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

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

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Social and Cultural Outings Events Today

Join in-person Social and Cultural Outings events happening right now

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
ZFG presents: Blood on the Clocktower - Deduction, Intrigue, Fun!
ZFG presents: Blood on the Clocktower - Deduction, Intrigue, Fun!
**\# Blood on the Clocktower — Hosted by Zurich Fun Gamers \(No experience needed\!\) 🕯️🩸** **click me --> [Tickets](https://eventfrog.ch/de/p/freizeit-ausfluege/gruppen-spiele/zfg-blood-on-the-clocktower-deduction-intrigue-fun-7443698092099003023.html) 🎟️** (Only a ticket confirms your spot!) Whether or not you like social deduction games like *Werewolves*, *Mafia* or *Secret Hitler* (or you are a beginner who hasn't played any games like this before), this one is for you. Blood on the Clocktower is a **game experience unlike any other.** In the cursed village of Ravenswood Bluff, a Demon 😈 hides among you. *Each night*, someone **dies** ☠️. *Each day*, the town **debates, accuses and votes.** But here’s the twist: **Even if you die… you’re still in the game.** ### **What makes this special?** ✨ • Everyone has a **unique role** and **powerful ability** 🎭 • **Dead players continue** to influence the game 🕯️ • **Bluffing, logic**, and **social strategy** matter equally 🧠 • **Every session** unfolds **differently** 🔄 This is **not** Werewolf. This is **deeper, richer** and **far more interactive.** **Zurich Fun Gamers Guarantee** • Suited for both **first-time** and **more experienced players** **🎲** • **Clear rules explanation** before starting 📜 • **Multiple games** depending on group size 🔄 • **Atmosphere-driven** experience 🕯️🌫️ • Option for **record-keeping of the games** for some cool stats!\* • And even **more surprises** — **ZFG style**! 🎭✨ **⚠️Spots are limited, secure your seat in the circle and step into the village.** --> [Tickets ](https://eventfrog.ch/de/p/freizeit-ausfluege/gruppen-spiele/zfg-blood-on-the-clocktower-deduction-intrigue-fun-7443698092099003023.html)(your spot is ONLY confirmed with a ticket!) *Will you uncover the Demon* 😇 *… or help it survive* 😈? (Please be on time — we cannot accomodate for latecomers due to the explanation of the rules) \* For the record a sign up on clocktracker.app is necessary
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
KARAOKE NIGHT
KARAOKE NIGHT
Karaoke Night @ The Spot Bar 🎶 Looking for an unforgettable night full of music and great vibes? Then join us for Karaoke Night at The Spot Bar! ✨ Open song choice – sing whatever you like 🍹 Cool drinks & a relaxed atmosphere 🎉 Guaranteed fun – whether solo or with friends 💸 Free entry 🕘 Starts at 9:00 PM Whether you take the stage or just enjoy the show, this is the place to be. Secure your spot and experience one of the best karaoke nights in Zurich!
Social run
Social run
!THE EVENT IS NOT BOOKABLE VIA Meetup The idea is simple: meet up, go for an easy run together, and enjoy some fresh air and good company. Whether you’re an experienced runner or just enjoy a light jog, you’re very welcome to join. The run will be around 3 km at an easy pace, and everyone can run at their own speed. The total time will be around 30 minutes. Also we can grab a coffee together after the run☕️ That’s the perfect end of the week🤩 Hey girl, Just fyi Playhard is a members-only social club for girls 25-35ish in Zurich. We host 10-20 intimate events each month, from brunches and girls nights to deep talks and games… Don’t be confused by the event page signups — our social club has over 100 members and 8-15 girls come to each of our events. Being a member of Playhard is mandatory for attendance. To secure your spot in the community, please join the waitlist via our website: https://playhard.ch/ More about Playhard: Website: https://playhard.ch/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/playhard_zurich Dm us or email hey@playhard.ch with questions See you soon! xoxo Playhard
Samba Enredo Weekend with Gabriel Lopes
Samba Enredo Weekend with Gabriel Lopes

Social and Cultural Outings Events This Week

Discover what is happening in the next few days

Free Pub Crawl
Free Pub Crawl
**The Legendary Zurich Pub Crawl is Back!** 🍻 Join your hosts Suvash and Anna for a wild night of bar-hopping, dancing, and meeting new people. Whether you're a pub crawl veteran or a total beginner, you're guaranteed an amazing time! **What to expect:** 💥 3 awesome bars & a Club 🎟️ FREE entry to the club 💸 100% FREE to attend! **Arrive early for the perks!** 🥃 Free shots at every single bar (limited) Come ready to keep the vibes high and the drinks flowing. Let’s make it a night to remember! Here’s the game plan: **19:00 – 20:15** – Amboss Rampe Bar https://maps.app.goo.gl/WC6rsvkwMGfV5WuM7 **20:30 – 22:00** – Norden Bar [https://maps.app.goo.gl/STh7G1yDESwdUBJNA](https://maps.app.goo.gl/STh7G1yDESwdUBJNA) **22:10 – 23:45** – Casa Helvatia [https://maps.app.goo.gl/oNiWHvSFxE3KTs7x5](https://maps.app.goo.gl/oNiWHvSFxE3KTs7x5) **23:45 – Open End** – Club will be announced later 🎶 (FREE entry with ZT Band) 💬 **Stay connected -** join the Pub Crawl WhatsApp chat so you don’t lose the squad: https://chat.whatsapp.com/CeKPr6F8IcPCIdXQeAlt9X 💡 *Warning: Extreme fun ahead. Hydration optional.* 😜🔥
Zurich History Walk
Zurich History Walk
Discover the story of Zurich through a relaxed and engaging historical excursion and city walk. ‎https://chat.whatsapp.com/FpMSfQAZDeA2jJ5HfkZQUd?mode=gi_t In 2 hours, we will explore the Old Town and learn how Zurich grew from a Roman settlement into one of Europe’s most important cities. It’s a friendly, interactive walk with stories, facts, and space for conversation. 📍 Where: Lindenhof Hill, by the Hedwig Fountain 🕚 When: Saturday 11:00 ⏱ Duration: approximately 2 hours 🗣 Language: English ☕ Optional coffee and chat afterward. 💰 Cost: Tips are welcome at the end of the excursion. Please arrive 5 minutes early so we can start on time.
Language Exchange Zurich - Meet new people & Enjoy free snacks
Language Exchange Zurich - Meet new people & Enjoy free snacks
Join the Language Exchange to meet new people, practice your foreign languages and spend a good time together. We will serve free tapas such as Bruschetta, Wedges, Nachos or similar. **How it works**: Choose the country flag sticker of the languages that you speak or want to practice! Seat on the right language table and start your conversation with our conversation topic cards. Average group size: 25 participants **When**: Every Saturday, 20:00 - 22:00 **Where**: 2.Akt Zürich **Price**: 10.- incl. Snacks **Tickets**: https://tinyurl.com/LX1-25-04-26 (please buy ticket online) **WhatsApp Group**: https://chat.whatsapp.com/8jkvEUJ5jLp75fYglQFCNJ (join for updates & pics) **After the Language Exchange:** Pub Crawl (optional) For those who want to continue the night, we have a Bar Tour starting from the same place at 10PM. Watch [this video](https://www.youtube.com/shorts/VrBFWgXQNhw) to know what expect! Language Exchange participant get a 10fr discount when buying the combo-ticket online. Your Event Hosts Didem, Sébastien & Katja, Fernando More info: [https://www.pubcrawlzurich.com/languageexchange](https://www.pubcrawlzurich.com/languageexchange) Event pictures? Follow us on [IG](https://www.instagram.com/languageexchangezurich) and [FB](https://www.facebook.com/zurichlanguageexchange)
Clubbing & Bingo Pub Crawl (Going to Zurich West)
Clubbing & Bingo Pub Crawl (Going to Zurich West)
**Unique this time: Clubbing + Bingo Ice Breakers + Zurich West!** We start the night with ice breaking games to get to know eachother by finding someone who match the criteria of the Bingo Card then we will explore Zurich West! **What to expect**: Watch this short [Youtube video](https://www.youtube.com/shorts/VrBFWgXQNhw) to know it all! In a group of expats, locals and tourists, you will experience Zurich's nightlife in a unique way. Tour-guides will take you to 3 different venues and make sure you spend a great night out! **When**: Every Saturday - Meet @ 9pm **Where**: 2.Akt Zürich **Price**: from 25.- incl. shots, nachos, entrance fee to XTRA **Tickets**: https://tinyurl.com/PC-25-04-26 (pls buy tickets in advance) **WhatsApp Group**:[https://chat.whatsapp.com/Dttaz9sydMZ0tSqX2MgVjb](https://chat.whatsapp.com/Dttaz9sydMZ0tSqX2MgVjb) (Join for updates & pics) **Before the Pub Crawl**: If you come 1 hour earlier, you can participate to the Language Exchange. We encourage you to join both to have more time getting into the atmosphere and for the ease to meet new people. Looking forward to seeing you all again!! Sébastien, Fernando, Didem More information: [https://www.pubcrawlzurich.com/](https://www.pubcrawlzurich.com/) Event pictures? Follow us on [IG](https://www.instagram.com/pubcrawlzurich) and [FB](https://www.facebook.com/pubcrawlzurich)
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

Social and Cultural Outings Events Near You

Connect with your local Social and Cultural Outings community

Zinfandel, Finally on a Friday
Zinfandel, Finally on a Friday
We have never until now featured Zinfandel, the ubiquitous California grape with the Dublin Wine MeetUp Group. At its best Zinfandel, is rich, voluptuous, with great depth of red and blue fruits. Jammy and hedonistic are common descriptions Each person should bring one bottle of an quality Zinfandel wine; be creative and quality conscious, with some bottle age if possible. Turley, Martinelli, Biale, Seghesio, Ridge, Hartford Bedrock, Carlisle, Klinker Brick, Frog's Leap, and anything from the Rockpile vineyard is likely to be very good to great. The Prisoner wines began as a Zinfandel blend. Also bring a protein based appetizer to share and **a wine glass for your personal use.** Cheese and meats are best with these wines. There will be a gas grill behind the clubhouse to grill. We’ll gather at the Oak Creek clubhouse, where the Dublin Wine Group, hosted by Thom and supported by Timothy, will take it from there. Come join us for a fantastic mix of great wine, food, and even better company! The evening wraps up at 10 PM. **Please pay $10 at the door per person to cover the cost of the room rental and for the tableware, napkins, water and cups.** 🍷 **6:46 PM – Dublin Wine Group Social** 📍 **Oak Creek Clubhouse** **9005 Oak Village Blvd, Lewis Center, OH 43035** View on Maps (https://maps.apple.com/place?address=9005%20Oak%20Village%20Blvd,%20Lewis%20Center,%20OH%20%2043035,%20United%20States&coordinate=40.158011,-83.003901&name=Oak%20Creek%20at%20Polaris&place-id=I8D83B59D441EDD9B&map=explore)
Comedy Night + Open Mic (Bring Wine)
Comedy Night + Open Mic (Bring Wine)
**Comedy Night + Open Mic + Freestyle**: Tristan Shae and friends return to entertain us and to warm the group up for our open mic session. February's Open Mic / Comedy Night was a smash hit and it's worth a second night. We'll start with Tristan Shae and a couple of his friends. Tristan is an alternative comic from Columbus, Ohio. A counselor by day, Tristan explores how comedy can improve mental health by telling jokes and stories that muse on how absurd life can be from squeaky clean topics to not so clean ones. Tristan produces the variety show Cheaper Than Therapy, hosts the weekly Problem Child Alt Comedy Open Mic at The Attic, and can be found engaging in all sorts of silliness around the city from stand up shows at The Nest Theater, The Attic, or The Funny Bone, to improv and sketch shows with various groups at various venues such as The Hashtag Comedy Club. **On Freestyle night** \- just bring a bottle to share\. There is NO formal wine tasting like on other weeks\. Door charge is $10 \(cash or Venmo only please\)\. We may have some left over wines to clear out\! Glasses are provided\. Take Care\. See you there\. **Parking**: There are several public parking lots near the Alive614 hall. Please be careful to NOT park in private parking lots. They do tow. Check Google maps to scope out your space. Anyone who is early could easily find a parking space on the street nearby. I am told that the Chase parking lot is safe after hours. **Glasses**: …will be provided. Please note that after the wine tasting, the EMPTY glasses need to be returned to the boxes at the service table. Please do not make me hunt down your empty glass. Please be gentle, our glasses are fragile. Uh, they are made of glass! **Food**: You are welcome to bring a snack to share. It is not required. Most people do though. If no one brings anything, there will be nothing. **Code of Conduct**: Though mostly understood, it’s still worth mentioning. We don’t have rules per se, but we highly discourage the following topics of discussion because they are likely to incite anti-social responses - Sex, Politics, Religion. Please don’t mistake this as an attempt to limit your free speech rights but rather a guide to a place and time for appropriate discussions. **After the lights go out**: After the last sip of wine, when we clean up and turn the lights out, if you still haven’t had enough of us, it is typical for a group to get together and go to a local eatery for food and/or drinks or coffee. Please join us. Again, We look forward to meeting new members and reuniting with old friends. Sincerely, ***Paul Uttermohlen***, **Red 1 Realty** *Your Hilliard Wine Club Host*
Sunday funday: let's play dodgeball at Scioto Audubon park
Sunday funday: let's play dodgeball at Scioto Audubon park
Dodgeball is back again! If you’ve been wanting to come out, this is an easy one to join. We’ll be playing for about 1.5 to 2 hours, you do not need to bring any equipment, and no experience is needed. We use a specific set of rules and equipment to make the games run better and keep them fun for everybody, not just people who already know how to play. If it rains, the event will be canceled.
Columbus Code & Coffee 86 @ Improving
Columbus Code & Coffee 86 @ Improving
Columbus Code & Coffee is an inclusive, informal co-working session. People of all skill levels attend, and we love it that way. Many people (optionally) bring projects to work on, and many other people (optionally) socialize the entire time. It's entirely up to you! **What to Expect at the Intro Circle** \~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~ Near the beginning of the event (1:30 pm), we do a standup: * Organizer announcements, updates, and logistics Round 1 - (7 secs max): * Your name * What you're working on * What you can help others with Round 2: * Community events you wanna plug. If none, that's cool too. Round 3: * Job opportunities you're hiring for OR announce that you are looking for one. If none, that's cool. After the introduction circle, everything is self-organized! Feel free to work alone, pair up, attend one of our workshops/presentations, or mingle!
Friday Happy Hour Hike
Friday Happy Hour Hike
Morning people unite!! 🐤 ☕ + 💬 @ Grandview Grind
Morning people unite!! 🐤 ☕ + 💬 @ Grandview Grind
Early-bird coffee and conversation at [Grandview Grind](https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063534163841)!
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.