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Discover Your Neighborhood

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Yes! Check out discover your neighborhood events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.

Discover all the discover your neighborhood events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.

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Discover Your Neighborhood Events Today

Join in-person Discover Your Neighborhood events happening right now

Algonquin Park Canoe & Hike Adventure
Algonquin Park Canoe & Hike Adventure
Muskoka Hiking Day Trip
Muskoka Hiking Day Trip
Step & Shine
Step & Shine
Love cardio, rhythm, and good vibes? 💃 Join our Step & Shine class — a dynamic step aerobics workout that combines music, movement, and motivation! You’ll tone your legs, boost endurance, and burn calories while having fun in a friendly, supportive atmosphere. 🕖 When: Mondays & Wednesdays at 7:00 p.m. 📍 Where: Easy Nutrition Health Club, 1750 Steeles Ave West, Unit 12, Concord ⚡ Only 9 spots available, so grab yours early! Perfect for all fitness levels — come for the workout, stay for the energy!
Mount Pleasant Cemetery - SPECIAL HOLIDAY EDITION
Mount Pleasant Cemetery - SPECIAL HOLIDAY EDITION
\*\***The Toronto History Walks Yearly Pass is available. Get it now for $125.00 for 1 year of unlimited tours, email** **torontohistorywalks@gmail.com** **for more information or for signing up!\*\*** \*\* **Please note: Please e-transfer the ticket amount when booking your space for this tour! You can e-transfer to the following email at:** **torontohistorywalks@gmail.com** For those of you who work weekdays and would like the chance to walk on a weekend or Holiday I am doing a special walk this Monday. The only authorized cemeteries within York were Anglican or Roman Catholic. Citizens who did not belong to either church had no choice but to find burial arrangements outside York. The General Burying Ground received Royal Assent in 1826 and land that came to be known as Potters Field was acquired and started operation soon afterwards. Over time, additional cemetery lands were added and in 1873, a new cemetery available to all citizens was established. The new cemetery was situated on the farm land of the Cawthra family near Yonge Street. This walk is for all fitness levels. Please dress for the weather. This walk will begin and end outside the Yorkminster Park Baptist Church at 1585 Yonge Street just north of Heath Street. This tour has a ticket price of $15.00 per person! This tour has space for **11** explorers, so if you do plan on attending please secure your tickets early. \*\* **Please note: Please e-transfer the ticket amount when booking your space for this tour! You can e-transfer to the following email at:** **torontohistorywalks@gmail.com**
Bigger, Better, Bolder Miss Bachata & Miss Salsa
Bigger, Better, Bolder Miss Bachata & Miss Salsa
**Welcome to Miss Bachata & Miss Salsa!** **Spring is in the air, and with it comes the promise of new beginnings, fresh energy, and the joy of connection!** As the season of renewal unfolds, we invite you to step into the rhythm of community, dance, and celebration at Miss Bachata & Miss Salsa. My objective has always been to create a different kind of social gathering—one that is open, non-judgmental, and safe. A place where you can meet people just like you, where socializing and dancing come together to help build community and tear down the walls that separate us. Here, we make new friends, feel a sense of belonging, and enjoy the calmness that comes from knowing we are in a safe and welcoming space. Many times, I have been asked, “Why host an event on Monday night?” Many people escape on the weekend and dread Mondays when they return to work. I believe that if you dance and socialize on a Monday, you infuse your week with joy and positive energy, giving your life balance and helping you face your challenges with enthusiasm and confidence. We’re also thrilled to announce that our trial of advanced Bachata lessons, which began last September, has been a resounding success! Building on this momentum, we’re excited to offer an enhanced schedule for 2026. Our dance evenings will now feature three hours of classes: one hour of beginner to intermediate Bachata, one hour of advanced Bachata, and one hour of beginner to intermediate Salsa. As always, the entrance fee remains $15 for a night of 2 lessons and social dancing. For those interested in the advanced Bachata lessons, there will be an additional $5 fee. Here’s our updated schedule: **Miss Bachata – Main Ballroom** 🕖 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm: Beginner to Intermediate Bachata Lesson (No partner required) 🕗 8:00 pm – 12:00 am: Social Dancing **Miss Salsa – Round Room** 🕖 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm: Advanced Bachata Lesson (+$5) **NEW** 🕗 8:00 pm – 9:00 pm: Beginner to Intermediate Salsa Lesson 🕘 9:00 pm – 12:00 am: Social Dancing ✨ **Additional Details:** ✔️ Free Parking ✔️ Full Bar (Free Water, Beer: $5.75) Over the past decade, organizing Latin dancing events in Mississauga has been a labor of love. Our mission has always been to foster a sense of community, proving that the connections we share are far stronger than the differences that divide us. Loneliness is a growing concern, with over half of U.S. adults and many Canadians experiencing its effects. The COVID-19 pandemic has only heightened this issue. Harvard University's long-term study on happiness, which began in 1938, highlights the detrimental impact of loneliness on health. People with strong social connections experience slower mental and physical decline and greater overall happiness compared to those who are isolated. Here are some key findings from the study: 🌿 Close ties help delay mental and physical decline more than money, fame, social class, IQ, or genetics. 🌿 Relationship satisfaction is a better predictor of aging well than cholesterol levels in middle age. 🌿 A strong sense of community improves memory function. 🌿 Loneliness can be as harmful to health as smoking or alcoholism. And there’s hope! Strengthening our relationships and supporting community initiatives can combat loneliness and build healthier, happier lives. Miss Bachata & Miss Salsa provides a wonderful opportunity to make new friends, expand your social circle, and enjoy a safe, welcoming, authentic environment. Bring your open heart and a smile, and we’ll take care of the rest. 🌸 **Cheers to a season of renewal, joy, and community!** 🌸 **Anna G.** https://www.facebook.com/groups/1871491806494168/ https://www.facebook.com/EventsByAnnaG
Biking along downtown harborfront - slow pace 10km/hr
Biking along downtown harborfront - slow pace 10km/hr
\*\*\* TIME CHANGE TO 12:30 PM\*\* DUE TO RAIN FORECASTED AT 4-5PM Don't know what to do on Victoria day? Come join me for a bike ride from Jack Layton Terminal to Port Credit \~25km. We may end earlier at Long Branch if needed. We will be pedaling along the harbourfront at slow pace \~10km/hr. We will take the GO Train back to Union Meeting point: Jack Layton terminal We will break as needed and stop for photos if needed at the following places -Jack Layton Terminal -Toronto Music Garden -Trillium Park -Humber Bay Bridge -Colonel Samuel Smith Park -Marie Curtis Park -final destination: PORT credit lighthouse Washrooms available at Humber Bay Bridge Date : Mon May 18 at 12:30pm. we will wait 10 mins and then start pedaling. if you're late, you can try to catch up. If you don't have a bike, you can rent one from bike share Toronto. you can download the app to search for available bikes Bring lots of water

Discover Your Neighborhood Events This Week

Discover what is happening in the next few days

Yorkville valleys (6.8 km)
Yorkville valleys (6.8 km)
Yorkville is known as a swank shopping sector for socialites, but did you know there is a lush valley trail behind it? It's the first branch (or last depending on your perspective) of the Don valley system. This hike will bring you down to the Don river and up Rosedale ravine. Yorkville is also an attraction in itself. It's steeped in history, with Victorian-era houses and a handsome library and fire hall. There are also hidden murals to be found, making it pleasant to explore. The old houses attracted artists in the 1960s for their low rent. Today, they attract luxury boutiques with high property prices. Of course, the restaurants here cater to the big spenders. Most are overpriced but there are some gems and wallet-friendly food to be found. We'll end just outside of Yorkville, at a Korean BBQ buffet. Reservations are required in a [separate event](https://www.meetup.com/hike-to-eat/events/314503608). If you're not in the mood to eat all you can, there are affordable options in the same block for Afghan, Chinese, Japanese, and Syrian food. **Highlights** 1. Sherbourne subway station (depart 6:30pm) 2. Wan2 Food Mart 3. St. James Cemetery 4. Rosedale valley 5. Toronto Reference Library (depart 7:30pm) 6. POPpadum 7. Yorkville library / Toronto Fire Station 312 / Buca 8. Yorkville murals 9. Historic houses like the Former Mt Sinai Hospital (now Chanel) 10. Alobar / MSSM 11. Eataly 12. Oklahoma Burgers / Jongro Korean BBQ Buffet (arrive 8:25pm) **Neighbourhoods** St. James Town > Yorkville **Map** [https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1mEcYzIdMt01R7VyG_X3TZyIsi9PuDqY&usp=sharing](https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1mEcYzIdMt01R7VyG_X3TZyIsi9PuDqY&usp=sharing) **How it works** Hike starts punctually. Late or can't do the whole route? Meet us at scheduled checkpoints. We'll browse many food places but won't linger long. See the route in advance, organize takeout, then pickup along the way. See our [About section](https://www.meetup.com/hike-to-eat/) for more info.
Korean BBQ and buffet at Jongro (after Yorkville valleys hike)
Korean BBQ and buffet at Jongro (after Yorkville valleys hike)
This is a companion event for the [Yorkville valleys hike](https://www.meetup.com/hike-to-eat/events/314503313/). You don't have to join the hike to sign up for this, but it's more rewarding if you do. Toronto has many all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ restaurants. [Jongro ](https://jongrobloor.ca/)is the only one that also has a full Korean buffet alongside. There's jokbal (pork trotters), kkanpunggi (fried chicken strips), gimbap, japchae, mandu, tteok, and more. For meat lovers, there's LA kalbi, marbled top blade, beef tongue, and even aged pork butt. Monday-Thursday dinner is $44 before tax and tip. If there are many people on the waitlist and it's at least 5 days before the event, we may arrange another table. **Payment** * After signing up for the event, you have 24 hours to e-transfer the fee to globaltorontoeats@gmail.com * The $10 event fee is a deposit. It will be refunded when you show up. * If you're on the waitlist, you don't have to pay the deposit until a space opens up. You have 24 hours to pay the deposit after you've made it off the waitlist. * When sending the e-transfer, please add a note that mentions your meetup.com name. * If you don't pay in time, you will be removed from the attendee list. The spot will be given to the next person on the waitlist. **Cancellation and refund policy** * You can cancel and get a full refund 5 calendar days before the event. For example, if the event is on Friday 7pm, you can cancel without penalty anytime before the preceding Sunday 11:59pm. * No refunds within 5 calendar days of the event, unless someone can be found to take your place. * Full refund if the event is cancelled or rescheduled.
Doors Open Toronto
Doors Open Toronto
🏛️🚶 DOORS OPEN TORONTO: HIDDEN BUILDINGS & CITY STORIES WALK 🚶🏛️
🏛️🚶 DOORS OPEN TORONTO: HIDDEN BUILDINGS & CITY STORIES WALK 🚶🏛️
🏛️🚶 **DOORS OPEN TORONTO: HIDDEN BUILDINGS & CITY STORIES WALK** 🚶🏛️ Historic Spaces, Community Landmarks & A City Revealed Some buildings you walk past every day without thinking twice… until the doors open. Join us for a second day of Doors Open Toronto, where we’ll explore a mix of historic, cultural, and community spaces across the city — each with its own story, purpose, and evolution. This walk is about contrast. Old and new. Exclusive and inclusive. Grand and everyday. And how all of it shapes the city we live in. This is not a formal tour. It’s a social, story-driven walk — with moments to pause, look, and see familiar places differently. 👉 📲 **Join Our WhatsApp Group:**[ Click here to join](https://chat.whatsapp.com/DRFTkxRlHS4B3IL1lMleUd) \*\*\* 🚶‍♂️ What We’ll Do We’ll move through a curated route of Doors Open, stopping at a variety of buildings and institutions that reflect Toronto’s layered history and community life. Some of the locations we may visit include: * **Fire Station 315** – Opened in 1889, this historic fire hall is built of brick with stone detailing, reflecting early 20th-century civic architecture. * **The El Mocambo** – Opened in 1948, this iconic music venue is housed in a brick building with a classic mid-century commercial façade. * **Daniels Building (University of Toronto)** – Opened in 1875 (as Knox College), this Gothic Revival building is constructed of sandstone with intricate masonry detailing. * **U of T Bookstore (Koffler Student Centre)** – Opened in 1958, this modernist structure is built primarily of concrete and glass. * **Polish Combatants' Association Branch 20** – Opened in 1950, this community hall is a modest brick structure reflecting post-war institutional design. * **St. George’s Hall (Arts & Letters Club)** – Opened in 1891, this heritage building is constructed of brick and stone in a Victorian style. * **St. George Greek Orthodox Church** – Opened in 1897, this church is built of brick with classical detailing and later Byzantine-inspired elements. * **Street Health** – Established in 1986, the facility operates out of a practical brick building adapted for community healthcare use. * **Street Haven** – Founded in 1965, this women’s shelter is housed in a converted brick residential building typical of the area. * **Jarvis Street Baptist Church** – Opened in 1875, this Gothic Revival church is built of brick with stone accents. * **The 519** –This building actually dates back to 1858 — long before it became The 519 we know today — and started as a Georgian-style home before evolving into a community space. * **Foy-Smith House** – Built in 1891, this historic home is constructed of brick in the Queen Anne Revival style. * **St. Paul’s Bloor Street** – Opened in 1889, this Romanesque Revival church is built of stone with a commanding tower and detailed masonry. Some locations we’ll enter, others we’ll experience from the outside depending on timing and lineups. ⚠️ Please note: wait times are part of Doors Open. We’ll move as a group and make decisions along the way. \*\*\* 🏛️ What Is Doors Open Toronto? Doors Open Toronto is a free annual event where the city opens up buildings that are normally closed to the public — from historic homes and cultural institutions to places you’d never usually think to step inside. It’s one of the best ways to explore Toronto beyond the surface. \*\*\* 🌆 Vibe & Expectations This is a longer, more exploratory walk with: ✔️ Multiple stops ✔️ Some waiting in lines ✔️ A mix of indoor and outdoor spaces ✔️ Members can leave any time the like It’s not about rushing — it’s about discovering. Also — this is NOT a formal historical tour. I’ll share context and stories as we go, but the focus is on the experience and being social. \*\*\* 🧢 Meetup Details 📍 Meetup Location: **Fire Station 315** 🫎 I’ll be outside and I will be wearing my Moose Hat ⏰ Meetup Time: (Insert time) I will only wait 5 minutes. Anyone arriving late can meet us along the route. We won’t be saving spots in line — it’s important we respect the people around us. \*\*\* 🎟️ Meetup Fee: $5 cash in person or e-transfer to 📧 **[[mathewmaclean@hotmail.com](mailto:mathewmaclean@hotmail.com)]([mailto:mathewmaclean@hotmail.com](http://mailto:mathewmaclean@hotmail.com/))** Doors Open is free to attend. This fee helps support the group and allows us to keep hosting events like this. Thank you for supporting community! 💖 \*\*\* 🎒 What to Bring Water Comfortable walking shoes Patience for lines ⏳ Weather-appropriate clothing Optional: snacks or money for food along the way \*\*\* 🌈 Who Is This For? This group is open to anyone who wants to be social and make friends — whether single or not. We also host: 🎬 Movies 🚶 Walks & hikes 🎭 Arts & culture outings 🍽️ Restaurant gatherings There’s always something happening. \*\*\* REMEMBER: You’re welcome to just show up on the day if you’re unsure about your schedule. And as always, sometimes plans shift and events may need to be canceled — please keep an eye on updates. \*\*\* 👤 Organizer: Mathew Questions? Post on the event wall or email 📧 [[torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com](mailto:torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com)]([mailto:torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com](http://mailto:torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com/)) Come for the buildings. Stay for the stories. Leave seeing the city not just as it looks — but as it’s evolved. 🏛️✨
🏙️🔭 DOORS OPEN TORONTO: SKYLINE VIEWS & HIDDEN SPACES WALK 🔭🏙️
🏙️🔭 DOORS OPEN TORONTO: SKYLINE VIEWS & HIDDEN SPACES WALK 🔭🏙️
🏙️🔭 DOORS OPEN TORONTO: SKYLINE VIEWS & HIDDEN SPACES WALK 🔭🏙️ Observation Decks, City Icons & A Once-a-Year Experience Some places in Toronto you walk past every day… but rarely get to go inside. This is your chance. Join us for a special Doors Open Toronto outing, where we’ll explore two of the city’s most iconic buildings — including access to spaces that aren’t usually open to the public. This event only happens once a year, and it’s one of the best ways to experience the city from a completely different perspective. This is not a formal tour. It’s a social outing — with incredible views, a bit of history, and shared discovery. 📲 **Join Our WhatsApp Group:**[ Click here to join](https://chat.whatsapp.com/DRFTkxRlHS4B3IL1lMleUd) \*\*\* 🏙️ What We’ll Do We’ll start at TD Bank Tower (66 Wellington St W), part of the Toronto-Dominion Centre — one of the finest examples of modernist architecture in the city, designed by legendary architect Mies van der Rohe. We’ll head up to the observation area (approximately 223 metres high), where you’ll get a stunning view of Toronto’s skyline from a space that isn’t typically open to the public. From there, we’ll walk over to Toronto City Hall and visit its observation deck. Opened in 1965 and designed by Finnish architect Viljo Revell, City Hall’s curved twin towers and central council chamber make it one of Toronto’s most recognizable landmarks. From above, you’ll get a completely different view of Nathan Phillips Square and the downtown core. ⚠️ Please note: both locations are very popular during Doors Open, so there will likely be wait times. Part of the experience is the buzz and energy of the day. Afterward, we’ll head over to CF Toronto Eaton Centre for a casual lunch in the food court. 🍔🥗 You’re welcome to join or head out whenever you like. \*\*\* **🏛️ What Is Doors Open Toronto?** Doors Open Toronto is a free annual city-wide event that opens the doors to architecturally, historically, and culturally significant buildings across Toronto. For one weekend, you can explore spaces that are usually closed to the public — from office towers and historic sites to creative and civic spaces. It’s one of the best ways to connect with the city and see what’s normally hidden in plain sight. \*\*\* 🌦️ **Weather & Expectations** This event will run rain or shine. Be prepared for: ✔️ Walking between locations ✔️ Standing in lines ✔️ A busy, energetic atmosphere Wear comfortable shoes and bring patience — it’s part of the experience. Also — this is NOT a guided historical tour. I’ll share context casually, but the focus is on exploring together. \*\*\* 🧢 **Meetup Details** 📍 Meetup Location: OutsideI will be on the West/South corner right by the lights and I will be wearing my Moose Hat. 🫎 I’ll be wearing my Moose Hat ⏰ Meetup Time: 9:00 AM I will only wait 5 minutes. Anyone arriving late can meet us at the first location. We won’t be saving spots in line — it’s important we respect the people around us. Early is on time. On time is late. We’ll head in together. End Point: Eaton Centre \*\*\* 🎟️ Meetup Fee: $5 cash in person or e-transfer to 📧 \*\*[mathewmaclean@hotmail.com**](http://mathewmaclean@hotmail.com%2A%2A/) Doors Open is free to attend. This fee helps support the group and allows us to keep hosting events like this. Thank you for supporting community! 💖 \*\*\* 🎒 What to Bring Water Comfortable walking shoes Patience for lines ⏳ Weather-appropriate clothing Optional: cash/card for lunch \*\*\* 🌈 Who Is This For? This group is open to anyone who wants to be social and make friends — whether single or not. We also host: 🎬 Movies 🚶 Walks & hikes 🎭 Arts & culture outings 🍽️ Restaurant gatherings There’s always something happening. \*\*\* REMEMBER: You’re welcome to just show up on the day if you’re unsure about your schedule. And as always, sometimes plans shift and events may need to be canceled — please keep an eye on updates. \*\*\* 👤 Organizer: Mathew Questions? Post on the event wall or email 📧 [torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com](mailto:torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com) Come for the views. Stay for the experience. Leave having seen parts of the city most people never get to access. 🏙️✨
A Saturday Morning "Quicky" (For your heart rate, obviously)
A Saturday Morning "Quicky" (For your heart rate, obviously)
On **Saturday, May 23rd**, let’s get our hearts pumping and our stomachs growling. We’re hitting the [Crothers Woods](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/crothers-woods-and-brickwotks-9914464) trails for a brisk city ravine loop before heading to the **Evergreen Brick Works**. The pace will be snappy—think "I have a lunch date later" fast. We’ll be hunting down those legendary tapioca crepes and empanadas like they’re the last pieces of gear at an MEC sale. * **The Mission:** An 8.5 km jaunt in about 2 hours. Level 2 if you please. * **The Schedule:** Meet at **9:30 AM**. You’ll be back on your couch by 12:45 PM. * **The Spot:** [50-58 True Davidson Dr.](https://www.google.ca/maps/place/43%C2%B041'36.9%22N+79%C2%B022'00.2%22W/@43.693588,-79.3672642,19z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d43.6935869!4d-79.3667166) 1. What3words [https://what3words.com/using.cashier.rainy](https://what3words.com/using.cashier.rainy) The first time I saw your hiking boots, I knew we were all **sole-mates**. Don’t leave me hanging. Gadi
Sunday Nature and Neighbourhood Walk! (Dinner and Music Listening Party after)
Sunday Nature and Neighbourhood Walk! (Dinner and Music Listening Party after)
Hello everyone, **\*\*Kindly Read Carefully\*\*** Please join me and my other groups for a fantastic spring afternoon involving a leisure nature and beautiful neighbourhood walk \- Include trails\, parks\, cafes\, ice breakers\, washroom breaks and beautiful sties to see -Our great event will continue as we hit a fabulous location for dinner, beverages and conversation (optional) -Stick around after dinner and music listening party after **Time and Location: Where to meet us?** We will meet at out front of **Smoke Show** **744 Mt. Pleasant Rd)** \*Arrive early if you like (however we will meet out front at **3:00 p.m. (we will wait for everyone to arrive until roughly 3:30 p.m.)** This will give us an opportunity to introduce ourselves as everyone arrives; then make our way on our small adventure through quieter and more natural parts of the city we don't usually get to see. More details below: Sincerely, Steve Flemming (Organizer/Host) **Event Details:** **Sunday Nature and Neighbourhood Walk! (Dinner and Music Listening Party after)** -A great event planned as we explore Parks, Trails, Cafes and beautiful Neighbourhoods with cool sites to see -During the walk we will stop and rest at different spots, bathroom breaks, take some lovely scenic photos, group photos and share some laughs together -Play a couple ice breaker games near the beginning of the walk as well to help us get to know one another \*This event is a great way to naturally make connections, get some fresh air, exercise and (re) connect with some wonderful people **Bonus after our Leisure Nature and Neighbourhood Walk:** \*Stick around after the walk for a fun Sunday evening gathering at an iconic venue with Reserved Seating, Great Menu, Beverages, Mingling and Music Listening Party **Event Fee:** 10 dollars (cash only) when you arrive (HST is included) or e transfer in advance to Steveflemming11@gmail.com \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Time and Location: Where to meet us?** **Date:** Sunday May 14th We will meet at out front of **Smoke Show** **744 Mt. Pleasant Rd)** \*Arrive early if you like (however we will meet out front at **3:00 p.m. (we will wait for everyone to arrive until roughly 3:30 p.m.)** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ***Thanks for reading everyone, remember to RSVP and see you real soon!*** :) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-

Discover Your Neighborhood Events Near You

Connect with your local Discover Your Neighborhood community

Trails & Ales! Blendon Woods Metro Park / Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery
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.
How to Move on From the Past and Feel Happy
How to Move on From the Past and Feel Happy
In this local meeting, you will discover knowledge that you can use to get over the past. The key to improving your personal motivation, self-confidence, and happiness is to get over your painful memories. When you become free of your past, you will be free from stress, anger, anxiety and depression. Studies show that negative emotions can affect your health. By being free of negative emotions, believe it or not, you will most likely even look younger, feel more energetic, and become healthier! Be sure to click on the red "Attend" button below to come to this local event. We look forward to seeing you there. This group is brought to you by the Dianetics and Scientology life improvement center.
Let's Discover the Discovery District
Let's Discover the Discovery District
Take Control Of Your Life, Freedom From Negative Thoughts & Irrational Emotions
Take Control Of Your Life, Freedom From Negative Thoughts & Irrational Emotions
Feeling down? Sometimes depressed? Can't focus? Negativity & stress? Recent losses? Creativity in career and personal life hindered by mental blocks? Sometimes we never fully recover from traumatic experiences. Whether it was yesterday, last week or a year ago, traumatic experiences - a loss of a loved one, losing a job, a breakup - can leave you scarred. You talk about it and feel a little better, but it never goes away. After you hang up the phone, it's still there; the sadness, the cloud, the over-thinking, the worry, the guilt. You try to focus, but you're blocked. You try to look forward into new experiences, new relationships but a cloud is hanging over you, casting a shadow on what you once considered a bright, cheerful future. What happened to your courage? Your strength of character? You're 'why not' attitude? Whoever said 'time heals' must have had a special time machine, because after weeks, months, years, you're wondering - when exactly does that kick in? Sometimes it seems like drinking or drugs are the way to go. But they wear off, and now the problem is still there with added side effects from the drugs. At this free local Meetup event we will talk about: * What causes grief, anxiety and depression to become chronic. * Is it possible to regain your joy and happiness even after traumatic experiences? * How to break away from negativity and focus on the future * What are the steps to take to get control of your mind and your emotions? Learn about a safe, gentle, do-it-yourself counseling that can be done in the comfort of your own home. Let's explore safe, effective solutions for healing from traumatic experiences. 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 sponsored by the Dianetics & Scientology Life Improvement Center.
Worthington's Sip n Stroll!
Worthington's Sip n Stroll!
Come hang out to shop, sip + stroll through [Old Worthington](http://www.experienceworthington.com/)\- an outdoor event along the sidewalks of High St to kickoff the summer shopping season\. The shops will be open late\, store fronts will be decorated and people will be out on the town ready to start spreading warm weather cheer\!\! **START**: (6pm and earlier) at Graeters Ice Cream shop in the heart of it all. **NEXT**: about 6:15pm, we'll take a stroll and shop merch and homemade food tents. I'd love to introduce you to a new cafe, [Joyas](https://www.eatatjoyas.com/), along the stroll! (It will be too busy for us all to sit and eat so I'd recommend ordering to go) **FINALLY**: about 7pm, we'll settle in at House Wine (next to Graeters) for wine sampling and to enjoy our fresh eats! **PARKING**: Free Public Parking behind House Wine, behind Joyas and street parking.
The Power of the Subconscious Mind - Free Lecture
The Power of the Subconscious Mind - Free Lecture
**How to take control of your subconscious and harness its power!** Join us for an eye-opening lecture where the speaker will break down complex ideas in a clear and practical way. You’ll gain insights into: ✅ The true definition of the subconscious ✅ How it generates unwanted emotions ✅ Its real purpose and function ✅ What determines the pressure it exerts on you And the most important topic: **How do you take control of your subconscious!** But this isn’t just another lecture where you sit and listen passively. It’s interactive and engaging—you can ask questions at any time. 📅 Reserve your spot now! Seats are limited, so don’t wait too long to sign up. Location: 1266 Dublin Rd, Columbus, OH 43215 Hosted by the Hubbard Dianetics Foundation