Social and Cultural Outings

**🌿 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

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

**Walk description:** The hike starts in front of the bus stop Reichenburg Altersheim at 8:35. 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.

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

Ready to sweat, smash, and socialize? Join **Zurich Fun Gamers (ZFG)** for our bi-weekly Sunday Badminton session at the legendary Yonex Halle! Whether you are a complete beginner or a smash-master, this is the perfect way to end your weekend. We book **minimum 4 courts**, so there is plenty of space for everyone. **[Tickets Required : Click here :](https://eventfrog.ch/ZFGBadminton)**[ ](https://eventfrog.ch/ZFGBadminton) **🏸 The Setup** * **Social Vibe:** We mix and match! It’s about fun first. * **Skill Levels:** We guarantee at least **one dedicated Beginner Court**. Advanced players can form a **Competitive Court** to battle it out. 🏆 * **Equipment:** Shuttles are **included**. Rackets available for rent (CHF 5). * **🔄 Rotation:** We may allow **2 extra players** on the bench to rotate in. This ensures full courts in case of no-shows/injuries and gives everyone a chance to catch their breath! 😅 **👟 The "Golden Rule" (Strict!)** * **NO OUTSIDE SHOES:** You must bring a separate pair of **clean, non-marking indoor court shoes** and change into them *inside* the locker room. No street shoes allowed on the courts. **🎟️ [Tickets & Pricing (Book Early & Save!)](https://eventfrog.ch/ZFGBadminton)**[ ](https://eventfrog.ch/ZFGBadminton)*[T](https://eventfrog.ch/ZFGBadminton)o manage court bookings (48h cancellation policy), we reward early planners:* * **[Early Bird Ticket:](https://eventfrog.ch/ZFGBadminton)**[ ](https://eventfrog.ch/ZFGBadminton)**[CHF 22](https://eventfrog.ch/ZFGBadminton)**[ (Buy 72h before event)](https://eventfrog.ch/ZFGBadminton) * **[Standard Ticket:](https://eventfrog.ch/ZFGBadminton)**[ ](https://eventfrog.ch/ZFGBadminton)**[CHF 25](https://eventfrog.ch/ZFGBadminton)**[ (Last minute)](https://eventfrog.ch/ZFGBadminton) * *Note: You must buy a ticket on Eventfrog to play. No cash/Twint on spot.* **📍 Logistics** * **Location:** Yonex Halle, Hardbrücke (Zurich) * **Meeting Point:** Inside the lobby at **15:50** (Warm-up & Shoes change) * **Game Time:** 16:00 – 17:30 (90 Mins) 🍻 **After the Game:** The fun doesn't stop at match point! We usually stay for a drink or coffee nearby to cool down and socialize. That’s the real ZFG vibe! ✨ Let’s smash it, ZFG-style! 💪🔥

Summer is finally here — and I’m happy to be hosting this golf get-together again in Zurich. We’ll meet at Otelfingen at 10:00 AM at the entrance, start with a couple of hours at the driving range, and then head to the golf café to relax and socialize. You’re very welcome to join — whether for the full session or just part of it. Please feel free to bring your own clubs, or you can rent them at the venue.

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.

We are not just part of Nature, we ARE Nature. We are designed to be in nature. Spending time in Nature and connecting back to our natural rhythmic cycles is calming, healing and nourishing. Consciously experience and honour our Earth together in community. Enjoy Wild Yoga Nidra and Nourishing Earth Connection Yoga, Earth Mantras, Forest Bathing, Earth Reverence and conscious presence with a shared picnic and and exploration of seasonal eating in Spring as we celebrate Mother Earth with Lidia Zabala and Myriam Bartu. Myriam has been teaching meditative practices since 2016. She is passionate about sharing yoga nidra, sound healing, women's yoga therapy and Nature Retreats to help humans reconnect to themselves, to each other and to Nature. Lidia Zabala holds a Master's in health sciences and is currently specialising in hormonal health. She is known for her healthy lifestyle and is passionate about health promotion and disease prevention. @Zurich Dynamic Yoga Academy, Gewerbestrasse 24, Thalwil and in Sihlwald Forest, 11am-5pm Suggested Contribution: Standard 80.= Low income 50.- With a friend: 100.- **Booking:** Please [Please book your spot here.](https://www.reconnectionrest.org/specials) WhatsApp or text me on **078 246 50 91** for any questions. More info: **[www.reconnectiorest.org](http://www.reconnectiorest.org/)** We look forward to sharing this peaceful, nourishing time together in nature. With love, **Myriam and Lidia** 💛 [](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=47.286564%2C%208.56586) Zurich Dynamic Yoga Academy Gewerbeststrasse 24 · Thalwil ##

**Pub Quiz Night at Shamrock Pub in Wollishofen** Join us for a fun-filled pub quiz night at the Shamrock Pub in Wollishofen on Sunday. We're a group of friends who love a good challenge and are always happy to welcome new enthusiasts to our team! We'll be diving into six exciting rounds of quizzing: four mixed-bag rounds to challenge your general knowledge, plus a visual and an audio round to keep things lively! The Shamrock Pub also offers a great selection of drinks and food, perfect if you want to snack on something while you quiz. **How to Join** 1. **Add yourself as a participant on Meetup**, and 2. **Send the organizer a private message** to confirm your spot and receive full event details. **Important** Only participants who have confirmed their participation with the host directly will be guaranteed a seat at our table. **Others** Depending on group size, there could be **a charge of 5 CHF**. The fee goes to supporting the professional pub quiz master's work. It is not enforced uniformly, but please be informed that we might be collecting a small contribution to pass on. See you on Sunday for a night of trivia, laughs, and good company!

Plein Air Landscape Painting 🌿 We’ll be painting a landscape outdoors in a single 7-hour session, working en plein air — directly from nature. I’ll guide you step by step, so you can follow along comfortably — no previous experience is needed. In this workshop, you’ll learn how to: ○ simplify complex natural scenes into clear compositions ○ work with natural light and changing conditions ○ capture atmosphere and depth in landscape painting ○ keep your brushwork fresh and expressive All materials are included, so you can just come and paint. 🕒 Duration: 7 hours, 09:10–16:10 📍 Meeting point: Atelier Rikon, Neschwilerstrasse 19, 8486 Rikon (Zell), Canton Zurich 📅 April 26th, 2026, Sunday 💰 CHF 180 🌿 Language: English, German Midway, we’ll enjoy a small apéro with refreshments and drinks to relax and recharge creatively. Limited spots available! Reserve yours now 🤗 Register here: https://atelier-rikon.ch/oelmalerei-workshop/⁠�

**[👉Ticket needed](https://eventfrog.ch/de/p/sport-fitness/wandern/walk-and-connect-easy-trail-on-zuerichberg-7450133696307268861.html)** **🌿 Social Sunday Trail on Zürichberg – Walk, Talk & Connect! 🥾💬** Join us for a relaxed trail on Zürichberg with fresh air, easy forest paths, and great conversations. We’ll match you with new people for one-on-one chats along the way – less small talk, more real connection. 😊 It’s the perfect Sunday plan to slow down, enjoy nature, and meet like-minded people in a beautiful part of Zurich. **👋 Coming alone? That’s totally fine!** We’ll match you with people who share your vibe using the Social Circle app (onboarding during the event). 📲 Stay in the loop: Join our WhatsApp group for updates and the live meeting location on the day: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/HoV0WQOjorpGIL92yG5nkY?mode=ems_copy_t](https://chat.whatsapp.com/HoV0WQOjorpGIL92yG5nkY?mode=ems_copy_t) If the link doesn’t open on your phone, try using WhatsApp Web on your computer. **🕒 Timeline** * ⏰ 11:20 – Meet under the big clock at Zurich Main Station (HB) * 🚋 11:45 – Take tram line 6 from Bahnhofplatz/HB to Zoo * 🚶 12:05 – Short walk to the trail entrance on Zürichberg * ❄️ 12:15 – Quick icebreakers to get things flowing * 🗣️ 12:30 – Easy trail through the forest with one-on-one matchups (we switch partners along the way) * 🏙️ 15:00 – Head back to the city 🎒 What to Bring * 📱 Your smartphone for the friend-matching * 👟 Comfy shoes for forest paths * 🥤 Water and a small snack Let’s make your Sunday social, simple, and refreshing! 🌳💬 **Disclaimer** Participation in this event requires a valid ticket, which must be purchased in advance via the link provided in the event description. Please note that tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable. We do not accept cash payments on the day of the event. To ensure a smooth and safe experience, we kindly ask all participants to follow the instructions and announcements from the event organizers. While our team works hard to create an enjoyable and welcoming atmosphere, attendance is at your own risk. We want everyone to feel comfortable and respected. If you encounter any issues or uncomfortable situations during the event, please speak directly to a member of our team — we’re here to help. We reserve the right to exclude participants from the event if they do not adhere to basic standards of respectful interpersonal behavior. This decision is at the discretion of the responsible organizers. By signing up, you agree that any content captured during the event (including photos and videos) may be used on Social Circle’s social media channels and those of our partners. Please be aware that we cannot wait for late participants, as this disrupts the planned group flow and connections. If you're delayed or choose a different route, it’s your responsibility to catch up with the group. A live location will be shared in the event's WhatsApp chat to help you reconnect. Join out Whatsapp newsletter: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/KWSK2jINyuG9uHHjtxfnmP?mode=gi_t](https://chat.whatsapp.com/KWSK2jINyuG9uHHjtxfnmP?mode=gi_t)

**[⚠️ >>Ticket needed (click here)<<](https://eventfrog.ch/en/p/eating-drinking/digital-detox-cafe-7438256488664066551.html) or** **[www.social-circle.ch](www.social-circle.ch)** **Unplug & Create: Digital Detox Café at Paint it Easy** Take a break from screens and reconnect with yourself and others at our Digital Detox event in Zürich’s most inviting creative space, Paint it Easy. We’ll kick off the evening with a relaxed atmosphere, setting the tone for a mindful and inspiring night. Join our craft group: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/JPIASNUJGwD23UUweSe0s3](https://chat.whatsapp.com/JPIASNUJGwD23UUweSe0s3) Choose your path for the evening: **Deep Talk with Question Cards:** Dive into meaningful conversations and connect with fellow participants on a deeper level. **Boardgames:** Just for fun or to meet new people. **Creative Activities:** * **Drawing** (included) * **Canvas Painting** (CHF 10/hour + canvas, e.g., 30x40 cm: CHF 9) * **Pottery Painting** (CHF 20–45 per piece) * **Jewellery Making with Beads** (CHF 10/hour + materials, avg. CHF 20–30) * **Linocut Printmaking** (CHF 25–35 per piece) **Location:** Paint it Easy, Zürich **Ticket:** CHF 15 **Includes :** Welcome drink\*, drawing material, notebook, games, workshop **Doesn't include** : optional creative activity fees (depending on your choice) \*Warm drink, homemade iced tea, or lemonade Want more events like this? Join our community! [https://chat.whatsapp.com/KWSK2jINyuG9uHHjtxfnmP?mode=gi_t](https://chat.whatsapp.com/KWSK2jINyuG9uHHjtxfnmP?mode=gi_t) No experience needed—just bring your curiosity and an open mind! Whether you're painting, reflecting, or connecting, this is your space to recharge, express, and enjoy. Please note that pictures might be taken and used, if you don't want to be on them please let the host know. Tickets are not refundable. #digitaldetox

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 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!

**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.

We’re bringing back Adult Field Day. Last year was a good mix of competition and just hanging out, so we’re doing it again with some new games mixed in. Think team-based challenges, simple races, and a few things inspired by game shows. You don’t need to be athletic. Most of the fun is just being part of a team and getting to know people you wouldn’t normally talk to. The goal isn’t really winning. It’s meeting people, laughing a bit, and leaving knowing a few more names than when you showed up. If you stick around after, we’ll have a potluck, a bonfire, and a couple comedians in the evening. Bring: * Something to share for the potluck * Clothes you can move around in A small contribution helps keep events sustainable and ensures those who RSVP actually show up. Include your Meetup name + event name in the note. Please send $2 per person to guarantee your spot. Venmo (preferred) or PayPal @WiseUnlimitedLLC Actual links in comments below! Include your Meetup name + event name in the note.

This Monday 4/27/26 at 6:30p we will walking at Thompson Park. The address is 5600 Thompson Rd. We will meet at the shelter house. The walk will be approximately 2 miles on paved trails~Join us if you can.