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Frequently Asked Questions

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

Discover all the landmark education events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.

Absolutely! Find landmark education events near your location here. Connect with your local community and discover events within your area.

Landmark Education Events Today

Join in-person Landmark Education events happening right now

Cancelled Due to Weather: Lets Meet at the Park
Cancelled Due to Weather: Lets Meet at the Park
Hello All, Its warm again so time to meet at Letna Park for a drink or two after work and enjoy the great atmosphere, wonderful food and drinks. So come join us to enjoy a night of meeting new people. We will meet at Letná Lookout Beer Garden (it is a free seating area, not part of any venue). There are few bars/bistros around that you can choose from. You can also bring your own drinks/food. Important: In case of rain we will have to cancel. See you there :) Shahab
Join us for a 2.5-hour walk in the Old Town of Prague!
Join us for a 2.5-hour walk in the Old Town of Prague!
Who can attend this meetup: The tour is an introduction to Prague and is mainly for expats and visitors to our city but everybody who would like to join is invited. ***Important***, please also fill in the booking form on our [website](https://freewalkingtourprague.eu/en/schedule) if you are planning to come (otherwise we will not expect you). Description: Meet us by the Powder Tower, the historical gate to the Old Town and starting point of the Royal Route. Then have an educative walk through the narrow and picturesque streets of the historical center of Prague. Enjoy the unique diversity of architectural styles from Gothic to Art Nouveau. See some of the most interesting sites and get to know fascinating facts and legends of the 1000-year old capital of Bohemia. End the tour at the riverside 5 minutes away from the Charles Bridge, from which you can continue the tour on your own (or again with us) towards Malá Strana or Prague Castle. ====== Meeting point: We will be standing by the Powder Tower at the side of the Namestí Republiky square with a green umbrella in hand :) Map: https://goo.gl/maps/tzqKpZ2945S2 Price: there is no fixed price, you will be able to decide yourself how much you value the tour. If you don't know how much is best (and can afford it) we recommend 200Kč, but it really depends on you how much you contribute. Join us also on our [Facebook profile](https://www.facebook.com/freewalkingtoursprague/) :) and if you are travelling to other cities check out our friends at the [Free Tour Community website](https://freetourcommunity.com/). For any questions, please contact us at info@freewalkingtourprague.eu. Unfortunately, the meetup application does not always send us phone notifications. Reminder - only people who booked on our [official free walking tour website](https://freewalkingtourprague.eu/en/schedule) can join the tour and if the tour shows fully booked on the website it means there are no free spots. The meetup list doesn't count in this case. We look forward to meeting you, Michal, Amanda, Lana, Iva & Chris
Karaoke Fridays
Karaoke Fridays
Sing for yourself, Sing for someone, Sing for the moment 🙂Choose your song & let your bathroom artist out :D coz everyone can sing... 👉 Every Friday, we welcome you to join our International Karaoke Nights. Singing or not singing, we guarantee you a lot of fun, making new friends, and meeting international people. 🏅We organise the biggest social events in the Czech Republic where you enjoy amazing cocktails and a variety of drinks, with happy hours waiting for you. 📍LOCATION Tequila Tales Bar & Music Club Újezd 19 118 00 Prague, Czech Republic (Nearest tram stop- Hellichova & Ujezd) ❓Questions❓ Write to https://www.instagram.com/tequilatales_prg/
Tancheerna 💃 Dance Friending for Absolute Beginners 🎶
Tancheerna 💃 Dance Friending for Absolute Beginners 🎶
**The most enjoyable dance friending event on a Friday night 🌤️💃✨** This is an OPEN-AIR event! 🌤️ We dance outdoors, but we are always 100% rain-protected. The night starts at 7:00 PM with chill music, socializing, and basic footwork. If you want to level up your dancing, be there at 7! Later, we flow into casual dancing, mixing European classics (Waltz, Polka) with modern Balfolk and chill Latin vibes (Forró). ✅ **No experience needed** → Come at 7 PM to learn the basics! 👣 ✅ **No partner needed** → We rotate! Feel free to ask anyone taking a break. 👋 ✅ **No dress code** → Wear comfy sneakers or go completely barefoot. 👟 ✅ **No pressure** → As long as you can sway to the rhythm, you belong! 🌟 ✅ **Free entry** → If you love the vibe, hit us with a 5-star review 🌟 or leave a voluntary tip via QR code (suggested 200 CZK). If you love to move and want to make new friends, simply show up on Friday and let’s dance!! 💃🔥 *Tančírna (pronounced tahn-cheer-nah) comes from the Czech word "tančit" (to dance) and literally means "a place for dancing".* **Pro-tip:** Pack a water bottle to stay hydrated 💧 and a hoodie for when the sun goes down! After we wrap up we go to a restaurant/bar close by for chill socializing. 📍**LOGISTICS**: 7:00pm - MEETING - https://maps.app.goo.gl/rHMiVjy39jLu86k99 7:10pm - DANCING - https://maps.app.goo.gl/iroWK5DogdQePg8TA 8:45pm- SOCIALIZING - https://maps.app.goo.gl/aA8t3ED9QnLufs1H6
Hablamos español!
Hablamos español!
Hola tod@s! Tenemos otra reunion este viernes en Pivni Bar Blanicka! Sois muy bienvenidos!
Nerdy Fridays: Brains and Beers
Nerdy Fridays: Brains and Beers
Some people go to pubs. Some people conquer galaxies, build empires, trade spices, or outsmart dragons. Nerdy Fridays are our open board game nights for anyone who prefers strategy over small talk and dice over disco lights. Come solo or bring your crew. We’ll help you find a table, explain the rules, and match you with a game that fits your vibe. From light party games to deep strategic battles, the shelves are open. Entry fee: 50 CZK if you drink something, 100 CZK if not (includes access to games and rule explanation) Friday nights don’t have to be loud. They can be legendary. 🎲✨
🏸 Social Badminton in Prague – All You Can Play | Skalka
🏸 Social Badminton in Prague – All You Can Play | Skalka
Looking to meet new people in Prague and play badminton in a relaxed atmosphere? Join our social badminton event – perfect for meeting people and having fun while playing. 🏸 All levels welcome 🏸 No experience needed 🏸 We mix players so everyone gets a game This is not a competitive tournament – the focus is on socializing and enjoying the game. 📍 Location: Badminton Aréna Skalka 🕒 Time: 20:00–23:00 💰 Price: 350 CZK / 250 CZK with Multisport Spots are limited. 👉 Reserve your spot here: [https://www.bananasport.cz/sportovni-udalost/14](https://www.bananasport.cz/sportovni-udalost/14)

Landmark Education Events This Week

Discover what is happening in the next few days

Bohemian Paradise: Malá Skála - 1 day trip
Bohemian Paradise: Malá Skála - 1 day trip
The protected landscape area Bohemian Paradise (in Czech Český ráj) is a nature reserve about 90 km north-east of Prague. You will discover there the ruins of Zbirohy castle, rock labyrinth named Kalich–Chléviště and many spectacular viewpoints giving you a stunning panorama of Malá Skála village, Jizera river, Vranov castle and Frýdštejn castle. You will enjoy the remarkable beauty of the landscape and numerous historic landmarks, bizarre rock formations and deep pine forests. MEETING PLACE AND TIME At 7 a.m. outside the Main train station (Hlavní nádraží), in the park Vrchlického sady in front of Wilsonka pub (https://maps.app.goo.gl/9Z4Uiu2mPDdgkbG67). WHAT DO YOU NEED TO BRING? We recommend comfortable hiking or running shoes, some water, food, fully charged phone, warm and waterproof clothes in case of raining. Those who are interested, there is a local restaurant/brewery, where you can have lunch. But you can also bring your own food and have a picnic near Jizera river. DIFFICULTY: easy (around 12-16 km depending on the speed of the group, short uphills) ANY FEE? Early bird price: 650 CZK per person, after 10 May: 750 CZK per person. The fee includes transportation by train and services of the skilled and friendly guide (excludes food, drinks, insurance). We accept Sodexo: You can pay with Sodexo Fokus Pass voucher, Dárkový Pass voucher and Flexi Pass voucher. Online payment method is also possible with Flexi Pass CARD. We accept Benefit Plus as well. We also accept Edenred: You can pay with Edenred e-Ticket. CANCELLATION POLICY For a full refund, cancel at least 72 hours in advance of the start date of the trip. For a 50 % refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the trip. REGISTRATION Send us an e-mail to nomadsociety2018@gmail.com. In order to provide the best experience possible, the number of participants is limited (max. 15). MORE INFORMATION https://www.facebook.com/events/1600400814395672
Děčínský Sněžník (Elbe Sandstones) – 31 km
Děčínský Sněžník (Elbe Sandstones) – 31 km
Dear Adventurers, This **Saturday**, we'll return to the Elbe Sandstone area and climb Děčínský Sněžník. The elevation profile is nice and gentle, except for the steepish 7-km descent at the end. Talk to your knees in advance. 📍 **Trail** 31 km • ↑ 880 m • ↓ 855 m [MAP OF THE TRAIL](https://mapy.com/s/robekatote) **🚌 Travel** → Train **[R 696 Labe](https://idos.cz/vlakyautobusymhdvse/spojeni/prehled/?p=Fyb5SSWpsOpfNdTbad2ENNjGKsQIuraLEuDA2tuyJak8dv01X2F7cs63R8id6:Wn.XV7IE32gl2iqYDeVasK.9K2QCUZWH27NptD5:VJsOfurmyJdBOk1WlmXlWNl6H3EW9bL7VEf08-) at 6:47** – Praha Hlavní Nádraží > Děčín > Dolní Žleb. The train stops in Holešovice and Podbaba. **We'll be in car 368**. ← Local bus to Děčín hl. n. (they run frequently) + **[rj 177 Berliner](https://idos.cz/vlakyautobusymhdvse/spojeni/prehled/?p=Fyb5SSWpsOpfNdTbad2ENK5UbPC5ckqiW.1YpKngpI9rpSohNGUYUYkc6AOi6G0zjGXnOqg8Xz0H9jwYnnm0WA--)** at 17:57 – Děčín > Prague. If we're faster or slower, there are other return connections. [🛍️](https://emojipedia.org/shopping-bags/) **Gear & Paraphernalia** – Weather-appropriate outfit (windproof, waterproof), footwear with good tread, sunscreen – Tea/coffee/water and enough food for the day to keep you going – Map app on your phone [☎️](https://emojipedia.org/telephone/) **Contact** +420 732 570 684 (Elena) You join at your own risk. By joining our events, you accept our Terms and Conditions. Looking forward! 😊
Hidden Wonders : Exploring Punkevní Jeskyně
Hidden Wonders : Exploring Punkevní Jeskyně
Join **RSP Adventure** for an exclusive day trip into the heart of the breathtaking Moravian Karst, the largest and most important karst region in the country, located just north of Brno. Our journey takes us to the spectacular Punkevní Jeskyně, hidden within the canyon of Pustý Žleb and among the most famous subterranean wonders of Central Europe. The experience begins with a guided walk through impressive limestone corridors adorned with dramatic stalactites and vast underground chambers. The footpath is followed by a unique motorboat ride along the underground Punkva River, including a visit to the magnificent Masaryk's Dome—one of the most beautiful caves of the Moravian Karst. This is more than a tour; it’s an unforgettable journey beneath the surface into one of the Czech Republic’s greatest natural treasures. ***Limited places available.*** **Tour Highlights :** • Professional and friendly guide • Hassle-free day trip to Punkva Caves (private bus from Prague) • Entrance to the Punkva Caves • Boat trip along the subterranean Punkva River • Cathedrals of stalagmites and stalactites • Visit the bottom of Macocha Abyss • Entrance to the Balcarka Caves • Entrance to the Kateřinska Caves • Visit the devil's bridge You can pay for the trip via: • Bank transfer: 7392420507/6363 • Revolut: @augustetqc • Wise: @agustind162 **More information at :** [https://www.facebook.com/events/1612053600006717](https://www.facebook.com/events/1612053600006717)
Bohemian Paradise: Rock Labyrinth & Fairytale Jičín
Bohemian Paradise: Rock Labyrinth & Fairytale Jičín
Join **RSP Adventures** for an unforgettable day trip through Prachovské Skály, once part of the historic Golden Path, and the charming town of Jičín. The famed Prachov Rocks form a spectacular rock town in the heart of the Bohemian Paradise. Our walk will lead us through narrow ravines, winding gullies, dramatic gorges, and along the tops of sandstone formations with stunning lookout points and hidden alcoves. Our trip begins in Jičín, where we can visit the Milohlídka–Čeřovka Lookout Tower, walk along the scenic Libosad Linden Alley, explore the Baroque chateau (now a museum), and admire the Church of Saint James the Greater. Distance : 10km (about 6 hours) Difficulty Rating : Moderate to Moderately Strenuous 📍 Limited spots available – don’t miss out! **Tour Highlights:** • Professional and friendly guide • Hassle-free day trip to Prachov Rocks National Park • Transportation by air-conditioned bus • Discover the historic town of Jičín, the gateway to Bohemian Paradise • Entrance fee to the park. • Climb the Čeřovka Lookout Tower • Conquer the Bohemian Paradise Lookout • Explore the American Cavern • Walk along the Imperial Corridor • See the Leaning Tower • Vyhlídka Míru • Hlaholská Vyhlídka • Savor traditional cuisine at a charming local restaurant. You can pay for the trip via: • Bank transfer: 7392420507/6363 • Revolut: @augustetqc • Wise: @agustind162 **More information at :** https://www.facebook.com/events/26374077325576431/
Join us for a 2.5-hour walk in the Old Town of Prague!
Join us for a 2.5-hour walk in the Old Town of Prague!
Who can attend this meetup: The tour is an introduction to Prague and is mainly for expats and visitors to our city but everybody who would like to join is invited. ***Important***, please also fill in the booking form on our [website](https://freewalkingtourprague.eu/en/schedule) if you are planning to come (otherwise we will not expect you). Description: Meet us by the Powder Tower, the historical gate to the Old Town and starting point of the Royal Route. Then have an educative walk through the narrow and picturesque streets of the historical center of Prague. Enjoy the unique diversity of architectural styles from Gothic to Art Nouveau. See some of the most interesting sites and get to know fascinating facts and legends of the 1000-year old capital of Bohemia. End the tour at the riverside 5 minutes away from the Charles Bridge, from which you can continue the tour on your own (or again with us) towards Malá Strana or Prague Castle. ====== Meeting point: We will be standing by the Powder Tower at the side of the Namestí Republiky square with a green umbrella in hand :) Map: https://goo.gl/maps/tzqKpZ2945S2 Price: there is no fixed price, you will be able to decide yourself how much you value the tour. If you don't know how much is best (and can afford it) we recommend 200Kč, but it really depends on you how much you contribute. Join us also on our [Facebook profile](https://www.facebook.com/freewalkingtoursprague/) :) and if you are travelling to other cities check out our friends at the [Free Tour Community website](https://freetourcommunity.com/). For any questions, please contact us at info@freewalkingtourprague.eu. Unfortunately, the meetup application does not always send us phone notifications. Reminder - only people who booked on our [official free walking tour website](https://freewalkingtourprague.eu/en/schedule) can join the tour and if the tour shows fully booked on the website it means there are no free spots. The meetup list doesn't count in this case. We look forward to meeting you, Michal, Amanda, Lana, Iva & Chris
Guided Czech Speaking Session (A2 level)
Guided Czech Speaking Session (A2 level)
I’ve been learning Czech for 4 years, but speaking still feels like my weak spot. I realized it’s not more lessons I need — it’s more real conversation. So if you’re learning Czech and feel a bit stuck, too, I’m putting together a small face-to-face speaking club. No awkward language exchange vibes, No repeating the same topics. **It’s guided by a Czech instructor, relaxed, and practical — all for the price of a coffee ☕️** Why this works 1\. You actively speak\. 2\. Real people\, real reactions\. 3\. Structured\, guided\, efficient 4\. Everyone here gets it\. 5\. A whole month for the price of one lesson\. 💰 60 minutes per session · once a week. Persistence is key! 💰 The first session is **150 CZK**, and then **700 CZK / month** 👩‍🏫 A professional native instructor guides the sessions. 📍 Location: Won Academy - [Křenova 438/1](https://maps.app.goo.gl/RF4sU9LHPCuS8RYk6) (right at the tram/metro station, Petriny) 🔄 After trying a level, it’s possible to switch to a different one if needed. more info: wonacademy.cz/speaking-cz
Gardening on an island urban farm
Gardening on an island urban farm
Want to experience an urban farm on one of Prague’s river islands as we head into spring? Or just join a group of community motivated individuals and spend your Sunday in nature? Then come along on Sunday for an afternoon with Metrofarm to work on their farm on cizarsky ostrov! Make sure to wear something suitable for the weather, comfortable, that you won’t mind getting dirty, bring gloves if you have them - we have spares, and a water bottle. If you have any questions, contact Julia +420 737 890 656 or Wendy +420 731 873 300

Landmark Education Events Near You

Connect with your local Landmark Education community

Walk & Talk About Life's Big Questions
Walk & Talk About Life's Big Questions
[The Board Walks](http://www.theboardwalks.com/) are for curious people who love deep conversations. If that sounds like you, **bring a thoughtful topic** and join us for a 5-mile walk (10,000+ steps!). **HOW IT WORKS** **Step 1: Bring a topic** Before you arrive, think of **one** topic you want to explore. A question. A thought that's been on your mind. An obsession you want to geek out on. This is your ticket to the event. **Step 2: Circle up & share** We gather in a circle. Your friendly walk host gives a speech to set the tone. Everyone shares: your name, what you're grateful for, and your topic. That's it. 60 seconds. **Step 3: Walk, talk & float** We walk 5 miles. You naturally drift into conversation with 2-3 people at a time, pulled by topics that spark your curiosity. When you're ready to move on, just say: "I'm going to float!" **Step 4: Feel more alive** Two hours flies by. You're back where you started — but you feel different. More alive. More energized. More connected to yourself and others. That's why regulars join 20+ times. *For more details, read our [Orientation Guide.](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation)* **HOW TO BRING A GREAT TOPIC** A great topic = something you're genuinely curious about. Recent topics include: * "What are you passionate about right now?" * "What makes a good friend?" * "What's a belief you used to hold that you've completely changed?" * "How do you want to be remembered?" * "What would you do if money wasn't a factor?" Think of your topic like the dish you're bringing to our conversational potluck. If everyone brings an A+ dish (i.e. energizing, uplifting, expansive), we'll all walk away feeling lighter and brighter. **WHAT TO EXPECT** This isn't a fitness event with casual chitchat. It's a walking think tank where we explore life's big questions together, beyond small talk. *If you're looking for light banter or a standard networking event, this probably isn't the right fit.* But if you crave depth, genuine connection, and conversations that make you feel alive? You'll love it here. **FAQ** * Wear casual athletic attire and sneakers. It's a long walk! * We have multiple first-timers at each event. We work hard to create a welcoming, inclusive, clique-free space. * We welcome people of **all** ages, backgrounds, and industries who align with the [intention](https://www.theboardwalks.com/ground-rules) of this space. * Rain or shine, we've been out here nearly every week since July 2022. If the event is cancelled, we'll let you know. * Dogs, babies in strollers, parents, and friends are welcome — please text/email them the event link so they can RSVP and prepare a topic! **LOGISTICS** * If you'll arrive over 10 minutes late, we suggest skipping the event. It's hard to find us once we start walking, and your host can't answer messages during the event. * This walk is designed for everyone to *move together at the same steady pace* (about 20 min/mile). This format works best when the whole group moves in unison. If you have mobility limitations, we kindly encourage you to find an event better suited to your needs. * There's a restroom along the route at [Tuttle Park Community Center](https://maps.app.goo.gl/KTZJgLE1CrrbRNmJ7), which is about two‑thirds of the way from [Clinton-Como Park](https://maps.app.goo.gl/z8Cx8evwLiWundMe8) to our [turnback point](https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZXk7qUVszLQ8EJxHA). * Read our [Orientation Guide](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation) for full details. * If you enjoy the event, send **[this](http://www.theboardwalks.com/)** to a friend or sign up for our **[newsletter](https://theboardwalks.beehiiv.com/)**. We're in multiple cities with more on the way. 🤠👋 **IF YOU WANT TO GO DEEPER...** [The Board](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board) is the next step: a high-trust collective for renaissance people devoted to creating, connecting, and building lives that light us up. * This is a global HQ for people who crave big talk, deep connection, and dream collaborations with people across industries. If the walks feel like a spark... The Board is the fire. Apply [here](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board).
Cincinnati Model Investment Club Meeting
Cincinnati Model Investment Club Meeting
Our hybrid event takes place both as a face-to-face and as an online meeting using the GoToMeeting software application: [ ](http://app.goto.com/meeting/449766181)[CinMIC LINK](https://meet.goto.com/449766181). This club is an operating stock investment club, open to the public as an educational opportunity. Each month this club covers an investment educational topic or presents a teaching segment. Stocks are discussed and studied. Because it is EARNINGS SEASON, we will be having full reports on more than half of our portfolio holdings along with a short educational presentation. There will be a stock study and if time allows, we end the meeting with a "Talkin' Stocks" segment of two quick company overviews. Investors at all levels are welcome at the face-to-face meeting or online by using this[ ](http://app.goto.com/meeting/449766181)[CinMIC LINK](https://meet.goto.com/449766181). Get to know fellow investors!
CMG Gives Back: Serve Brunch at FAITH MISSION GRANT KITCHEN!
CMG Gives Back: Serve Brunch at FAITH MISSION GRANT KITCHEN!
Join us as we get together to get together to help those in need at this CMG Gives Back event! We have a great little community of Movie Group friends so rather than see a movie this time, we’ll help “create a better world” by helping serve those in need. Here are complete details and our plan for this event: FAITH MISSION – GRANT KITCHEN: The Faith Mission kitchen and dining room serves residents 3 meals a day, every day of the year. For this event, our group will help prepare food, serve meals, assist residents in the dining room, wash dishes, and clean surfaces. PLAN: We will be preparing / serving / cleaning for BRUNCH from 10:30am to 12:30pm and have space for a total of 7 volunteers. Please arrive at 10:20am and wear closed-toe shoes and long pants. LOCATION: Faith Mission – Grant Kitchen is located at 245 N. Grant Ave. Enter the kitchen at Dock 1 (in the back of the building), indicated in the attached map. On-site parking in the adjacent lot and street parking is available in the surrounding area. Below are some links / attachments with additional info/details: IMPORTANT REMINDER: Our group will be providing all of the volunteers on this day so a firm RSVP count is essential. Please only sign up if you are certain you’ll be able to attend. If something unavoidable comes up, please try to update your RSVP no later than one week prior to the event. With few exceptions, no shows or cancelations within 1 week of the event will not be eligible for future CMG Gives Back events. I appreciate your understanding as we try to ensure the agencies have the volunteers needed to provide the essential services they provide to the vulnerable population they serve. Our Partner Agency for this event is Lutheran Social Services! A huge THANK YOU to all of YOU for volunteering at this (and any of our previous) CMG Gives Back events! Should be another good/fun/meaningful time together, Dan
American Sign Language Beginners Meetup Group
American Sign Language Beginners Meetup Group
We meet to learn and practice American Sign Language and to grow our familiarity with Deaf culture. Facilitated by hearing folks (with a connection to a professional interpreter) using Deaf-created content. People of all ASL skill levels are welcome! As we learn, we hope to connect more with the Deaf community in Central Ohio. Join us as you're able! Come regularly or just once - whatever you're looking for! Each meetup will explore different topics related to ASL/Deaf culture, and will feature time to practice conversation with one another. Just bring yourself and a willingness to learn!
VROOM!!!!!!
VROOM!!!!!!
Web Development to AI Course Preview & Introduction Session
Web Development to AI Course Preview & Introduction Session
Join DotBitz for an interactive course preview and introduction session designed for students, parents, and aspiring learners interested in Web development, programming and future AI technology careers. During this session, you will learn about: * DotBitz learning programs and course pathways * How students can start learning programming from an early age * Career-focused learning and mentorship opportunities * Real-world skills students can develop through technology education * Future opportunities in software development and technology careers * How AI will be impact in our future career. This event is a great opportunity to explore how DotBitz supports students from beginner learning to career readiness in a structured and supportive environment. ### Event Details 📍 Location: Columbus Metropolitan Library 4500 Hickory Chase Way, Hilliard, OH — Meeting Room 2A 📅 Date: May 18, 2026 🕔 Time: 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM We welcome students aged 9+, parents, beginners, and anyone interested in learning more about programming education and technology career pathways.
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.