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Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

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

Outdoors Events Today

Join in-person Outdoors events happening right now

Hangout in the Park
Hangout in the Park
🔎 **The event** The weather looks beautiful this upcoming Friday, perfect weather to be outside! We will meet in Kurpark from 18:00 onwards until whatever time people feel like. The plan is simply to have a nice time together and enjoy the sunshine :-). 🧺 **What to bring:** * A good mood and an interest in other people * Warm clothes in case it gets colder later during the evening * *Optional:* drinks and/or food to share, picnic cloth, games, etc. 📍 **Where:** We meet in the park, behind the casino, near the fountain - [https://maps.app.goo.gl/uLRZEmbWRyyFKfj2A](https://maps.app.goo.gl/uLRZEmbWRyyFKfj2A). ⌛ **Time:** From 18:00 onwards. 💬 **Event WhatsApp Group:** See here the link to an event-specific WhatsApp group: *https://chat.whatsapp.com/IX2ZCXznqN06LRhZ7WPHsm* Hope to see you there! Cheers, Moniek
Afterwork Drinks @ Eldorado (+ 90s Party)
Afterwork Drinks @ Eldorado (+ 90s Party)
Samba Enredo Weekend with Gabriel Lopes
Samba Enredo Weekend with Gabriel Lopes
Expat Friday - Social Drinks & Afterparty - Rooftop edition
Expat Friday - Social Drinks & Afterparty - Rooftop edition
Join Us for **Expat Friday**! Looking for a night packed with fun, laughter, and awesome vibes? Look no further! Expat Friday is THE place to be for socializing, making new friends, and just having an all-around good time. Whether you're an expat or a local Swiss resident, everyone's welcome to join the fun. We usually draw a lively crowd of 200-300 Socializers each time! **New and Wondering if You Can Join?** Absolutely! New members are always greeted with open arms at every Zurich Together event. If you're feeling a bit shy, our friendly Admins will be there to introduce you to the gang and get you mingling in no time. **Do I Need to Register?** Nope, no need to sign up! But if you can hit "going/attending," it'll help us give the bar staff a heads-up so they can prep for our awesome crew. **Where to Find Us?** Just look for the turquoise flag and the big, happy crowd - you can't miss us! If you are still worried about not being able to find us, send Bartek a PM before the event, he is always happy to help. **Got Questions?** Drop a message in the comments below and we'll get back to you in a jiffy. **Fancy Some Dancing?** For those who want to keep the party going, there's party that's free for Zurich Together members who arrive before 11 PM! Come on out and join the fun – we can't wait to meet you To help us manage the event smoothly and ensure everyone has a great time, please make sure to press **"Going"** if you plan to attend. This helps us secure your spot, especially if the event becomes crowded. Your RSVP really helps with planning – thank you so much! Looking forward to seeing you there! For all our channels please go to our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/zurichtogether
Living Room Concert with MARLION WAVES
Living Room Concert with MARLION WAVES
When I first experienced **MARLION WAVES** live on the streets of Zurich, I was blown away — his music pulled me into a world of rhythm, depth, and movement. There’s something **immersive, organic, and mysteriously uplifting** in the way he creates sound. ***🎟 Get your Ticket here:*** 👉 [https://bit.ly/48nwAVx](https://bit.ly/48nwAVx) Now he’s coming to play in an intimate living room setting – no stage, no big show, just heart, music & connection. 🍲 **Before the music: Potluck Dinner** Bring a small homemade dish, salad, snack or dessert to share. Let’s enjoy food, connection & a cozy vibe before the concert. 📅 **When:** **Friday, April 24, 2026** 18:30 – 20:00 Potluck Dinner 20:00 latest: Please arrive on time – we’ll start the concert shortly after! 20:00 – 21:45 Concert with **MARLION WAVES** Afterwards – time to relax, connect, digest 🎵✨ 📍 **Where:** Limmattalstrasse 1, 8049 Zürich 💸 **Contribution:** **CHF 25.– per person** A big part of your contribution goes straight to **MARLION WAVES** – for the concert, the journey, and the energy he brings into the space. In other words: you’re helping make this beautiful evening happen. 🙌 🎧 **Listen to MARLION WAVES here:** IG: [https://www.instagram.com/marlion_waves](https://www.instagram.com/marlion_waves) YT: [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCinTzxvjvGTtfSmns6YfFvw](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCinTzxvjvGTtfSmns6YfFvw) SC: [https://soundcloud.com/user-178313286](https://soundcloud.com/user-178313286?utm_source=chatgpt.com) ***🎟 Get your Ticket here:*** 👉 [https://bit.ly/48nwAVx](https://bit.ly/48nwAVx) **​📌 *Important:*** Please only sign up if you truly plan to come. This is an intimate space with limited spots – so if you say yes, *put it in your calendar and treat it like a real date* 💛 ​Bring your *smile*, something to *share* & join us for this *magical evening*. 🧡🎤
Easy, flat, short run, no excuses!!!
Easy, flat, short run, no excuses!!!
ECSTATIC DANCE PARTY ¡ MOTHER EARTH ¡ TRIBAL ¡ WORLD MUSIC ¡ SOUND HEALING
ECSTATIC DANCE PARTY ¡ MOTHER EARTH ¡ TRIBAL ¡ WORLD MUSIC ¡ SOUND HEALING
**ECSTATIC DANCE · MOTHER EARTH · TRIBAL · SOUND HEALING 💜💜💜** A deep, grounding Ecstatic Dance journey inspired by the energy of Mother Earth. Connect to nature, your body, and the present moment through movement, music, and shared presence. An invitation to root, release, and recharge in a warm, conscious space. 🎟 **Get your ticket on Eventfrog (mandatory)** [https://eventfrog.ch/en/p/miscellaneous/ecstatic-dance-mother-earth-tribal-sound-healing-7450468933176456368.html](https://eventfrog.ch/en/p/miscellaneous/ecstatic-dance-mother-earth-tribal-sound-healing-7450468933176456368.html) ✨ **FIRST TIME ALWAYS FREE** — limited free tickets available. This offer is valid once per person. If you reserve a free ticket and do not attend, you are no longer eligible for a free ticket in the future. **PLEASE NOTE:** at most of our events 20–45 beautiful souls are dancing with us. Many of them don’t sign up on Meetup. Imagine stepping into a cozy home gathering where strangers smile like old friends. Eyes shining, bodies already moving. No alcohol, no awkwardness — just music, presence, and a warm sense of belonging. A space where you can dance like no one is watching and simply be yourself. ✨ **WHAT TO EXPECT** • warm-up & playful exercises • guided movement • ecstatic free dance • uplifting music & conscious community ✨ **WHAT PEOPLE EXPERIENCE** • stress release • more energy • authentic expression • real human connection ✨ **THE SCIENCE OF DANCE** • reduces stress and increases endorphins • improves emotional regulation • strengthens social bonding and wellbeing ✨ **WHAT PEOPLE SAY** “The beautiful souls from the Yanantin Tribe are of the sweetest kind — pure angels! You can truly feel the magic.” — Pascal ✨ **PRACTICAL INFO** **When:** • Ecstatic Dance Fridays — 3 times per month • One Saturday dance per month (longer edition) Bring: comfortable clothes, water bottle, curiosity **Space guidelines** • no alcohol • silence on the dance floor • no phones on the dance floor • barefoot or dance shoes — your choice Come dance, breathe and celebrate being alive. Lovingly 💜 Alice & András Yanantin Tribe

Outdoors Events This Week

Discover what is happening in the next few days

Planggenstock hike
Planggenstock hike
**Walk description:** The hike starts in front of the bus stop Reichenburg Altersheim. Then we walk to Näfels following a ridge hike. It is not a broad ridge hike like Stoss but it is not a very narrow ridge hike like the hike between Schwytz and Glarus for those we remember. But the path is probably still a little slippery and there are probably still small traces of snow You need to be fit and have good hiking shoes. [von Reichenburg nach Glarus Nord | Wanderung | Komoot](https://www.komoot.com/tour/2895207010) **How to go with the train (from Zurich and I will meet you on the way):** [Verbindungen Zürich HB nach Reichenburg, Altersheim | Das Online-Portal der SBB für Fahrplan, Zug und ÖV](https://www.sbb.ch/de?date=%222025-04-25%22&moment=dep&p_cursor=%22M3xPRnxNVMK1MTTCtTE5MjMzNsK1MTkyMzM2wrUxOTIzNzXCtTE5MjM4MMK1MMK1MMK1MjXCtTE5MjMwN8K1NsK1MMK1MsK1MMK1MMK1LTIxNDc0ODM2NDjCtTHCtTJ8UERIwrVjMjE4MGMzMmI2ZTkzZGJiMjdlNWQ5NWNmNmY2MzNjZXxSRMK1MjUwNDIwMjV8UlTCtTEyMzQwMHxVU8K1MHxSU8K1SU5JVA==%22&selected_leg=0&selected_trip=4&stops=Z%C3%BCrich+HB_I8503000~Reichenburg,+Altersheim_I8574481&time=07_14&day=2026-04-26&trip=1) **dedicated whatapp group** [WhatsApp-Gruppeneinladung](https://chat.whatsapp.com/GxCQyCn1WJZBC9b8Nc7eRL) **Registration:** To sign up, please select "Yes" in the WhatsApp community survey for this activity: [🌄 Switzerland Discovery Crew (Preferred Ages 18-35)🌄 | WhatsApp-Kanal](https://www.whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaoercY1XquRrJm58k3V) If the event will happen in more than 30 days, I haven't added the survey in the channel yet. (Because message in a WhatsApp channel can be read by a new member only 30 days before he joins. But you can already enter the corresponding WhatsApp group) If you are concerned about privacy, only the admin of a WhatsApp channel can see who has voted in a poll (unlike a WhatsApp group). Please sign up only when you are certain! You can also register through Meetup, as it helps build momentum; however, I rely only on the number of people who signed up through the WhatsApp survey.
Rapperswil monastery and hike
Rapperswil monastery and hike
Hi everyone, Let's visit the famous Rappelswil monastery followed by a short-hike. We will start at Pfaffikon SZ and finish at Uerikon and have a picnic lunch along the way. https://www.zuerich.com/en/visit/attractions/rapperswil-hurden-wooden-bridge-a-walkway-across-lake-zurich **Hike description:** Distance: 16 km Time: 5 h Elevation difference: 300 m up and down **Travel itinerary:** see photo **Meeting point:** Pfaffikon SZ **Minimum of 5 participants with confirmed donation; max. 15** **Booking system:** Mandatory donation of 10 CHF to your favourite charity. To secure your spot or move from the waiting list to the going list, please send me a confirmation of your donation to [[[[laurameetup@yahoo.com](mailto:laurameetup@yahoo.com)]([mailto:laurameetup@yahoo.com](http://mailto:laurameetup@yahoo.com/))]([mailto:laurameetup@yahoo.com](http://mailto:laurameetup@yahoo.com/))]([mailto:laurameetup@yahoo.com](http://mailto:laurameetup@yahoo.com/)) Alternatively, you can donate here: [Zurich Weekends and Hiking | Schweizerisches Rotes Kreuz](https://actnow.redcross.ch/en-GB/project/zurich-weekends-and-hiking?tab=overview) Check out our Facebook page: [https://www.facebook.com/share/15HuDGWwiM/?mibextid=wwXIfr](https://www.facebook.com/share/15HuDGWwiM/?mibextid=wwXIfr) Cancelled in case of bad weather. See you, Laura
Ticino hike - Nature trail “Zwischen Bergen und See”
Ticino hike - Nature trail “Zwischen Bergen und See”
The tour follows the nature trail ‘Zwischen Bergen und See’ featured on the official Ticino website. -> [Der Lehrpfad zwischen Bergen und See](https://www.ticino.ch/de/hike/details/Der-Lehrpfad-zwischen-Bergen-und-See/22874002.html) We will be covering most of stages 1 and 2, from Dirinella to Magadino. The tour itself does not take us to the highest peaks, but is a route that could also be called “Spring in Ticino”, and I expect stunning blossoms, nature in full bloom and the Mediterranean setting of Ticino. A pleasure tour and a short holiday for the heart and the senses. Komoot Link: [Nature trail “Zwischen Bergen und See”](https://www.komoot.com/de-de/tour/2705965632) **Key data** Length: 15,9 km Ascent: 680 m Descent: 680 m Duration without breaks: approx. 5:15 hours Technical difficulty: A challenging hike. A high level of fitness is required. The paths are generally easy to walk on. Sure-footedness is required. - We might encounter two short T2 sections, but otherwise it should be fairly straightforward. **Arrival and departure** Meeting point: 7:50 Zürich HB under the blue angel 8:05 Departure from Zürich with the IR46 towards Locarno 8:49 Departure from Arth-Goldau with the IC21 towards Lugano 9:49 Departure from Bellinzona with the S20 towards Locarno 10:06 Departure from Cadenazzo, Stazione with the B350 towards Dirinella 10:38 Start of hike Dirinella Return journey expected between 17:30 to 20:00 from Ticino, see Information in “Breaks” **Breaks** A short break is planned approximately every hour. After two/three hours, there will be a slightly longer break for lunch. About an hour after midday, we’ll might have the chance to enjoy a coffee or a drink of our choice at San Nazarro. The Tour itself will approximately finish at 17:30 in Magadino-Vira. On the way home, we’re planning to stop off in Bellinzona afterwards and have a pizza for dinner together. However, this is just an idea for now, and everyone can decide for themselves whether they’d like to join in or not. Please bring enough food for lunch, and in case dinner doesn’t work out, I’d recommend packing an extra sandwich. **Disclaimer** **Important Notice** This is **NOT a guided tour**, but an informal meetup of individuals acting on their own responsibility. Participation is at your own risk. Each participant is solely responsible for: * assessing the requirements and difficulty of the hike, * evaluating their own fitness and capabilities, * ensuring adequate equipment (boots, clothing, etc.) and sufficient insurance coverage, * checking the weather forecast in advance. In case professional rescue services are required, each participant will be responsible for the costs. The organizer accepts no responsibility for any injuries, accidents, or death that may result directly or indirectly from this event. The organizer does not warrant the accuracy or completeness of the hike description. By joining this hike, you agree to the terms stated above. **Image license (example image, not from the tour)** GeminiAI generated
ZĂźrich Hash House HORRORS #64: Candies & Sugus run
ZĂźrich Hash House HORRORS #64: Candies & Sugus run
The hares are **Just Ivan, Good Service** and **Premature C**. Pleanty of sugus and candies are waiting for you!!! **Where**: Fernsehstudio Tramstop (Tram 12 & 50). **When:** We'll meet at 13:50 to start at 14:00. **The Zürich Hash House Horrors** is a fun, outdoor and social group for parents, carers, and kids in Zürich. We meet once a month to explore different parts of the city and surroundings, with a focus on fun and meeting new people. Each Meetup features a themed trail around 2–3 km long, laid out by a volunteer (we call a Hare) using chalk or flour—like a mini treasure hunt for the kids to follow! Along the way, we stop at playgrounds so kids can play and adults can chat. We finish with drinks and snacks for everyone big and small. What to expect: * Pushchair-friendly routes * Kids aged 0–12 welcome * English is the common language (many kids also speak German) * A relaxed, friendly atmosphere Cost: Fr. 3 per adult Fr. 2 per child (over 5) (to cover drinks and snacks) Just bring along a sense of fun and adventure! Got questions? Send us a message—or just turn up and join in.
Lägeren Ridge Hike and All You Can Eat Craft Beer
Lägeren Ridge Hike and All You Can Eat Craft Beer
Hike Eat & Beer We hike Lägerengrat Ridge from Regensberg to Baden AG and visit on arrival a caft beer brewery and eat meat… More details to be informed in due time… Hike T3 Beer cold Meat 49 CHF Meeting in Dielsdorf 10:15 Transport see photo, seve orgazied Trail: https://schweizmobil.ch/de/wanderland/route-5/etappe-1
🌿 YOGA in the PARK - Energizing HATHA FLOW under open sky 🧘🏻🌳🧘🏼‍♀️
🌿 YOGA in the PARK - Energizing HATHA FLOW under open sky 🧘🏻🌳🧘🏼‍♀️
**"Yoga in the Park" season is officially ON!** Rise and shine with energy and flow - join me **every Saturday at 9:00 AM** to awaken your body, strengthen your muscles, and boost your vitality with an invigorating Hatha Vinyasa practice. Breathe deeply, move mindfully, and greet the weekend feeling refreshed and balanced - all surrounded by the peaceful beauty of nature in one of Zurich’s most lovely parks. 📅 Every Saturday morning (weather dependent) ⏰ 9:00 AM – for an energizing & dynamic Hatha Vinyasa Yoga session 📍 Schindlergut Park (upper part near Nordstrasse) 🧘 All levels are welcome ✨ Bring your mat and a positive vibe! Let’s flow through poses that build strength, increase flexibility, and connect breath with movement — moving with intention, joy, and community under the open sky. 💰 CHF 30 per session https://eventfrog.ch/en/p/groups/weekend-kickoff-yoga-flow-in-the-park-7402285262905034099.html **🧘🏼‍♀️🧘🏻‍♂️ Bring a friend and you both get CHF 5 off (valid for first-time participants only)** 📲 To register or ask anything, drop me a whatsapp message or call: **075 443 93 49** or write at **Liuna_Holistic** on Instagram. Or book directly via Event Frog: https://eventfrog.ch/en/p/groups/weekend-kickoff-yoga-flow-in-the-park-7402285262905034099.html 🌐 Want updates on yoga sessions & special events not listed on MeetUp? Join the WhatsApp group: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/Ektngw8U5tAIY6pqN994ICJuujj](https://chat.whatsapp.com/Ektngw8U5tAIY6pqN994ICJuujj) ⸻ Can’t wait to flow with you on the mat soon! With love & light, Iri Liuna Yoga 🌸🙏
Picnic n Chill @ The Lake
Picnic n Chill @ The Lake
**🌿 Summer Picnic at China Garden, Zurich 🌅** Join us for a relaxed Spring evening at the beautiful China Garden in Zurich! Bring along your blanket or towel, some tasty food, and your favourite drinks, and let’s soak up the good vibes together. Whether you’re coming with friends or joining solo, it’s the perfect chance to meet new people, catch up with familiar faces, and enjoy a warm summer night while watching the sunset 🌞 There are public BBQ spots available, so feel free to bring something to grill and make the most of those true summer vibes 🔥 If the weather doesn’t cooperate, we’ll either postpone or move to a covered location—updates will be shared accordingly. 📍 The exact meeting spot will be posted on the day of the event 🔵 As always, look out for the turquoise flag and caps to find us easily! Updates will follow up in the Spring & Summer WhatsApp chat: https://chat.whatsapp.com/ESXXl7mYt5ALijJfdm27RP

Outdoors Events Near You

Connect with your local Outdoors community

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