Outdoors

Movie Night / BBQ in Al Qudra Desert Whatsapp: +1 585 351 1378 Social gathering to watch a movie or BBQ together in Al Qudra Desert. • Location will be accessible by any car • Carpooling can be arranged with other members, message us for details • Movie selection will be voted on the whatsapp group • Snacks and drinks will be provided • Will start around 10pm and finish 1 or 2, however you can leave anytime Free event Message us with your whatsapp numbers to be added to the whatsapp group. All details and exact location will be on the WhatsApp group

The Camp - Al Qudra WhatsApp: +1 585 351 1378 party . BBQ, camp, social gathering we have a sound system Everyone please bring your own food, drinks, chairs etc... carpooling can be arranged directly with other members all setup is there, BBQ, charcoal, fire music etc .. cost free

we will take a weekly night drive in desert, a capable 4x4 is required, we have most recovery gear, radio recommended. easy to medium drives pls join our WhatsApp group for details of events: https://chat.whatsapp.com/GPPjR6igsdoJHlGXz1yoib

Escape Dubai's summer heat and spend the weekend with us camping in beautiful weather at Jebel Jais (@1770m altitude), the highest summit in the UAE, and rejuvenating with a sunset short hike, meditation and a sunrise yoga class. You won’t believe it, but yes, in the UAE, only on top of Jebel Jais and specifically in Camp 1770, you can be outdoors in the middle of summer without air conditioning, with temperatures expected to go down to 16 degrees at night. The private venue offers a 180 panoramic view of the hajar (rocky) mountains covering Oman and Ras Al Khaimah. **Day 1: Road trip, sunset hike & meditation, BBQ, games, bonfire & camping** We will leave Dubai at **2:15 p.m.** and Sharjah at **3:00 p.m.** and Ras Al Khaimah at **4:00 p.m.** *(Timings might shift a little with sunrise and sunset. Don't worry we'll share the exact plan with you in a Whatsapp group before the trip)* to head on a beautiful 2 1/2 hours road trip to Camp 1770, Jebel Jais, the highest camp in the UAE @ 1,770m altitude where the temperature is \~12 degrees less than the city. Upon arrival, we will have a beginner friendly hike from to Camp 1770 where we will have a meditation session and watch the sun as it sets in the Arabian Gulf's Sea. We will then have the usual best bbq in town, drinks, campfire games, music, have some melting marshmallows on camp fire and camp under the clear skies full of stars. **Day 2:** Sunrise walk, sunrise, yoga & breakfast We will start the day with a walk to the top of Jebel Jais to see the sun rising from the Indian Ocean from the highest point of Jebel Jais. Then, we will do a sunrise yoga session, to give the day a blissful start. After yoga, breakfast will be served, after which we will head back to Dubai to start the week. **Price without transport**: 600aed **Price with transport**: 760aed **Including:** * A total of 2 meals, including the famous best BBQ in town for dinner (mixed grill with meat and chicken, falafel, hummus, moutabbal, tabbouleh salad, fattoush salad, bread, and snacks) and breakfast. * Beverages (Soft drinks, tea, coffee, water) * Exclusive access to the top of Jebel Jais * Accommodation in Camp 1770. 2 toilets are available. * Camp setup (Chairs, lights, private tents, mattresses, Fire pit & wood for bonfire) * Campfire games * 1 meditation session * 1 yoga session * 1 sunset hike * 1 sunrise short hike * Adventure leaders - fun guides who know the ins and outs of Jebel Jais * Great people and great fun! **Available Extras:** * A sleeping bag with a temperature rating that is 5 degrees less than the expected lowest temperature or a heavy comforter is required, we recommend to buy a high quality one from Adventure HQ to have a good night sleep or you can rent one from us for 50aed (available upon checkout) * Transportation from Arabian Wanderers' meeting point in Dubai to Jebel Jais and back (Available optionally for 160aed if you choose the option with transport) **Notes:** * **Important note**: Your booking will only be confirmed once you've completed the process on the following link: https://www.arabianwanderers.com/tour/jebel-jais-camping-weekend-getaway-from-dubai-s-heat-on-uae-s-peak RSVP on Meetup serves as an expression of intent to attend the event and does not guarantee your place, as spots are limited and tend to fill up rapidly. * **If booking our transport**: * Dubai at 2:15pm: [Artisan Bakers - https://maps.app.goo.gl/yH6QEtZpH7UQceCq5](https://maps.app.goo.gl/yH6QEtZpH7UQceCq5) in Al Barsha. RTA parking is available if you want to come with your car. * Sharjah at 3:00pm: ADNOC Service Station \| Al Sharjah \(564\) \- [https://maps.app.goo.gl/MqvsZgiraPLjhRzB8](https://maps.app.goo.gl/MqvsZgiraPLjhRzB8) * Ras Al Khaimah at 4:00pm: ENOC \| 1444 \| Ras Al Khaima \- [https://maps.app.goo.gl/6BKeFyt4jZ9AbQHH6](https://maps.app.goo.gl/6BKeFyt4jZ9AbQHH6) * **If not**: * Jebel Jais at 5:00pm: [Jebel Jais - https://maps.app.goo.gl/J1cdkoCmDLebnm4b7?g_st=ic](https://maps.app.goo.gl/J1cdkoCmDLebnm4b7?g_st=ic). Any car can reach the meeting point in Jebel Jais where you will follow us in a convoy until our camp (10 mins drive) and free parking will be available. There is no need for a 4x4 vehicle. * **Physical rating:** Beginner level - Light physical activities are included. * **Group size:** Small group experience - Avg. 12, Max 25. * **Nature calls:** Toilet will be available in the camp * **Solo & women friendly:** Solo and female travelers are more than welcome; 70% of our participants are usually solo adventurers and women. * **Not pet-friendly:** Due to the sensitivity of the area near Oman's border, Camp 1770 does not accommodate pets or animals. * **Health and travel insurance**: It is mandatory to have a health and travel insurance in the country where this experience is happening. If you don't have insurance or your current insurance doesn't provide coverage, you can obtain one [here](https://explore.safetywing.com/nomad-insurance-complete?referenceID=26286700&utm_source=26286700&utm_medium=Ambassador) ! * **Tipping Information:** If you'd like to show your appreciation to your guide, please bring cash in AED for tipping. * **Instagram:** Follow us on instagram for our latest adventures: [arabian.wanderers](https://www.instagram.com/arabian.wanderers/) * **Sunset Hike details:** * Duration: \~1 hour * Distance: \~2kms * Elevation gain: \~100m * Difficulty level: Beginner For further info, you can WhatsApp message by clicking on this link [https://wa.me/message/V53PMRXR5SCIH1](https://wa.me/message/V53PMRXR5SCIH1) or call us on: [+971522067219](+971522067219)

The season is officially ON and we’re kicking it off with a desert night like no other! 🌟 Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/dubai-adventure-meetup-events)** Imagine a giant outdoor screen, a crackling bonfire, cozy vibes, and an incredible community coming together under the stars **🌙** ✨ Beautiful ambient lighting to set the desert mood. 🎥 Outdoor movie on a large screen with amazing sound. 🔥 A cozy bonfire to keep you warm. 🍿 Popcorn, snacks, coffee, tea & water to keep the energy flowing. 🎶 After-party ambiance for chill vibes & deeper conversations. 🧠 Trivia Quiz right after the movie (played in groups — extra fun guaranteed!). No apps. No pressure. Just laughter, conversations, and a night where strangers become friends 💬🤝 Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/dubai-adventure-meetup-events)** Spend a night under the stars with people you’ve never met… and leaving with new stories, new friends, and maybe even unforgettable memories 🌠 🌌 Arrive and settle in under the starlit desert sky. 📽️ Movie starts 8:00 PM sharp (don’t be late — no exceptions 😉). 🔥 Gather ‘round the bonfire after the film. 🥨 Snack break and stretch those legs. 🧠 Team Trivia Quiz + fun activities to spark laughter & connection. ✨ Close the night with relaxed socializing in the serene desert air. Expect surprising questions. Unexpected toasts. Conversations that flow deeper than small talk 🥂 **How to Join:** 1. RSVP on Meetup 2. [Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/dubai-adventure-meetup-events) *Just like any event, slots are limited. RSVP and complete your registration at the earliest.* Happy Adventure!

The season is officially ON and we’re kicking it off with a desert night like no other! 🌟 Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile / 971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/dubai-adventure-meetup-events)** Imagine a giant outdoor screen, a crackling bonfire, cozy vibes, and an incredible community coming together under the stars **🌙** ✨ Beautiful ambient lighting to set the desert mood. 🎥 Outdoor movie on a large screen with amazing sound. 🔥 A cozy bonfire to keep you warm. 🍿 Popcorn, snacks, coffee, tea & water to keep the energy flowing. 🎶 After-party ambiance for chill vibes & deeper conversations. 🧠 Trivia Quiz right after the movie (played in groups — extra fun guaranteed!). No apps. No pressure. Just laughter, conversations, and a night where strangers become friends 💬🤝 Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile / 971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/dubai-adventure-meetup-events)** Spend a night under the stars with people you’ve never met… and leaving with new stories, new friends, and maybe even unforgettable memories 🌠 🌌 Arrive and settle in under the starlit desert sky. 📽️ Movie starts 8:00 PM sharp (don’t be late — no exceptions 😉). 🔥 Gather ‘round the bonfire after the film. 🥨 Snack break and stretch those legs. 🧠 Team Trivia Quiz + fun activities to spark laughter & connection. ✨ Close the night with relaxed socializing in the serene desert air. Expect surprising questions. Unexpected toasts. Conversations that flow deeper than small talk 🥂 **How to Join:** 1. RSVP on Meetup 2. [Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/dubai-adventure-meetup-events) *Just like any event, slots are limited. RSVP and complete your registration at the earliest.* Happy Adventure!

**The Islands of the Moon, Comoros**, are a small cluster of volcanic isles drifting between Africa and Madagascar, blending African and Arab cultures with a French accent. The name "Comoros" comes from the Arabic **word Qamar, meaning moon**, **a name given by old sailors** who saw something magical in these shores. And in many ways, the moon still fits in a distant, beautiful reference, that’s always pulling the tides and the past together. Their flag proudly flies four stars, even though only three of the islands are truly part of the country today. **The fourth star belongs to Mayotte**, **which chose to stay with France** after independence in 1975, despite the rest of the islands voting to break away. Still, Comoros keeps Mayotte on the flag, not just out of habit, but out of hope, memory, and maybe a little stubbornness too. **The four islands of the Comoros are home to 500 plant species, 21 bird species, 9 reptile species, and 2 species of fruit bats** that are found only in this archipelago. However, deforestation has caused significant changes to the landscape and threatens the survival of these rare plant and animal species. The Comoros are reminiscent of Madagascar. Most of the species found in the Comoros are related to those from the "eighth continent" (Madagascar) and Africa. A small number also originate from Asia. **The archipelago was formed by volcanic activity.** The oldest island is Mayotte, and the youngest is Grande Comore. It is on this last island that eruptions of the Karthala volcano (over 2,300 masl) still occur. Today Comoros enjoy their independence to the full extent. Since gaining independence, the **islands have changed hands many times, experiencing over 20 coups**, more than the number of years under stable governance. It has rightfully earned the nickname **“the Coup Capital of the World.”** **Country has zero traffic lights** and roads are so chill and bumpy that no one bothers. Locals say, "We have goats and patience instead." Thanks to vast ylang-ylang plantations, parts of the islands literally smell like perfume., the air is often scented with flowers and yes, people do stop and sniff the air. In fact, this cousin of custard apple with yellowish flowers is a key ingredient in luxury perfumes, ie. Channel no. 5. Although the plant came to the Comoros from the much larger Indonesia, it is the African country that is the largest producer of ylang-ylang oil, an important ingredient in many perfumes. The Comoros is also the second largest producer of vanilla in the world. Despite being a sovereign nation, the Comorian franc is still tied to the euro and printed in France. However, in rural areas, vanilla and cloves are so valuable they’re sometimes used in bartering. The Livingstone’s fruit bat and Comoros drongo are among the national wildlife symbols. Bat curry is still a local delicacy in some villages. They're fruit bats, and apparently... "tastes like chicken," **But in a background, it is still an untouched tropical paradise** where volcanic peaks meet coral reefs, ancient Islamic culture shapes daily life with a quiet rhythm of tradition and hospitality. Spice-scented beachside villages with sacred mosques blend seamlessly with passing sea turtles and whales, all moving to the gentle rhythm of island time. Inshallah, it could be your perfect off-the-beaten-path adventure: **raw, real, and refreshingly undiscovered.** **Let’s go!** **Day 1 // Grande Comore: The Historic Town of Itsandra** Arrival to Moroni International, immigration and check–in to our beach side hotel. After short refreshment head out to discover the historic town of Itsandra. Once the beating heart of Swahili civilization on the island of Ngazidja (Grande Comore), Itsandra has roots stretching back to the 14th century. It was once the capital of the island and its first seaport, a hub where merchants and travelers converged. Today, remnants of this vibrant past still linger. The fortress of the 17th century, once linked to the city by a walled corridor, stands proudly, while fragments of ramparts dotted with observation holes whisper tales of bygone days. The Arab quarter, with its mausoleum of Al Habib Omar Bin Sumet and centuries-old mosques, offers a spiritual glimpse into the island’s layered past. As you stroll through public squares framed by monumental gates, you’ll feel the timeless rhythm of a place where history and community converge. Before returning, we’ll explore a local handcrafts shop, where fine woodcarvings and artisanal creations celebrate the artistry of the Comorian people. **Day 2 // Mohéli: a UNESCO Paradise** The morning begins with an early transfer to Ouroveni, in the south of Grande Comore, where a boat ride carries us across the ocean to Mohéli. Known as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Mohéli is the smallest and most untouched of the Comoros islands, home to lemurs, coral reefs, and uninhabited islets brimming with life. Short coastal drive to beachfront bungalows, set against a backdrop of rainforest and turquoise sea. Time to relax and indulge into paradise. As dusk settles, massive green turtles emerge from the ocean, hauling themselves ashore to dig nests and lay eggs under the moonlight. With a bit of luck, we may also witness tiny hatchlings breaking free and scrambling toward the waves, a moving reminder of the fragile wonders of nature. **Day 3 // Mohéli: Waterfalls and Whales** The day begins with a forest hike to Wallah’s hidden waterfalls. Following a clear mountain stream, we’ll ascend into the rainforest until we reach a double cascade tumbling into a natural pool. Here, you can take a refreshing swim and even snorkel among freshwater fish and small eels, while the sounds of the forest create a soothing harmony. The seas surrounding Moheli offers many marvels. We’ll set off for a boat trip to reveal Mohéli’s seven uninhabited islands, their deserted beaches, and coral reefs teeming with a tropical you-name-it-fish, an unforgettable snorkelling paradise in a UNESCO sanctuary. **Day 4 // Grande Comore South** After breakfast return by boat to Grande Comore, docking once more at Ouroveni. From here, the southern coast unfolds in a tapestry of culture and volcanic landscapes. In Chindini, the gateway to Mohéli, we’ll enjoy a short tour before continuing to Singani village. Here, the scars of the 1977 volcanic eruption remain visible. The lava that once devastated the community has now become the very material with which its people rebuilt, a striking symbol of resilience. Later, in Iconi, the former sultan’s capital, history reveals itself in dramatic form. From its volcanic cliffs, women once leapt to escape enslavement by Malagasy pirates. At the heart of town, the coral and lava palace of Kaviri Djewé still stands, while the bangwes (the traditional meeting squares) echo with centuries of community debates. Beyond the medina lies Lake Marabou, a tidal pool fringed with mangroves, where birds nest under the towering presence of Mount Karthala. **Day 5 // Mount Karthala (2,361m)** Today, the adventure reaches new heights with a trekkup Mount Karthala, the largest active volcano in the world. From Mvouni village, vehicles take us partway up the slopes, before we hit a 6k trail (700 m altitude). The trail winds through lush forest and volcanic rock, eventually opening onto the vast caldera at the summit. Here, steam vents rise from the earth, and the crater within a crater offers a breathtaking reminder of the island’s geological power. A picnic lunch at the rim allows time to absorb the view of the island below, of the endless sea beyond, and of the raw forces that continue to shape Comoros. It’s definitely one of the most spectacular hikes in the Indian Ocean. **Day 6 // Grande Comore North** Today we are set to explore the scenic northern coast and its volcanic history. As we follow the western coast we will see where lava flows enter the sea and how the mangrove forests are now growing in the lava beds. One of the day’s highlights is the island’s largest baobab tree, so huge a dozen visitors can stand inside its hollow trunk. From there, we continue to two volcanic craters: Lac Salé, whose mineral waters are said to hold healing powers, and the Dragon’s Back, a submerged crater whose curving rim forms a dramatic peninsula. In Bangwa Kouni village, we’ll visit the “Miraculous Mosque,” said to have appeared overnight, as well as the tombs of some of the earliest Arab travelers to the islands. Lunch today is at Trou du Prophète, a tranquil bay shaded by baobabs, followed by time to relax on Maloudja Beach, where the coconut palms lean gracefully toward the sea. Unfortunately, it’s time to bid farewell to Comoros. It will not be easy to wave bye-bye and transfer to airport for flight back home… **Activities:** Trekking, boating, snorkelling, sightseeing, encounter of wildlife, cultural immersion. **Accommodation & meals:** beach side 4 star hotel and lodge - shared rooms. Meals on Moheli included. **Cost:** **7,100 AED** excl. flights until APR 17. **Flights by Ethiopian, you can use any alternative connection.** **Specifically excluded:** Insurance, visa, meals on Grand Comore. **Visa:** Nationals of any country can obtain a visa on arrival. **Note:** Wildlife spotting can not be guaranteed. See yah in Comoros xx Trekkup Crew [Whatsapp 050 4848238](https://wa.me/971504848238) / [info@trekkup.com](docs@trekkup.com)

**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.

**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.

[Old School Groove](https://www.facebook.com/OldSchoolGrooveBand/) \- Vintage rock\, southern rock\, blues\, reggae\. Originals mixed with 60s & 70s classics\. Getcha groove on\! **[Flint Station](https://www.theflintstation.com/)** is an old depot venue for drinks and live music. They usually have a **bbq food truck** on location. Feel free to bring your own takeout. I'll bring a basket of snacks. NO COVER *They're planning for a beautiful summer evening performance in the beer garden. However, if the weather doesn't cooperate...they will be upstairs in the old-time dance hall. Either way...it's going to be a night to remember!!* **PARKING**: either near the beer garden or across the street.