Field Trips
Meet other local people interested in Field Trips: share experiences, inspire and encourage each other! Join a Field Trips group.
0
members
0
groups
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Check out field trips events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.
Discover all the field trips events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.
Absolutely! Find field trips events near your location here. Connect with your local community and discover events within your area.
Field Trips Events Today
Join in-person Field Trips events happening right now
JTC-Meetup in Zürich
**Dieses Meetup richtet sich exklusiv an die Menschen aus der Join The Crew Reisecommunity zwischen 20 und 39 Jahren.**
**Aktivität:** Ocean Film Tour
**Details:**
Wir gehen gemeinsam zur **International Ocean Film Tour 2026** in Zürich und tauchen für einen Abend in die Welt des Ozeans, Abenteuer und inspirierender Geschichten ein.
Die Tickets organisiert sich bitte jeder selbst im Vorfeld. Alle Infos und Buchung findet ihr [hier!](https://ch.oceanfilmtour.com/de/tickets/international-ocean-film-tour-2026-arthouse-le-paris-2026-05-11-20-00)
Freut euch auf einen besonderen Abend mit starken Bildern, spannenden Storys und anschließendem Austausch 🎬🌊+
**Tickets und Kosten:**
**Wichtig!!!! Das Ticket muss sich jede/r im Vorfeld selbst besorgen.** Wir haben kein Kontingent an Tickets. Wer ohne Ticket kommt, läuft Gefahr keinen Einlass zu erhalten. Daher bitte online die Tickets hier besorgen: [Link](https://ch.oceanfilmtour.com/de/tickets/international-ocean-film-tour-2026-arthouse-le-paris-2026-05-11-20-00)
**Treffpunkt:**
Wir treffen uns um 19:15 Uhr vor dem **Kino** **Arthouse Le Paris**. **Bitte unbedingt pünktlich sein!**
**Weitere Information:**
**Auf diesem Event werden ggf. Bilder und Videos gemacht, die wir auf unseren Instagram Kanälen oder auf [meetup.de](http://meetup.de/) verwenden.** Solltest Du nicht damit einverstanden sein, sag das bitte direkt zu Begin des Meetups deinem Host.
**Über uns:**
Wir - eine Community von mittlerweile über 40.000 Leuten aus Deutschland, Österreich & der Schweiz reisen nicht nur in der Weltgeschichte herum sondern treffen uns auch regelmäßig in verschiedensten Städten um Freundschaften zu pflegen & Neulingen das Segeln und Outdoor-Abenteuer mit Join The Crew näher zu bringen. Egal ob du bereits bei vielen Törns und Touren dabei warst, du noch nie mit uns unterwegs warst oder einfach nur mit coolen Leuten abhängen willst, auf unseren Meetups bist du immer willkommen! Mehr Infos zu unserer Community findest du auf [https://join-the-crew.com/de](https://join-the-crew.com/de)
Fragen? Kommentiert bitte unter diesem Beitrag!
Cashflow Spiel-Abend
**Wie kommst Du aus dem finanziellen Hamsterrad?**
*Durch Übung!*
Das Finanz-Strategiespiel "Cashflow 101" von Robert Kiyosaki zeigt dir die Möglichkeiten!
Durch dieses Spiel lernst du konkrete Wege kennen, wie Du das finanzielle Hamsterrad verlassen und ein noch freieres, selbstbestimmteres Leben führen kannst.
Du lernst den Unterschied zwischen guten und schlechten Schulden. Und noch viel mehr!
Das regelmässige Finanz-Fitnesstraining mit dem Brettspiel Cashflow 101 - ist dafür hocheffektiv! Und das alles ohne Schwitzen, Mühe und Risiko!
**Bist Du auch mit dabei?**
AnfängerInnen sind natürlich willkommen.
**Wo treffen wir uns?**
Wir treffen uns in einem schönen Restaurant in Zürich-Oerlikon um 18h.
Vor und während dem Essen (optional und freiwillig, aber wer konsumiert, unterstützt einen lokalen Wirt) kann genetzwerkt werden, d.h. jeder, der will, kann von seinen und ihren Investment Lösungen erzählen. Wir erfahren immer gerne von neuen Möglichkeiten.
*Über Geld reden ist kein Tabu mehr!*
Nach dem Essen erklären wir die Regeln und spielen = üben uns im Investieren.
**Melde dich jetzt an.**
**PS Abmeldung**: Eine kurze Meetup-Nachricht, SMS oder ein Anruf bei kurzfristiger Abmeldung wird erwartet. Wir nehmen uns Zeit, dafür erwarten wir, dass du entweder kommst oder dich entsprechend abmeldest, damit wir nicht unnötig warten oder unnötig einen weiten Weg auf uns nehmen müssen (Xarah wohnt jetzt im Thurgau - Bodensee)
**PPS Kosten**: Fr. 20.- (bitte unaufgefordert bei Spielbeginn bezahlen). Das Geld kommt in einen Topf. Im letzten Spiel des Jahres bekommt der Gewinner ein Silbermünze.
Bitte **Bargeld** mitnehmen. CHF.
Auch der Beizer nimmt lieber Bargeld, weil Kreditkartenzahlungen zusätzliche Kosten verursachen.
Language Exchange
Join us for the weekly Language Exchange! 🚀
Language Exchange WhatsApp Chat
https://chat.whatsapp.com/C36TAgOl8Ei5qsWMNPZpHU
Join the weekly Language Exchange (every monday) to work on your language skills, socialize and meet cool and open people.
💡HOW DOES IT WORK💡
1. Come to the location (for Spring and Summer the event will take place on a outside)☀️🍹
2. The Event Host will greet you🤜🏽🤛🏾
3. Choose the language flag that interests you and speak the language of the flag🇪🇸🇬🇧🇵🇹🇮🇹🇩🇪🇨🇭🇫🇷
4. Start talking with people around the world and improve your language skill💪🏽💭
CASHFLOW - Das Finanz-Brettspiel
**Wie kommst Du aus dem finanziellen Hamsterrad?**
Durch Übung! :-))
Das Finanz-Strategiespiel "Cashflow 101" von Robert Kiyosaki zeigt dir die Möglichkeiten!
Durch dieses Spiel lernst du konkrete Wege kennen, wie Du das finanzielle Hamsterrad verlassen und ein noch freieres, selbstbestimmteres Leben führen kannst.
Du lernst den Unterschied zwischen guten und schlechten Schulden. Und noch viel mehr!
Das regelmässige Finanz-Fitnesstraining mit dem Brettspiel Cashflow 101 ist dafür hocheffektiv! Und das alles ohne Schwitzen, Mühe und Risiko!
Bist Du auch mit dabei? AnfängerInnen sind natürlich willkommen.
**Wo treffen wir uns?**
Wir treffen uns in einem schönen Restaurant in Zürich-Oerlikon um 18h.
Vor und während dem Essen (optional und freiwillig, aber wer konsumiert, unterstützt einen lokalen Wirt) kann genetzwerkt werden, d.h. jeder, der will, kann von seinen und ihren Investment Lösungen erzählen. Wir erfahren immer gerne von neuen Möglichkeiten.
Über Geld reden ist kein Tabu mehr!
Nach dem Essen erklären wir die Regeln und spielen = üben uns im Investieren.
Melde dich jetzt an.
**PS Abmeldung:**
Eine kurze Meetup-Nachricht, SMS oder ein Anruf bei kurzfristiger Abmeldung wird erwartet. Wir nehmen uns Zeit, dafür erwarten wir, dass du entweder kommst oder dich entsprechend abmeldest, damit wir nicht unnötig warten oder unnötig einen weiten Weg auf uns nehmen müssen (Xarah wohnt jetzt im Thurgau - Bodensee)
**PPS Kosten:**
Fr. 20.- (bitte unaufgefordert bei Spielbeginn bezahlen). Das Geld kommt in einen Topf. Im letzten Spiel des Jahres erhält der Gewinner eine Silber-Münze oder Sammlermünze.
Bitte **Bargeld** mitnehmen. CHF. Der Beizer nimmt auch lieber Bargeld, weil Kreditkartenzahlungen zusätzliche Kosten verursachen.
Let's practice Russian language (A1-A2 level)
Всем привет!
This meetup is for those who are starting to speak or want to refresh their abilities in speaking. I am a Russian language teacher and will help you during this event. The event repeats twice a month.
There is a fee of 10 CHF for the event.
We will play word or board games, read poems, guess what a proverb or an idiom means and I might come up with other activities. If you have any suggestions let me know.
You should be able to express yourself a bit and know some basics in Russian. It won't work for complete beginners.
We will meet in the restaurant&bar of the Ibis Styles Hotel not far from Zurich HB.
See you there!
До скорого!
Afro Workout Dance Fitness Class
Hi there! I’m happy you have come across **Afro Dance Fitness classes**!
Are you interested in group fitness (all levels) or dancing, Afrodance and Working out in a group of likeminded women to Afrobeats music, then this is for you!
Afro Workout is an Afrodance inspired Dance Fitness Class in Zürich that combines dynamic dance moves and intensive Workout to Afrobeats.
Similiar to Zumba but to Afro music including dance movement, fitness and sculpt.
Afro is all about Good Vibes! Expressing a joy of living, to be confident and feel good in your body.
Classes take place **every Monday from 7-8 pm** in Zürich Altstetten.
For all levels! You don’t have to be a dancer or a fitness geek. Party, Dance and sweat with us to Afrobeats!
First class is always free for first timers!
Sign up for the FREE class
[Free class](https://afroworkout.as.me/free-class)
Please always sign up and RSVP to every class, via Meet up Event, [Email](vanessa@afroworkout.com) vanessa@afroworkout.ch, DM on Instagram or Sign up link on Website.
There will be always more people in a class then shown on Meet up. Don‘t hesitate to sign up via above mentioned channels.
Can‘t wait!
Check daily updates and classes on [Instagram](https://instagram.com/afroworkout.ch?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=)
Website for more information and class info
[www.afroworkout.ch](https://www.afroworkout.ch)
Move, Dance and Stay Fit to Afrobeats!
🎉 Rummikub Club Zürich
Dear Rummikub Friends,
I’m very excited to announce our **next Rummikub Club event in Zürich**!
📅 **Date:** Monday, 11 May April 2026
⏰ **Time:**
– 17:45 — Welcome, short intro & rule overview
– 18:00–20:00 — Gameplay
📍 **Location:** Mini Café Bar, Bleicherweg 62, 8001 Zürich
👉 *Just 3 minutes walking from Bahnhof Enge and around 5 minutes from Paradeplatz!*
💸 **Participation:** Free
🎲 **What to bring:**
– Your Rummikub set (if you have one)
– Fun, good mood, and openness
(We will also provide some Rummikub sets at the venue.)
We will meet first to talk through the rules, create small teams, and then play together in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
Everyone is welcome — beginners, experienced players, locals, expats… the more diverse, the better!
I’m really looking forward to meeting you in person on 11 May! 💙
Zsofia
\* \* \*
Liebe Rummikub-Freunde,
Ich freue mich sehr, euch zu unserem **nächsten Rummikub Club Event in Zürich** einzuladen!
📅 **Datum:** Montag, 11. Mai 2026
⏰ **Zeit:**
– 17:45 — Begrüssung, kurze Einführung & Regelübersicht
– 18:00–20:00 — Gemeinsames Spielen
📍 **Ort:** Mini Café Bar, Bleicherweg 62, 8001 Zürich
👉 *Nur 3 Gehminuten vom Bahnhof Enge und ca. 5 Minuten vom Paradeplatz entfernt!*
💸 **Teilnahme:** Kostenlos
🎲 **Was ihr mitbringen könnt:**
– Ein eigenes Rummikub-Set (falls vorhanden)
– Gute Laune, Offenheit und Spielfreude
(Einige Sets werden wir auch vor Ort zur Verfügung haben.)
Wir beginnen mit einer kurzen Erklärung der Regeln, bilden kleine Gruppen und spielen dann gemeinsam in einer lockeren und freundlichen Atmosphäre.
Alle sind herzlich willkommen — Anfänger*innen, erfahrene Spieler*innen, Einheimische, Expats… je bunter, desto besser!
Ich freue mich sehr darauf, euch am 11 Mai zu sehen! 💙
Zsofia
Field Trips Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
Hike Hoch Geissberg+ concert in Altdorf
**Walk description:**
This hike is still a T3 but it starts to be difficult because of the elevation gain (2000m).
We start our hike at 9:00 am at Erstfeld station and make our way to the Hoch Geisberg. There may still be a bit of snow on the trail, but not much.
https://whiterisk.ch/de/conditions/snow-maps/snow_depth
According to the time we have left, we could take a shorter route to Altdorf — for example, by following the cable car down to Attinghausen.
https://www.komoot.com/de-de/tour/2940708678?share_token=aAvsxogJd0MklM8gNjkB6fVOGRAKuOCavOmMMVYrlRlg1TPp7y&ref=wtd&t_s=referral&t_cid=route_share&t_ref_username=4403209765193
Possibility to go swimming in the waldnachter seeli or in the Reuss
**concert in Altdorf (19:30)**
https://www.theater-uri.ch/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/260421_m_kamp_solokonzerte_fly_a5_web.pdf
**How to go with the train (from Zurich and I will meet you on the way):**
https://www.sbb.ch/de?stops=Z%C3%BCrich+HB_I8503000\~Erstfeld_I8505114&day=2026-05-16&time=06_58&moment=dep&trip=1
**dedicated whatapp group**
https://chat.whatsapp.com/J0JPyXgjnGd7j30ZCZTmiU
**Registration:**
To sign up, please select "Yes" in the WhatsApp community survey for this activity:
[🌄 Switzerland Discovery Crew (Preferred Ages 18-35)🌄 | WhatsApp-Kanal](https://www.whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaoercY1XquRrJm58k3V)
If the event will happen in more than 30 days, I haven't added the survey in the channel yet. (Because message in a WhatsApp channel can be read by a new member only 30 days before he joins. But you can already enter the corresponding WhatsApp group)
If you are concerned about privacy, only the admin of a WhatsApp channel can see who has voted in a poll (unlike a WhatsApp group).
Please sign up only when you are certain!
You can also register through Meetup, as it helps build momentum; however, I rely only on the number of people who signed up through the WhatsApp survey.
Game Day - Cevi Spielt
Zürich Boardgame Group welcomes everyone to another boardgame event at Cevi. Nothing is required, just come as you are and prepare yourself for an evening of fun! The team speaks both German and English (and Danish).
You can see our entire boardgame collection here (takes a moment to load in your browser):
https://gameshelf.io/user/cevi
Please let us know in advance if you want to play any of these games and we will bring them out for you to play! There will also be a selection of games from our collection to choose from.
We look forward to seeing you!
Lauterbrunnen - Day Trip
Join us for an amazing day trip to the beautiful Swiss Alps and explore some of Switzerland's most stunning valley.
Info:
📅 Date: Sunday, 17. May 2026
🚌 Bus departure: 9:00am sharp (Meeting at 8:50)
📍Meeting Point: Zurich HB Bus station/Sihlquai
🏠 Return: Arrive back in Zurich 19:30
💸Cost: 34.50 return (Zurich- Lauterbrunnen-Zurich)
💺 To book your seat on the rented bus please follow this link (limited space)
[Link](https://buytickets.at/zurichtogether/2128774)
📲 Join the WhatsApp Chat once you have purchased your ticket for all further information!
[Link](https://chat.whatsapp.com/KafZv9vCEJXHRaGrdvkQ71/)
Joining for the first time? Then watch this Zurich Together Day Trips explanation video:
[Link](https://youtube.com/shorts/lzlcK-I9rjY)
What to bring:
* Hiking shoes
* Suncream
* Appropriate clothing based on the weather forecast
What is not included in the day trip?
\- Gondola price not included this is transport ticket only\.
\- Food and Drinks
+Additional info:
Once we arrive, you are free to choose from a variety of hiking routes based on your fitness level. However, you are also welcome to follow the route suggested by the Admin Team.
⚠️Please Note⚠️
Tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable. They will be voided if not used.
Please remember that each participant is responsible for their own safety during the hike/trip.
The organizer / Zurich Together will not be held liable for any injuries or inconveniences that may occur during the event.
Kurze Spiele in Uster im Restaurant alle Altersklassen
Liebe Teilnehmer
Wir werden uns im Restaurant Seestern für zwei gemütliche Stunden zum Spielen treffen. Ich bringe kurze einfache aber Spaß machende Würfel und Kartenspiele mit. Auf eigene Kosten dürft ihr euch. Mit Essen und Getränken nebenbei verwönen lassen. Wer Lust hat, darf auch länger als zwei Stunden bleiben. Bitte macht noch Werbung, sodass wir eine schöne Runde sind . Bitte meldet euch an, damit ich reservieren kann.
Walk & Connect | Daytrip to Seealpsee (Appenzell)
**[⚠️ >>Ticket needed (click here)<<](https://eventfrog.ch/de/p/freizeit-ausfluege/wanderung/walk-connect-daytrip-to-seealpsee-appenzell-7459334125192795157.html)**[ ](https://eventfrog.ch/de/p/freizeit-ausfluege/wanderung/walk-connect-daytrip-to-seealpsee-appenzell-7459334125192795157.html)or
**[www.social-circle.ch](https://social-circle.ch/)**
Cliffside hut, hermit caves, alpine lake — all in one Sunday 🥾 We take the train and cable car to that mountain restaurant from every Switzerland postcard, then hike down past Seealpsee back to the train 🌊🏔️
Make new friends on this daytrip, in a setting National Geographic once called the most beautiful place in the world.
**Coming alone? That's totally fine!** We'll match you with people who share your vibe using the Social Circle app — we'll introduce you to it during the event
**Stay in the loop:** Join our WhatsApp group for updates and the live meeting location on the day: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/CkFmnu2NL5BDJCUYXv53VG](https://chat.whatsapp.com/CkFmnu2NL5BDJCUYXv53VG)
*If the link doesn't open on your phone, try using WhatsApp Web on your computer.*
**Timeline**
* **09:30**⏰ – Meet under the big clock at Zürich Main Station (HB)
* **10:08**🚆 – Take the IR 13 toward Sargans from Gleis 6
* **11:14** – Arrive at Gossau SG (Gleis 3)
* **11:21** – Change to the S23 toward Wasserauen from Gleis 11
* **12:13** – Arrive at Wasserauen (Gleis 1), cross the road to the Ebenalpbahn
* **12:20**🚠 – Cable car up to Ebenalp (departures every 15 min, ride is \~6 min)
* **12:30**🥾 – Walk through the Wildkirchli caves down to Aescher
* **12:50**🍽️ – Lunch at Berggasthaus Aescher on the cliff terrace (first come first served, no reservations)
* **13:30**⛰️ – Hike down the steep mountain path to Seealpsee (\~1h)
* **14:30**🌊 – Time at Seealpsee (photos, snacks, feet in the lake if you're brave)
* **16:00** – Walk down the valley path to Wasserauen (\~1h)
* **17:00** – Arrive at Wasserauen
* **17:18**🚆 – S23 back to Gossau SG, then IR 13 toward Zürich HB
* **19:20** – Back at Zürich HB
**✅ Included**
* Snacks for the trail
* Moderated Speed Friending rounds along the way
* A guided tour through the Wildkirchli caves, Aescher, and down to Seealpsee
**❌ Not included**
* Train tickets to and from Wasserauen
* Cable car up to Ebenalp
* Lunch at Aescher
**What to Bring**
* Sturdy hiking shoes (the descent from Aescher is steep and uneven)
* Water and a small extra snack
* Cash can be useful for the cable car and lunch
* Sunscreen and a light jacket, mountain weather shifts fast
* Your smartphone for the friend-matching
**Disclaimer**
Participation in this event requires a valid ticket, which must be purchased in advance via the link provided in the event description. Please note that tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable. We do not accept cash payments on the day of the event. To ensure a smooth and safe experience, we kindly ask all participants to follow the instructions and announcements from the event organizers. While our team works hard to create an enjoyable and welcoming atmosphere, attendance is at your own risk.
We want everyone to feel comfortable and respected. If you encounter any issues or uncomfortable situations during the event, please speak directly to a member of our team — we're here to help. We reserve the right to exclude participants from the event if they do not adhere to basic standards of respectful interpersonal behavior. This decision is at the discretion of the responsible organizers. By signing up, you agree that any content captured during the event (including photos and videos) may be used on Social Circle's social media channels and those of our partners.
Please be aware that we cannot wait for late participants, as this disrupts the planned group flow and connections. If you're delayed or choose a different route, it's your responsibility to catch up with the group. A live location will be shared in the event's WhatsApp chat to help you reconnect.
Want more events like this, join our newsletter: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/KWSK2jINyuG9uHHjtxfnmP](https://chat.whatsapp.com/KWSK2jINyuG9uHHjtxfnmP)
Visual Fields Luzern · Design Networking Event
**Got something you’re designing, experimenting with - or just looking to chat with other creatives?** **Then you’re invited to join us at Neubad.** 🙂
We meet monthly to chat and connect in a relaxed, friendly setting. It’s a chance to meet new people, talk about what you’re working on, and be part of Luzern’s creative community - surrounded by like-minded people who just get it.
PS: RSVPs are coming in from multiple platforms, which means the total number of sign-ups is likely higher than what you see here.
🥂 **Why swing by?**
* Find new collaborators, clients, employers and friends
* Swap ideas, get feedback, and share experiences
* Meet in a cozy after-work drinks atmosphere
* Join creatives from various fields and ages.
📍 **Where?**
[Netzwerk Neubad](https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZEnPqZTsQb18LyYq7), near the Luzern main station.
\> Bireggstrasse 36\, 6003 Luzern
(Bus-Station Steghof)
⏰ **When?**
Every second Wednesday of the month, starting at 6 PM / 18:00 Uhr
🔗 **Discord link**
Get event reminders and connect with other members on Discord:
➡️ [discord.gg/PAyRBDhKkk](discord.gg/PAyRBDhKkk)
——
**Who’s Visual Fields?**
Visual Fields is a network of designers and creatives built for people to connect, support, and share with fellow experts.
We have upcoming events in Luzern, Zürich, and Basel.
[Check out upcoming events](https://www.visualfields.ch/)
——
**Event policies**
We have zero tolerance for discrimination or harassment. Be mindful not to make assumptions about gender, sexual orientation, or identity. Always ask for consent - for physical contact and work critique - and treat everyone and the space with respect.
[All policies](https://experienc.es/policies)
**Fine print (the friendly kind)**
By joining, you agree that photos or videos taken at the event may be used by Visual Fields for promotional and communication purposes.
See you soon!! 🤩
Zürich Hash House HORRORS #65: Oerlikon Playgrounds
The hares are **Jolly Roger**, **KGBounty**, **Keys To The Toblerone**.
**Where**:
Meet at Oerlikon Train Station, the north side by the Puzzles restaurant.
**When:**
We'll meet at 13:50 to start at 14:00.
**The Zürich Hash House Horrors** is a fun, outdoor and social group for parents, carers, and kids in Zürich.
We meet once a month to explore different parts of the city and surroundings, with a focus on fun and meeting new people. Each Meetup features a themed trail around 2–3 km long, laid out by a volunteer (we call a Hare) using chalk or flour—like a mini treasure hunt for the kids to follow!
Along the way, we stop at playgrounds so kids can play and adults can chat. We finish with drinks and snacks for everyone big and small.
What to expect:
* Pushchair-friendly routes
* Kids aged 0–12 welcome
* English is the common language (many kids also speak German)
* A relaxed, friendly atmosphere
Cost:
Fr. 3 per adult
Fr. 2 per child (over 5)
(to cover drinks and snacks)
Just bring along a sense of fun and adventure!
Got questions? Send us a message—or just turn up and join in.
Field Trips Events Near You
Connect with your local Field Trips community
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.
Women’s Night Out: Boots, Bites & Good Vibes
Who’s up for a fun night out?
Get your boots on, grab your cowboy hat, and let’s have some fun!
Thinking about checking out PBR Cowboy Bar & Smokehouse for a lively evening to unwind, connect, and enjoy the night together.
• Lively atmosphere with country vibes
• Delicious food + drinks
• Music, dancing, and lots of laughs
• Great conversation and new connections
Brunch Social at 17 Arrows Kitchen & Bar
Join us for a relaxed and enjoyable brunch at 17 Arrows Kitchen and Bar!
This is a great opportunity to meet new people, enjoy good food, and ease into the weekend with great conversation. Whether you’re new to the group or it’s your first event, you’ll feel right at home.
Rocky Fork Hike
Join us this Thursday (5/14) at 6:30 pm at Rocky Fork Metro Park in Westerville as we walk about 2.5 miles of a fully paved trail. The Beech Woodland trail is a flat yet scenic trail with a variety of landscapes. Let’s take it in together!


















