Historical Museum

🍻 Join us for a unique social event where science meets fun! 🧠 Are you curious to learn about cutting-edge research in an informal and relaxed atmosphere? Pint of Science brings top scientists to local pubs to share their latest discoveries in an engaging and accessible way. 📍 Event Details 📅 Dates: May 19, 2026 🕕 Time: 18:00 – 21:00 📍 Location: Kulturhaus Royal, Baden 💰 Price: Free! 📅 May 19th agenda: **"Cracking the Brain's Code: From childhood development to neurons and brain structure, uncover how the brain shapes how we think, learn, and connect"** - **Life is like a box of languages: growing up multilingual**, *Joanna Rutkowska (Postdoctoral Researcher at Jacobs Center for Productive Youth Development, University of Zürich)* - **How we navigate social spaces: neural correlates and insight** *Deborah Ledergerber (Head of Research and Technics in Clinical Neurophysiology, Klinik Lengg)* - **Reconstructing neuronal circuits in the brain** *Adrian Wanner (Group Leader, Structural Neurobiology at PSI Centre for Life Sciences)* 📍 Dive deeper into the full program, including talk abstracts and speaker info, on our official event page: [https://pintofscience.ch/events/baden/](https://pintofscience.ch/events/baden/) 🤔 **What is Pint of Science?** Pint of Science is a global festival that brings scientists out of their labs and into pubs, where they present their work in a fun, informal, and interactive way. The event covers a wide range of topics, from physics to medicine, from artificial intelligence to climate change. It’s a great opportunity to ask questions, meet researchers, and enjoy a beer while learning something new! 🔗 More info: [Official Pint of Science Website](https://pintofscience.ch/) 🧐 **What to Bring?** ✔️ Curiosity to learn something new ✔️ Good vibes to enjoy the evening with fellow Hiking Buddies ✔️ (Optional) A beer-loving spirit! 🍻 📢 **Stay Updated!** For updates and coordination, join the WhatsApp group: [[WhatsApp Link](https://chat.whatsapp.com/BxRIGClIS5y0YryipheRad)] 📲 Looking forward to seeing you there! 🍻🧠✨

*English description below* Come un bookclub ma per i podcast. Ogni mese ci ritroviamo per parlare di un podcast che abbiamo ascoltato e scambiarci pareri, opinioni e consigli su nuovi e possibili ascolti. Questo mese ascoltiamo ***Mamera - La storia nascosta degli Jenish*,** un podcast di Taty Rossi, prodotto dall'Associazione REC. Puoi ascoltarlo su **[Spreaker](https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/mamera--6745328 "https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/mamera--6745328"), [Apple Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/ch/podcast/mamera/id1844590898 "https://podcasts.apple.com/ch/podcast/mamera/id1844590898") e [Radio Gwen](https://www.radiogwen.ch/trans/mamera.php "https://www.radiogwen.ch/trans/mamera.php")** Puoi usare questo schema per annotare le tue riflessioni e condividerle poi con il resto del gruppo [https://bit.ly/fogliotqe_PAZ](https://bit.ly/fogliotqe_PAZ "https://bit.ly/fogliotqe_PAZ") *(Per scaricarlo è necessario avere un account Google)* Questo appuntamento è gentilmente ospitato dal [Selbstlernzentrum di Hönggerberg](https://www.sprachenzentrum.uzh.ch/de/Autonomes-Lernen/Selbstlernzentrum-H%C3%B6nggerberg.html "https://www.sprachenzentrum.uzh.ch/de/Autonomes-Lernen/Selbstlernzentrum-H%C3%B6nggerberg.html"), un centro nato dalla collaborazione tra il Servizio linguistico dell’Università di Zurigo, quello del Politecnico federale di Zurigo, la Biblioteca e il Rettorato dell’ETH Zürich. **Mamera - La storia nascosta degli Jenish** *Dal sito [rec.swiss/mamera](https://rec.swiss/mamera/ "https://rec.swiss/mamera/")* Tra il 1926 e il 1973, il programma “Kinder der Landstrasse”, promosso dalla Fondazione Pro Juventute e sostenuto dalla Confederazione, tolse con la forza centinaia di bambini jenisch alle loro famiglie. Dietro questa operazione si celava un progetto eugenetico, volto a cancellare l’identità di un intero gruppo nomade. Una serie podcast in sette episodi che riporta alla luce questa drammatica storia di discriminazione attraverso testimonianze, documenti e riflessioni, mettendo a fuoco una ferita collettiva e un passato che interpella il presente. **Cosa è P.A.Z. Podcast Ascolti Zurigo?** Il miglior modo per conoscere un podcast è il passaparola. Solitamente questo viaggia attraverso i social media. P.A.Z., acrononimo che sta per Podcast Ascolti Zurigo nasce per scoprire cose nuove da ascoltare e avere la possibilità di parlarne con altri, in persona. Come un bookclub, ma per i podcast. ***English Version*** Each month, we gather to discuss a podcast we've listened to, sharing thoughts, opinions, and recommendations for future listens. This month we are listening to *Mamera – The Hidden History of the Jenish*, a podcast by Taty Rossi, an "Associazione REC" production. You can listen to it on **[Spreaker](https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/mamera--6745328 "https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/mamera--6745328"), [Apple Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/ch/podcast/mamera/id1844590898 "https://podcasts.apple.com/ch/podcast/mamera/id1844590898") e [Radio Gwen](https://www.radiogwen.ch/trans/mamera.php "https://www.radiogwen.ch/trans/mamera.php")** This event is kindly hosted by the [Selbstlernzentrum at Hönggerberg](https://www.sprachenzentrum.uzh.ch/de/Autonomes-Lernen/Selbstlernzentrum-H%C3%B6nggerberg.html "https://www.sprachenzentrum.uzh.ch/de/Autonomes-Lernen/Selbstlernzentrum-H%C3%B6nggerberg.html"), a center established through the collaboration between the Language Center of the University of Zurich, the Language Center of ETH Zurich, as well as the ETH Zurich Library and Rectorate. **Mamera – The Hidden History of the Jenish** From *[rec.swiss/mamera](https://rec.swiss/mamera/ "https://rec.swiss/mamera/")* Between 1926 and 1973, the “Kinder der Landstrasse” program—initiated by the Pro Juventute Foundation and supported by the Swiss Confederation—forcibly removed hundreds of Jenish children from their families. Behind this operation lay a eugenic agenda aimed at erasing the identity of an entire nomadic community. This seven-part podcast series brings this dramatic history of discrimination back to light through testimonies, archival documents, and critical reflection, shedding light on a collective wound and a past that still resonates today. **What's P.A.Z.?** The best way to discover a podcast is through word of mouth, usually traveling through social media. P.A.Z., an acronym for Podcast Ascolti Zurigo, was born to uncover new things to listen to and the chance to discuss them with others in person. Like a book club, but for podcasts. **Is there an entry fee?** The event is free (it would be nice to know how many of us are coming, so if you can, RSVP for free here). Everyone is free to order something at the bar at their own expense. **Do I need to have listened to the entire podcast?** No, you can come even if you haven't heard the entire podcast (but it's better if you have). **Is the podcast to listen to always in Italian?** Yes, currently, P.A.Z. aims to focus on Italian-language podcasts, and anyone who speaks Italian is welcome. **I like it but I can't be there, what can I do?** Feel free to contact me via meetup or, join to our [Whatsapp Group](https://chat.whatsapp.com/DBWV6im8RDe98hrP5ehH60), and I will be happy to keep you updated on upcoming events.

Join us where **we play board games together**! Feel free to bring your favourite game with you, just be prepared to explain the rules to others. It is preferable that games are either in English or language-independent, so that anyone can play. Feel free to come without any game as well! ***Please bring your games*** 📍[Aubrey](https://www.aubrey.ch/kontakt/) @Hardbrücke 🎟️ **no ticket required** \- it is free\. No preregistration needed 🍹It is **necessary** to order at least one drink because we are in a restaurant ⏰ 19:00 or any time later until 22:00 🎲 We usually play easier/party, relatively short games. Everybody can learn the rules quickly 🇬🇧🇩🇪 We play in English but the rules can always be explained in German as well. 🔗 Join the whatsapp chat here: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/K9U8Fq1ROFVGDiZM760Q8k?mode=wwt](https://chat.whatsapp.com/K9U8Fq1ROFVGDiZM760Q8k?mode=wwt)

**Zurich's only competitive social game night where winning can pay off \| Every 3rd Tuesday** 🎟️[ ](https://eventfrog.ch/ZFGJackpotnight)**[\[Get Your Ticket - CHF 5\]](https://eventfrog.ch/JackPotnight)** **🏆 THE CHALLENGE** Tonight isn't just about playing — it's about winning together. **Play** → Join a hosted table (70+ games available) **Win** → Win any 2 different non-cooperative games **Jackpot** → Earn a Golden Raffle Ticket **Draw** → At 22:30, one winner takes a CHF 50 Coopers Pub voucher No experience needed — just a bit of luck, strategy, and good vibes 🍀 **🎲 JUST HERE TO PLAY & HAVE FUN?** Totally fine! If you want to skip the challenge and simply play, chat, and enjoy the evening, we've got you covered. We always run casual tables alongside the jackpot challenge — same great games, zero pressure, pure fun. **🎲 GAMES & CROWD** **70+ curated games:** Party, strategy, bluffing & social deduction — something for every taste and skill level. 🌐 **See full game list:** **[Website](https://zurichfungamers.com/list-of-games)** **The vibe:** Mixed and welcoming — expats & locals, beginners & experienced players all share tables. English-speaking, all languages welcome. 💡 **Pro tip:** Arrive early for smoother table placement and more time to play! **🤔 WHY ZFG?** We're Zurich's most vibrant non-profit board gaming community. No cliques, no awkward standing around — just sit down, roll dice, and make friends. 🎟️ **[\[Secure Your Spot - CHF 5\]](https://eventfrog.ch/JackPotnight)** 🎟️ **Regular player?** See our Annual Legends Pass in Dopi/Ladies Night events 📲 **Join Switzerland's biggest board gaming WhatsApp community** for weekly updates : **[Whatsapp](https://chat.whatsapp.com/GhVuGiUwPpi3BkhskOUJgp)** 👉 **Official [Website](https://zurichfungamers.com/)** 📲 **Follow us on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/zurichfungamers/)** 🎟️ **[\[Reserve Your Ticket\]](https://eventfrog.ch/JackPotnight)**

🍻 Join us for a unique social event where science meets fun! 🧠 Are you curious to learn about cutting-edge research in an informal and relaxed atmosphere? Pint of Science brings top scientists to local pubs to share their latest discoveries in an engaging and accessible way. 📍 Event Details 📅 Dates: May 20, 2026 🕕 Time: 18:00 – 21:00 📍 Location: Kulturhaus Royal, Baden 💰 Price: Free! 📅 May 20th agenda: **"Floods, Fuel and Flowers: From measuring floods and droughts, fueling the future and using the power of biodiversity in farming, join us for an evening of science tackling real-world challenges "** - **Using X-rays at PSI to understand and improve renewable fuel production catalysts** *Kenneth Crossley (PhD student at Paul Scherrer Institute and ETH Zurich)* - **CrowdWater - how to measure water with your smartphone** *Jan Seibert (Professor, Hydrology and Climate, UZH*) - **Conservation pest control in sugar beet** *Angela (Anschi) Studer (PhD Student at Agroscope)* 📍Dive deeper into the full program, including talk abstracts and speaker info, on our official event page: [https://pintofscience.ch/events/baden/](https://pintofscience.ch/events/baden/) 🤔 **What is Pint of Science?** Pint of Science is a global festival that brings scientists out of their labs and into pubs, where they present their work in a fun, informal, and interactive way. The event covers a wide range of topics, from physics to medicine, from artificial intelligence to climate change. It’s a great opportunity to ask questions, meet researchers, and enjoy a beer while learning something new! 🔗 More info: [Official Pint of Science Website](https://pintofscience.ch/) 🧐 **What to Bring?** ✔️ Curiosity to learn something new ✔️ Good vibes to enjoy the evening with fellow Hiking Buddies ✔️ (Optional) A beer-loving spirit! 🍻 📢 **Stay Updated!** For updates and coordination, join the WhatsApp group: [[WhatsApp Link](https://chat.whatsapp.com/Guh5j2PKOoK3rpmJikCqFe)] 📲 Looking forward to seeing you there! 🍻🧠✨

**[⚠️ >>Ticket needed (click here)<<](https://eventfrog.ch/en/p/dating/other-events/brunch-museum-visit-singles-only-30-45-y-7459989190387727280.html) or** **[www.social-circle.ch](https://social-circle.ch/)** 🥐 **Brunch & Museum of the Future** **Singles only \| Ages 30–45** Looking to meet new people in Zurich in a relaxed and meaningful way — without loud bars or forced small talk? Join us for a curated brunch at **Ribelli**, followed by a shared cultural experience at the **Museum für Gestaltung Zürich**. ✨ **Why join?** * Meet like-minded singles (30–45) in a natural, pressure-free setting * Connect through a shared experience, not just small talk * Enjoy the perfect mix of social interaction, culture, and creativity * Ideal for those who appreciate curiosity, deep conversations, and good vibes 🍽 **Brunch at Ribelli** At **Ribelli**, Italian hospitality meets urban flair. Inspired by the Mediterranean—from Sicily to Tuscany—the menu is fresh, colourful, and made to be shared. Ribelli is a lively place to sit together and enjoy Mediterranean joy of life – spontaneous, sociable, and relaxed. 🎨 **Museum Experience** After brunch, explore the **Museum für Gestaltung Zürich**, home to Switzerland’s largest international design collection. The **Swiss Design Collection** presents around 2,500 objects spanning graphic design, typography, poster design, textiles, product design, and applied arts. Dive into the archive, see the objects up close, and discover the unique stories behind each creation. The integrated studio allows you to experiment, create your own designs, or simply enjoy the creative atmosphere. 💬 **Join our group for this event:** [https://chat.whatsapp.com/FoJN0DzRQgF232huSHiGOi](https://chat.whatsapp.com/FoJN0DzRQgF232huSHiGOi) ℹ️ **Practical info** * Included: museum entrance * ❗Food is not included * Limited spots to keep the group intimate and balanced * Come solo — leave inspired, connected, and maybe with someone new to explore the future with ​**Important:** Tickets are **non-refundable**. Pictures might be taken during the event, if you do not want it please let the organizer know. ​Want more events like this? Join our WhatsApp community: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/DaGFCvKs6iu62pftk5cotM](https://chat.whatsapp.com/DaGFCvKs6iu62pftk5cotM)

Discover the story of Zurich through a relaxed and engaging historical excursion and city walk. ‎https://chat.whatsapp.com/FpMSfQAZDeA2jJ5HfkZQUd?mode=gi_t In 2 hours, we will explore the Old Town and learn how Zurich grew from a Roman settlement into one of Europe’s most important cities. It’s a friendly, interactive walk with stories, facts, and space for conversation. 📍 Where: Lindenhof Hill, by the Hedwig Fountain 🕚 When: Saturday 11:00 ⏱ Duration: approximately 2 hours 🗣 Language: English ☕ Optional coffee and chat afterward. 💰 Cost: Tips are welcome at the end of the excursion. Please arrive 5 minutes early so we can start on time.

**Blood on the Clocktower — Hosted by Zurich Fun Gamers (No experience needed!) 🕯️🩸** **click me --> [Tickets](https://eventfrog.ch/ZFGBoC) 🎟️** (Only a ticket confirms your spot!) Whether or not you like social deduction games like *Werewolves*, *Mafia* or *Secret Hitler* (or you are a beginner who hasn't played any games like this before), this one is for you. Blood on the Clocktower is a **game experience unlike any other.** In the cursed village of Ravenswood Bluff, a Demon 😈 hides among you. *Each night*, someone **dies** ☠️. *Each day*, the town **debates, accuses and votes.** But here’s the twist: **Even if you die… you’re still in the game.** ### **What makes this special?** ✨ • Everyone has a **unique role** and **powerful ability** 🎭 • **Dead players continue** to influence the game 🕯️ • **Bluffing, logic**, and **social strategy** matter equally 🧠 • **Every session** unfolds **differently** 🔄 This is **not** Werewolf. This is **deeper, richer** and **far more interactive.** **Zurich Fun Gamers Guarantee** • Suited for both **first-time** and **more experienced players** **🎲** • **Clear rules explanation** before starting 📜 • **Multiple games** depending on group size 🔄 • **Atmosphere-driven** experience 🕯️🌫️ • Option for **record-keeping of the games** for some cool stats!\* • And even **more surprises** — **ZFG style**! 🎭✨ **⚠️Spots are limited, secure your seat in the circle and step into the village.** --> [Tickets ](https://eventfrog.ch/ZFGBoC)(your spot is ONLY confirmed with a ticket!) *Will you uncover the Demon* 😇 *… or help it survive* 😈? (Please be on time if you don't know the rules as the first 15min are used to explain the rules. Games start at 19.20) \* For the record a sign up on clocktracker.app is necessary

Celebrate with a special creative night at Soho Bar, from **7:00 PM to 9:30 PM**. This is a celebration of laughter and good vibes! Zürich Together is collaborating with Sip N Paint Club, we will have a corner for our attendees, all you need is to look for your host Raluca or the Zürich Together flag. **Coming with Zürich Together already provides you with a 20% discount applied upon the completion of the purchase. [Discounted Tickets available here](https://eventfrog.ch/en/p/parties/afterwork/sip-n-paint-club-7434533947801885043.html?promocode=ZurichTogether). Please join the [WhatsApp group](https://chat.whatsapp.com/CT9PD90YhmCK1wACNTKZsR) to coordinate with the group.** Enjoy a relaxed painting session while sipping cocktails and grooving to tunes from our live DJ. Whether you’re a total beginner or a seasoned painter, everyone is welcome to join the fun and create something memorable. **Event Highlights:** 🎨 Self-guided painting experience with fun, creative themes 🥂 Complimentary glass of Prosecco on arrival 🎶 Live DJ setting the mood 🍸 Drinks available for purchase at the bar This is a **self-guided session**, so you’re free to paint at your own pace and style. All materials are provided, just bring yourself. No experience needed, just come ready to relax and have a great time. Spots are limited, so reserve yours now and make this a night to remember. 💕

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

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

**History** The [Franklin Park Conservatory](https://www.fpconservatory.org/)’s roots trace back to 1852 when the Franklin County Agricultural Society purchased 88 acres of land to host the Ohio State Fair. After the fair moved to its permanent home, the city of Columbus transformed the grounds into Franklin Park in 1884. This transition shifted the space from a temporary event site to a dedicated public green space for the growing community. The park became a central hub for outdoor recreation and early civic gatherings in the neighborhood. In 1895, the landmark Victorian-style Palm House opened its doors, drawing heavy inspiration from the Glass Palace of the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago. This iron and glass structure became an immediate icon, housing exotic plants that residents would otherwise never see in the Midwest. It remains the oldest part of the facility and serves as a primary link to the conservatory’s 19th-century origins. For decades, it stood as a singular testament to grand horticultural architecture in Central Ohio. A major turning point arrived in 1992 when Columbus hosted AmeriFlora '92, an international horticultural exhibition. This massive event prompted a $16 million renovation and expansion, adding significantly more greenhouse space and the Dorothy M. Davis Showhouse. The festival put the conservatory on the international map and fundamentally changed its scale and ambition. Following the event, the facility transitioned from a city-run park to a private, non-profit organization. In 2003, the conservatory’s identity was further defined through a long-term partnership with world-renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly. After a successful exhibition, the Friends of the Conservatory purchased most of the glass installations, creating the largest permanent collection of Chihuly’s work in a botanical setting. These vibrant glass sculptures are now woven throughout the biomes, blending art with nature. This addition helped cement the conservatory as a premier cultural destination rather than just a botanical garden. Recent years have seen the site expand beyond the glass walls to emphasize community engagement and outdoor education. The 2018 opening of the Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation Children’s Garden added two acres of interactive landscape designed for hands-on learning. The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Community Garden Campus also provides local residents with space to grow their own food and learn sustainable practices. Today, the conservatory balances its historic Victorian charm with modern commitments to local ecology and the Columbus community. **Maps of the Conservatory** Here is the [main map](https://www.fpconservatory.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/franklin-park-zones-scaled.jpg) of the Conservatory grounds. Here's a [map of the areas](https://www.fpconservatory.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/ConstructionMap-2026.jpg) in which the Conservatory has ongoing construction (see below). **Summary** For this event, we'll explore Columbus's highly-rated and very popular Conservatory. As mentioned above, the Conservatory is doing renovations on parts of the facility. These renovations are scheduled to be ongoing until the Fall of next year. Basically, no matter when you go to the Conservatory over the next 18 months, you're going to see some metaphorical orange barrels. So let's just go now. **Tickets and pricing** On the first Sunday of every month, the Conservatory is free for residents of Franklin County and the city of Columbus. You must bring an ID to receive this discount. (Yes, they do check.) Otherwise, tickets are $25.20. Members of the Columbus Zoo (of which I am one) do get a discount on tickets, though I have never actually bought a ticket to the Conservatory (I've always gone on free days). I believe the discount is $4. Parking is always free. If you have additional questions about pricing or whether and for what you qualify, you can reach the Conservatory at 614-715-8000. **Where we'll meet** We will meet just outside the main entrance. I guarantee there's going to be a line. The Conservatory is always popular on free days, and especially in nice weather. **Your GPS is stupid!** Be careful simply typing "Franklin Park Conservatory" in your GPS and going where it tells you. The only way to access the parking lot to the Conservatory is off of Broad Street. Unfortunately, since Google Maps is unable to find its way out of a wet paper bag, it has a tendency to want to take people to a mythical, non-existent Conservatory entrance on Nelson Road. If your GPS does this, just drive to the north side of the Conservatory along Broad Street. Your GPS should then redirect you to the main Conservatory entrance. If your GPS doesn't, then throw your phone away\* and look for the big Conservatory sign on the south side of Broad Street between Nelson Road and Franklin Park West. You also should be able to use the map pin I've provided, below, and it should properly direct you to where you need to drive. \* Don't really do this. **After the event** After stopping to smell the roses, for those that are interested, we'll head to the nearby [Columbus Brewing Company Beer Hall](https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/) for [drinks](https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/#draft-list) and [lunch](https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/#food-menu). The Beer Hall's actual address is [200 Kelton Ave, Columbus, OH 43205](https://www.google.com/maps/place/200+Kelton+Ave,+Columbus,+OH+43205/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x883889a94ac4acad:0xadb2e60240dbc38b?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111) (it's literally just on the south side of the Conservatory). Be sure this is where your GPS is taking you when you use it, as the Brewing Company has a taproom on Harrison Avenue that is *not* what you want for this event. We should be at the Beer Hall by 1 if you can't make the Conservatory and just want to join us for drinks.

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

**History** The history of [Blendon Woods Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/blendon-woods/) began long before its 1951 opening, rooted in a landscape of rugged ridges and deep ravines that made the land unsuitable for traditional farming. In 1945, a report proposing a metropolitan park system for Franklin County specifically highlighted these cliffs of Bedford Shale as some of the "wildest land in the vicinity". Following this recommendation, the recently formed park district purchased the first 229 acres in early 1949. Because the terrain was so uneven, developers had to cut a mile-and-a-half-long roadway through dense woods just to bring in heavy equipment. This initial preservation effort ensured that the mature second-growth hardwood forests remained largely untouched by the urban expansion spreading toward Westerville. Opening day arrived on Labor Day, September 3, 1951, marking Blendon Woods as the second park in the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks system. The final push to open was a frantic race; the State Highway Department only finished the primary gravel access road four days before the gates opened. Early staff members, consisting of just four full-time employees, had to hand-dig pit toilets and learn construction skills on the fly to build the first picnic shelters. Despite the dusty conditions and limited facilities, the park was an immediate success, drawing massive crowds from across Central Ohio. By the end of the 1950s, annual visitation had already climbed to over 190,000 people. As the surrounding suburbs grew in the 1960s, the park faced severe overcrowding that threatened its natural habitats. In response, Franklin County voters passed the first Metro Parks levy in 1960, providing the funds necessary for a decade of steady expansion. During this era, the park nearly doubled in size, growing from 264 acres to over 570 acres by 1968. Planners also addressed a critical water shortage by collaborating with the U.S. Soil and Conservation Service to build a lake in 1964. This body of water originally served as a temporary reservoir before its role shifted toward conservation and wildlife support. The 1970s marked a transition toward the specialized wildlife and educational focus for which the park is known today. In 1971, the Walden Waterfowl Refuge was established around the 11-acre Thoreau Lake, creating a sanctuary that remains restricted to provide a quiet habitat for migratory birds. A formal nature center was also developed during this period, expanding on the guided Sunday walks that had been a park staple since the early 1950s. The park’s famous "Monarch Mansion" also became a prominent fixture, starting a long tradition of raising and releasing thousands of monarch butterflies each September. These initiatives cemented the park’s reputation as a premier destination for birders and nature enthusiasts. In more recent decades, Blendon Woods has continued to modernize while maintaining its wilderness character. The 10-acre Natural Play Area was added in 2017, encouraging kids to explore the ravines and woods off-trail. This was followed by the opening of a $1.5 million inclusive playground in April 2025, designed to accommodate children of all physical abilities. The nature center also underwent major renovations to include immersive, three-dimensional exhibits and a new butterfly house. Today, the park encompasses 653 acres, preserving a unique geologic and biological corridor amidst the bustling Westerville and Northeast Columbus area. **Map of the Park** Here is a map of [Blendon Woods](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/BLN_map_Inclusive-Playground-and-Butterfly-Trail_May-2025_1980px.png). **Summary** For this event, we will hike the Lake View, Hickory Ridge, Ripple Rock, Overlook, Brookside, and Sugarbush Trails. This sounds like a lot, but it will really be only a little over five miles. Blendon Woods has a few hills here and there, but it's not one of the more strenuous metro parks. **Where We'll Meet** We'll meet just in front of the Nature Center. This is about a mile into the park from the main entrance. You have to go past the Ranger Station and the Shadblow Reservable Area to get to it, so don't stop too early at the Ranger Station and get it confused with the Nature Center. **After the Hike** Afterward, we will head over to [Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/) at Easton for [drinks](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/#dinner-menu) and [food](https://forbiddenroot.com/wp-content/uploads/Cbus-Food.pdf). We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks. The brewery's actual address is [4080 Worth Ave, Columbus, OH 43219](https://www.google.com/maps/place/4080+Worth+Ave,+Columbus,+OH+43219/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x88388a86d10b6619:0x4d42b470a5cf11d3?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111); however, I recommend pointing your GPS to the [Worth Garage](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Worth+Garage/@40.0542293,-82.9137962,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x88388b4df6082825:0x17582f0eccd9dda1!8m2!3d40.0542293!4d-82.9137962!16s%2Fg%2F11rzfvvv8b?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDQxNS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) across the street. Parking in this garage is free as long as you're not on the first floor, and it is literally right next to the brewery.

Let's grab some coffee/food and share a morning chat! The East Market has an ample parking lot and outdoor and indoor seating. Grab a cup of coffee from Winston's Coffee & Waffles or on your way to East Market and meet us on the second floor - table behind or east of the elevator. Per what this group is about: "Everyone is welcome! International transplants to Columbus who want to improve language skills, Columbus residents who enjoy talking to people from other countries, and those who would like to discuss international travel and culture, and who enjoy getting together for good conversations."