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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Check out mini 250 events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.
Discover all the mini 250 events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.
Absolutely! Find mini 250 events near your location here. Connect with your local community and discover events within your area.
Mini 250 Events Today
Join in-person Mini 250 events happening right now
berlinCreators Werkstattabend
Unser Verein berlinCreators e.V. trifft sich jeden Freitag ab 18 Uhr im Makerspace.
Wir haben Gruppen rund um Elektronik, 3D-Druck, Nähen, Programmieren, Retro Computer. Egal ob Anfänger oder Profi – hier seid Ihr Willkommen. Ihr könnt mit anderen fachsimpeln, Euch inspirieren lassen oder auch mit unserer Hilfe Eure ersten Projekte starten.
Wenn Ihr Euch bei uns wohlfühlt und Mitglieder bei den berlinCreators werden möchtest, freuen wir uns.
Kommt vorbei, lernt den Space, uns und die Möglichkeiten kennen.
Svenskt Mingel i Berlin (Meetup) #116
Hej allihopa😀!
💡 Idén med svensk minglet är enkel: prata svenska och ha kul på samma gång!
Som vanligt kommer vi att träffas på **cafébaren i Fotografiska**. Vi träffas på **fredag 15:e maj 2026 kl. 19.00**⏰. Närmaste tunnelbanestationen är Oranienburgerstraße. Cafébaren kan nås via S-Bahn med samma namn.
Du kan hitta oss genom den svenska flaggan 🇸🇪 som vi ställer på bordet!
📢 OBS: Det här är en konversationsgrupp, dvs. du borde redan kunna förstå och prata tillräckligt bra för att aktivt kunna delta i samtalet på svenska. Vi pratar endast på svenska, inte tyska, inte heller engelska. Tack för din förståelse!
Glöm inte att anmäla dig om du vill vara med och avanmäl dig om du inte kan komma trots allt, tack 😊.
Ser fram emot att mingla med er😀!
Vi ses snart!
Baptiste & Paula
Foto: Helena Wahlman/imagebank.sweden.se
The Buckingham
Distinguished guests, thou art cordially invited to a unique evening of short-form improv from the best of ImprovWorks Berlin and friends. Join in the merriment as six of our finest players create characters and relationships on the spot.
What happens next is up to YOU!
You'll get to put them in increasingly hilarious situations as they struggle to make it all make sense.
Some people call it chaos, some people call it art. We just call it fun!
Doors 19:30, Show 20:00. Advance tickets: https://www.improvworksberlin.com/shows
SU&W Friday Finish it near Jannowitzbrücke
We are going to be seated together at **the big table on the 1st floor** of the cafe. As always, we will do **two sessions of each 45 minutes** of writing with **one break of 15 minutes** in-between.
We are making reservation and counting on you to show up, so please register only when you are going to be there, don't forget to update your RSVP if you can't come.
Unfortunately cafes in Berlin are getting less and less laptop-friendly, please don't forget to order your drink or snack to support the cafe which will have us.
If you are new to the meetup, don't worry, just come and say hi to the organizer. We also have many long-term regulars who will be happy to help you out and feel welcomed.
We also have a **Telegram chat**: https://t.me/joinchat/ERW3pxD5kfELGeWs9SUhjw
For more information, visit:
https://shutupwrite.com
Looking forward to see you! 😊
Lean Coffee for Managers & Leaders
Join us for an upcoming in-person Lean Coffee meetup. Lean Coffee is a lightly-structured meeting format where the attendees create the agenda.
Bring your management challenges; whether you're managing people, products, processes or beyond, and solve them together with peers from a diverse set of backgrounds.
This event is great for anybody trying to create better ways of working and wants to share with + learn from others trying to do the same.
Squash Berlin FRIDAY 6—9pm @Airport
SQUASH SWEAT + TEARS
WOMEN / MEN ACTIVITIES
Players meetup at the club, play squash (with others around any level), train (if they wish), watch & learn from better players, make new friends, have a few drinks.
Please be aware, we must take care to use our allotted courts. We arrange for these based on the sign-up lists. If many people sign up, but do not appear then the courts go unused and those on the waiting list miss a chance to play.
In order to ensure this if a party on the attending list has not appeared, their future reservations will be moved to the waiting list. In addition, reservations will be allowed up to fourteen days in advance only.
PRICE: €12
Kindly pay at the front-desk reception "before" you play on a squash court. Free for club members.
COURTS
3 courts (1 + 2 + 3) @ 18:00 to 21:00
NEW JOINERS / TOTAL BEGINNERS
We, the organizers — Oliva or James— are always available to teach you the basics and improve your skills to learn the rules and get introduced to players. Ask for "demo racket" at front-desk if you don't have one.
PARTICIPANT RULES
1. RSVP to participate in meetup and play. MAX is 12 players.
2. Cancel your RSVP if you cannot attend. Be courteous to others who would like to attend.
3. Pay fee at club front-desk before playing.
Thanks for your understanding and support
AIRPORT SQUASH & FITNESS CLUB WEBSITE
http://www.airportsquash.de
Become a club member for 36 EUR per month and play UNLIMITED!
SQUASH CLUB INTERIOR
as a [3d view](https://www.keepeyeonball.com/Tour/d77705fd-24dd-44a1-9f12-15bf3648036b/4K?sc=7&y=110&p=-1&tz=100&r=-1.13;0.18&l=0.00;0.00&mz=-8.70&d=0&m=1) courtesy oc keepeyeonball.
Techno Pilates - EN
Join Mehrnaz for a beat-driven Pilates session designed to energize your body, strengthen your core, and uplift your mood. Move, sweat, and flow to techno and electro beats for a class that feels vibrant, powerful, and alive.
https://www.eversports.de/org/activity/dd8c0ace-e2f4-4cb1-b203-f940380dce4e
Mini 250 Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
Chill Volley @ Beach 61 ☀️🌳
Join us for chill outdoor beach volley! 🏐 ☀️ 🏖️ 🍻
This event is for everyone who enjoys chill games and is not a *complete* beginner (A1.5+). We play 3v3 (or 4v4) with beach rules. There are no trainers at this event. Register via [the simultaneous event](https://www.meetup.com/berlin-volley/events/) for higher-level 2v2 matches (F1+).
After playing, you can join us for socials with drinks and snacks at the bar area. We often play a social deduction game, which you're also welcome to join.
It's recommended that you come 10 minutes early so you have time to change and find the fields. If it is your first time, 15 minutes might be even better.
You can join whatever court you like and move between courts during the event. We self-organize, so once you finish a game, you can start a rematch, mix with another court, or take a break as you see fit. Upon arrival, join the warmup happening on one of the courts.
Join our WhatsApp community via [https://volley.berlin/WhatsApp](https://volley.berlin/WhatsApp) ([QR code](https://secure.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/b/f/d/5/highres_532249109.webp))
Follow us on Insta at [https://www.instagram.com/berlinvolleyball](https://www.instagram.com/berlinvolleyball)
**Rules**: Do not join if you have an infectious disease.
**Venue**: We play at [Beach 61](https://beach61.de/). There are toilets and showers, but no lockers. There is a bar that sells drinks and snacks.
**Payment**: You pay in advance via Meetup. Payment via PayPal or Urban Sports Club is not possible.
**Refunds**: The venue does not provide refunds. Thus, we cannot refund you either, even in cases where the event is canceled due to bad weather. If you know you can't make it in advance, you can try selling your spot to someone else via WhatsApp or the comment section. You get a full refund if the event gets canceled due to poor attendance.
Pictures might be taken and shared publicly, such as on Meetup or Instagram. You can opt out by letting the organizer know you do not wish to be photographed.
By RSVP'ing to this event, you acknowledge and agree to the following: Participation in this volleyball event is at your own risk. The organizer is not responsible for any injury, loss, or damage sustained during the event, whether caused by negligence or otherwise. You are aware of the inherent risks involved in park volleyball and voluntarily assume these risks. You agree to hold the organizer harmless from any claims, liabilities, or expenses arising from your participation, including any medical costs.
Share anonymous feedback with the organizer via [https://www.admonymous.co/entropy](https://www.admonymous.co/entropy)
Chill Beach Volley 🏐 Beach Mitte
**17:00**. Join us for chill outdoor beach volley! 🏐 ☀️ 🏖️ 🍻
This event is for everyone who enjoys chill games and is not a *complete* beginner (A1.5+). We play 3v3 (or 4v4) with beach rules. There are no trainers at this event. Register via [the simultaneous event](https://www.meetup.com/berlin-volley/events/) for higher-level 2v2 matches (F1+).
After playing, you can join us for socials with drinks and snacks at the bar area. We often play a social deduction game, which you're also welcome to join.
It's recommended that you come 10 minutes early so you have time to change and find the fields. If it is your first time, 15 minutes might be even better.
You can join whatever court you like and move between courts during the event. We self-organize, so once you finish a game, you can start a rematch, mix with another court, or take a break as you see fit. Upon arrival, join the warmup happening on one of the courts.
Join our WhatsApp community via [https://volley.berlin/WhatsApp](https://volley.berlin/WhatsApp) ([QR code](https://secure.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/b/f/d/5/highres_532249109.webp))
Follow us on Insta at [https://www.instagram.com/berlinvolleyball](https://www.instagram.com/berlinvolleyball)
**Rules**: Do not join if you have an infectious disease. For everyone's safety, we do not allow kicking the ball during games with beginners. Be respectful of your fellow players.
**Venue**: We play at BeachMitte. There are changing rooms, toilets, and hot water showers that cost 1 EUR. There are no lockers. There is a bar that sells drinks and snacks.
**Payment**: You pay in advance via Meetup. Payment via PayPal or Urban Sports Club is not possible.
**Refunds**: The venue does not provide refunds. Thus, we cannot refund you either, even if the event is canceled due to bad weather. If you know you can't make it in advance, you can try selling your spot to someone else via WhatsApp or the comment section. In the rare cases that we cancel an event due to poor attendance, everyone gets a full refund.
Pictures might be taken and shared publicly, such as on Meetup or Instagram. You can opt out by letting the organizer know you do not wish to be photographed.
By RSVP'ing to this event, you acknowledge and agree to the following: Participation in this volleyball event is at your own risk. The organizer is not responsible for any injury, loss, or damage sustained during the event, whether caused by negligence or otherwise. You are aware of the inherent risks involved in beach volleyball and voluntarily assume these risks. You agree to hold the organizer harmless from any claims, liabilities, or expenses arising from your participation, including any medical costs.
Share anonymous feedback with the organizer via [https://www.admonymous.co/entropy](https://www.admonymous.co/entropy)
Strandvölkerball (Beach Dodgeball) – Free Fun Social Sport on Sand in Berlin
**Looking for a fun, social outdoor sport in Berlin this summer?** Join us to get to know Strandvölkerball - a German twist on dodgeball played on sand!
**🏐 What is Strandvölkerball**
Strandvölkerball is a **German version of dodgeball played on sand**, combining quick reflexes, teamwork, and a lot of laughs. No experience needed! Most people who join are beginners or haven't played since school. Our ball is very soft!
**📍Central Berlin Location**
We play **weekly games right next to the East Side Gallery** **in Friedrichshain**, one of the most iconic spots in Berlin. It's the perfect setting for enjoying summer evenings, moving in the sand, and meeting new people. You also have a great view of the beautiful Oberbaumbrücke.
**🌞 Weekly Social Games - All Levels Welcome**
* **Mixed games every week during the summer**
* Focused on **fun, movement, and community**
* **Beginner-friendly** – easy to learn, no pressure
* Come solo or bring friends!
* **Check back on the day of the event** \- sometimes we have to cancel due to **heat, storm, or lack of participants**
During the season, some of our training sessions may be reserved for tournament preparation.
**🏆 Friendly Tournaments & Special Events**
We also host occasional **tournaments**, which are still focused on **fun and inclusive competition**. To join a tournament, you should visit at least some of our social games to learn the rules. Please read the tournament descriptions carefully.
🔥 **Season Highlight: The StrandVÖLKERball-WM**
Our biggest event is the **StrandVÖLKERball-WM**, a multi-day festival with:
* Teams from all over Germany
* Great music, good vibes, and lots of high-quality Strandvölkerball games
* Open participation, attend a few trainings, and you'll likely find a team
* Want to start your own team? Awesome! Register at: [strandvoelkerball.de/wm-landing/](https://strandvoelkerball.de/wm-landing/)
**If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us or check our [Website](https://strandvoelkerball.de/).** We can help you with everything, from joining your first social game to finding a team for one of the tournaments.
\-\-\-
**Auf der Suche nach einem unterhaltsamen, geselligen Outdoor-Sport in Berlin diesen Sommer?** Komm zu uns und lerne Strandvölkerball kennen – eine deutsche Variante von Völkerball, die im Sand gespielt wird!
**🏐 Was ist Strandvölkerball**
Strandvölkerball ist eine deutsche **Variante von Völkerball, die im Sand gespielt wird** und schnelle Reflexe, Teamwork und jede Menge Spaß vereint. Keine Vorkenntnisse erforderlich! Die meisten Teilnehmer sind Anfänger oder haben seit ihrer Schulzeit nicht mehr gespielt. Unser Ball ist sehr weich!
**📍Mitten in Berlin**
Wir spielen wöchentlich **direkt neben der East Side Gallery in Friedrichshain**, einem der bekanntesten Orte Berlins. Es ist der perfekte Ort, um Sommerabende zu genießen, sich im Sand zu bewegen und neue Leute kennenzulernen. Außerdem hat man einen tollen Blick auf die schöne Oberbaumbrücke.
**🌞 Wöchentliche Community Games - Alle Spielstärken willkommen**
* **Jede Woche im Sommer gemischte Spiele**
* **Spaß, Bewegung und Gemeinschaft** stehen im Vordergrund
* **Anfängerfreundlich –** leicht zu lernen, kein Druck
* Komm alleine oder bring Freunde mit!
* **Schau am Tag der Veranstaltung noch einmal vorbei** – manchmal müssen wir aufgrund von **Hitze, Sturm oder zu wenigen Teilnehmern** absagen.
Während der Saison können einige unserer Trainingseinheiten für die Turniervorbereitung reserviert sein.
**🏆 Freundschaftsturniere & Sonderveranstaltungen**
Wir veranstalten auch gelegentlich **Turniere**, bei denen der **Spaß und der integrative Wettkampf** im Vordergrund stehen. Um an einem Turnier teilzunehmen, sollten Sie mindestens einige unserer Community Games besuchen, um die Regeln zu lernen. Bitte lesen Sie die Turnierbeschreibungen sorgfältig durch.
🔥 **Saison-Highlight: Die StrandVÖLKERball-WM**
Unser größtes Event ist die **StrandVÖLKERball-WM**, ein mehrtägiges Turnier mit:
* Teams aus ganz Deutschland
* Toller Musik, guter Stimmung und vielen hochkarätigen Strandvölkerball-Spielen
* Offene Teilnahme – Nimm an ein paar Trainingseinheiten teil und du wirst mit Sicherheit ein Team finden!
* Möchten Du dein eigenes Team gründen? Super! Registrier dich unter: [strandvoelkerball.de/wm-landing/](https://strandvoelkerball.de/wm-landing/)
**Wenn Du Fragen hast, zöger bitte nicht, uns zu kontaktieren oder unsere [Website](https://strandvoelkerball.de/) zu besuchen.** Wir helfen dir gerne weiter, vom ersten Community Game bis hin zur Suche nach einem Team für eines der Turniere.
Saxon Switzerland I: Climb Sandstone Mountains & Rocky Canyons
***The surreal and majestic landscape invites you to hike through wild canyons framed by sandstone stacks and fairytale forests.***
**HOW DO I JOIN THIS EVENT?**
Click on link below to get complete info and to sign up for this event by getting your ticket.
[https://urbanaturetravel.com/event/saxon-switzerland-16may2026](https://urbanaturetravel.com/event/saxon-switzerland-16may2026)
**SPECIAL OFFER FOR NEW USERS**
* 10% New User Discount using promo code: **MEETUP10**
* Valid for this trip or any other trips available on our website.
**WHY GO?**
Saxon Switzerland is the mystical German wonderland you’ve never heard of before. The surreal and majestic landscape invites you to hike through wild canyons framed by sandstone stacks and fairytale forests.
**WHAT ARE SOME OF THE HIGHLIGHTS?**
* **Ridge Trail:** The steep slope is well secured with a railing. Stairs and ladders help us get up high. From up there we have the ultimate view of Saxon Switzerland.
* **Schrammstein Viewpoint:** The viewpoint offers a magnificent view over jagged rock formations, impressive table mountains and wide landscapes as far as the eye can see. On the other side of river Elbe, you see the fortress Königsstein, out of the forest rises the mighty Falkenstein. It is also a great spot for a picnic.
* **Gate of Schrammstein:** The 'Schrammsteintor' is one of the most stunning rock formations in the entire national park. The deeply cut passage between the rocks is completely covered with sand and looks like a piece of desert and is a unique photo opportunity.
* **Schmilka:** This traditional village is often described as the most beautiful village in Saxony.
* **Bad Schandau:** Hike, feel good, come back - that is the motto under which Bad Schandau welcomes its guests. Beautifully situated on the Elbe, Bad Schandau is the most centrally located holiday resort in Saxon Switzerland. The small town with its typical medieval centre invites you to take a leisurely stroll through its cafés, restaurants and shops. As the oldest spa town in Saxon Switzerland, it has a great tradition.
**WHAT IS THE PLAN?**
* **5:30 am -** Meet in Berlin Hbf train station
* **5:40 am -** Catch train for Bad Schandau (starting with RE 8 to Elsterwerda)
* **10:30 am -** Arrive in Bad Schandau train station and start hiking
* **2:00 pm -** Arrive in Schrammstein tor and have a lunch break
* **2:45 pm** \- Continue hiking
* **5:00 pm -** Arrive in Schmilka and have an early dinner
* **6 :15 pm** \- Arrive in Schmilka Hirchmule train station across the river from Schmilka
* **6 :30 pm** \- Catch train back for Berlin starting with S1 to Dresden
* **11:30 pm** \- Arrive back to Berlin
**WHAT IS INCLUDED?**
* Community Leader and Guide for the entire duration. **Note:** English is the main language spoken on this trip.
* All public transportation for the entire trip starting from the meeting location to the finishing location.
* Access to Google photos album dedicated for this event.
* Access to WhatsApp group dedicated for this event where you can chat with other participants.
* **Note:** Email us immediately if you do not have WhatsApp and we can make alternate arrangements from our end to ensure you do not miss out on any communication.
**FOR FUTURE TRIP UPDATES:**
Please do join our WhatsApp / Telegram channel for updates about our future trips including possible early bird discounts, contests etc.
1. [WhatsApp Channel](https://bit.ly/unt_travel_channel)
2. [Telegram Channel](https://t.me/urbanaturetravel)
2v2 Intermediate+ Beach Volley 💪
Join us for intermediate and advanced play on outdoor 2v2 courts.
If you are not yet at the intermediate level (F1+) or want to play 3v3/4v4, sign up via [the simultaneous event](https://www.meetup.com/berlin-volley/events/) instead.
We play with beach rules: do not use open hands for the first or last touches, do not touch the net, etc. We overbook slightly to ensure we have enough players and to allow individuals to take breaks.
After playing, you can join us for socials with drinks and snacks at the bar area.
It's recommended that you come 10 minutes early so you have time to change and find the fields. If it is your first time, 15 minutes might be even better.
You can join whatever court you like and move between courts during the event. We self-organize, so once you finish a game, you can start a rematch, mix with another court, or take a break as you see fit. Upon arrival, join the warmup happening on one of the courts.
Join our WhatsApp community via [https://volley.berlin/WhatsApp](https://volley.berlin/WhatsApp) ([QR code](https://secure.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/b/f/d/5/highres_532249109.webp))
Follow us on Insta at [https://www.instagram.com/berlinvolleyball](https://www.instagram.com/berlinvolleyball)
**Rules**: Do not join if you have an infectious disease.
**Venue**: We play at BeachMitte. There are changing rooms, toilets, and hot water showers that cost 1 EUR. There are no lockers. There is a bar that sells drinks and snacks.
**Payment**: You pay in advance via Meetup. Payment via PayPal or Urban Sports Club is not possible.
**Refunds**: The venue does not provide refunds. Thus, we cannot refund you either, even in cases where the event is canceled due to bad weather. If you know you can't make it in advance, you can try selling your spot to someone else via WhatsApp or the comment section. You get a full refund if the event gets canceled due to poor attendance.
Pictures might be taken and shared publicly, such as on Meetup or Instagram. You can opt out by letting the organizer know you do not wish to be photographed.
By RSVP'ing to this event, you acknowledge and agree to the following: Participation in this volleyball event is at your own risk. The organizer is not responsible for any injury, loss, or damage sustained during the event, whether caused by negligence or otherwise. You are aware of the inherent risks involved in park volleyball and voluntarily assume these risks. You agree to hold the organizer harmless from any claims, liabilities, or expenses arising from your participation, including any medical costs.
Share anonymous feedback with the organizer via [https://www.admonymous.co/entropy](https://www.admonymous.co/entropy)
Mini 250 Events Near You
Connect with your local Mini 250 community
Goblin May-hem | Free Goblin Mini for May
### Goblin Mayhem in May \| One Free Goblin Mini Event
Embrace the chaos this May with **Goblin Mayhem** at The Arcane Foundry. Join us for a paint and sip experience where you’ll receive a free goblin miniature and dive into one of the most unpredictable and mischievous factions in Warhammer Fantasy and The Old World. Whether you’re new to painting or a seasoned hobbyist, this event is all about fun, creativity, and a little bit of madness.
Learn how to paint vibrant greens, tattered clothing, and grimy details while exploring the lore and playstyle of goblins. From sneaky ambushers to reckless hordes, you’ll discover what makes these creatures both hilarious and dangerous on the battlefield. All supplies are provided, space is limited, and things are bound to get a little out of control.
Mindfulness Walks
Join me for a small, mindful photography walk in nature. (**NOTE Time is 9:00 AM EST(Meetup is having technical Issue))**
This is a slow, intentional gathering — not focused on fitness or perfect photography — but on simply pausing, observing, and being present.
We’ll walk at a gentle pace, with moments of quiet, and a few light prompts to help you notice details you might normally miss.
📷 You don’t need any photography experience — a phone camera is enough.
This is also not a business networking event. It’s a calm space to connect with nature and, if it feels natural, with like-minded people.
🌿 What to expect:
• A slow-paced, relaxed walk
• Moments of silence and observation
• Simple reflection prompts
📍 Location: [ Red Trabue Nature Preserve]
⏱ Duration: \~90 minutes
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.


















