Dad Advice for Dads

Notre meet-up réunit une fois par semaine anglophiles et francophiles de plus de cinquante ans afin de discuter de tout et de rien. Le but est d'offrir la possibilité aux uns et aux autres de pratiquer la langue dans laquelle ils souhaiteraient se perfectionner dans un cadre convivial. Nos directives sont de s'amuser et de respecter les différents points de vue et antécédents personnels. Il est interdit d'insulter ou de dénigrer d'autres membres en raison de leurs antécédents personnels. Le meet-up se termine précisément à 18h. Si vous souhaitez rester après 18h, veuillez vous déplacer dans une autre partie du café afin que la direction comprenne bien que la réunion est terminée. Nous vous invitons à prendre au moins une boisson pour soutenir le cafe. Si vous arrivez tard, vous pouvez commander au bar et le café vous apportera votre commande. Our meet-up group meets once a week. We are English and French speakers of a "certain age" (over 50), and we meet to talk about everything and nothing. The goal is to offer each of us the chance to practice whichever language he/she is learning, or just to have a conversation in either language with a friendly group in a relaxing atmosphere. Our guidelines are to have fun and to be respectful of different points of view and personal backgrounds. Insulting or disparaging other members because of their personal background is not permitted. Our meet-up ends promptly at 6pm. If you wish to remain after 6 pm, please move to a different section of the café so it is clear to management that the meet-up has ended. Please buy at least a drink to support the café. If you arrive late, you can order at the bar and they will bring your order to you.

**Soirée Toastmasters Lutèce 75 : Devenir un meilleur orateur et leader** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Important:** Suite à des contraintes relatives au nombre de places disponibles, afin de confirmer votre participation, veuillez remplir le formulaire suivante : [Formulaire d'inscription](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc0W2S9SpKqKI9g08pScjkmdT8YP8uV6yLLEPPCyi2cn-uIoQ/viewform?usp=header) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- *Vous voulez:* * *Gagner en aisance dans la prise de parole en public?* * *Communiquer avec confiance et persuasion?* * *Développer vos compétences de leadership ?* *L' AVENIR APPARTIENT À CEUX QUI SAVENT COMMUNIQUER* *Les bons communicants savent mettre en valeur leur travail à travers des présentations et des interventions convaincantes et inspirantes. Leur aisance et leur confiance en eux contribuent également à établir un réseau plus facilement. Dans un contexte privé, être un bon orateur permet de développer sa confiance en soi et d’augmenter son charisme ou son charme.. 😊* *Alors, si le développement de vos qualités de Prise de parole en public et de Leadership sont pour vous une priorité pour votre REUSSITE PROFESSIONNELLE et PERSONNELLE, venez apprendre comment les forger lors de nos soirées hebdomadaires à travers la Méthode Toastmasters, dans une ambiance ludique et motivante.* *Notre club est constitué d’une vingtaine de membres avec une grande diversité de profils et de nationalités. Nous travaillons les différences compétences oratoires à travers les exercices d’improvisation, de discours préparés et d’évaluations.*

Do you have a solid resume and a great job, but something feels off? Are you using your talents for a good cause? Or has the world not really become a better place when you've checked off your to-do lists? ​​We are gathering a group of Paris-based people curious about how they can use their life to have more impact. We are inspired by the principles of moral ambition (link below), but all people who care about making a difference are welcome! ​​This will be an informal afterwork. No long speeches or intense networking. Just honest conversations over a drink with people who are asking the same questions you are. ​​ This event is organised by the Paris community inspired by the organisation The **School for Moral Ambition** ([moralambition.org](https://moralambition.org/?utm_source=luma)), a movement founded by Dutch historian and author **Rutger Bregman**. His argument is simple and a little uncomfortable: our brightest minds are wasting their talents. SMA exists to change that by helping people redirect their careers toward the problems that actually need solving. Think ending factory farming, fight against tobacco, strengthen democracy, global health, human rights. ​​The community now has more than **25,000 members in over 150 countries**. During the event, it will be possible to register for the circle program, a discussion based community program that aims to give you the tools to change your life towards a more impactful path. ​​In more communal terms, we are now building the Parisian community by launching the **first series of afterwork in central Paris. 🍷** ​​**Come if you:** * ​​Have been wondering whether your work could mean more * ​​Want to meet people who actually want to do something about it * ​​Are curious about what "moral ambition" looks like in practice * ​​Just want good conversation with people who are motivated by positive change. * ​​Wish to grow your network! ​​🍷 Drinks are on you. We keep it that way on purpose. It helps us gather people who are here for the connection, not a free bar. ​​ Spots are limited, but feel very free to bring someone who you think should be in this room! ​​If you have any questions about the event or our activities, contact the host of the event.

Venez comme vous êtes ! / Come as you are! Venez dessiner avec nous autour d'un verre au QG de l'Art Club. Cet événement est gratuit et ouvert à tous les niveaux. Venez comme vous êtes ! Ne vous inquiétez pas, si vous ne savez pas dessiner, nous pouvons vous donner quelques conseils. Vous nous trouverez au sous-sol du bar (escaliers à fond du bar à droite). Attention, le réseau n'est pas très bon. Il est possible que nous ne soyons pas en mesure de vous répondre. Veuillez apporter vos propres matériaux (carnet, crayons, stylos) si possible. On propose 2 thèmes à chaque session, ils sont juste là pour donner un point de départ à l'inspiration ✨, si besoin. Mais libre à vous de dessiner tout ce qui vous passe par la tête sans forcément les respectez ! 😊 Au plaisir de vous voir ! *** Notre compte Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/ the_art_club_paris/ Prix : il vous sera demandé d'acheter une consommation du bar (pensez à retirer du liquide, le BDA ne prend pas la carte en dessous de 20€) ———— Come as you are! Don't worry, if you don't know how to draw, we can give you some tips. You will find us at the basement. Be careful, the reception is not very good. We may not be able to answer you. Please bring your own materials (drawing pad, pens, pencils) if possible. We announce two themes for each session. This is just to give a start point for inspiration ✨, if needed. However, you are totally free to draw whatever you would like to, no need to follow them if do not want to. 😊 We look forward to seeing you! *** Our Instagram account: https:// www.instagram.com/the_art_club_paris/ Price: all attendees need to purchase something to drink (please have cash, the BDA do not take card payment under 20€).

**Step into the laid-back charm of Cosy Cave Conversations**, a Parisian philosophy chat that's more relaxed than a cat in a sunbeam 🐈 🌞 Gather with a bunch of easygoing souls, share thoughts on the good life and its mysteries, enjoy a beverage, and have a good laugh. A few things to be aware of: * **Please** **don't show up without a spot** (we aim to keep it cosy and we always have a waiting list these days — check if you’re on the list or the waiting list) * If it's your first event, it's essential you **turn up early, or at the latest on time (<7pm)** so you understand how it works, what the topic is and don't interrupt the session * The **session runs from 7pm to 8:30pm** where we focus on the discussion, but don't worry, you'll have a chance to socialise, introduce yourselves and continue the chat after the session. **If you’re running late** (the curtains are closed), that’s okay, but please wait to join us in the break rather than interrupting the session. * Please read the **tips below** for a good session before coming along **How does it work?** We embrace the café-philo method — proposing intriguing topics on the night (up to 3), choosing one together, and diving into everything from consciousness, community, death and god, while managing to keep it light and easy 🦦 **Forget the stiff atmosphere**, we're all about small groups (\~10 people) and unpretentious chats with no homework required. No need for a philosophy degree, just bring your open mind and a dash of curiosity. **Join us every Wednesday 19h-20h30 at Les Acolytes** — because pondering the profound is better with good company (and a pint). See you there! 🎉 A few tips for a great session: * come with an **open and curious mind** 🧠 * **prioritise listening to others and asking questions** without interrupting or long monologues 👂 * we put a strong **emphasise on giving everyone a chance to contribute to the discussion**, so try and be aware of how much space and time you take up when speaking 🐻‍❄️ * we prioritise **intellectual accessibility**: this is not an academic group therefore we ask to keep any philosophy jargon to a minimum and instead explain any concepts in plain english 🤠 * we are an **apolitical group** that focuses on discussing and exploring philosophical ideas without endorsing or aligning with any specific political or religous ideologies. Our aim is to encourage open, unbiased dialogue centered on philosophical inquiry within a safe and respectful environment 🐥

Our sessions of drink and paints events take place in the beautiful and trendy Ginie café (24 rue de Babylone, Paris 7th), where art, music, and a vibrant social energy come together. From the moment you arrive, you’re immersed in a warm, stylish atmosphere with a subtle disco vibe 🪩✨—think curated playlists, soft lighting, and an upbeat rhythm that sets the tone for a creative and feel-good experience. It’s lively without being overwhelming, elegant yet playful, creating the perfect balance for connection and self-expression 🎶🎨 ✨ What makes our experience special: 🪩 A chic and intimate setting in the heart of Paris, with a trendy, welcoming ambiance 🎶 A music-driven atmosphere with disco-inspired vibes that energise and uplift the group 🎨 Fully guided yet flexible creative sessions, designed to be fun and accessible for all levels 🍷 A generous selection of high-quality drinks—wine, cocktails, beers, and premium non-alcoholic options 🤝 A social, engaging format that naturally encourages interaction and strengthens connections It’s more than just a workshop—it’s an experience where creativity flows, conversations spark, and everyone leaves with both a piece of art and a great memory 💫 **Les Amis** is a women-only community of friendly souls. We provide access to hundreds of experiences that explore your passions and connect you with other event participants. **Check our website to learn more, and apply to join our community and events**: [lesamis.cc/apply](https://www.lesamis.cc/apply)

📆 **Every Wednesday**, join an exclusive table of ambitious founders in a handpicked venue. 💡 *You are the average of the 5 people you spend the most time with.* **Choose your circle wisely — it will shape your future.** 🔗 Application required: [thefiveclub.co](https://thefiveclub.co) *** 🥂 **Every Wednesday**, join a table of **6 inspiring founders**, carefully selected for you. 😌 A relaxed atmosphere, no pressure. 🤝 The goal: build genuine affinities, friendships, and long-lasting connections. *** 🔍 **How it works:** 🔴 Sign Up & Apply on : [thefiveclub.co](thefiveclub.co) 1️⃣ Pick a Wednesday and confirm your **membership** to join the club 2️⃣ Invite members you've previously met at afterworks or dinners 3️⃣ 24h before, you’ll receive the 📍 **restaurant address** and 🧑‍💼 **participant list** (bios + LinkedIn) 4️⃣ On the day: come as you are — we handle the 🍽️ booking, 🛠️ logistics, and ✨ ambiance 5️⃣ After the dinner: Add to your circle the founders you connected with most, 6️⃣ Reinvite them to future dinners or reconnect via curated events in the app 📲 ***

Hablaremos en español nativos y estudiantes, saludos a todos.

**Hello :)** J’ai le plaisir de t’inviter à un cocktail FIRE. On se retrouve à partir de 19h00 jusqu’à 22h30 pour échanger sur notre lifestyle, nos projets et nos investissements. C’est totalement gratuit 🙂 I’m pleased to invite you to a FIRE cocktail event. Let’s meet from 7:00 PM to 10:30 PM to discuss our lifestyle, projects, and investments. It’s completely free 🙂 **C’est ce qu’il te faut si tu veux:** Obtenir des tips sur ceux qui font des cryptos Trouver des associés pour ton prochain projet Avoir des informations sur la vente de ta boite Echanger avec ceux qui vivent de l’immobilier Discuter avec des repreneurs d’entreprise Découvrir les stratégies en bourse Passer en freelance **This is for you if you want to:** Get tips from crypto investors Find partners for your next project Get insights on selling your business Connect with real estate investors Talk with business buyers Discover stock market strategies Transition to freelance work Tu peux venir seul/e ou avec des amis. Tu ne vas pas regretter. You can come alone or bring friends. You won’t regret it! **A propos de moi:** Moi, c’est Victor. J’ai 37 ans. Je coordonne le mouvement FIRE en France. J’ai 200 apparts, 10 entreprises. Au plaisir de te partager ce que je sais ❤️ J’organise le meetup. Tu peux retrouver mon livre: [https://www.amazon.fr/retraite-ans-cest-possible-financi%C3%A8re/dp/2036000207/](https://www.amazon.fr/retraite-ans-cest-possible-financi%C3%A8re/dp/2036000207/) Tu peux retrouver ma newsletter: [https://firefrance.substack.com/](https://firefrance.substack.com/) Tu peux retrouver mes projets: [https://www.instagram.com/victorlorafrugaliste](https://www.instagram.com/victorlorafrugaliste) A très vite ! **About me:** I’m Victor. I’m 37 years old and I coordinate the FIRE movement in France. I own 200 apartments and 10 businesses. Looking forward to sharing what I know with you ❤️ I’m organizing the meetup. You can find my book: [https://www.amazon.fr/retraite-ans-cest-possible-financi%C3%A8re/dp/2036000207/](https://www.amazon.fr/retraite-ans-cest-possible-financi%C3%A8re/dp/2036000207/) You can check out my newsletter: [https://firefrance.substack.com/](https://firefrance.substack.com/) You can follow my projects: [https://www.instagram.com/victorlorafrugaliste](https://www.instagram.com/victorlorafrugaliste) See you soon!

Venez découvrir la prise de parole avec notre club Les Ailes 🎁🎙, inspiré du modèle international Toastmasters. Nous nous retrouvons deux jeudis par mois, dans le 8ème. Le 1er et 3ème jeudi du mois. Notre prochaine séance aura lieu le Jeudi 21 mai au 174 rue Faubourg Saint Honoré ( salle à droite au rez de chaussé) Vous assisterez à une séance d'Improvistion😀 ( à laquelle vous pouvez demander de participer - ce n'est pas une obligation) - vous écouterez des discours préparés🎤 et des evaluations sur les différentes prestations. Venez nombreux Le lien pour s"inscrire et décourvrir 2 séances à 10€ [Séance Toastmasters Les Ailes 2025-2026](https://www.helloasso.com/associations/toastmasters-les-ailes/evenements/seance-toastmasters-les-ailes-2025-2026)

Atelier d’impro Découvre les joies de l'impro, optimise ta créativité et libère ton potentiel ! L'improvisation théâtrale est un excellent outil de développement personnel et une formidable aventure collective ! Si tu as envie de [re]découvrir l'impro dans un cadre ludique et bienveillant cet atelier est fait pour toi ! Ces séances sont ouvertes à tous, débutants, intermédiaires, confirmés. L'atelier se déroule en 2 heures, au programme : Des échauffements dynamiques pour être à l’aise rapidement avec le groupe. La gestion du stress et le lâcher prise, Des jeux ludiques pour construire avec ses partenaires des histoires éphémères, Du rire, du [Fun] et des rencontres … Infos pratiques : - Nombre de participants limité - Prévoir une tenue confortable -Une participation de 10 euros sera à régler - Les modalités seront envoyées par message privé Venez vous essayer, vous dépasser, jouer des personnages… vous permettant de passer des moments d’exception. Nous déclinons toute responsabilité en cas d’incident, lors des ateliers. Hocine et Solène

Photos des éditions précédentes : [https://www.meetup.com/pleinairparis/photos/34814827/](https://www.meetup.com/pleinairparis/photos/34814827/) [https://www.meetup.com/pleinairparis/photos/35217595/](https://www.meetup.com/pleinairparis/photos/35217595/) [https://www.meetup.com/pleinairparis/photos/35609084/](https://www.meetup.com/pleinairparis/photos/35609084/) 🌳 🌳 🌳 🗺️ **Partons pour trois jours d’aventure aux confins de l’Île-de-France, au cœur des falaises de la Seine.** Au fil du week‑end, nous alternerons entre sentiers, villages charmants et panoramas grandioses, avant de changer de point de vue en glissant sur la Seine en kayak. Notre itinéraire nous mènera jusqu’à [Vétheuil](https://www.destination-vexin-francais.fr/fiches/vetheuil-6008897/) et [Giverny](https://www.normandie-tourisme.fr/les-incontournables/giverny/), au cœur des lieux qui ont inspiré Monet. Deux nuits à [La Roche‑Guyon](https://www.valdoise-tourisme.com/les-incontournables/la-roche-guyon-un-village-dans-lhistoire/), dans un gîte chaleureux, permettront de profiter pleinement de cette parenthèse nature, simple et revitalisante. **📌​ JOUR 1 : Samedi 23/05** **De Mantes-la-Jolie à la Roche-Guyon** Distance 22 km Allure soutenue 5 km/h Dénivelé positif 427 m Pour cette première journée, on traverse les paysages vallonnés du Vexin à un bon rythme, entre forêts, plateaux et points de vue impressionnants sur la vallée de la Seine. 🏰 En fin d’après‑midi, on rejoint le [village de La Roche‑Guyon](https://www.valdoise-tourisme.com/les-incontournables/la-roche-guyon-un-village-dans-lhistoire/), dominé par son donjon médiéval et son château adossé à la falaise. On s’installe dans un gîte confortable pour une soirée reposante. **📌​ JOUR 2 : Dimanche 24/05** 🛶 **Descente en canoë dans le Vexin** On troque les chaussures de rando pour les pagaies et on embarque pour une descente fun et rafraîchissante au cœur du Vexin. Entre falaises, méandres et éclaboussures, la rivière devient un vrai terrain de jeu. 💦 Une parenthèse pleine de bonne humeur qui change le rythme et offre un point de vue unique sur la nature environnante. Il sera également possible de visiter le [château de La Roche‑Guyon](https://www.chateaudelarocheguyon.fr/) ainsi que la [maison de Monet à Vétheuil](https://vetheuil-impressionniste.com/) pour prolonger l’expérience culturelle au cœur du Vexin. (en option) **📌​ JOUR 3 : Lundi 25/05** **De la Roche-Guyon à Bonnières-sur-Seine** Distance 18 km Allure soutenue 5 km/h Dénivelé positif 252 m Pour cette dernière étape, on reprend la marche en direction de Bonnières-sur-Seine, sur un itinéraire plus doux mais toujours ponctué de beaux panoramas. 🖼️ Sur le chemin, on traverse le village de Giverny, célèbre pour [la maison et les jardins de Claude Monet](https://claudemonetgiverny.fr/), où sont nés les mythiques *Nymphéas*. Une halte inspirante pour conclure ce week‑end entre nature, culture et aventure. 🌳 🌳 🌳 **TARIF 145 euros/pers** ✔️ INCLUS DANS LE PRIX \ *L'hébergement dans un gîte, chambres en dortoirs partagés \* La location des kayaks \ *Les diners et les petits-déjeuners (préparés ensemble) (option végétarien et/ou sans gluten possible) \* Accompagnement par un organisateur Plein air Paris \ *Transport de la nourriture au gîte (en moins à porter) ❌ NON INCLUS \* Le transport public \ *Les pique-niques du samedi, dimanche et lundi \* Les tickets d'entrée pour les visites culturelles (en option) **\>\>\> Inscription sur liste d'attente pour tous avant d'être contacté pour valider votre participation [🙏](https://emojiterra.com/fr/mains-en-priere/) Merci de consulter vos messages une fois inscrit.** 🌳 🌳 🌳 **POINT DE RENDEZ-VOUS** 🕘 **Départ : Rendez-vous à la Gare Saint Lazare à 09h en tête de quai du train en direction de Mantes la Jolie.** Le train partira à 09h15 pour arriver à la gare de Mantes Station à 10h15. Si jamais tu ne trouves pas le groupe : le numéro de Louis est le 06 28 06 28 28. 🕘 Retour : Départ de la gare de Bonnières sur Seine par le ter à 17h01. Arrivée à la gare Saint-Lazare à 17h48. 💡 Si tu as un passe Navigo le transport est gratuit sinon l'aller-retour te coûtera 5,20€ au maximum pour l'achat de deux tickets. 🌳 🌳 🌳 **NE PAS OUBLIER** \*des vêtements adaptés des chaussures de randonnée \* une gourde un drap de sac ou un sac de couchage (il y a oreillers et couvertures au gîte) \ *un pique-nique pour le samedi, dimanche et lundi (il y a un épicerie et une boulangerie à la Roche Guyon si besoin) \* un isolant pour pouvoir s'asseoir par terre \ *un sac pour jeter ses déchets un masque de nuit et des bouchons d'oreille (nuits en dortoirs) \* une petite trousse de secours avec des pansements pour ampoules \ *une petite serviette \* des chaussons ou claquettes pour le gîte \ *une lampe frontale \* un petit contenant pour récupérer les restes du diner \ *ses affaires de toilette \* un moyen de paiement \ *sa bonne humeur :) 🌳 🌳 🌳 \>\> En t'inscrivant tu acceptes [les conditions générales](https://e.pcloud.link/publink/show?code=Nw8y6alK) de Plein air Paris <<

**The idea for this group is to build a community where men can gather together and build connections & learn and grow from each other.** How we start each meeting is by each of us checking in with our "roses and thorns" aka what are the good things and the bad things going on in your life recently? Then we will go into a topic discussion. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **COMMUNITY AGREEMENTS** \*\*THERE WILL BE A ZERO TOLERANCE POLICY FOR NO-SHOWS. IF YOU RSVP TO A MEETING AND FAIL TO SHOW UP WITHOUT NOTICE, YOU'LL BE REMOVED FROM THE GROUP. THIS IS TO PRESERVE THE INTEGRITY OF THE GROUP\*\* 1. Confidentiality - EVERYTHING that is shared NEVER leaves this space so that this space remains safe and sacred. There is a zero tolerance policy for this. If a man is in violation of this, they will be permanently removed from the group. 2. Non-Judgement - we respect and honor every man’s truth so that we may receive the same from others. While we may not agree on everything, we commit to respecting every man’s perspectives and engaging in honorable discussion with one another. 3. Be committed - honor your commitment to this group and to yourself. If you attend a meeting, please commit yourself fully to the meeting. Also be committed to your own journey. When we fail, we own it & clean it up. 4. Speak from the heart - this is NOT a space to “look good”, have the “right” answers, and have it all together. Relax and know you are not alone. Be exactly who you are within the safety of this space. 5. Be supportive - This means always willing to provide encouragement to your fellow men, encourage action and momentum in each other’s lives.. Be willing to challenge each other. Be willing to hold each other accountable. 6. Participation - what you receive from this community will be a reflection of what you put into it. Period. We ask that you share your perspectives, reflect on others, and give/receive support when and where it’s needed.

Couldn't make Knowledge? Or want to debrief the dancing robots or Autonomous Workforce? Join us for a Knowledge '26 recap, insights sharing, a couple rounds of golf, and fun at Topgolf. As always, drinks and food will be provided. More details to come — mark your calendar, RSVP, and save your spot today!

**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.

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