Roller Coasters
Meet other local roller coaster aficionados to discuss everything about these exhilarating rides.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Check out roller coasters events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.
Discover all the roller coasters events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.
Absolutely! Find roller coasters events near your location here. Connect with your local community and discover events within your area.
Roller Coasters Events Today
Join in-person Roller Coasters events happening right now
Guided Meditations - Subconscious Patterns
Join us on **Fridays, 18:00 - 19:30** at **Lapinlahden Lähde** for a free session where we’ll explore the topic of the week. **After 19:30**, you're welcome to hang out with us. Depending on what the group decides, we sometimes:
\- stay in\, enjoy tea and cookies and play board games
\- go out for dinner or order food\, feel free to bring your meal
\- Just engage in conversations
✅ Your **RSVP counts as your registration**, we expect you to **honour it**.
🤝 All conversations are confidential. What’s shared, stays in the group.
🌿 Small group, big heart: Everyone gets a chance to share.
🧘♀️ Come comfy, come curious.
💧 Bring water. Skip heavy meals & caffeine.
📍 **Tallipääty, Lapinlahdenpolku 8, Helsinki**
(Through the gate, first door on the left!)
**Kind reminder:** Last-minute cancellations or no-shows mean others miss out. To keep it fair, repeated cases may result in losing the spot in future sessions.
If you want to be part of the MIITTI community, follow us on our other platforms:
IG: [instagram.com/miitti1](http://instagram.com/miitti1)
Facebook: [facebook.com/miitti1](http://facebook.com/miitti1)
Web: [lapinlahdenlahde.fi/projekti/miitti](http://lapinlahdenlahde.fi/projekti/miitti)
Whatsapp: Join our Whatsapp community network to join your favourite group and stay connected with the other members! When you participate in one of our groups or events, just ask the group facilitator to add you to the community!
BTCHEL Fridays
THANK GOD IT'S FRIDAY!
Welcome to pay a visit to BTCHEL HUB every Friday from 10am to 6pm, as we launch a new meetup concept: BTCHEL Fridays!
BTCHEL Fridays is when the community hub has open doors for anyone to pay a visit, when the active Helsinki bitcoiner scene gathers together under one roof.
The BTCHEL Hub is a versatile physical space for workshops, meetups, parties, movie nights, game nights and of course, co-working office where all the members are building together!
Join us every friday at your convince! Coffee is on the house ☕️ You'll find us from google maps!
Learn more about us from BTCHEL.com
Play Badminton Friday [Competitive Games] @Smash Center
【IMPORTANT SUMMARY】
* The purpose of competitive game session is to enjoy badminton games by focusing on trying your best to win the games.
* You don't need to be a very good player to join this session. Our level range from beginner to intermediate. We will put you to play with people with similar level. But if you are the first time to come and I don't know your level, then I will put you to play with less-experienced players to start.
* Please purchase your slot through this link [https://7538e9.myshopify.com/](https://7538e9.myshopify.com/) Please also read the instruction inside this link, so that you have an idea how it works.
* Please bring feather shuttles to join the games. We only accept specific shuttles. Please read the following. **If you come without bringing feather shuttles with you, I may ask you to go home.**
【SIGN-UP SYSTEM】
* Please sign up and pay through this link. [https://7538e9.myshopify.com/products/competitive-game](https://7538e9.myshopify.com/products/competitive-game)
* We don't use the signup system on Meetup.com anymore. (Neither the waiting list)
* It says this event is full on this meetup page, because I didn't open any slots here for you to sign up. You have to check this [sign-up page](https://7538e9.myshopify.com/products/competitive-game) to see if there is still a slot available there.
* The background of using an external sign-up and payment system is because Meetup.com introduced a service fee to increase 21% of the fee in May 2023, and we want to reduce this cost.
【FEE and REFUND POLICY】
* Fee includes courts and the work I do to continue this group. Please sign up and pay before you come. NO refund if you do not cancel until 48 hours before the event.
* Racket: bring one or rent one at the counter.
* No matter the reason is sickness, accident or anything, the group or I will not afford the cost caused by your absence.
* Of course you CAN'T ask me, "Can I sign up for free for next week because I didn't come to use my slot this week?". Please remember, the court booked for you is there and it costs money. The court doesn't simply become "free of charge", just because you didn't show up.
【COMMUNICATION】
* Communication: our whatsapp group [https://chat.whatsapp.com/JJQbJlisbcj5YDnlcSu347](https://chat.whatsapp.com/JJQbJlisbcj5YDnlcSu347)
* There are too many spams, so I only accept +358 number to join whatsapp group. Numbers from other countries will all be rejected.
【DETAILS of COMPETITIVE GAMES】
* This is the list of shuttles we accept:
RSL Classic Tourney, Academy
Li-Ning Super 1000
Victor Smash It 1, 2, 3
Ling Mei 70, 80, 90
Ling Mei Gold, Black
Yonex Aerosansa 30, 20, 10
NCS Pro, MAX
* Smash Center also sells feather shuttles (Ling Mei Gold and Black). You can purchase there at your arrival.
【OTHERS】
* Please always keep 1 meter away from those courts where people are playing. Never step into the corners of other courts! If I see you do this, I probably will yell at you!
* If you have some questions, you can put your questions in the comments on the event page. People will respond.
* If you are new to badminton, please Google basic badminton rules in advance. Serve rules, double rules and point counting rules. You are always welcome to ask anyone in our group. Most of our members are more than happy to help you.
* Badminton activity is organized for non-profit purpose, but I take a small fee for my work.
* Want to restring your racket? I can do restring for you. €24 including the string. Please get contact with Ken.
[https://drive.google.com/file/d/1XdBBBKBmsHqvMyI7t1MttqOxwX8rs7vQ/view?usp=sharing](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1XdBBBKBmsHqvMyI7t1MttqOxwX8rs7vQ/view?usp=sharing)
* You want to pay with your sport card or voucher? check the bottom of the page. Click "read more" [https://www.meetup.com/Helsinki-Badminton-Meetup/](https://www.meetup.com/Helsinki-Badminton-Meetup/)
Saraab - We Are Stories
East Helsinki should be an independent country. Where people stand for things. Empathy, compassion, gratitude and everything good and left. Where everyone would make a lot of sense, love and tell so many stories. This evening is about the story part. The stories of sandwiches, liberty, chai, fishing, relocation, resistance, and whatever. Come and listen to some of them with us, have a cup of tea or soup of the day.
If you want to tell a story or perform then send us a request at saraab.helsinki@gmail.com We will also have some stories from the hat, so come-check the vibe and put your name in the hat if you feel like telling one.
Red card to racists, queerphobes/islamophobes, climate change deniers. We also have a lifetime entry ban for Putin, Erdogan, Netanyahu and Donald Trump.
If you are going through a lot, we are on your side. Meri-Rastila for life, because east is a tribe, a vibe.
Free entry – Refreshments available for purchase at the store nearby
Doors open / Hangout: 19:00
Program: 20:00 – 22:00
Hangout 22:00 – 23:00
P.s. Straight white middle-aged people can also join
saraab.helsinki@gmail.com
Women's Wellbeing Group
Warm welcome to MIITTI's Wellbeing for Women!
Join us weekly for different activities that support your mental and physical wellbeing, while giving you opportunity to connect with others.
**IMPORTANT**: Spots are limited, so please make sure to reserve yours!
Wellbeing for women means honouring your body, mind, and emotions with compassion and care. These wellbeing sessions will nurture and support your relationships, and make space for rest and growth, because true wellbeing empowers you to live confidently, authentically and in balance with your own needs.
WHEN & WHERE:
Fridays at 10-12
Tallipääty, MIITTI office
Lapinlahden Lähde
Lapinlahdenpolku 8
00180 Helsinki
Warm welcome!
If you want to be part of the MIITTI community, follow us on our other platforms:
WhatsApp: Join our Whatsapp community network to join your favourite group and stay connected with the other members! When you participate in one of our groups or events, just ask the group facilitator to add you to the community!
[Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/miitti1)
[Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/miitti1)
[Website](https://lapinlahdenlahde.fi/en/projekti/miitti)
Finnish Language Café
Learning Finnish in Finland can be difficult because Finns tend to switch to English. That is one of the reasons people like our Finnish language café: you get to practice Finnish with Finns :)
The events are completely free and there is always a native speaker to facilitate the conversation and to help find the right words. The coffee is good too ☕😋🇦🇹
Tervetuloa!
When? ⏰
Usually Tuesday to Friday from 15:00 - 16:00
Where? 📍
In a cozy Viennese coffee house: The Good Coffee Company, Eerikinkatu 33, Helsinki
The Good Coffee Company
A Taste of Vienna 🇦🇹
Eerikinkatu 33, 00180 Helsinki
Please visit our Facebook page for updates and changes:
https://www.facebook.com/TheGoodCoffeeCompany/events
Mysterious Strangers with Agatha Christie
Now Its Time for the second story of
🖤 Mysterious Strangers
A white-themed party with drinks, music, and a strange Agatha Christie type story —
the night is built around questions, small games, and a bit of mystery that quietly pushes people to interact based on the mystery of the questions
A dark, immersive night where conversations don’t happen by accident.Where a few simple questions, a bit of mystery, and the right atmosphere turn strangers into something more interesting.
🍸 Mysterious drinks
🎧 Music
🎲 Interactive games
🖤 A themed, dark vibe
👥 Unexpected connections
No scripts. No pressure.Just
📍 GTC Café, Helsinki🗓 May 22nd | 20:00 – 23:00
Limited spots — RSVP to join
We have three packages
* Entrance 14,9 €
* Entrance and One Alcoholic Drink 24,9 €
* Entrance, Once Alcoholic and Special Role in the night game 34,9 €
Roller Coasters Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
Sunday breakfast: testing challenges
Sunday morning as a good time for talking about challenges, isn't it?
We're kicking off Helsinki's first breakfast testing community — and what better place to start than **[Robert's Coffee Jugend](https://robertscoffee.com/roberts-coffee-jugend/)**, one of the coziest spots in the city.
Come talk testing: automation, quality culture, AI in QA, exploratory testing, war stories — or whatever's been on your mind lately. No slides, no agenda, just practitioners talking shop over a warm cup.
👋 First timers, veterans, and everyone in between — all welcome. ☕ Grab your coffee, find a seat, and let's see where the conversation goes.
See you Sunday morning!
Social Walking Tour: Strollin' In The City + Classic Cars
If you're looking for the easiest event to join on Meetup, you just found it! Join our free social walking tours and explore Helsinki with a local who knows every corner of the city.
Our walk takes place on Saturdays at 12 o'clock, weather permitting. The tours typically last around 60 to 90 minutes. Afterward, we can join one of the nearby cafés for socializing.
This event is for everyone! Whether you're a tourist, new to Helsinki, or a local who wants to come along for a leisurely walk, you're warmly welcome. See you there!
THIS WEEK:
Ruoholahti - Eira - Senaatintori
Difficulty: Easy
Approximate duration: 70 minutes
Meeting point: Ruoholahti metro station (outside by the entrance doors)
This week, we'll end up at the Classic Car Parade 2026.
Event page: https://www.x-treme.fi/classiccarparade/
Sketchy Collective: Helsinki Drawing Meetup (15:00 Helsinki time)
**HOW TO FIND US**
Outdoors: We meet **every Sunday at 15:00** in the **Töölönlahti Park**, opposite the entrance to Pikku-Finlandia. If you’re walking from Oodi, pass the playground with the big swings and the volleyball court. On the left, you’ll find us in the **area with benches, hammocks, and yellow chairs**.
Indoors: When it's cold or rainy we move to the **top floor** of the **Oodi** Library, on the stairs opposite the children’s area.
It's a good idea to **keep your sketchbook visible** so others can easily recognize that you're there for the sketching meetup. And if you’re a regular participant, making it clear that you're part of the sketching group can be very helpful for newcomers!
\*\*\*
**HOW IT WORKS**
At each meetup, attendees take turns being the model for a quick **10-minute sketch session**. One person poses, everyone else sketches, then we rotate.
\*\*\*
**WHAT TO BRING**
Pencils and paper (or any sketching tools you like).
No fees, no pressure. The only thing we ask is that everyone takes a turn posing for the group. You can sit however you feel comfortable — the 10 minutes go by quickly! Draw as much as you like, skip a round if you’re tired or just want to chat, and leave whenever it suits you. The event continues as long as there’s interest.
\*\*\*
**STAYING CONNECTED**
Our communication channel is a WhatsApp group. To be added, please ask one of the other meetup participants - a few members have permission to approve new people, and at least one of them will likely be present.
\*\*\*
**SOCIAL MEDIA**
If you’d like to share your drawings from the meetup, you can send on WhatsApp group or use the Instagram collab function (instagram.com/sketchy.collective). We warmly encourage everyone to share their work and take part in building our international sketching gallery — together with artists from all the cities where Sketchy Collective meetups are organized.
Badminton at Tali
Hello sporty population!
Join us for badminton and meet people from around the world! Everyone is welcome, whether you’re a beginner or already experienced.
**IMPORTANT**: Spots are limited, so please reserve yours in advance. Only registered participants can join to ensure fair access for everyone. If you mark “going” but do not attend, or fail to cancel at least 1 day before(By 9pm Saturday), you may be suspended from the next two sessions.
📍 Location: Talihalli Huopalahti
⏰ Time: 11:00–12:30
🏸 Courts: 9, 10, and 11
You can meet us at the entrance a little before 11:00 or come directly to the courts (**please do not enter before our booking starts**).
Who can join?
• Open to everyone, regardless of background or gender
• No badminton skills needed – beginners are welcome
• **Age limit: 16+**
Event is free, but please bring your rackets and indoor shoes, or you can borrow a racket from the hall for free if needed.
We are committed to making our events and activities accessible to those who need them most. Therefore, **individuals with a refugee background are welcome to attend free of charge without prior registration.** If you plan to join, simply send a message to Alaa to let us know you’re coming.
This approach is intentional. Many refugees and newcomers face practical, cultural, and psychological barriers that can make formal registration difficult or discouraging. By removing this requirement, we aim to create a more inclusive, low-threshold environment where participation feels safe, simple, and welcoming.
Our events are designed to support the mental health and well-being of refugees and immigrants, while also encouraging dialogue that challenges cross-cultural stigmas and stereotypes. We believe open access is an important step in building trust, increasing participation, and creating meaningful connections across communities.
After badminton, we'll enjoy Talihalli's sauna and maybe go to a local restaurant to grab some lunch after the game.
Warm welcome!
📞 Questions / Contact:
Alaa – 040 5656096
Arun - 050 3206169
If you want to be part of the MIITTI community, follow us on our other platforms:
WhatsApp: Join our Whatsapp community network to join your favourite group and stay connected with the other members! When you participate in one of our groups or events, just ask the group facilitator to add you to the community!
[Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/miitti1)
[Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/miitti1)
[Website](https://lapinlahdenlahde.fi/en/projekti/miitti)
Founders Running Club :: Helsinki
**Founders Running Club** (FRC) brings founders, investors, tech, creative people and startup enthusiasts together for weekly easy runs and networking. We like to be comfortable when we run and finish with coffee and conversations. Choose your pace or follow a pacer—pets, friends, family, are welcome.
🗓️ Launched in San Francisco, July 16, 2022
🌍 Now in 35+ cities
📅 Running + Networking events + Community
**Join the community** [http://foundersrc.com/chats](http://foundersrc.com/chats)
**Stay updated**:
Instagram [http://instagram.com/foundersrc/](http://instagram.com/foundersrc/)
Podcast [http://podcast.foundersrc.com/](http://podcast.foundersrc.com/)
LinkedIn [http://linkedin.com/company/foundersrc/](http://linkedin.com/company/foundersrc/)
Strava [http://strava.com/clubs/foundersRC](http://strava.com/clubs/foundersRC)
Website [http://foundersrc.com/](http://foundersrc.com/)
Ren Xue Yuan Gong
Welcome to join our Ren Xue Yuan Gong practice with Ren Xue Finland at Lapinlahden Lähde!
The practice is simple but yet practical and powerful.
It is easy to learn and will help you:
-gain energy, feel less tired and stressed
-more mental clarity, easier to concentrate
-boost your immune system
Time:
Sundays 15:30 - 17:00
WHERE:
Tallipääty, MIITTI office
Lapinlahden Lähde
Lapinlahdenpolku 8
00180 Helsinki
NOTE: occasionally, the lesson will be held in Wanha labra (through Kahvila Lähde, above the stairs of the auditorium)
About REN XUE
Ren Xue is a comprehensive system for uplifting human life. It includes a unique form of Qigong (Yuan Qigong); three foundational theories (Theory of Qi, Theory of Consciousness, Theory of Totality) and a large body of teachings.
It was created by world-renowned teacher and healer Yuan Tze who continues to offer online and in-person events worldwide.
Ren Xue combines ancient Chinese wisdom traditions with modern insights into health and well-being.
The goal of Ren Xue is to help individuals improve their physical, emotional, and mental health through a holistic approach that emphasizes the connection between the mind, body, and spirit.
REN XUE FINLAND
Ren Xue Finland (RXF) is the Finnish branch of the global movement, an organization dedicated to the promotion and teaching of Ren Xue and its associated practices, including Yuan Gong and Yuan Ming Medicine.
It provides easy entry into the Ren Xue system through local in-person sessions, online courses and workshops/retreats.
Other learning methods can be found here: Ren Xue TV, a YouTube channel and Learn Ren Xue website. More about Ren Xue: [https://www.renxueinternational.org](https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.renxueinternational.org%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR06uJQRSC7BE3zhPePQ7X_KO7WXa60cr7NK25KdOqfbSIHpYqBLO3dYgVM_aem_alDR7a6KhbNhG3u9NhCUVA&h=AT18asmYaRkvHCJemaC7rr9GVu579uflDCg7T6mLNodWdtMVhuxwFhIyz0p5ONeJbm3WQ3ZGIwONIa0_pDvih4t9BCCJUBkjhK4BdIMEl4aQ_qPzR5ykW-aiOndhYDPeAW9_2_eWZaMsv889HKbp8_c&__tn__=q&c%5B0%5D=AT35KTjVjr2kCnYHrXXjXPxEGFK-RFbZnFVdDmWrTe5WwbSZZ5ulNxFEjPPhejS8Pf4xetwkU1hhM1P2K_ABugpnXL6w-CKE25ARXwtLSexv-4fPJ4s2_Kcqgj3g2XWjCVkPPgcjwrPoNWOvdKa2f1VqyVa-2kcTojodTS3wn9zrnRjZLcG7)/
Play Badminton [Social Games] @Smash Center
【IMPORTANT SUMMARY】
* The purpose of social games is to know some people, do some exercise and enjoy the games together with others. Winning and getting points is not the focus of this session. Please play with consideration to your opponents' level.
* Please purchase your slot through this link [https://7538e9.myshopify.com/](https://7538e9.myshopify.com/)
【SIGN-UP SYSTEM】
* Please sign up and pay through this link. [https://7538e9.myshopify.com/products/social-game](https://7538e9.myshopify.com/products/social-game)
* We don't use the signup system on Meetup.com anymore. (Neither the waiting list)
* It says this event is full on this meetup page, because I didn't open any slots here for you to sign up. You have to check this [sign-up page](https://7538e9.myshopify.com/products/social-game) to see if there is still a slot available there.
* The background of using an external sign-up and payment system is because Meetup.com introduced a service fee to increase 21% of the fee in May 2023, and we want to reduce this cost.
【FEE and REFUND POLICY】
* Fee includes courts and plastic shuttles. Please sign up and pay before you come. NO refund if you do not cancel until 48 hours before the event.
* Racket: bring one or rent one at the counter.
* You can put a comment to sell your slot after the deadline of refund, or sell your slot in our whatsapp group.
* No matter the reason is sickness, accident or anything, the group or I will not afford the cost caused by your absence.
* Of course you CAN'T ask me, "Can I sign up for free for next week because I didn't come to use my slot this week?". Please remember, the court booked for you was there and it costs money. The court doesn't simply become "free of charge", just because you didn't come to use it.
【COMMUNICATION】
* Communication: our whatsapp group [https://chat.whatsapp.com/JJQbJlisbcj5YDnlcSu347](https://chat.whatsapp.com/JJQbJlisbcj5YDnlcSu347)
* There are too many spams, so I only accept +358 number to join whatsapp group. Numbers from other countries will all be rejected.
【OTHERS】
* Please always keep 1 meter away from those courts where people are playing. Never step into the corners of other courts! If I see you do this, I probably will yell at you!
* If you have some questions, you can put your questions in the comments on the event page. People will respond.
* We play double games to 21 points. After each game, please let those who are waiting to play. Feel free to play with whoever you want, but please avoid playing with the same people all the time.
* If you are new to badminton, please Google basic badminton rules in advance. Serve rules, double rules and point counting rules. You are always welcome to ask anyone in our group. Most of our members are more than happy to help you.
* Badminton activity is organized for non-profit purpose, but I take a small fee for my work.
* Want to restring your racket? I can do restring for you. €24 including the string. Please get contact with Ken.
[https://drive.google.com/file/d/1XdBBBKBmsHqvMyI7t1MttqOxwX8rs7vQ/view?usp=sharing](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1XdBBBKBmsHqvMyI7t1MttqOxwX8rs7vQ/view?usp=sharing)
* [https://www.meetup.com/Helsinki-Badminton-Meetup/](https://www.meetup.com/Helsinki-Badminton-Meetup/)
* You want to pay with your sport card or voucher? check the bottom of the page. Click "read more"
* https://www.meetup.com/Helsinki-Badminton-Meetup/[https://www.meetup.com/Helsinki-Badminton-Meetup/](https://www.meetup.com/Helsinki-Badminton-Meetup/)
Roller Coasters Events Near You
Connect with your local Roller Coasters community
What Causes Your Roller Coasters in Life?
Do you sometimes feel like you do well in life then something happens and you slide back, never quite getting ahead.
At this Meetup you'll find out how to identify what actually causes the lows, the highs and everything in between. More importantly you’ll get the secret of how to gain control over your life so the highs are higher and the lows go away.
Wouldn’t it be nice to stop the wild roller coaster ride for good? Or at least make it a fun roller coaster ride, with more ups and downs.
There is a hidden factor that will be going over and you’re going to be quite surprised what it is and how much it affects your life.
Be sure to click on the red "Attend" button below to come to the event. We look forward to seeing you there.
This group is hosted at the Dianetics and Scientology Life Improvement Center.
Trails & Ales! Blendon Woods Metro Park / Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery
**History**
The history of [Blendon Woods Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/blendon-woods/) began long before its 1951 opening, rooted in a landscape of rugged ridges and deep ravines that made the land unsuitable for traditional farming. In 1945, a report proposing a metropolitan park system for Franklin County specifically highlighted these cliffs of Bedford Shale as some of the "wildest land in the vicinity". Following this recommendation, the recently formed park district purchased the first 229 acres in early 1949. Because the terrain was so uneven, developers had to cut a mile-and-a-half-long roadway through dense woods just to bring in heavy equipment. This initial preservation effort ensured that the mature second-growth hardwood forests remained largely untouched by the urban expansion spreading toward Westerville.
Opening day arrived on Labor Day, September 3, 1951, marking Blendon Woods as the second park in the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks system. The final push to open was a frantic race; the State Highway Department only finished the primary gravel access road four days before the gates opened. Early staff members, consisting of just four full-time employees, had to hand-dig pit toilets and learn construction skills on the fly to build the first picnic shelters. Despite the dusty conditions and limited facilities, the park was an immediate success, drawing massive crowds from across Central Ohio. By the end of the 1950s, annual visitation had already climbed to over 190,000 people.
As the surrounding suburbs grew in the 1960s, the park faced severe overcrowding that threatened its natural habitats. In response, Franklin County voters passed the first Metro Parks levy in 1960, providing the funds necessary for a decade of steady expansion. During this era, the park nearly doubled in size, growing from 264 acres to over 570 acres by 1968. Planners also addressed a critical water shortage by collaborating with the U.S. Soil and Conservation Service to build a lake in 1964. This body of water originally served as a temporary reservoir before its role shifted toward conservation and wildlife support.
The 1970s marked a transition toward the specialized wildlife and educational focus for which the park is known today. In 1971, the Walden Waterfowl Refuge was established around the 11-acre Thoreau Lake, creating a sanctuary that remains restricted to provide a quiet habitat for migratory birds. A formal nature center was also developed during this period, expanding on the guided Sunday walks that had been a park staple since the early 1950s. The park’s famous "Monarch Mansion" also became a prominent fixture, starting a long tradition of raising and releasing thousands of monarch butterflies each September. These initiatives cemented the park’s reputation as a premier destination for birders and nature enthusiasts.
In more recent decades, Blendon Woods has continued to modernize while maintaining its wilderness character. The 10-acre Natural Play Area was added in 2017, encouraging kids to explore the ravines and woods off-trail. This was followed by the opening of a $1.5 million inclusive playground in April 2025, designed to accommodate children of all physical abilities. The nature center also underwent major renovations to include immersive, three-dimensional exhibits and a new butterfly house. Today, the park encompasses 653 acres, preserving a unique geologic and biological corridor amidst the bustling Westerville and Northeast Columbus area.
**Map of the Park**
Here is a map of [Blendon Woods](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/BLN_map_Inclusive-Playground-and-Butterfly-Trail_May-2025_1980px.png).
**Summary**
For this event, we will hike the Lake View, Hickory Ridge, Ripple Rock, Overlook, Brookside, and Sugarbush Trails. This sounds like a lot, but it will really be only a little over five miles. Blendon Woods has a few hills here and there, but it's not one of the more strenuous metro parks.
**Where We'll Meet**
We'll meet just in front of the Nature Center. This is about a mile into the park from the main entrance. You have to go past the Ranger Station and the Shadblow Reservable Area to get to it, so don't stop too early at the Ranger Station and get it confused with the Nature Center.
**After the Hike**
Afterward, we will head over to [Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/) at Easton for [drinks](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/#dinner-menu) and [food](https://forbiddenroot.com/wp-content/uploads/Cbus-Food.pdf). We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks.
The brewery's actual address is [4080 Worth Ave, Columbus, OH 43219](https://www.google.com/maps/place/4080+Worth+Ave,+Columbus,+OH+43219/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x88388a86d10b6619:0x4d42b470a5cf11d3?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111); however, I recommend pointing your GPS to the [Worth Garage](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Worth+Garage/@40.0542293,-82.9137962,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x88388b4df6082825:0x17582f0eccd9dda1!8m2!3d40.0542293!4d-82.9137962!16s%2Fg%2F11rzfvvv8b?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDQxNS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) across the street. Parking in this garage is free as long as you're not on the first floor, and it is literally right next to the brewery.
Westerville Pride Festival
Westerville Pride Festival
Sat\. June 6\, 2026 \| 5 PM \- 8 PM
If you're thinking of attending, or being a sponsor, vendor, or volunteer, visit our website at https://www.westervillequeercollective.org/pride for more information!
Location and other info will be announced soon :)
Three Creeks Metro Park
We'll get in around 4 miles at Three Creeks Metro Parks, primarily natural trails. 17-18 minute miles, no one left behind, and faster walkers are free to lead out.
Optional lunch after!
If you're joining for hiking all the metro parks, this is the sixth one!
Westerville Queer Coffee Meetup
WQC has weekly Thursday night social nights at the Westerville Java Central. Come and grab a coffee and connect with the community: low stakes, chill environment, and tasty drinks. No registration is required; come as you are.
Bike Ride - Pickerington Ponds to Three Creeks
**Weather permitting**, we’ll take a casual ride from Pickerington Ponds (Glacier Knoll) to Three Creeks and back.
Distance is **18–25 miles**, depending on where we turn around and whether we add a side loop.
Pace is around **12 mph**, but this is a fun, no‑drop ride — we can slow down as needed.
Here’s the **map** showing Glacier Knoll (bike), Confluence Park (flag), and BrewDog: [https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit..](https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit..).
Text or call Scott at **614‑975‑4458** if you’re coming.


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