The Host deserve to contact the people who canceled after the time designated cancellation time. The expected fee is usually around 2500-3000 HUF per person. Payment is done at the court. or The host will reach you out via meetup chat. !!!Last but not least: if you have signed up but cannot make it for some reason, just take a minute to sign off, RSVP = no. This is to help those who are on the waiting list and want to play. The cancellation time with non-sick reason should be 18 hours before the session. In case you are not feeling well on the session day, please kindly contact the host via comment or privately message him/her with the direct message feature maximum 3 hours before the session starts. Looking forward to seeing you! cheers, Yoga Liability: The participation happens on own risk. There is no liability for any accidents, thefts or damages from the organizer.

**Note:** *We receive bookings from many different platforms, so you can expect a lively group with people joining from all over the world. When you join this tour, you’ll be part of a fun, social crowd ready to explore the city together.* **Discover the Heart of Budapest — History, Culture & Hidden Stories** Step into the soul of Hungary’s capital with The Original Budapest Walking Tour, a perfect introduction to the city’s fascinating history, vibrant architecture, and rich culture. Whether it’s your first time in Budapest or you’re returning to see it from a local’s perspective, this tour offers the ultimate way to truly understand what makes the city so special. Led by passionate local guides, this walking tour takes you on a journey through both sides of the Danube — Buda and Pest — exploring their contrasts and connections. From royal palaces and heroic squares to ruin bars and romantic river views, every stop reveals a story that shaped Budapest’s identity. Get insider tips, local anecdotes, and a deeper appreciation for the people and events that made this one of Europe’s most enchanting capitals. **🌟 Highlights** * Explore Buda and Pest, the twin cities that form Budapest * Visit famous landmarks like St. Stephen’s Basilica, Chain Bridge, and Buda Castle * Learn about Hungary’s communist and royal past from expert local guides * Discover hidden gems and local hangouts off the beaten path * Enjoy a fun, engaging, and budget-friendly way to explore the city **✅ What’s Included** * Professional local tour guide * Comprehensive walking tour covering key historical and cultural sites * Insider recommendations for food, nightlife, and attractions * Small group experience for a more personal touch

Hello everyone, Take a break from your week to make progress on your reading in good company, then join a relaxed chat about what everyone's been reading. 🗓️ Schedule 14:00 \- 14:30 \| Arrive & Introduction round 14:30 \- 15:30 \| Silent Reading Hour 15:30 \- 16:30 \| Chat & Discussion 📍 How to Find Us **Napraforgó terem** (Sunflower Room). Look for signs throughout the building showing which room is where. Exact location details will be posted in the comments when we arrive. ✨ Voluntary Contributions Booking our own space costs \~15,000 HUF. We use a voluntary contribution model (suggested 500-1000 HUF per person, but completely optional). There'll be a Revolut QR code and cash box at the event. All funds go to the venue, with any extra covering Meetup costs. Whether you're a regular or first-timer, you're welcome. See you there! 📌 **[Goodreads](https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/1271292-budapest-silent-book-club)**[ ](https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/1271292-budapest-silent-book-club)(monthly book club voting) 📌 **[Facebook Page](https://www.facebook.com/people/Budapest-Silent-Book-Club/61567388151835)** (previous books read in sessions) 📌 **[Silent Book Club](https://silentbook.club/pages/about-us)** (the idea itself, where did it come from?) 📌 **[Contribution Tracker](https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1C_N9CN_pQO5aUYezqzQW4GS7pr8IfplchwG8-ruZ19g/edit?usp=sharing)** (spreadsheet for our private room experiment)

**Note:** *We receive bookings from many different platforms, so you can expect a lively group with people joining from all over the world. When you join this tour, you’ll be part of a fun, social crowd ready to explore the city together.* **The Original Budapest Alternative Street Art & Jewish Tour 🎨✡️** Step off the beaten path and uncover Budapest’s vibrant street art culture and rich Jewish heritage on this immersive walking tour. Led by passionate local guides, this experience dives deep into the creative soul of Budapest’s 7th District—the historic Jewish Quarter—where history, art, and urban culture collide. Stroll through colorful streets filled with murals, hidden galleries, and cultural hubs, while learning how the city’s Jewish roots and post-communist era inspired a wave of artistic freedom. From synagogues and memorials to alternative bars, design studios, and community spaces, every stop tells a unique story about resilience, identity, and creativity. Whether you’re an art lover, a history buff, or a curious traveler, this tour offers a new perspective on Budapest’s most dynamic neighborhood. **🌟 Highlights** * Discover Budapest’s underground art scene and creative community * Explore the Jewish Quarter, its landmarks, and living heritage * See murals, installations, and street art masterpieces * Visit local galleries, ruin bars, and design spaces * Learn how Budapest’s history shaped its modern identity **✅ What’s Included** * Professional local guide * Walking tour through the Jewish Quarter & alternative neighborhoods * Insights into art, history, and local culture * Small-group experience for an authentic connection

**Survival Practice · Adult Group** 📅 **Sunday, February 1** What will you do if your phone dies, GPS fails, or the trail disappears? This practice is about **real navigation**, not theory. We go into the forest and **learn how to find our way out** — calmly, confidently, and without panic. ### What you’ll learn: ✔ How to determine your location using a **map and compass** ✔ How to choose the right trail — or move **without a trail at all** ✔ How to navigate terrain instead of following apps ✔ How to reach people and roads **without knowing your exact direction** These skills make every hike safer — and in critical situations, they can explain the difference between stress and control. *** 🥾 **Route:** \~ **17 km** of forest terrain ⬆️⬇️ **+690 / –690 m elevation** Physically challenging, mentally empowering. *** 📍 **Start & finish:** Letkés village, **Sport utca bus stop** [https://maps.app.goo.gl/AztaUtKqpiqD5y4m8](https://maps.app.goo.gl/AztaUtKqpiqD5y4m8) 🕘 **Meeting time:** 09:30 on site 🚆 Optional group travel from **Nyugati at 08:00** ⏰ Return after **16:00**, arrival at Nyugati around **17:55** *** 💶 **Participation fee:** Early payment (Friday until 20:00): **18,000 HUF** Saturday until 14:00: **20,000 HUF** Standard: **22,000 HUF** 🚌 Transport not included. 🎒 **What to bring:** * 1–1.5 L of water * Solid lunch * Comfortable clothes & shoes you can get dirty (mud guaranteed 😉) * Wind/rain jacket * Warm layers + hat * Optional: compass and **Börzsöny map** (Tape the fold lines. I’ll have a map too, but your own is better.) *** 🧠 **This is not a walk.** **This is a skill you keep for life.** Whatsapp: +36305183643 , Telegram: @Rudra_AM , Facebook: [https://www.facebook.com/leonid.syrovyatkin](https://www.facebook.com/leonid.syrovyatkin)

Hey everyone, here we go again with our next event on **Sunday**!. Leon will host and please follow his instruction. IMPORTANT NOTE: Free Cancellation is only until Saturday, 18:00. If you cancel after that without noticing the host, You must pay the fee to compensate the court and shuttlecock. Also note that due to Meetup Organizer Subscription fee is increased significantly, The on-duty host will add an extra fee based on the number of attendees. Please do not come if you are in the WAITLIST. Level of Expectation: Beginner - Intermediate. Please watch the video if you are first timer of playing Badminton : https://youtu.be/tAS7rOKtpgQ?si=IDm9UEV55nUzU5Oc Venue: Tüskecsarnok Sportscentre: 1117 Budapest, Hevesy György út, Sportscentre Map: http://tuskecsarnok.hu/wp-content/uploads/tuske-map-1-full.png Look for #7 on the map. More info in the "How to find us" section of the Meetup event. Our venue does not provide rackets, which means that you'll have to bring your own racket! Should you get lost, feel free to text me on Meetup. There are 3 courts booked for us for 1,5 hours from 12:00 till 13:30. Showers and changing rooms are available! Extra Note Attendance fee: We will divide the court fee by the number of people showing up. However, in certain circumstance, when the number of people cannot is less than and equal to 10, The Host deserve to contact the people who canceled after the time designated cancellation time. The expected fee is usually around 2500-3000 HUF per person. Payment is done at the court. or The host will reach you out via meetup chat. !!!Last but not least: if you have signed up but cannot make it for some reason, just take a minute to sign off, RSVP = no. This is to help those who are on the waiting list and want to play. The cancellation time with non-sick reason should be 18 hours before the session. In case you are not feeling well on the session day, please kindly contact the host via comment or privately message him/her with the direct message feature maximum 3 hours before the session starts. Looking forward to seeing you! cheers, Yoga Liability: The participation happens on own risk. There is no liability for any accidents, thefts or damages from the organizer.

**Note:** *We receive bookings from many different platforms, so you can expect a lively group with people joining from all over the world. When you join this tour, you’ll be part of a fun, social crowd ready to explore the city together.* **Discover the Heart of Budapest — History, Culture & Hidden Stories** Step into the soul of Hungary’s capital with The Original Budapest Walking Tour, a perfect introduction to the city’s fascinating history, vibrant architecture, and rich culture. Whether it’s your first time in Budapest or you’re returning to see it from a local’s perspective, this tour offers the ultimate way to truly understand what makes the city so special. Led by passionate local guides, this walking tour takes you on a journey through both sides of the Danube — Buda and Pest — exploring their contrasts and connections. From royal palaces and heroic squares to ruin bars and romantic river views, every stop reveals a story that shaped Budapest’s identity. Get insider tips, local anecdotes, and a deeper appreciation for the people and events that made this one of Europe’s most enchanting capitals. **🌟 Highlights** * Explore Buda and Pest, the twin cities that form Budapest * Visit famous landmarks like St. Stephen’s Basilica, Chain Bridge, and Buda Castle * Learn about Hungary’s communist and royal past from expert local guides * Discover hidden gems and local hangouts off the beaten path * Enjoy a fun, engaging, and budget-friendly way to explore the city **✅ What’s Included** * Professional local tour guide * Comprehensive walking tour covering key historical and cultural sites * Insider recommendations for food, nightlife, and attractions * Small group experience for a more personal touch

Hello everyone, Take a break from your week to make progress on your reading in good company, then join a relaxed chat about what everyone's been reading. 🗓️ Schedule 14:00 \- 14:30 \| Arrive & Introduction round 14:30 \- 15:30 \| Silent Reading Hour 15:30 \- 16:30 \| Chat & Discussion 📍 How to Find Us **Napraforgó terem** (Sunflower Room). Look for signs throughout the building showing which room is where. Exact location details will be posted in the comments when we arrive. ✨ Voluntary Contributions Booking our own space costs \~15,000 HUF. We use a voluntary contribution model (suggested 500-1000 HUF per person, but completely optional). There'll be a Revolut QR code and cash box at the event. All funds go to the venue, with any extra covering Meetup costs. Whether you're a regular or first-timer, you're welcome. See you there! 📌 **[Goodreads](https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/1271292-budapest-silent-book-club)**[ ](https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/1271292-budapest-silent-book-club)(monthly book club voting) 📌 **[Facebook Page](https://www.facebook.com/people/Budapest-Silent-Book-Club/61567388151835)** (previous books read in sessions) 📌 **[Silent Book Club](https://silentbook.club/pages/about-us)** (the idea itself, where did it come from?) 📌 **[Contribution Tracker](https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1C_N9CN_pQO5aUYezqzQW4GS7pr8IfplchwG8-ruZ19g/edit?usp=sharing)** (spreadsheet for our private room experiment)

**History** The Columbus Museum of Art traces its roots to 1878, when it was founded as the Columbus Gallery of Fine Arts, becoming the first art museum chartered in Ohio. A group of civic leaders established it to bring touring exhibitions and build a public collection. In 1887, it merged with the Columbus Art School (now CCAD) fostering a long partnership in arts education. Initially without a permanent home, the museum operated from temporary spaces until 1919, when art patron Francis C. Sessions deeded his Victorian mansion on East Broad Street to house the growing institution. As collections expanded in the early 20th century, the need for a dedicated building became clear. The Sessions mansion was demolished, and a new Italian Renaissance Revival structure was erected on the same site, opening to the public in 1931. This elegant building, with its grand steps and arches, remains the museum's core today and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1992. Key early acquisitions, like the Ferdinand Howald Collection of modernist works, helped establish its focus on American and European art. In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, the museum evolved significantly. It added the Ross Wing in 1974 for exhibitions and renamed itself the Columbus Museum of Art in 1978 during its centennial. A major renovation and expansion completed in 2015 introduced the Margaret M. Walter Wing and Center for Creativity, emphasizing interactive experiences. In 2018, the donation of the Pizzuti Collection and its Short North building expanded the museum's reach into contemporary art, solidifying its role as a dynamic cultural hub. The Columbus Museum of Art boasts a strong collection of late 19th- and early 20th-century European modern art, featuring well-known masters like Claude Monet, whose Impressionist landscapes capture light and atmosphere in ways familiar to many. Visitors can also encounter works by Henri Matisse, renowned for his bold use of color, and Edgar Degas, famous for his graceful depictions of ballerinas and everyday scenes. The museum's early Cubist holdings include pieces by Pablo Picasso, offering glimpses into his revolutionary fragmented style that reshaped modern art. On the American side, the collection highlights iconic figures such as Edward Hopper, whose evocative paintings of urban solitude and quiet American life are widely recognized, and Norman Rockwell, celebrated for his heartfelt illustrations of everyday Americana that have appeared on countless magazine covers. These accessible works by household-name artists provide an inviting entry point for those new to art museums, blending European innovation with distinctly American storytelling. **Summary** For this event, we will tour the [Columbus Museum of Art](https://www.columbusmuseum.org/), which is always free on Sundays. Afterward, we will head over to the nearby, highly-rated, and popular Gemüt Biergarten for drinks and food. Columbus's art museum is not large, and we won't need to rush through in order to see everything. However, it's a little windy (with a long "i") and maze-like in spots, and if you've never gone through it before, it can be a little confusing at first. **Tickets and Pricing** The Museum is free on Sundays. **Parking** The short answer here is that you can park for free (in the Safe Auto lot) when you visit the Museum on weekends. The longer answer is that the Museum has a dedicated parking lot, whose entrance and exit are on E Gay St, just north of Broad St. You can see this parking lot [here on Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Columbus+Museum+Of+Art+Parking/@39.9648853,-82.9882364,18.67z/data=!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x883888d20177f111:0xbf595a71d9d8c8c5!2sColumbus+Museum+of+Art!8m2!3d39.9642074!4d-82.9878972!16zL20vMDM0Z3F6!3m5!1s0x883888d21f05e00f:0xb72a56e4ac2d4fba!8m2!3d39.9651763!4d-82.9881746!16s%2Fg%2F11f3pdx3tx?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTIwOS4wIKXMDSoKLDEwMDc5MjA3MUgBUAM%3D). This parking has normally been $7, unless you buy something either in the Museum's gift shop or café, in which case it's $5 (you have to bring your receipt to the Museum's front desk to get this discount). However, the Museum is currently in the process of upgrading their parking lot's intercom (or some such), and until such time as this is completed, parking in this lot is free. Once this upgrade is complete, though, the charge is likely to increase from $7 to $10. This upgrade is supposed to be done by the time we run this event, but given how these things work, I wouldn't be totally surprised if it's not complete by then. You'll know the lot is free if the gate arms to both the entrance and exit are fixed in a raised position when you arrive. However, there's a large parking lot for Safe Auto on the other side of N Washington Ave, between Boone St and Hutton Pl. You can see this parking lot [here on Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/place/39%C2%B057'54.4%22N+82%C2%B059'13.9%22W/@39.9651069,-82.9884087,18z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m4!3m3!8m2!3d39.965105!4d-82.987191?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTIwOS4wIKXMDSoKLDEwMDc5MjA3MUgBUAM%3D). Visitors to the Museum may always park for free in this lot on weekends. **The End of History** After completing our dissertation in [Art Appreciation](https://www.facebook.com/groups/879880336006462/posts/1734229683904852/), we'll head over to the highly-rated [Gemüt Biergarten](https://www.gemutbiergarten.com/) for [drinks and food](https://www.gemutbiergarten.com/#full-menu). The brewery is located in [Olde Towne East](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Olde+Towne+East,+Columbus,+OH/@39.9600896,-82.9935095,14z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x883888c29b9d98cb:0x55fc96810facc832!8m2!3d39.9579938!4d-82.9761254!16s%2Fm%2F026vlz4?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTIwOS4wIKXMDSoKLDEwMDc5MjA3MUgBUAM%3D), and its actual address is [734 Oak St, Columbus, OH 43205](https://www.google.com/maps/place/734+Oak+St,+Columbus,+OH+43205/@39.9633755,-82.9808618,16z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x883888c53426d289:0x4aec638d8a5195d4!8m2!3d39.9633755!4d-82.9808618!16s%2Fg%2F11c4wy250w?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTIwOS4wIKXMDSoKLDEwMDc5MjA3MUgBUAM%3D). Gemüt Biergarten has a free parking lot that isn't small but also isn't huge. Street parking, however, is always free across Columbus on [Sundays and holidays](https://www.columbus.gov/files/sharedassets/city/v/1/public-service/right-of-way-permit/on-street-parking-out-of-service-policy-and-procedure-final-8.15.2022-signed.pdf), so I think we'll be okay with parking. The bigger issue may be the weather. The brewery has a good-sized outdoor patio that is covered and heated in the winter. However, that doesn't mean this patio will be warm. The inside of the brewery is "okay-sized," but again, the brewery is popular and by the time we get there, we may have no choice but to sit outside. If it's cold, I can and will ask them to fire up some of their additional outdoor heaters, which I think should be enough, but please bring something to keep you warm just in case we end up outside. Finally, while food at the Biergarten can be a little overpriced, in my experience it is excellent, and you are likely to enjoy whatever you get. We should be there by 1:00 if you can't make the Museum and just want to meet us for drinks.

We will meet next to the restrooms at the [Big Meadows Picnic Area](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/HBK_Web_1980.png). They're all the way at the back of the park, and they can be found at coordinates [40°09'06.6"N 83°02'30.2"W](https://www.google.com/maps/place/40%C2%B009'06.6%22N+83%C2%B002'30.2%22W/@40.151828,-83.0423587,214m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m10!1m5!3m4!2zNDDCsDA5JzA4LjAiTiA4M8KwMDEnNDUuMSJX!8m2!3d40.1522222!4d-83.0291944!3m3!8m2!3d40.151827!4d-83.041715?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTIwNC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) (near the playground and the zip line). We'll hike about 5 miles at [Highbanks Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/highbanks/) on the Dripping Rock and Overlook Trails. Afterward, we'll head over to [Olentangy River Brewing](https://www.olentangybrew.com/) for drinks, coffee, or food (their Sunday [food truck](https://www.olentangybrew.com/eventsandfood) is Venezuelan and always gets good reviews). The actual address of the brewery is [303 Green Meadows Dr S, 43035](https://www.google.com/maps/place/303+Green+Meadows+Dr+S,+Lewis+Center,+OH+43035/@40.1551938,-83.0144045,17.25z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x8838f395cef06c97:0xe407de61b3e30069!8m2!3d40.1551765!4d-83.0124352!16s%2Fg%2F11c26jc7j9?entry=ttu). If you can't make the hike, we should be there by noon. **How to find our starting point in Big Meadows:** If you are new to Highbanks, the Big Meadows picnic area is 1.5 miles into the park just after you turn into the park off of U.S. Route 23. That is, after you enter the park, drive a mile and a half into the park. You will come to a crosswalk with a yield sign in the middle of it (this is not to be confused with the first such crosswalk you come to just in front of the Nature Center, which you arrive at maybe a quarter of a mile into the park). Just after this second crosswalk, make a left. Then make another almost immediate left into the parking lot on your left. There you will see the jungle gym and the kiddie zip line to your left. I will be just in front of the restrooms just a bit further down from the jungle gym and picnic shelter; the restroom building will also be on your left.

COLUMBUS RECREATION CENTERS require membership fee to play. Register & Pay at the desk when you arrive. $5 day pass is available. I have some extra pickle ball paddles and balls if you don’t have one. Definitely bring your own paddle if you have one and bring some balls if you have them. Legal Stuff: The event hosts/Organizers are just fellow member volunteers. By participating in any event, you assume all risks of liability and injury inherent in these activities. You are responsible for your own safety and for determining if you are in condition fit to participate. You are also responsible for knowing and abiding by all laws and rules during your participation in any event.
 Photos & or Video: by attending these events you acknowledge photos and or video may be taken and used on this and other platforms.

We'll play board games at the [Land-Grant Brewing Company](https://landgrantbrewing.com/). They have multiple [food trucks](https://landgrantbrewing.com/food/) on Sundays. Ray Ray's also has coffee, and the brewery has free water (and Jeni's ice cream). You can come late or leave early. Please just sign up so I know to expect you. **Notes on Parking** * You'll (probably) have to park on the street, but street parking is free on Sundays. * There are [parking garages](https://landgrantbrewing.com/parking/) a little farther away if you want. These are obviously not free, though. * There is a [lot next door](https://www.google.com/maps/place/39%C2%B057'26.0%22N+83%C2%B000'40.9%22W/@39.957211,-83.0119921,19z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m12!1m7!3m6!1s0x88388f3efd89238b:0xc139207386232411!2sLand-Grant+Brewing+Company!8m2!3d39.9577613!4d-83.011426!16s%2Fg%2F1pzt7t9df!3m3!8m2!3d39.957211!4d-83.011347?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDEyMS4wIKXMDSoKLDEwMDc5MjA3MUgBUAM%3D) to the brewery that you're allowed to park in, but it is not free. I've never parked there, so I don't know anything about rates. (I'm told though that if you eat at Milo's Deli next door to this lot that Milo's will stamp your parking so it's free.) * You're going to see odd signs on [Lucas St](https://www.google.com/maps/place/39%C2%B057'26.1%22N+83%C2%B000'40.3%22W/@39.957256,-83.0124134,19z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m10!1m5!3m4!2zMznCsDU3JzI4LjgiTiA4M8KwMDAnNDEuNSJX!8m2!3d39.957993!4d-83.011536!3m3!8m2!3d39.957256!4d-83.011197?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDEyMS4wIKXMDSoKLDEwMDc5MjA3MUgBUAM%3D) (saying it's a "private street") that will lead you to believe you're not allowed to park there, but you actually are. * Columbus parking cops literally do not work on Sundays. This means that, even if you're driving a non-EV, you can park in the EV spots near the brewery. **Games** I do bring many games, but please bring some of your own as well.

***(She loves me!)* A Brief History of Quarry Trails** [Quarry Trails Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/quarry-trails/) traces its origins to a vast limestone quarry operated by the Marble Cliff Quarry Company starting in the early 20th century. The site, located along the Scioto River west of downtown, supplied crushed stone for local construction projects and roads throughout central Ohio. Operations peaked mid-century, with massive excavation creating deep pits and steep cliffs that reshaped the landscape. By the 1980s, demand declined, and the southern section of the quarry closed (with the northern section of the quarry remaining in operation to this day by a separate company), leaving behind scarred terrain and abandoned equipment. Environmental concerns arose as the area became a dumping ground and off-road playground for locals. Columbus Metro Parks began eyeing the property in the 1990s for potential reclamation into public green space. In 2015, Metro Parks acquired the initial 180 acres from the quarry's owners, marking a pivotal step toward transformation. Thrive Companies, a local developer, partnered in the deal to build adjacent housing while funding park improvements. Cleanup efforts removed tons of debris, stabilized cliffs, and addressed water quality in the flooded quarries. Planners envisioned a mix of adventure and preservation, incorporating the site's industrial remnants as features. Community input from nearby Grandview Heights and Hilliard residents shaped early designs. The project gained momentum with state and federal grants supporting habitat restoration. The park officially opened its first phase in November 2021, featuring 3.5 miles of trails, a waterfall overlook, and climbing walls on the quarry faces. Visitors quickly embraced the unique terrain, with mountain biking loops and a 25-foot waterfall drawing crowds from across the metro area. Metro Parks added a canoe/kayak launch on the Scioto River, connecting to the city's broader trail network. Dog parks and picnic areas rounded out the amenities, making it a year-round destination. Expansion continued with land acquisitions pushing the total toward 600 acres. By 2023, the park hosted events like guided hikes and birdwatching tours. Ongoing development includes a planned adventure center with zip lines and more extensive single-track trails set for completion in the coming years. Metro Parks collaborates with conservation groups to plant native species and monitor wildlife returning to the reclaimed quarries. The site now serves as an educational hub, with interpretive signs explaining its quarrying past and ecological recovery. Local schools incorporate field trips to study geology and restoration science. Quarry Trails exemplifies Columbus's shift from industrial reuse to innovative urban parks. It stands as the newest addition to the Metro Parks system, complementing favorites like Scioto Audubon and Highbanks. Today, Quarry Trails continues evolving, with future phases adding connections to the Olentangy Trail and more water access points. Annual visitor numbers have surged, boosting nearby businesses in the evolving west side neighborhoods. The park's success has inspired similar reclamation projects elsewhere in the region. It highlights how Columbus balances growth with green space preservation. Residents enjoy a one-of-a-kind spot that honors the area's gritty history while offering modern recreation. Quarry Trails remains a testament to community vision and adaptive reuse in our city. ***(She loves me not.)* A Briefer History of Valentine's Day** The origins of Valentine's Day trace back to ancient Rome and the festival of Lupercalia, celebrated in mid-February to honor fertility and purification rites. During this raucous event, young men drew names of women from a box in a matchmaking lottery, often leading to pairings or marriages. By the late 5th century, Pope Gelasius I officially replaced Lupercalia with St. Valentine's Day on February 14 to Christianize the pagan holiday. Although several early Christian martyrs were named Valentine, the most commonly associated figure is a 3rd-century Roman priest who secretly married couples against Emperor Claudius II's ban on young men marrying, believing single soldiers fought better. Legend claims Valentine was imprisoned and later executed on February 14, around 269–270 AD. The romantic associations with Valentine's Day emerged much later, during the Middle Ages. The pivotal moment came in the late 14th century when Geoffrey Chaucer, in his poem "Parlement of Foules" (c. 1381), linked St. Valentine's Day with courtship, writing that birds chose their mates on this date. This literary connection spread rapidly among the English and French nobility, transforming the saint's feast day into a celebration of romantic love. By the 15th century, lovers began exchanging handwritten notes called "valentines," often containing verses or simple declarations of affection. In the 18th and 19th centuries, Valentine's Day became increasingly commercialized, especially in England and later the United States. The introduction of printed valentines in the 1840s, pioneered by Esther Howland in America, turned personal notes into mass-produced cards adorned with lace, ribbons, and Cupid imagery. Factories began producing elaborate cards, and the tradition of giving flowers (especially roses), chocolates, and jewelry took hold during the Victorian era. Today, February 14 is one of the most widely celebrated secular holidays worldwide, generating billions in spending on cards, candy, flowers, and romantic dinners. While still officially the feast day of Saint Valentine in some Christian traditions, the modern version has largely shed its religious roots in favor of universal expressions of love and friendship. From ancient fertility rites to global commercial phenomenon, Valentine's Day has evolved dramatically over two millennia while retaining its core focus on human connection. ***(She loves me!)* Map of the Park** Here is a [Map of Quarry Trails](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Quarry-Trails_JUNE-2025_1980px-Web.jpg). ***(She loves me not.)* Summary** For this hike, we'll do a loop of the park. This will be about four miles. Now, this won't be one of our longer hikes. However, in my experience, Quarry Trails tends to wear people out more quickly than other parks. I suspect this is because most of the trails are either paved or heavily graveled (no surprise at a park which abuts an active stone quarry), with some elevation changes along the way. ***(She loves me!)* Where We'll Meet** Quarry Trails has multiple entrances, but none of them are connected internally within the park. So you must drive to the correct one for this event. Set your GPS to [2319 Quarry Trails Dr, Hilliard, OH 43026](https://www.google.com/maps/place/2319+Quarry+Trails+Dr,+Hilliard,+OH+43026/@39.9998462,-83.0873077,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x883891dd76f5eedf:0xf1cb9d34c1069580!8m2!3d39.9997868!4d-83.0872621!16s%2Fg%2F11y17k0ms5?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTExMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D), or use the map pin I've provided here. Do not just type "Quarry Trails" into Google Maps and expect it to take you to the correct place. It probably won't. We will meet in the parking lot of the Lake Area. The best entrance to this parking lot will be your first left off of Quarry Trails Dr after Gunnison Dr (which will be on your right). I recommend taking a few minutes and looking at Maps before you head out to make sure you know where you're going. ***(So walk with me...)* Restrooms and Water Fountains** There are a few port-a-potties sprinkled throughout the park (including two at the parking lot we'll be meeting at), and the Park Office, roughly in the center of the park and which we'll pass twice on this hike, has restrooms and a water fountain. This is the only water fountain, though, at Quarry Trails. ***(At Trails Quarry!*)** **After the Hike** Afterward, we'll head over to [Johnnie's Tavern](https://johnniestavern614.com/) for [drinks](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Johnnie's+Tavern/@39.993202,-83.0903169,3a,75y,90t/data=!3m8!1e2!3m6!1sCIABIhAulLarLYZC3hY_vRGwoakV!2e10!3e12!6shttps:%2F%2Flh3.googleusercontent.com%2Fgps-cs-s%2FAG0ilSzkwnMN29-lrgzp50Rzeaq5jXCGM1xLS1poH0Mc52-E9NYBvdS99ei7zGmlAYJZyk8OeNW5YvS7agj8M2Bom4ri1m_-NcJiT-LQUDphkS-SB5Vq8JhO-8NSP-_m80HeLz4-pGhjrwhuBKSv%3Dw146-h195-k-no!7i4284!8i5712!4m7!3m6!1s0x883891c4d61ba04d:0x5134f225cbf678bf!8m2!3d39.9932439!4d-83.0902078!10e9!16s%2Fg%2F11c1p57s3t?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTExMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) and [food](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Johnnie's+Tavern/@39.993202,-83.0903169,3a,75y,90t/data=!3m8!1e2!3m6!1sCIABIhB5lD4Uly_4O9BjNH4r3ywB!2e10!3e12!6shttps:%2F%2Flh3.googleusercontent.com%2Fgps-cs-s%2FAG0ilSy7tQcc7CtCeuUAKwEVJoxtOs8Ycohjy3mGZZOC_kJVdB8wEaGuC4-p5z_jxn2JnpmSEkh_HG7Aok_ZPEgmK57rEBqNIPH8J5tiyAP5vbrRYkUso_fKTkW5vJc47UusNoGiRzs2Vf0m1JcV%3Dw146-h195-k-no!7i4284!8i5712!4m7!3m6!1s0x883891c4d61ba04d:0x5134f225cbf678bf!8m2!3d39.9932439!4d-83.0902078!10e9!16s%2Fg%2F11c1p57s3t?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTExMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D). Its actual address is [3503 Trabue Rd, Columbus, OH 43204](https://www.google.com/maps/place/3503+Trabue+Rd,+Columbus,+OH+43204/@39.9932491,-83.090227,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x883891c4d6199677:0x1fda03b0add81e7c!8m2!3d39.9932491!4d-83.090227!16s%2Fg%2F11c14yf3m6?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTExMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D), and it's only about a five minute drive from where we'll be parked at Quarry Trails. We should be at the tavern by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to meet us for drinks.