Nikola Tesla

In support of the Government to develop Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a core industry, while empowering traditional industries to upgrade and transform through AI adoption, the Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute (ASTRI) is launching “AI Empowerment: Enhancing Industry Capabilities” seminar series in 2026. A seminar entitled **“Future of Urban Transportation: Low-altitude Economy (LAE)”** will bring together leading business leaders and industry experts to explore the transformative role of **AI in transportation, specially within the context of the LAE**. Discussions will delve into how AI-driven innovations can enhance efficiency, safety, and sustainability in urban mobility; inspire new business models in urban logistics; and open up opportunities for growth, while also addressing the associated challenges and impacts. We are honored to have the following industry experts joining us to share valuable insights on AI in transportation (in no particular order): * Mr Dominic Chow, Co-Head of Project Facilitation Task Force under the Working Group on Developing Low-altitude Economy * Mr Kenny Chan, Chief Director, Intelligent Sensing and Control Solutions, ASTRI * Mr Samuel Lam, CEO, X Social Group Limited * Mr Ricky Siu, Senior Vice President, Mobile Product and Solution, Commercial Group, HKT “AI Empowerment: Enhancing Industry Capabilities” Seminar Series – “Future of Urban Transportation: Low-altitude Economy (LAE)” Date: 21 May 2026 (Thursday) Time: 15:00 – 17:00 Venue: Conference Hall 04-07, 2/F of Building 10W, Hong Kong Science Park Language: Cantonese There will be booths on site showcasing the latest technological development in the fields of LAE. Register Now: [LINK](https://smta.astri.org/event/ai-seminar-3/)

Welcome back to Codeaholics in May! This time we have brought 2 interesting talks. Talk 1: **Introduction to the Ash Framework, Why I like it: efficiency in delivery** Speaker: Angy Lemaire Three years ago I stopped enjoying coding. Elixir and Ash reignited that joy because they make delivery faster, more predictable, and more confident. This talk walks through **4 delivery efficiency levers** built into Ash: centralized resources, resource-backed forms, explicit policies, and native multitenancy. Each lever reduces complexity, eliminates duplication, and moves feature work from glue code to business logic. Talk 2: **TrustedServer: Building the Zero-Trace VPN Infrastructure** Speaker: Marco A. Gutierrez, ExpressVPN Traditional VPN servers, relying on hard drives, inherently risk retaining sensitive user data, leaving it vulnerable to seizure, unauthorized access, or the persistent installation of malicious backdoors. This session introduces **TrustedServer Technology**, a fundamental shift in VPN server architecture designed to eliminate these vulnerabilities and establish a new standard for user privacy. Honourable Mention: **Rustacean Meetup Group** for helping us faciliate!

I think we've passed our 24th month mark now, we lost track! Our drinks night's unique point is NO PRESSURE. Everyone is just chilling, learning, and empathetic and supportive to each other's AI journey, wherever they currently are at. So, join our monthly networking drinks night: MERAKIS DRINKS Whether you are working on an AI project, learning about it, or simply curious about the scene, come make some new friends :) Simple as that Location: Acquasala italian restaurant, wine bar & cafe 13 Elgin St · Central, hk People who joined our previous events had come from all walks of life including entrepreneurs, finance and banking, data science, branding, marketing, architecture and UX, you name it! Come meet some new friends. Some had found cofounders, friends, even life partners from our event. It's the good vibes. All welcome, if you are new to our events, you will be even more warmly welcomed :) & Bring friends! More the merrier. Some questions you may like to ask other attendees when you meet them for the first time: \- How are you using AI in your daily life at this moment? \- What excites you the most about the new models of AI that came out most recently? \- What are you future plans in your AI exploration journey? Please note: \- If you attend our events\, we would assume it's ok to have you in our group photos :\) \- It's a Buy Your Own Drink situation :\) We are not commercially related to the venue and this is a non\-profit event\, we are friends who come together for a good chat\, please buy your own drink\! :\) \- Please don't sell us insurance XD it's not appropriate at this event\. \- If you have trouble finding us\, please reach Adeline via Adeline's LinkedIn https://www\.linkedin\.com/in/adelinechanhokming/ Follow us on ig [@merakis.ai](http://merakis.ai/) Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/company/merakisai Co-organizer Adeline's Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/adelinechanhokming

The Greater Bay Area (GBA) is developing rapidly, bringing enormous opportunities to Hong Kong enterprises and young entrepreneurs. This event aims to provide practical insights and valuable experience sharings on entrepreneurship and business operations for Hong Kong companies and the youths who aspire to expand into the GBA market. Successful entrepreneurs in various GBA cities are invited to share hands-on experience in market insights, policy implementation, business planning, cross‑regional operations, and team management. The event will also cover ways to navigate everyday life and cultural differences, helping participants gain a comprehensive understanding of the GBA development ecosystem and better prepare for expanding their businesses in the GBA. Details → **[LINK](https://info.hktdc.com/edm/2026Q1/203768/index.html)** Register now → **[LINK](https://forms.hktdc.com/web/registration/CCM/en?id=69c3285765b2061d68c97889&step=Form)**

Free HK founder meetup: insights on setup, accounting & compliance, plus networking, drinks & real conversations with 30–40 founders. Register Now : [LINK](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/osome-afterhours-hong-kong-founders-night-tickets-1988263666148#location) ***

**Total beginners** **welcome so come try!** A whole new movement, fitness & self defense cultural activity **outdoors!** Structured progressive practices for **Strength**, **Flexibility, Coordination, Balance** & **Self Defense** skills in a fun friendly group environment! Totally NOT what you expect, **serious cardio**, **whole body movement** & **practical!** You will really be surprised by what WE do but even more by what YOU can do! Nothing like what you imagine about Kung Fu, No screaming, No rigidness, No mysticism & No getting hit… but YES, definitely a fun workout with great people! **Curious?** To get an ideal of what class is like, hear instructor & hear student testimonials go to: [https://www.instagram.com/natural.style.kungfu](instagram.com/natural.style.kungfu) **FEE:** 1st time TRIAL fee only $100 HKD for residents. Please RSVP here or Whatsapp me. Non-Resident $150 HKD. After trial 10 class package is $1500 HKD or $200 HKD single class. **WEAR:** Workout clothing, sports shoes & bring bottle of water! **WHEN:** Thursday 6:45pm NEW people. Please be on time, warm up very important for your 1st class! **WHERE:** Inside Kowloon Park. Meet at McDonalds across from Indoor Swimming Pool entrance, next to Sports Center. MTR: Tsim Sha Tsui, Jordan, or Austin. Link below: [Kowloon Park Swimming Pool](https://maps.apple.com/?address=22%20Austin%20Rd,%20Tsim%20Sha%20Tsui,%20Kowloon,%20Hong%20Kong%20SAR,%20China&auid=15054175802527892571&ll=22.301815,114.170365&lsp=9902&q=Kowloon%20Park%20Swimming%20Pool&_ext=CjIKBAgEEAUKBAgFEAMKBQgGEKcBCgQIChAACgQIUhADCgQIVRAQCgQIWRADCgUIpAEQARIkKSODum0jNjZAMWByPQiohFxAORGqqD1gZDZAQaw+9nwmkVxA&t=m) **WHY:** Out of shape? Gym BORING? Incredible friendly community? More? You want to exercise & have fun building strength, flexibility, coordination & self-defense skills while cultivating patience, focus, confidence & yes… discipline! **HOW:** To get in touch with me, Whatsapp .9420.0360. or email through Meetup. For more info about my art, please visit NaturalStyleKungfu.com. **\- Book a Private 1\-on\-1 Kungfu Class\!** Learn at your own pace & prepare for later group classes, choose the day & time suitable to you! Private Class in Kowloon Park: 1.5 Hours $500, other locations $900 **-**

Given the development potential of the Middle East market, an increasing number of Hong Kong enterprises are turning their attention to this region that blends tradition and modernity. As the Middle East comprises countries with diverse legal systems, religious cultures, and institutional frameworks, understanding the current conditions of local markets and intellectual property (IP) protection requirements is crucial for a successful market entry. In this seminar, an expert will provide an overview of the business environment and current IP systems in the Middle East (such as Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar). The seminar will also cover key application practices and dispute resolution mechanisms, with a view to assisting SMEs in expanding into the region steadily and sustainably. Register Now: [LINK](https://www.success.tid.gov.hk/success_enews/flyer/Flyer_20260521_Eng.pdf)

Hi there everybody! We invite you all to come enjoy Peng Chau island to our next movie night on 26th of April. This time we will watch our first Hungarian movie. But it will also be the first animated movie we watch. The movie is called 'Son of the White Mare' (1981) from director Marcell Jankovics: In this dreamlike Hungarian folk myth, a horse goddess gives birth to three powerful brothers who set out into the Underworld to save three princesses from three evil dragons and reclaim their ancestors' lost kingdom. The movie will have English subtitles. If you want to watch a Hungarian movie for the first time come and enjoy! We will start the movie at 7pm till 9pm in a terrace in Peng Chau. There is a ferry at 5:50pm from Central Pier N6 and arrives in Peng Chau at 6:30pm. I can meet people at the pier at 6:30pm. Or if you want to spend the day in Peng Chau and meet each other afterwards that's also fine! Please let me know if you are coming beforehand so we can prepare for us to meet and take you to the address. We want to encourage discussion about the movie and its theme afterwards. We will prepare some questions so we can debate about it together! You can bring your own food too. Also if you have more ideas on how to make our experience more fun, feel free to share it! If you have any question you can message me :) Hope to see you soon! MOVIE TRAILER>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oQpIt3WgDHg

- Rally and Leisure game set(optional) - doubles - $60 per head(CASH or AlipayHK) - wait together at Chai Wan MTR Station Exit A at 14:55 ※Priority would be linked up with past record and "No-Show" record holder would be removed from the confirmed list directly. ※ “New Joiner" should "Inbox" your contact No. to confirm the spot. ※ Cancellation within 24hrs would be considered as "No-Show" and would be "blacklisted"

**Camping at Po Toi Campsite - Po Toi Island** **Difficulty Level:** 0 out of 5 **Distance:** 2 km (about a 45 minute walk from the pier) **Night(s):** 1 Night (or you can stay longer if you wish) **Description**: Po Toi Island, located just off the southern coast of Hong Kong, is a great spot for campers looking for a quiet escape. The island offers rugged scenery, impressive rock formations and wide open views of the South China Sea. With only a few ferries running each day, it stays peaceful and uncrowded, making it feel far removed from city life. There are three small restaurants on the island, but they may not always be open, so it’s best to bring everything you’ll need for your camping trip. **Rental Company:** Click [HERE](https://gogo-camp.com/) to access the GoGoCamp Rental Company website or choose your own camping gear rental outlet. With fantastic prices and a variety of gear options, they’ve got everything you need for your outdoor adventure. Check out the pics below to see some of the options. **Book NOW:** This 3-day weekend is going to be a busy one, and camping gear is limited! If you want to join in on the fun, make sure to book your camping gear **NOW** so you don’t miss out. **Cancelation/Rescheduling:** Before making a reservation, it is your obligation to thoroughly READ and UNDERSTAND the policies regarding cancellations, rescheduling, refunds, and related matters. Your reservation with the camping gear outfitter is YOUR responsibility. Should any disruptions occur, such as inclement weather, it remains your responsibility to address these issues. It is imperative that you review all details of the contract you sign. Failure to do so may result in unforeseen complications. GoGoCamp Rental Company Contact Information: +852-9538-9277. **What to bring:** * 3 liters of water (minimum) * Snacks (sandwich, chips, fruits, nuts, etc) * Comfortable shoes * Water shoes * Beachwear * Large Towel or Blanket for Sun Bathing * Sunglasses * Headgear (cap/hat) * Sunscreen * Bug Spray * Beach Toys (frisbee, balls, etc) * Sleeping Bag * Tent * Flashlight * Toilet Paper/Wet Wipes * In case of Rain: plan accordingly **Toilets and Water:** There is a dry toilet located near the campsite. The water is not suitable for drinking. **Stores/Restaurants:** There are 2-3 small stores/restaurants on the island that sell drinks and food. Note: It is best to come prepared with enough water and food for the duration of your stay. **Meeting Point:** Wong Chuk Hang MTR - A. Once everyone arrives we will walk to the pier (about 15-20 minutes) **Time:** 9:30 am (SHARP!). Ferry departs at 10:00 am.

**普及禪修課程 陳卓峯老師主講** **【培育強大信心 — 收穫源源不絕的善德】** **每堂課為獨立單元，不需報名，歡迎大家參加。** 「我們努力讓自己信心的太陽持續照耀在精神導師的雪山上，並強烈作祈請，十方諸佛的加持水將流降而下。」— 尊貴的格西格桑嘉措仁波切 本系列課堂，老師會帶領我們用禪修培育三種信心，不斷收穫深廣福德。 5月23日 \| 培育願求的信心 **陳卓峯老師**跟隨尊貴的格西格桑嘉措仁波切修習噶當佛法逾二十年，樂於將佛法融入生活。他會善用日常生活例子闡釋深奧佛法，啟發學生踏上精神修行之道。 歡迎大家隨喜功德，建議捐助：每課 $50。所有捐款均用於中心的運作及發展，為大眾提供學習珍貴佛法的機會。 詳情: https://www.meditation.hk/2021/jcgp/ #現代佛法 #禪修課程

LSS Smart Fitness 律動班系列 Wed/Sun $100/ 1-hr class ($350 /4-class) Please RSVP one week in advance Welcome to book other time slot (WhatsApp 65230389) Vibration x MFR 療癒律動 (Relax, Muscle release & Facial massage) Vibration Fitness (Stretch & Strength) 健體律動 Vibration x BellyFit 美型律動 (Body Shape-up with Bellydance Technique Drills) Vibration x Yoga 律動瑜伽 (Yoga Asana in vibration setting) https://eshop.cosway.com.hk/ One FREE trial class with any Cosway purchase receipt over HK$1000 under introducer code : HK370579B 以 HK370579B 作介紹人的 Cosway (網購或門市)購物消費，逾 HK$1000，可免費試上律動班系列一節

Join us as we get together to see Paul Rudd in the latest comedy-drama-musical from John Carney, POWER BALLAD! The film follows a washed-up wedding singer, a fading boy band singer and a stolen hit song. Here’s a description, trailer and plan for this event: DESCRIPTION: Rick, a washed-up wedding singer, and Danny, a fading boy band star, bond over music and a late-night jam session. When Danny turns Rick's song into a hit, Rick sets out to reclaim the recognition he believes he deserves. Power Ballad is written/directed by John Carney, the master of the modern musical and creative mind behind Once, Begin Again and Sing Street! It stars Paul Rudd, Nick Jonas, Peter McDonald, Marcella Plunkett, Havana Rose Liu and Jack Reynor. BUZZ & ACCLAIM: The film premiered to rave reviews at this year’s Dublin International Film Festival where critics call it “a sure-fired crowd-pleaser” that “just might be the feel-good hit of the year!” Others say, “Paul Rudd delivers a career-best performance in this charmer” that’s both “hilarious and deeply moving!” SUMMER OF ICE CREAM, VOL 2: SHAKE NO. 8! Ranked the #1 Ice Cream Shop in Columbus in 2024, this is the perfect place to kick off our Summer of Ice Cream and grab a sweet treat after the show! Their menu features an array of traditional, specialty and vegan shakes, hot cocoa, and more! You can check out their full menu here: [https://www.shakeno8.com/menu.php](https://www.shakeno8.com/menu.php) PLAN: We’ll plan for a 7pm-ish showing and will meet in the lobby area about 20 minutes before the show. Once showtime is announced, advance ticket purchase is advised! Once you have yours, please list your seat number in the Comments section of this event. We'll head to nearby Shake No. 8 immediately following the show! Should be a fun one, Dan

Private Group. Closed to the Public Knowing ourselves and understanding our abilities is the first step toward wielding our gifts with control and accuracy. In subsequent classes we will verify and hone our talents with activities and discussion. These are hands-on workshops and participation is expected. The goal of our series will be to develop expertise in areas of particular interest such as mediumship, channeling, divination, healing and, etc.. Our ultimate directions will be determined by class members as we evolve. I look forward to sharing and discovering with you. - Cynthia

Hosted by Licking County Soil and Water Conservation District **Stream Team Sampling Events** Are you interested in the health of local rivers and streams? You can join the Licking County Soil and Water in a Stream Team assessment. These events are a night filled will fun in the water. We look at habitat, biology, and chemical parameters in waterways that indicate how healthy our water is! We would love to see you at one of these events! Family friendly. Free to attend. June Wildwood Park, Granville Where: 785 W Broadway, Granville, OH 43023 Date: 6/11/2026 Time: 5:30 - 7:30 P.M. July Velvet Ice Cream, Ye Olde Mill Where:11324 Mount Vernon Rd, Utica, OH 43080 Date: 7/9/2026 Time: 5:30 - 7:30 P.M.

**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.

Some trained COUNT volunteers work together once a month at RMH (http://www.rmhc-centralohio.org/volunteer.php) as Housewarmers (usually on the 1st Sunday from 1 – 5 PM). Some schedule other shifts at their convenience. You may try this out with less fuss by following a "Fast track" or go through the normal process. Fast track • Arrange a time to shadow a COUNT volunteer. Call Dave Nohle at 614-268-9558 (cell). • Show up and try it out. • Complete application, etc. later. Normal process • Complete an online application (http://rmhc-centralohio.org/volunteer/). • Attend orientation in advance. • At orientation you will complete forms agreeing to keep family/patient info private and allowing a background check and tour the facility. • Complete one training shift. Daily shifts are: morning 9 AM - 1 PM, afternoon 1 - 5 PM and evening 5 - 9 PM. • Schedule shifts online using the on the RMH scheduling system (http://www.volgistics.com/ex/portal.dll/?FROM=32895). The Ronald McDonald House (RMH) provides housing and meals for families with sick children. The Columbus RMH is the largest in the world with 137 rooms. COUNT has been volunteering there since May 2014. Housewarmers work with RMH guests to provide a home-like environment - greet, assist with family needs, answer phones, give tours, assist with checkin/checkout, prepare guest rooms after checkout, clean facility, laundry, restock supplies and staff the front desk. RMH Housewarmers volunteer at least one four-hour shift a month. All Housewarmers must complete an application and agree to a background check before they can be full fledged volunteers.

**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.