Historical Tours

Skyline Milano: Torre Branca Experience // aperitif & party at JustMe **The Experience** Enjoy Milan from above: the **Torre Branca** is your privileged balcony over the city. Begin with an **exclusive aperitivo**with high-quality delights, followed by **DJ sets under the stars** in the vibrant setting of Parco Sempione. **Access & Prices (limited spots)** * **€15 per person – 7:30 pm to 9:30 pm** Includes: **1 drink + royal buffet + terrace party access (JustME)** **+ Torre Branca ticket** * **After 9:30 pm → €20** (no Torre Branca and no buffet). **Includes: 1 drink.** *Torre access available until midnight; in case of **bad weather** the climb may be suspended for safety reasons. Aperitivo served until **10:00 pm**.* **Dress code** **Smart attire required** (no shorts), in line with the event and venue style. **Reservations** Reservation is **free of charge** and secures your spot on the **Milano Expat guest list**; **payment at entrance**.

INTERSCAMBIO IN SPAGNOLO tutti i sabato sera per migliorare la lingua, conoscere gente e divertirsi assaggiando i fantastici drink del Pacino cafè. 🍹💯😋 Ogni sabato il nostro gruppo di spagnolo si riunisce anche con altri gruppi provenienti da meetup, tablo e Instagram per conversare in spagnolo ma anche in inglese e italiano per gli stranieri. Comincia pure in spagnolo e poi scegli il gruppo che vuoi! 🗣️🔝 I partecipanti che vedi qui iscritti all'evento sono quindi una parte e provengono solo da questo gruppo! 🤩 per sapere in quanti siamo il sabato contatta pure gli organizzatori qualche ora prima dell'evento 💌 >> << INTERCAMBIO DE ESPAÑOL todos los sábados por la noche para mejorar tus conocimientos del idioma, conocer gente y divertirte probando las fantásticas bebidas del Pacino café. 🍹💯😋 Todos los sábados nuestro grupo de español se reúne también con otros grupos de meetup, tablo e Instagram para conversar en español pero también en inglés e italiano para extranjeros. ¡Comienza en español y luego elige el grupo que quieras! 🗣️🔝 ¡Los participantes que ves registrados para el evento entonces son solo una parte y provienen únicamente de este grupo! 🤩 Para saber cuántos seremos contacta con los organizadores unas horas antes del evento 💌

The Alpe del Vicerè is a plateau located in Albavilla, near Erba. It takes its name from Eugène de Beauharnais, stepson of Napoleon Bonaparte and appointed by him as Viceroy, who purchased this plateau in the early 1800s and used it to build a large structure that served as a summer shelter for his prized horses. From here, our hike will begin, leading us along a beautiful trail surrounded by vegetation to the summit of Monte Bolettone (1,317 m), where we will enjoy an incredible view over Lake Como and the entire Brianza area. **PROGRAM** 11:00 Meeting point at Alpe Vicerè, “Alla Salute – Ristoro”, Via Partigiana, 22031 Albavilla (CO) 11:15 Departure towards Monte Bolettone 12:45 approx. Arrival and lunch (packed lunch or arranging independently with facilities along the route) 15:00 approx. Return **Medium–Good Level** – About 3.5 km and roughly 1h30 of walking each way, 420 m elevation gain. No special equipment or clothing required, but always bring food and water “to keep you going”, plus trekking shoes. **Note 1:** Participants must reach the starting point independently (car, bus, train, etc.) or via carpooling by coordinating with other participants in the private Facebook and/or Telegram groups reserved for members (request access once you have your membership card). **Note 2:** The “I will attend” button on Meetup is not considered valid for us. Meetup is only used to publish the event and gauge interest. Once you become a member, please follow the instructions for the event’s *official* registration. **COSTS AND PARTICIPATION – MIN 7 PEOPLE, MAX 30** Event reserved for Gitup Enac members. Free for 2026 members - request your participation ticket here: [http://www.gitup.it/iscrizione-eventi/](http://www.gitup.it/iscrizione-eventi/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExNXJOZlBOUFo2TnU0MlJrTHNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR40isxRJnPDxRFBNp_iADFxV_t_IXXYerPrzof2wC-vrsxh7YCQuE9AZYVKrA_aem_0zRMrPM9cBRzv2anqxS0Zg) Not a member yet or need to renew? A membership card is required — request it here: [http://www.gitup.it/iscrizione/](http://www.gitup.it/iscrizione/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExNXJOZlBOUFo2TnU0MlJrTHNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR40isxRJnPDxRFBNp_iADFxV_t_IXXYerPrzof2wC-vrsxh7YCQuE9AZYVKrA_aem_0zRMrPM9cBRzv2anqxS0Zg) In case of bad weather, the outing may be canceled. Participants will be notified through the dedicated groups and via updates on this page. **P.S.** Please remember that GitUp is not a travel agency but a non-profit association that brings people together to enjoy pleasant shared experiences. [www.gitup.it](http://www.gitup.it/) [https://www.facebook.com/gitupassociazione](https://www.facebook.com/gitupassociazione)

#### Next step: schedule your first event. Scheduling an event will encourage more people to join your group. Schedule Change photo  # [Gruppo di biliardo pool/carambola amatoriale e mini-tornei](https://www.meetup.com/gruppo-di-biliardo-pool-carambola-amatoriale-e-mini-tornei/) [Milano, MI, Italy](https://www.meetup.com/find/it--mi--milano/) [1 members](https://www.meetup.com/gruppo-di-biliardo-pool-carambola-amatoriale-e-mini-tornei/members/) · Public group Share Manage groupSchedule event [About](https://www.meetup.com/gruppo-di-biliardo-pool-carambola-amatoriale-e-mini-tornei/?eventOrigin=your_groups) [Events](https://www.meetup.com/gruppo-di-biliardo-pool-carambola-amatoriale-e-mini-tornei/events/?eventOrigin=your_groups) [Members](https://www.meetup.com/gruppo-di-biliardo-pool-carambola-amatoriale-e-mini-tornei/members/?eventOrigin=your_groups) [Photos](https://www.meetup.com/gruppo-di-biliardo-pool-carambola-amatoriale-e-mini-tornei/photos/?eventOrigin=your_groups) [Discussions](https://www.meetup.com/gruppo-di-biliardo-pool-carambola-amatoriale-e-mini-tornei/discussions/?eventOrigin=your_groups) More ## What we’re about Buongiorno a tutti. Sono proprietario di un bar e dispongo di un tavolo da biliardo semi-professionale. Sto creando un gruppo WhatsApp di giocatori amatoriali di biliardo americano pool/carambola, per la maggior parte debuttanti. Cerco persone disposte a unirsi al gruppo per giocare e divertirsi nel tempo libero, il pomeriggio oppure la sera in ogni giorno. Per stimolare l'impegno di ogni giocatore, abbiamo pattuito che il vincitore di ogni "mini-torneo" organizzato nei vari giorni giochi gratis e non paghi la tariffa di tempo per il periodo di gioco (un'ora di gioco costa 10€, ma viene di volta in volta frazionata in base al periodo di gioco effettivo). Il locale si trova in zona nord di Milano, stazione Greco-Pirelli, università Bicocca. Chiunque dovesse essere davvero interessato a partecipare e unirsi al mio gruppo, non esiti a contattarmi. Cerco persone serie e disposte solamente a divertirsi, senza puntare mazzette grazie mille. Antonio

Hi, I’m **Ozzy**. I’ve been teaching yoga in Milan for 5 years, bringing together internationals and locals. **How to Join?** Add your name on Meetup. [Message me on WhatsApp](https://wa.me/393500966059?text=Hi%20I%20saw%20your%20weekend%20park%20yoga%20classes%20on%20Meetup%20and%20would%20like%20to%20join) to receive payment details: **Drop-in or discounted class packs available** Your spot is confirmed once payment is completed. **You can see the vibe of the classes here:** Instagram: @ozzyoga.milano **Weekend Park Yoga in Sempione with Ozzy** Join us for a mindful yoga session in the park **Time:** 11:30 **Duration:** 60 minutes **Language:** English **Level:** All levels Beginner-friendly **Location:** Parco Sempione Exact meeting point will be shared via WhatsApp after booking **Pricing** **Drop-in:** €15 **2 classes:** €28 **4 classes:** €50 All prices are final and include VAT All packs are valid until the end of July Valid for all regular group classes (weekend & future weekday sessions) Packs can be used for classes as they are released on Meetup **Before you come** Bring your mat (or a towel), wear layers for changing weather, and consider water, sun cream, and insect spray. **Cancellation policy** – **More than 24 hours before:** Cancel directly on Meetup → no charge – **Up to 1 hour before the class:** Please message me on WhatsApp → your credit is kept – **Less than 1 hour before, no-show, or no notice:** The class is counted → no refund or credit (no exceptions) *If a class is cancelled due to weather or by the organizer, your credit will not be lost and can be used for another class.* **Safety & Notes** Please listen to your body and practice at your own pace. This class is not suitable for pregnant women. If you have any health concerns, please consult a doctor before joining. By attending, you take responsibility for your own practice. **About me** I’m Ozzy, a certified and Yoga Alliance registered yoga teacher. 👉 https://linktr.ee/ozzyoga.milano

## **4 hours. One crew. The easiest way to experience Milan nightlife.** Milan is iconic after dark—but if you don’t know where to go, it’s easy to waste the night in the wrong places (or spend it queueing). **Riviera Bar Crawl Milan** is built for travelers, expats, students, and **solo travelers** who want a **fun, social, stress-free** night out with an international crowd. Show up, meet people fast, and let the night unfold—together. ## ✅ WHY THIS MILAN BAR CRAWL WORKS **1) Meet people instantly (even if you come solo)** This is the easiest way to turn a random night in Milan into a night with a real crew. **2) No planning, no guesswork** You don’t need to research bars, neighborhoods, or “where to go next.” You just enjoy the experience. **3) The energy of a real travel community** Riviera Bar Crawl Tours has welcomed **100,000+ delighted clients** and features **1291 reviews** across the website—so you’re joining something proven, not a gamble. ## 🕒 THE EXPERIENCE * **Tour name:** Riviera Bar Crawl Milan * **Duration:** **4H00** * **From:** **EUR 25.00** ## 📍 MEETING POINT **Ostello Bello** **Via Medici, 4, Milan (Metropolitan City of Milan, Italy)** ## 🎟️ WHAT’S INCLUDED Your ticket includes the **organized bar crawl experience** (details like number of venues, drinks, shots, and deals depend on the specific Milan product setup). ## 💬 QUICK OBJECTIONS * **“I’m solo.”** Perfect—this is exactly what a **pub crawl in Milan** is for: easy social vibes and instant connections. * **“I don’t know Milan nightlife.”** That’s the point—no planning, no stress. * **“What if it’s quiet?”** Riviera runs experiences in top destinations and has strong social proof across the brand—this is designed to be a real group night out. ## 🚀 BOOK NOW Spots go quickly on popular nights—don’t wait until you’re standing outside wondering where to go. [👉 ](https://rivierabarcrawltours.com/tour/pub-crawl-milan/)**[Book Riviera Bar Crawl Milan now](https://rivierabarcrawltours.com/tour/pub-crawl-milan/)** **Riviera Bar Crawl Milan** — your simplest, most social way to experience **Milan nightlife**, meet new people, and make the most of your trip.

Free English Stand-up Comedy show at Churchill Caffe, Porta Venezia at 20:30. Join us on Saturday at Churchill Caffe!! Featuring comedians from all around the world— some flew here, some took the metro, and a few just got lost and ended up on stage. From culture shocks, Questura visits 💀, to metro fails🚇, Uni disasters🎓, aperitivo gossips🍹, Milano traumas🤷🏻‍♂ and dating mishaps💕 — nothing’s off-limits. Grab a drink🍻, and get ready for an evening of laughter, and you can get to vote for your favorite comedians. IMPORTANT: While the entry for the comedy is free, there is a 10€-minimum-consumption (includes 1 cocktail) from the bar that has to be paid at the entrance itself. If you also wish to book a table to eat, please do call the bar to confirm a reservation so that they can arrange your table accordingly. 📌 Via Manuzio 6, Milano (M1 Porta Venezia, M3 Repubblica) 📲 Book your table: call 3493119945 or reserve on Eventbrite For more info, contact the organiser Vamshi on Instagram @vamshicomedy

Life moves fast. So fast that we sometimes forget to ask the most important question: what makes us feel truly alive? Hiking to Monte Barro, 1.5 hours from Milan to slow down, look around, and reconnect with your own spark — one step at a time. We will be heading to Monte Barro, a medium hike, which means you require some preparation before. Nothing crazy, but a bit of resistance. **What we will do and what is included?** * Take train together * Walk together through nature * Mindfulness and meditation moment * Have lunch at the top * Gifts * Return to Milan \*Lunch not included in price.

#### Next step: schedule your first event. Scheduling an event will encourage more people to join your group. Schedule Change photo  # [Gruppo di biliardo pool/carambola amatoriale e mini-tornei](https://www.meetup.com/gruppo-di-biliardo-pool-carambola-amatoriale-e-mini-tornei/) [Milano, MI, Italy](https://www.meetup.com/find/it--mi--milano/) [1 members](https://www.meetup.com/gruppo-di-biliardo-pool-carambola-amatoriale-e-mini-tornei/members/) · Public group Share Manage groupSchedule event [About](https://www.meetup.com/gruppo-di-biliardo-pool-carambola-amatoriale-e-mini-tornei/?eventOrigin=your_groups) [Events](https://www.meetup.com/gruppo-di-biliardo-pool-carambola-amatoriale-e-mini-tornei/events/?eventOrigin=your_groups) [Members](https://www.meetup.com/gruppo-di-biliardo-pool-carambola-amatoriale-e-mini-tornei/members/?eventOrigin=your_groups) [Photos](https://www.meetup.com/gruppo-di-biliardo-pool-carambola-amatoriale-e-mini-tornei/photos/?eventOrigin=your_groups) [Discussions](https://www.meetup.com/gruppo-di-biliardo-pool-carambola-amatoriale-e-mini-tornei/discussions/?eventOrigin=your_groups) More ## What we’re about Buongiorno a tutti. Sono proprietario di un bar e dispongo di un tavolo da biliardo semi-professionale. Sto creando un gruppo WhatsApp di giocatori amatoriali di biliardo americano pool/carambola, per la maggior parte debuttanti. Cerco persone disposte a unirsi al gruppo per giocare e divertirsi nel tempo libero, il pomeriggio oppure la sera in ogni giorno. Per stimolare l'impegno di ogni giocatore, abbiamo pattuito che il vincitore di ogni "mini-torneo" organizzato nei vari giorni giochi gratis e non paghi la tariffa di tempo per il periodo di gioco (un'ora di gioco costa 10€, ma viene di volta in volta frazionata in base al periodo di gioco effettivo). Il locale si trova in zona nord di Milano, stazione Greco-Pirelli, università Bicocca. Chiunque dovesse essere davvero interessato a partecipare e unirsi al mio gruppo, non esiti a contattarmi. Cerco persone serie e disposte solamente a divertirsi, senza puntare mazzette grazie mille. Antonio

ITALIANO Evento gratuito Ciao a tutti, questa volta vi propongo una passeggiata al Parco dell'Idroscalo. Il parco ha una superficie di 80 ettari, si estende intorno al lago artificiale dell'Idroscalo ed è situato nelle vicinanze dell'Aeroporto di Milano-Linate. L'Idroscalo è un polo di attività sportive e ricreative: ogni anno vengono organizzati numerosi spettacoli, festival e concerti. Dopo la passeggiata, per chi vuole, possiamo bere qualcosa o fare aperitivo. Ci troveremo all'uscita della metro blu Linate M4 (uscita 'Aeroporto'). Programma Ore 15.30-15.40: Raduno dei partecipanti Ore 15.45: Partenza Vi aspetto! Trovate altre info sui gruppi Telegram e Facebook: Telegram: https://t.me/+ImpLzLM9vRcyODQ8 Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/groups/1185913102643016/?ref=share ‐----------------- ENGLISH Free event Hi all, this time I propose a walk in Idroscalo Park. This Park has an area of ​​80 hectares, it extends around Idroscalo artificial lake and it is located near Milan-Linate airport. The Idroscalo is a pole of sporting and recreational activities: every year numerous shows, festivals and concerts are organized. After the walk, if you want, we can have a drink or happy hour. We will meet at the exit of Linate M4 Station of the blue subway ('Airport' exit). Program 3.30-3.40pm: Meeting 3.45pm: Departure See you! You can find other info on Telegram and Facebook groups: Telegram: https://t.me/+ImpLzLM9vRcyODQ8 Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/groups/1185913102643016/?ref=share

Hi, I’m **Ozzy**. I’ve been teaching yoga in Milan for 5 years, bringing together internationals and locals. **How to Join?** Add your name on Meetup. [Message me on WhatsApp](https://wa.me/393500966059?text=Hi%20I%20saw%20your%20weekend%20park%20yoga%20classes%20on%20Meetup%20and%20would%20like%20to%20join) to receive payment details: **Drop-in or discounted class packs available** Your spot is confirmed once payment is completed. **You can see the vibe of the classes here:** Instagram: @ozzyoga.milano **Weekend Park Yoga in Sempione with Ozzy** Join us for a mindful yoga session in the park **Time:** 11:30 **Duration:** 60 minutes **Language:** English **Level:** All levels Beginner-friendly **Location:** Parco Sempione Exact meeting point will be shared via WhatsApp after booking **Pricing** **Drop-in:** €15 **2 classes:** €28 **4 classes:** €50 All prices are final and include VAT All packs are valid until the end of July Valid for all regular group classes (weekend & future weekday sessions) Packs can be used for classes as they are released on Meetup **Before you come** Bring your mat (or a towel), wear layers for changing weather, and consider water, sun cream, and insect spray. **Cancellation policy** – **More than 24 hours before:** Cancel directly on Meetup → no charge – **Up to 1 hour before the class:** Please message me on WhatsApp → your credit is kept – **Less than 1 hour before, no-show, or no notice:** The class is counted → no refund or credit (no exceptions) *If a class is cancelled due to weather or by the organizer, your credit will not be lost and can be used for another class.* **Safety & Notes** Please listen to your body and practice at your own pace. This class is not suitable for pregnant women. If you have any health concerns, please consult a doctor before joining. By attending, you take responsibility for your own practice. **About me** I’m Ozzy, a certified and Yoga Alliance registered yoga teacher. 👉 https://linktr.ee/ozzyoga.milano

Domenica 17 maggio alle ore 17.00, la **rassegna gratuita** “Concerti in cortile” prosegue con TRIO Migrazioni & Friends e il concerto “Culture in migrazione”, in programma presso Slow Mill, in Via Volturno 32 a Milano. Il progetto Migrazioni si propone di promuovere la produzione musicale dei suoi membri tra Brasile ed Europa, valorizzando culture di origine africana che nel tempo si sono intrecciate attraverso esperienze migratorie forzate o volontarie. La proposta artistica si sviluppa come un dialogo tra radici culturali, mobilità, memoria e trasformazione, mettendo al centro la musica come luogo di scambio e di relazione. Il concerto presenta composizioni originali di Wir Caetano, scritte insieme al suo collaboratore Zecrinha, e interpretate da Toni Júlio alla voce, Kal dos Santos alle percussioni e Davide Perduca alla chitarra. Il progetto si arricchisce inoltre della presenza di artisti ospiti, contribuendo a costruire una trama sonora aperta, plurale e profondamente attraversata dal tema dell’incontro tra culture. La presenza di TRIO Migrazioni & Friends all’interno della rassegna esprime pienamente lo spirito di “Concerti in cortile”: promuovere iniziative che uniscono le persone, valorizzano gli spazi condivisi del quartiere e generano occasioni di ascolto, partecipazione e vita comunitaria attraverso la musica. L’iniziativa si inserisce all’interno del progetto Oltre la scuola, realizzato da DeP e finanziato da MMCasa. Slow Mill è gestito dall’Associazione Dora e Pajtimit APS. Il tesseramento annuale all’Associazione (€5, drink incluso) è obbligatorio per i maggiorenni. Per tesserarsi qui: **[bit.ly/sociodep](http://bit.ly/sociodep)**

**Dom 17 Mag 2026** **TREK IN EMILIA ROMAGNA. PIETRA PARCELLARA 836 m (PC)** \- Lunghezza: 10 km \- Dislivello: 720 m \- Difficoltà: Media \(tratto finale EE\) \- Pranzo al sacco\. Il trek è in prov. di Piacenza, a 100 km da Milano. Iscrizione [https://t.me/TrekMI/82438](https://t.me/TrekMI/82438) Youtube https://youtu.be/_hoC3zOQb3w **LUOGO DI RITROVO** Per sapere il luogo di ritrovo, cliccare sul link Iscrizione. Si apre una chat Telegram che contiene tutte le informazioni. **GRATUITÀ** Tutti i trek sono gratuiti **CHI SIAMO** Ogni weekend portiamo in montagna 100 persone. Siamo la più grande associazione escursionista d'Italia [https://t.me/TrekMI](https://t.me/TrekMI) **COME RAGGIUNGERE LA FELICITÀ** con la filosofia TTP [https://t.me/TrekMI/79617](https://t.me/TrekMI/79617) .

**Dom 17 Mag 2026** **TREK IN GRIGNETTA. RIFUGIO ROSALBA da Pian dei Resinelli 1730 m (LC)** \- Lunghezza: 8 km \- Dislivello: 550 m \- Difficoltà: Media \- Pranzo al sacco o al rifugio\. Il trek è in prov. di Lecco, a 70 km da Milano. Iscrizione [https://t.me/TrekMI/82453](https://t.me/TrekMI/82453) Youtube https://youtu.be/_P3_ygdT4dw **LUOGO DI RITROVO** Per sapere il luogo di ritrovo, cliccare sul link Iscrizione. Si apre una chat Telegram che contiene tutte le informazioni. **GRATUITÀ** Tutti i trek sono gratuiti **CHI SIAMO** Ogni weekend portiamo in montagna 100 persone. Siamo la più grande associazione escursionista d'Italia [https://t.me/TrekMI](https://t.me/TrekMI) **COME RAGGIUNGERE LA FELICITÀ** con la filosofia TTP [https://t.me/TrekMI/79617](https://t.me/TrekMI/79617) .

Please reserve your spot by registering on the below link : **Reserve** https://www.eventbrite.com/e/join-biggest-community-investors-founders-columbus-online-tickets-1988563717610?aff=meetup **QUESTIONS ?** Pls Reach out to; Ridhi - +971504724873 ( WhatsApp Only)

**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.

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

The topic for May is "Ink" Speak Easy: true stories, told live. The idea is simple: an audience, an open microphone, and great stories. Hilarious, gripping, poignant- it's up to you. Audiences are invited to come to listen or come to tell as folks from all corners of Columbus offer their stories live on stage! Held at Wild Goose Creative's warm, intimate space, this night of tales occurs on the 3rd Thursday of every month. Doors open at 6:30 pm, show starts at 7:00 pm. Please arrive early if you want to tell, as we generally only have room for a limited number of tellers, and the sign-up sheet has a tendency to fill up fast. Formed around the idea that people need stories--they're what hold and draw us together--SpeakEasy celebrates the strangeness and commonness of being human. And in a world of smartphones, Facebook, Twitter, and more . . . it gives people a real, breathing, in-person way to connect. The night is geared for true stories of all kinds, taking the best tales told around kitchen tables, in darkened pubs, on the street corner, and at late-night parties and giving them an audience. Speak Easy is also a great outlet for performers, writers, and artists looking to share their favorite stories and perfect their skills. We strongly encourage tellers to please tell the story rather than read it so we keep within the spirit of good storytelling and stay engaged with the audience. All are welcome. Hang around after the show for a drink and build community!