Social and Cultural Outings

WE WILL SOON BE LIMITING SPACES DUE TO DEMAND **Social Saturday Sessions** is a **FREE** indoor & outdoor social designed to help people meet new mates, have a few drinks, play some games and enjoy a low-pressure night with genuinely good vibes. **Come solo. Leave social. JOIN OUR WHATSAPP COMMUNITY HERE:** [https://chat.whatsapp.com/CpmuQWTBGJ12dVNCfXdJdQ?mode=gi_t](https://chat.whatsapp.com/CpmuQWTBGJ12dVNCfXdJdQ?mode=gi_t) PLEASE LEAVE A COMMENT IF YOU WANT KARAOKE OR DJ's TILL LATE **What's the Plan?? 👀** * **Start time: 7PM 🍹** Head to the front-of-house desk and say you're here for the Meet Up! Try to arrive before 7:30 so we can make sure everyone finds each other :) * **Early evening – Games & icebreakers 🎮** Fun, low-key ways to get chatting (zero cringe, promise). * **Mid-evening – Mingle mode 💬** More chats, more drinks, more “how did we all end up here?” moments. * **Later on – Anything goes 🔥** Karaoke? Dancing? Bit of both? We’ll see where the night takes us. * **All night – Good people, good energy ✨** No pressure, no expectations—just show up and see what happens. Need help finding us? Our entrance can be found at what3words: https://w3w.co/putty.camera.roof **JOIN OUR WHATSAPP COMMUNITY HERE:** https://chat.whatsapp.com/CpmuQWTBGJ12dVNCfXdJdQ?mode=gi_t **Come solo. Leave social.** Just head to the main entrance (the food hall side), and you’ll find our friendly hosts waiting for you behind the front desk!

🚨 Spoiler alert: We built the space we couldn’t find. A place where you can show up alone, say hi first, and meet new people naturally. If you’re ready to expand your circle, you’re in the right place. You can check us out on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/_balancers/) 📸🚨 🌴 SUMMER PARTY SPECIAL EDITION 🌴 **This Saturday we're bringing a little extra summer energy to one of our favourite venues.** **Expect flower garlands, glow sticks, summer vibes, a large outdoor space to enjoy the warm evening, and a room full of people looking to make the most of the season.** We'll still have everything that makes a Balancers night special, but with a more festive summer atmosphere throughout the evening. And for those who aren't ready to call it a night, we'll be heading to a different after-party venue to keep the good times going. ☀️ Start your summer the right way. Here’s the Plan: **7:30 PM – Find Your Team** As soon as the event begins, you’ll receive a card with simple instructions to help you find your teammates among the other attendees. It’s a fun and easy way to start conversations with people in the room. **08:15 PM – Team Challenges Begin** Once teams are formed, the challenges start. The first 3 teams to complete all three challenges win free shots🍹 No skills needed. Just jump in, have a laugh and work together. **09:00 PM – Open Social & Mingling** Once the challenges wrap up, the room opens up. This is the moment to mix, chat and get to know new people. **10:00 PM – Music** The DJ takes over and the night shifts into a more relaxed social vibe. Chat, dance and keep the connections going. ⚠️ Please note: Entry is not guaranteed after 10:00 PM **11:30 PM – After Party** For those who want to keep the night going, we’ll head to a venue close by for the after party. ⚠️Please bring ID if you plan to join the after party. ✨ Pro tip Try to arrive by 7:30 PM to enjoy the full experience. 🔹 Many people come alone. That’s completely normal here. 🔹 Our hosts are on the floor helping people meet and get involved. 🔹 Most attendees join through our app, so the Meetup “Going” list represents only a small portion of the actual crowd. **[📲 Download our app](https://onelink.to/balancers)** You can connect with people you meet, access ticket deals, track rewards and see the photo gallery from the night. **[💬 Join our WhatsApp Community](https://chat.whatsapp.com/IJKXDkwUTlmDsYTOCIUg7O)** for last-minute updates and reminders. **Our pillars are Openness, Respect, Inclusivity, Kindness and Authenticity**. *Attendance at this event is subject to our [Code of Conduct](https://www.balancers.app/code-of-conduct) and [Terms of Service](https://www.balancers.app/term-of-service). By joining, you may receive emails about Balancers events and community updates. You can unsubscribe at any time.*

Hello Richmond Socialites Please join me in Kew for the annual Kew Midsummer Fete. An annual summer highlight, Kew Fete is a fun event with over 120 fantastic stalls, varied food court, Victorian fun fair, tea tent, beer tent, mobile farm, live music and entertainment, fun inflatables, tug of war and the popular Dog Show. Proceeds all go to local charities. Free entry. The stage has local acts performing from 11am - 6pm. Acts are from local schools, local performing arts clubs and bands etc. We'll choose a spot to use as our base, and come and go as we please. If the sun is out it should be a lovely afternoon, possibly followed by some live music in a local pub, but that will be decided on the day. Bring your own drinks and food if you'd prefer. ***Do not sign up then not show up - I'll mark you as a no-show.*** Further details nearer the time but please put the date in your diary and I'll be in touch. Sarah

A truly beautiful 10 mile walk along the River Wey that takes in delightful historical ruins of Waverley Abbey and Frensham Little Pond & Great Pond too ! Let's go with the flow ! Please arrive by 9.20am at Waterloo under the clock so as to facilitate the purchase of group return train tickets for the 10am train to Farnham that arrives at 11.16am after changing at Guildford. Meetup fee £8 payable in cash or £6 by Friday in advance by bank transfer. Train ticket : return to Farnham. Or you may decide to drive. The walk shall commence by 11.30am. Please bring packed lunch, water, snacks etc plus walking shoes boots or trainers. We shall have a drink at the end of the walk. Please make sure that you have adequate and appropriate insurance for this type of activity and also you should be fit enough to walk 2.5 miles per hour. Train back from Farnham at 6.04pm that arrives back at 7.22pm after changing at Guildford having taken the bus from Great Pond to Farnham at 5.33pm. Please only post photos of others with their consent. My no is 07714250849.

📏 **Key Info:** • Distance: 11.5 miles (18km) • Grading: [Beginners/Intermediate](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/HikeGradings.pdf) \- one main hill that we take gently • Ascent: 140m • Hiking time: 5 to 5.5 hours • Cost: £31 (includes guided hike + return train) • Refunds: Payments are non-refundable and non-transferable. If you follow our [[Resale Process](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/FAQ.pdf)] and your place is rebooked, we’ll issue a refund. • Toilet Breaks: On the train, at the lunch stop, and at the end pub 📍 **Meeting Point** • Location: Paddington station. Meet at the entrance of the main ticket office - [MAP](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/StationPhotos/Paddington.jpg) • Time: Meet 8:30am, leave 8:50am for the 9:08am train • Return: 5:19pm arrival back in London (you’re committed until then) 🌟 **Highlights** • Walk the scenic **Thames Path** with riverside meadows and marshes • Visit **Cookham**, home of painter Sir Stanley Spencer • Discover the site of **Saxon Queen Cynethryth’s** lost 8th-century monastery • See ancient **Bronze Age burial mounds** at Cock Marsh • Enjoy panoramic views of the Thames Valley from **Winter Hill** • Walk through **Bisham Woods**, inspiration for The Wind in the Willows • Pass near the **Cliveden Estate** — famed for grandeur and the Profumo Affair • Cross **Boulters Lock**, once a favourite haunt of Victorian society • Finish in **Maidenhead**, with Brunel’s iconic 1838 railway bridge 🥾 **Hike Description** We set off from **Cookham** and soon make our way into the enchanting Bisham Woods, once part of the Royal Forest of Windsor. Steeped in history and folklore, these ancient woods were said to be haunted by Lady Hoby and inspired Kenneth Grahame’s The Wind in the Willows. Rich in flora and wildlife, they provide a beautiful opening to our walk. Climbing to **Winter Hill**, we enjoy sweeping views across the Thames Valley before descending to the river. The path then leads us through meadows and marshland, past the ancient burial mounds of **Cock Marsh**, before arriving in the historic heart of Cookham village, famously described by Stanley Spencer as “a village in heaven.” Here we pause for lunch, with time to explore the charming streets, Spencer’s gallery, and Holy Trinity Church where the artist is commemorated, as well as a visit to a traditional pub. After lunch, we rejoin the **Thames Path**, widely regarded as one of the most photogenic stretches of the river. The route meanders alongside the water, skirting the edge of the grand **Cliveden Estate**, once a ducal residence and later the setting of the notorious 1960s Profumo Affair. Our hike continues along the river past **Boulters Lock**, a lively boating hub once popular with Victorian high society, before reaching **Maidenhead**. The finale is at Brunel’s magnificent **1835 railway bridge**, a pioneering feat of Victorian engineering and a fitting close to a day rich in riverside scenery, history and culture. 🧭 **Guide:** • Leader: [BEA](https://www.outdooraholics.co.uk/MeetTheOutdooraholics.pdf) • Contact (hike day only): 07345 241215 🍽️ **Food:** • Bring a packed lunch • Pub visit after the hike (drinks optional) 🎒**What to Bring** • Hiking boots/shoes • Water (2 litres minimum) • Packed lunch • Waterproofs (jacket and trousers) • Hat and gloves if cold • Train tickets are arranged – just meet us at the meeting point ⚠️ **Safety** Your guide is a trained hike leader and Outdoor Activity First Aider ❓ **Want to Know More?** • [New to Our Trips?](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/new_to_our_day_hikes.pdf) (perfect for first-timers, answers “what to expect”) • [About Us](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/about_us.pdf) (who Outdooraholics are, credibility, history) • [FAQs](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/FAQ.pdf) (covers common queries) 📲 **Explore More &** **Stay Connected** [Day hikes list](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/hikesbygrade.pdf) 👣 [Calendar - All trips](https://www.meetup.com/outdooraholics/events/calendar/) 📖 [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/outdooraholics/) 📸 [Facebook page](https://www.facebook.com/Outdooraholics) & [Photos group](https://www.facebook.com/groups/Outdooraholics) 📄 **Terms and Conditions** By signing up or attending you agree to our [Terms and Conditions](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/TermsConditionsOutdooraholicsHikingUK.pdf) © Outdooraholics Hiking UK Ltd 2026 E & OE

CIRCULAR WALK :- A SCENIC COUNTRYSIDE WALK IN KENT, taking in Knole Palace and its 1000 acre deerpark. We start and finish the walk in the Kentish town of Sevenoaks. FRESH AIR: Give up the city streets for a day and breathe some fresh air. Improve your overall fitness levels. Get out, explore and enjoy London's abundant and sometimes secret green spaces and forest areas, and surrounding coutryside. WALK START: Outside Sevenoaks National Rail Station. Trains from Charing Cross and Victoria in Central London. WALK DISTANCE : Approx 5 miles WALK FINISH: At a large pub in the town of Sevenoaks (10 minute walk to Sevenoaks Station). There are frequent trains back to London from Sevenoaks. Journey time 35 minutes to Charing Cross, or about an hour to Victoria. KNOLE PARK Knole Park contains the 365-roomed Knole House, a former archbishop's palace. The earliest recorded owner of the core of Knole estate, in the 1290s, was Robert de Knole. The mansion or palace ranks in the top five of England's largest houses, covering a total of four acres. Ownership of the palace alternated between various bishops and monarchs through the centuries including the Bishop of Durham, Archbishop Thomas Cranmer and the Archbishop of Canterbury Thomas Bourchier, Henry VIII and Elizabeth 1. Henry often visited the estate for hunting deer. The current house dates back to the mid-15th century, with major additions in the 16th and, particularly, the early 17th centuries. Its grade I listing reflects its mix of late-medieval to Stuart structures. If travelling from Central London, you can catch the train from London Victoria (about 45 minutes train journey). RISKS: All the usual risks of countryside walking apply, including country stiles to be climbed. Please dress appropriately for weather conditions and carry a bottle of water and necessary medication. You need to be moderately fit for this walk and be able to walk for four miles without a break. In these walks we use; pavements, cross busy roads, public parkland, towpaths alongside water, other public paths, rights of way, bridlepaths, country lanes and other established paths and tracks through woodland, bush and countryside. Please only wear good sturdy shoes, preferably walking boots and take care as surfaces may be uneven, tree roots may protrude, there may be low overhanging branches and some paths are also used by joggers and cyclists and sometimes cars (country lanes). Some tracks may be muddy and slippery. If you require insurance for these walks then you must arrange this yourself. No dogs are allowed on this walk (wild deer park). COST: Free for holders of the Ken's Events Card. Otherwise there is a £5 fee. All Ken's Events are subject to a disclaimer. Please click here (http://www.meetup.com/LONDON-MEETUP-SOCIAL-GROUP-KENS-EVENTS/pages/KEN%27S_EVENTS_DISCLAIMER/) to view disclaimer.

Have you ever wanted to partake in hikes where you get exposed to new areas with luscious forms of nature, some amazing views and possibly some hidden gems? If so, this may be the right event for you. Welcome to another Hiking event where all of this is possible. This is the opportunity to form friendships, discover a different perspective of London, improve your fitness, embrace nature but also feel great about yourself. With this particular Hike, we’ll be hiking from Richmond to Boston Manor. We’ll be traversing along the Thames and the grand union canal but also make new discoveries too. This is also part of the capital ring which is a 78 mile pathway split into 15 hiking routes. This is section 7. If you want to be part of the journey, feel free to join us. My fellow explorers, if you enjoyed the event, I’m more than happy to accept any donations which of course are optional but will go a long way to help me unlock and deliver even more exciting and engaging events and resources: https://www.paypal.me/calvinjoy Starting point: Richmond Ending point: Boston Manor Walking length: 6.4km Duration: 2 hours Required clothing: Smart casual, comfortable shoes and a jacket in case it gets cold
Departure: 20 minutes after the meeting time. WHAT - Hike WHERE - Richmond to Boston Manor WHEN - 2pm - 5pm MEETING POINT - Outside Richmond Station NEAREST STATION - Richmond Station REQUIREMENTS - Just your good behaviour is all and whatever is listed above for the walk. Disclaimers: Please be on your best behaviour and respect one another. This group doesn’t tolerate any misbehaviour and misconduct. Should such a thing take place, you will be removed. If you ask a question that either already has the answer to it or doesn’t relate to the event at all, I won’t respond. Whenever an event takes place, I will cut off contact 20 minutes after the event commences. If you message even 1 minute after the cut off time, I won’t be available as I’m conducting the event. There will be photography and videography by myself so if you are photo conscious and/or do not want to be in the video, do kindly inform me and I’ll try my utmost best to not involve you in the picture. Let’s all be responsible but please be aware you come at your own risk. Do be mindful of your possessions, belongings and most importantly, your safety. The ‘London society of explorers’ accept no risk of liability at this event.

**Another Summer weekend. And to make the most of the warmer weather - we've got your Sunday sorted again with our next Social Walk and Pub trip, exclusively for 20s and 30s.** Yep for our latest social walk, we'll be heading to one of the most stunning walking spots in the city - the canals of Little Venice ☀️ As always, to start the event, you will be allocated a group/team for an initial mix of fun games designed to get people talking and help you to get to know some of the other participants on the walk a little better. After the games, we'll then set off on our 2-3 hour social walk from along London's most famous canals 🚣 We will start be wandering through the very heart of Little Venice, home to a stunning collection of houseboats and eye-catching architecture. We will then join the Grand Union canal, heading past Paddington, North Kensington and Kensal Green 🌳 We'll then finish up at a canal-side pub - where you can grab a drink, a bite to eat (if you want it) and get to know your fellow hikers a bit better! As always, sadly we will be having to cap numbers when we near our capacity limit and so do make sure you nab your place as soon as you can! **\- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \-** **WHERE/WHEN WE WILL MEET** Meet Point: Rembrandt Gardens, Little Venice, 6 Warwick Ave, London W2 1XB (See location: [https://bit.ly/3lrdQ1L](https://bit.ly/3lrdQ1L)) Closest stations: Warwick Avenue (5 mins walk), Royal Oak (10 min walk), Paddington (10 min walk) Destination: Grand Junction Arms Meet Time - 2:00pm Finish time: 5:00pm **\- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \-** **JOIN THE COMMUNITY** Set up in November 2021, The Great Friendship Project was set up to help 20s and 30s meet, connect and hopefully build life-long friendships. To help make this happen, we host all kinds of events from free social walks, games evenings, day trips, social events, activity nights to picnics. To learn more about our community or to follow us on social media, please follow one of the links below. **Website - [https://friendship-project.co.uk](https://friendship-project.co.uk/)** **Instagram - [https://www.instagram.com/great.friendship](https://www.instagram.com/great.friendship)**

Have you ever wanted to be immersed within either the city or nature in the form of a walk and socialise at the same time? If so, this may be the right walk for you. Welcome to another one of the WALK events where you have the opportunity to explore all the scenic routes I’ll execute whether there’s nature within, whether we get immersed within the city and feel great about yourself. 

With this particular walk, we will be walking through Gunnersbury Park. Gunnersbury Park is another beautiful park that offers some beautiful sceneries of nature, the fountain, some historical monuments and much more. 

After this walk, if all goes well, we can do an aftermath and let democracy decide. My fellow explorers, if you enjoyed the event, I’m more than happy to accept any donations which of course are optional but will go a long way to help me unlock and deliver even more exciting and engaging events and resources: https://www.paypal.me/calvinjoy 

Starting point: Acton Town Station
Ending point: Acton Town Station
Walking length: 2 miles
Duration: 1 hour +
Required clothing: Smart casual, comfortable shoes and a jacket in case it gets cold
Departure: 20 minutes after the meeting time. 

WHAT - Walk through Gunnersbury Park
WHERE - Gunnersbury Park
WHEN - 6pm - 8:30pm
MEETING POINT - Outside Acton Town Station
NEAREST STATION - Acton Town Station
REQUIREMENTS - Just your good behaviour is all and whatever is listed above for the walk. Disclaimers: Please be on your best behaviour and respect one another. This group doesn’t tolerate any misbehaviour and misconduct. Should such a thing take place, you will be removed. If you ask a question that either already has the answer to it or doesn’t relate to the event at all, I won’t respond. Whenever an event takes place, I will cut off contact 20 minutes after the event commences. If you message even 1 minute after the cut off time, I won’t be available as I’m conducting the event. There will be photography and videography by myself so if you are photo conscious and/or do not want to be in the video, do kindly inform me and I’ll try my utmost best to not involve you in the picture. Let’s all be responsible but please be aware you come at your own risk. Do be mindful of your possessions, belongings and most importantly, your safety. The ‘London society of explorers’ accept no risk of liability at this event.

## ***🚨 Important: Meetup RSVP is not a valid ticket. All attendees must purchase a ticket via our TICKET LINK!*** ## **Join us for an exclusive Cocktails & Conversation evening at The Metropolitan Casino - Park Lane Club — one of Mayfair's most iconic and glamorous casinos, where high rollers, city players and London's most stylish singles come to play.** **[Get Your Ticket Here](https://buytickets.at/cocktailsconversation/2201939/r/casino)** We've secured our own private bar and lounge area from 7:30pm, with sweeping views accross Hyde Park and glamorous settings. An intimate space perfect for relaxed introductions and stylish mingling. From 10pm the atmosphere will pick up with a DJ and lively Saturday night vibe **What to expect** **Speed Dating from 7.30-8.30pm** 🥂 Welcome drink served from (8:00–8:30pm) for speed daters and mixer guests. **Mixer Guests arrive from 8.30pm** 🎲 Hosted "how to play" session covering Blackjack, Roulette and more, no experience needed (limited space). **All guests will receive a chip** for the casino floor to try their new skills on a live table. 🎶 Carefully curated music to keep the atmosphere warm, sophisticated and social 💬 Friendly C&C hosts subtly making introductions and helping conversations flow **Good to know** ✨ Age guide: All Ages over 18 are welcome (most guests are in their 30s & 40s) 👗 Dress code: Smart and stylish as a minimum (this is Mayfair — channel your inner Bond) 🪪 Photo ID essential — casino regulations this must be physical ID not a photo on a phone. 🕙 Last entry: 10pm 🚇 Hyde Park Corner Station (7 minute walk) As always, Cocktails & Conversation events are about quality over quantity — beautiful venues, well-matched guests, and an atmosphere where mixing and mingling feels natural, relaxed, and genuinely enjoyable. We look forward to welcoming you for an evening that begins with conversation… and ends wherever the night takes you 🍸✨ OVER 18S ONLY \| CHALLENGE 25 POLICY IN OPERATION TAKE TIME TO THINK. VISIT [GAMBLEAWARE.ORG](http://gambleaware.org/) \| [BEDRINKAWARE.CO.UK](http://bedrinkaware.co.uk/) ### Location Park Lane Club, London Hilton, 22 Park Lane, Mayfair, London W1K 1BE **[Get Your Ticket Here](https://buytickets.at/cocktailsconversation/2201939/r/casino)**

**Come join us for some fun in the park** This is a weekly social park gathering with optional sports and board / social games. 2pm Rounders 3:30pm Social/Board games in the park- please sign up separately [HERE](https://www.meetup.com/games-friends/)[.](https://meetu.ps/e/PfHPb/z45zT/i) **How to play rounders** Not played rounders before? It's a traditional English sport for everyone, even the unsporty. Here's a video of us playing: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E6Bya3T5W3k](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E6Bya3T5W3k) Rounders is a bat and ball game similar to baseball played by two teams. Your team will be either fielding or batting before swapping after the innings. When batting, the aim is to hit the ball, then try and run around the four posts. Your team gets a rounder if you make it round the four posts without stopping or getting out. You are out if when you hit the ball someone catches the ball before it reaches the ground or someone stumps a post before you get there. The rules will be explained at the beginning of each meetup with a practice round at the beginning. We play a slightly modified version of the official rules where if you are out, it's not game over for you. Your team will lose a life instead. This will give everyone multiple opportunities to bat. **It's very simple to pick up and the ball we use is very soft. We are very beginner friendly and the focus is on having fun rather than being competitive**. We attract attendees of all ages and sporting level. You are welcome to come and watch only too. We usually have a few people who do so while having a picnic and enjoying the park. **Come and meet us** Meet at 2pm in Regents Park. Here is the map of where we will be playing in the park (Cumberland Green): [https://www.notion.so/hyau/Rounders-at-Regents-Park-8bc419b72dde4aacaec3870d291636be](https://www.notion.so/hyau/Rounders-at-Regents-Park-8bc419b72dde4aacaec3870d291636be) You can also find us around here: [https://what3words.com/swim.jolly.youth](https://what3words.com/swim.jolly.youth) (just look out for our white rounders bases (long, white sticks) and you can usually spot us. Please feel free to bring food and drinks. The main rounders game will finish at 3:30pm and this is followed by social/board games or beginner friendly mixed gender football. **Social/Board Games** Please check out our [separate meetup event](https://www.meetup.com/games-friends/) for details and sign up there! **Football** For mixed gender football we aim to have roughly equal numbers of men and women and 3 ability levels (Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced). There may be limited spaces for men for football as we are always oversubscribed. **Free or play for charity** Our Sunday social and rounders events are free for everyone. The organisers volunteer their time and fund for the equipment, public liability insurance, marketing and meetup costs to make this happen. We would like our events to raise awareness and money for worthwhile charities. If you appreciate our events, please consider making a donation on our fundraising page to our supported charity, War Child. To donate and for more info, please visit: [https://www.justgiving.com/page/social-sports-mix-warchild](https://www.justgiving.com/page/social-sports-mix-warchild) We will also promote fundraising pages suggested or owned by our attendees. Get in touch if you are attending and also charity fundraising.

CIRCULAR WALK :- A SCENIC COUNTRYSIDE WALK IN KENT, taking in the Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve. We start and finish the walk at Sevenoaks Railway Station. FRESH AIR: Give up the city streets for a day and breathe some fresh air. Improve your overall fitness levels. Get out, explore and enjoy London's abundant and sometimes secret green spaces and forest areas, and surrounding coutryside. Get fit and meet some new friends at the same time. WALK START: Outside Sevenoaks National Rail Station. Trains from Charing Cross and Victoria in Central London. WALK DISTANCE : Approx 4.5 miles WALK FINISH: At Sevenoaks Train Station. There are frequent trains back to London from Sevenoaks. Journey time 35 minutes to Charing Cross, or about an hour to Victoria. SEVENOAKS WILDLIFE RESERVE The site covers 71 hectares (175 acres) and includes several lakes, ponds, reedbeds and woodlands. The reserve attracts a wide variety of birds including Geese, Plover, Lapwing, Moorhen, Coot, and various Ducks. If travelling from Central London, you can catch the train from London Victoria (about 45 minutes train journey). RISKS: All the usual risks of countryside walking apply, including country stiles to be climbed. Please dress appropriately for weather conditions and carry a bottle of water and necessary medication. You need to be moderately fit for this walk and be able to walk for four miles without a break. In these walks we use; pavements, cross busy roads, public parkland, towpaths alongside water, other public paths, rights of way, bridlepaths, country lanes and other established paths and tracks through woodland, bush and countryside. Please only wear good sturdy shoes, preferably walking boots and take care as surfaces may be uneven, tree roots may protrude, there may be low overhanging branches and some paths are also used by joggers and cyclists and sometimes cars (country lanes). Some tracks may be muddy and slippery. If you require insurance for these walks then you must arrange this yourself. No dogs are allowed on this walk (no entry into wildlife reserve). COST: Free for holders of the Ken's Events Card. Otherwise there is a £5 fee. All Ken's Events are subject to a disclaimer. Please click here [(http://www.meetup.com/LONDON-MEETUP-SOCIAL-GROUP-KENS-EVENTS/pages/KEN%27S_EVENTS_DISCLAIMER/) ](https://www.meetup.com/KENS-EVENTS-EXPLORE-LONDON-SECRETS/pages/14591782/KEN'S_EVENTS_DISCLAIMER/)to view disclaimer.

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!

The only Metro Park with a fire tower! **History** [Scioto Grove Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/scioto-grove/) officially became the 19th park in the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks system when it opened to the public on May 6, 2016. Located along a scenic bend of the Scioto River in Grove City, just south of Columbus, the 620-acre park was designed to blend preservation with modern recreation. Long before it became a park, this river corridor served as a vital footpath and trade route for Indigenous communities. Decades later, the mature forests and dramatic river bluffs caught the eye of conservationists looking to expand regional green spaces. The grand opening was a major milestone, drawing over 19,000 visitors in its very first weekend. The creation of the park was made possible through a sequence of land acquisitions and strong community partnerships. In October 2009, Franklin County voters approved a critical property tax levy that funded the initial purchase of 66 acres. Shortly after, the City of Grove City generously donated nearly 193 acres of land, previously known as Talbot Park, to anchor the project. Additional parcels were acquired using state grants from the Clean Ohio Conservation Fund, successfully closing the gap between properties by December 2012. This collaborative funding model ensured that pristine wilderness areas remained completely protected from commercial development. From its inception, the park aimed to introduce innovative amenities to the regional park system, most notably the concept of "urban backpacking". Through a key partnership with the outdoor gear retailer REI Co-op, the park established the scenic REI River Trail. This trail features five rustic, reservation-only campsites along the river, specifically designed to give newcomers a safe place to practice backpacking close to home. Additionally, planners prioritized making the park fully pet-friendly, allowing leashed dogs across all trails and areas. This open-pet policy uniquely distinguished Scioto Grove from many other traditional Columbus Metro Parks. As the park grew in popularity, community members established special commemorative landmarks to honor local lives. In June 2019, a dedicated memorial garden was unveiled near the park entrance in memory of Reagan Tokes, an Ohio State University student. The serene space features a central pond bordered by bright blue flowers, representing her favorite color. A primary buckeye tree stands alongside a dedicated plaque, surrounded by four additional buckeye trees to represent her immediate family members. This addition transformed a portion of the park into a meaningful place for community reflection, healing, and peace. The historical depth of the park took a significant leap forward with the relocation of a massive piece of Ohio history. In August 2023, Metro Parks officially unveiled the Keystone Forest Lookout Tower, which had been carefully moved from Jackson County, Ohio. Originally constructed in 1942 by the Aermotor Windmill Company, the 82-foot-tall metal structure spent decades guarding southern Ohio’s vast forests from devastating wildfires. Workers painstakingly disassembled, re-galvanized, and reassembled the historic landmark at Scioto Grove. Today, visitors can climb its 111 steep steps to experience a panoramic view stretching all the way to the downtown Columbus skyline. **Map of the Park** Here is a [map of Scioto Grove](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/SGR-map_1980px_2026.jpg). **Summary** We will hike around 5 miles on the Overlook, REI River, Mingo, and Arrowhead Trails. While the configuration of the trails can lead us to occasionally taking longer hikes than at other parks, Scioto Grove is not generally a very strenuous place to hike. If you use hiking poles and inadvertently forget them, this is not a park where you're likely to end up caring that much. That said, Scioto Grove is one of the better Metro Parks for hiking as well as other things. They are the only Metro Park with five camping areas where you can literally pitch a tent and sleep for the night. You must contact the park and reserve these in advance; they are however free. **Where We'll Meet** We'll meet at the Arrowhead Picnic Area, near the restrooms and playground. Arrowhead is the main picnic and parking area of the park, and it also has the only water fountain at Scioto Grove. **After the Hike** Afterward, we will head over to [Grove City Brewing](https://www.grovecitybrewery.com/) for [drinks and food](https://www.grovecitybrewery.com/menu). They have pretty good hamburgers. I was mortified to discover that I've never had their [Grove City Hooyah](https://www.beermenus.com/beers/486553-grove-city-hooyah) before, but I will correct that during this event. The actual address of the brewery is [3946 Broadway, Grove City, OH 43123](https://www.google.com/maps/place/3946+Broadway,+Grove+City,+OH+43123/@39.8836912,-83.0919635,16z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x88389b3a28d0f4ad:0x3d85c41f608406c6!8m2!3d39.8836912!4d-83.0919635!16s%2Fg%2F11g8dh6h1_?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTAwOS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D). We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks.

**Summary** We will play TV-style game shows at [Game Show Battle Rooms](https://gameshowbattlerooms.com/columbus/) ("GSBR"). These will include *Family Feud*, *Wheel of Fortune*, and *The Price is Right*, and we will play them over the course of an hour. We ran this event for the second time back in October, and it was an even bigger hit than it was the first time we ran it the February prior. GSBR has nearly 10,000 reviews on Google and a 5-star rating. If there were any event where you were just about guaranteed to have a good time, it's this one. GSBR changes their questions and answers every month, so if you attended in October (or even if you went with another group as recently as April), you will not see any of the same questions you saw before. **The Date and Time of This Event** Saturday, June 27, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. However, if someone books the 3:00 p.m. time before I do (meaning before I have enough paid attendees), well, that's the way the cookie crumbles and we'll have to move to Plan B. That might involve trying for either one of GSBR's 1:30 p.m. or 4:30 p.m. slots, or just cancelling the Meetup altogether. We'll cross that bridge if we get to it, but be aware of these possibilities. Please arrive 15 minutes prior to whatever our actual showtime ends up being. (Hence, this meetup's 2:45 p.m. start time.) **Cost** The cost to play, per person, is $36.95 plus 8% sales tax of $2.96, plus a refundable 8% gratuity of $2.96 (see the next section for more details), for a total cost of $42.86 per person. **Mandatory Gratuity (If 20+ Participants)** If we have 20 or more participants in this event, GSBR will assess a mandatory gratuity of 8%, or $2.96 per person. If we have 20 or more attendees, GSBR will give our group an extra 15 minutes of playing time. I am collecting the gratuity up-front to prepare for the case in which we have at least 20 people. However, in the event that we do not, I will refund this $2.96 to you. In the event we have fewer than 20 people and your gratuity is refunded, your cost for the event will end up being $39.91 (instead of $42.86). I will say more below on the actual exchange of money for this event. **Drinks** GSBR does allow beverages into the game room, and they also sell some on-site. These include bottled water, soft drinks, and some alcoholic beverages. You can bring your own bottled water, too, if you want. **Cancellations and Refunds** Per GSBR's [website](https://gameshowbattlerooms.com/questions/): *If you cancel your show 5 or more days in advance of your booking time, you will receive a full refund.* *You may reduce the number of tickets and receive a refund if you provide at least 5-days’ notice.* More on this in a moment. **Number of Participants** GSBR does not run events for fewer than 6 people. I will not purchase tickets for this event with fewer than 10 paid, and I will not send out a solicitation for money without at least 12 signed up for this Meetup. More on this below. **The Actual Exchange of Money** Tickets for GSBR events are not purchased piecemeal. I will need to book our GSBR event as a bloc. This means that everyone will need to send me his or her entrance fee via either Venmo or Paypal prior to me booking our time. Anyone failing to send me his or her money will be removed by me from this event. Once 12+ people are signed up here for this Meetup, I will send out a DM through the Meetup messaging system to those 12+ participants with my Venmo/Paypal information. You will then have 72 hours to wire me your share of the money. After 72 hours, if I don't have money from you, I'll remove you from event. If I don't have money from at least 10 people, I'll refund everyone's money, and we'll either re-start the process or I'll just cancel the event. I'm not going to book any event with GSBR unless I'm reasonably certain we're going to be able to run it. Assuming I have money from 10+ people, then I will book the event through GSBR's website. If you decide to cancel and you want a refund, you ***must*** give me time to contact GSBR with at least 5 days notice. Since the date of this event is Saturday, June 27, you have to let me know not later than Sunday, June 21, to allow me time to call GSBR not later than Monday, June 22, in order to get a refund for your share. Once I have confirmation from GSBR for the refund, I will Venmo/Paypal the money back to you immediately from my account. (There will probably be a 3-5 day delay before GSBR actually processes the refund, but I will absorb the cost of the float and get your money back to you right away.) **"Hey, Eric! I just saw this event! Can I sign up late?"** Yes, but you still need to Venmo/Paypal your share of the booking fee to me, which will be $40.55. If I don't get it within 72 hours after you sign up (or time permitting for me to book you in with GSBR if you sign up last-minute), then I'll remove you from the event. **Mandatory GSBR Waiver Requirement** GSBR policies *require* that each attendee signs a liability waiver prior to the event. You can find the waiver [here](https://gameshowbattlerooms.com/questions/) (on the right-hand side toward the bottom of the page under the section "Do I Need To Sign A Waiver Form?"), and you should also be able to skip directly to the form [here](https://waiver.smartwaiver.com/w/5c473bb934d6a/web/). *You must fill out this waver in order to participate in the event*. The form is short and this really shouldn't take you more than 2 minutes, but please send me a DM if you have any issues filling out the document. **Denouement** Afterward, for those who are interested, we'll drown our sorrows or celebrate our exultations at [Crooked Can Brewing](https://crookedcanohio.com/) in Hilliard. They also have extensive food options. The actual address of the brewery is [5354 Center St, 43026](https://www.google.com/maps/place/5354+Center+St,+Hilliard,+OH+43026/@40.0339813,-83.1623519,17.25z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x883893f9f30108a7:0xbe4c8919aa69e3e7!8m2!3d40.0344541!4d-83.1598828!16s%2Fg%2F11gxsh9f_0?entry=ttu).

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!

Early-bird coffee and conversation at [Grandview Grind](https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063534163841)!

**Summary** The [Ohio State Fair](https://www.ohiostatefair.com/) is consistently ranked as one of the [best](https://www.realpropertymgt.com/expert-tips/top-5-state-fairs) ... [state](https://10best.usatoday.com/awards/best-state-fair/) ... [fairs](https://www.dispatch.com/story/entertainment/local/2025/08/06/ohio-state-fair-named-top-fair-nation-usa-today/85527343007/) ... [in](https://www.blueribbongroup.net/blue-ribbon-foodies/tag/what-are-the-best-state-fairs-in-the-united-states/) ... [America](https://614now.com/2025/explore-columbus/usa-today-names-the-ohio-state-fair-as-one-of-the-countrys-best-find-out-where-it-ranked-here). By [acreage](https://www.google.com/search?q=largest+state+fairs+in+us+by+acreage&client=firefox-b-1-d&sca_esv=5a1ec5f7868eb06c&prmd=ivns&sxsrf=AE3TifOrRyB0UF_zcJxuzJ2blALpROCfFA:1763485805100&source=lnms&fbs=AIIjpHxU7SXXniUZfeShr2fp4giZPH5QghoXViUOqdFyhkUfHhA90f6RZnLvcDKUWyhDavFJHvqNnhR_vnElk0C8uWstYqkR_Pamh3VQhx9plk87wYYnFhXCtQ6JPByPAvG0_LeyIQszFojQ7tWAfAvDzo6MwRJuWxS0jrzFWBkVvjkxbHuA6PTQnwEl88m-YBBItnTFmNlR9xZ9YLttetzKJB1GAWacLg&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiX3-rHmPyQAxU6_8kDHcKPH1gQ0pQJegQIBRAF&biw=1735&bih=926&dpr=1), it's one of the five largest fairs in the country. And a million people [visit](https://www.statenews.org/government-politics/2025-08-06/attendance-off-slightly-at-2025-ohio-state-fair-but-sales-of-champions-was-up-big) it each year. Last year's [attendees](https://www.10tv.com/article/news/local/nearly-1-million-visitors-2025-ohio-state-fair-fun-facts-statistics/530-e6c7db59-e9ca-469b-9d3e-ef39011aca00) came from each of Ohio's 88 counties, from all 50 states, and from as far away as 26 other countries including Australia, Brazil, Canada, Germany, India, Japan, Mexico, and others, according to Ticketmaster sales data. **Map of the Fair** Here is a [map of the grounds](https://cdn.saffire.com/images.ashx?t=ig&rid=OhioStateFair&i=map2025.jpg&cb=0508a2a3). **Directions, Parking, Tickets, Timing** Take exit 111 (17th Avenue) off of I-71. Turn west (toward the McDonald's). [Parking is $10](https://www.ohiostatefair.com/p/visit/pricing-hours) whether you pay in advance or on-site. It's generally not too bad getting in and out of the fair. You generally get an excellent spot, too, early in the mornings. There are cops everywhere and they will let you know where to park. [Tickets will be $13](https://www.ohiostatefair.com/p/visit/pricing-hours), but through July 26, you can buy them online for $9. You can also buy 3- and 12-day admission tickets in advance for $24 and $84, respectively. I've scheduled this meetup from 9 to 3, but you can obviously come late or leave early if you want. They will also stamp your hand for free same-day re-admission if you want. The fair is a big place. You will get plenty of steps in at this event, so be prepared to do some walking! **Outside Items** From the [FAQ](https://www.ohiostatefair.com/p/visit/faqs): * *Bags* "Purses, backpacks, book bags, coolers, strollers, etc. are permitted, but are subject to search. Bag searches will also be conducted for guests entering concerts and events in the WCOL Celeste Center." * *Outside Food and Beverage* "You may bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages. Glass bottles and containers are not permitted on grounds." I like to bring a disposable plastic bottle of water with me and refill it on the grounds as I go. **What's New at the Fair** They've spent the last couple years doing major construction at the fair, and most if not all of it should be completed by the start of this year's fair. They've been massively overhauling what's located at the heart of the fairgrounds just north of Kiddleland and just west of the Midway, they're supposed to also have completed improvements to the Dairy Building. In the center of the fairgrounds, there's supposed to be a new food hall, which I would consider to be the centerpiece of the whole shebang. It's supposed to [include](https://www.ohioexpocenter.com/p/about/expo-2050-master-plan) "multi-purpose dining and event space and incubator kitchens on the first floor, and additional dining and event space on the second story." Furthermore, "both levels [will] include outdoor dining on a patio or balcony." A new "Town Square" and surrounding area will also feature a permanent "Ohio-themed carousel" that will also be "complete with ample shade and seating." The new Dairy Building will be air-conditioned and add public restrooms, a universal changing table, and other new amenities. Four hundred and sixty million dollars have been spent on these improvements and renovations, and I expect they will be very cool! **Where We'll Meet** At no later than 9 a.m., I'll be standing by the giant cardinal just inside Cardinal Gate 1, then we'll wander down to Tracey's (see below). If you come late, Tracey's is where you'll find us (DM me or drop a note in the comments if you need help finding us after you arrive). *Note: There's a smaller Tracey's booth near the main entrance. This is not the Tracey's location we'll be meeting at. You will have to walk down to the Bricker Marketplace to get to the correct Tracey's. There's more information on this, below, in the "What We'll Do" section.* If you want to come later in the day, drop me a note and I'll help you navigate to us or I'll come find you if that's feasible. **What We'll Do** This will be sort of a soft itinerary, depending on the interests of the group. The following is based on last year's [fair schedule](https://www.ohiostatefair.com/events), and might need to be changed depending on this year's schedule. But the overall fair schedule doesn't normally change that radically year-over-year. * 9:00 a.m. - *Tracey's* Tracey's is located at the northernmost part of the "WNCI Food Highway," just south of Brown Arena and at the northern corner of the Bricker Marketplace. They have a covered area with picnic tables where you can sit. They have one of the most varied food selections at the fair. They serve breakfast in the mornings, including eggs, bacon, and pancakes. We'll meet here and start our day by socializing over coffee and, if you want, breakfast. Last year, the pancakes with bacon was $7. You got two pancakes that I would describe as average-sized, and a couple strips of bacon. They gave me extra syrup for free. Both the pancakes and the bacon were actually pretty good. Their coffee is generally good, too. They also serve their coffee in Styrofoam cups, which I like because good coffee is more important to me than the environment. I've posted pics, below, of last year's Tracey's menu, as well as a picture of the venue itself relative to the main entrance of the Bricker Marketplace (this entrance faces the Celeste Center). * 10:00 a.m. - *Kasich Hall* Here they have the Ohio State Fair history exhibit, which is very cool. This building also hosts the creative exhibits, including quilts, cakes and pastries, and fair posters. Finally, events like girls' baton competitions, girls' cheerleading, youth choir, and youth boxing (my favorite) are held here. * 11:00 a.m. - *Lausche Youth Exploration Space* This building features 4-H exhibits, Boy and Girl Scout exhibits, and various science exhibits, with the latter including exhibits from COSI and the Ohio State Physics Department. You can also buy Girl Scout cookies here! * 12:00 a.m. - *Bricker Marketplace* Bricker Marketplace is the fair's main flea market. It's a huge indoor shopping area with a food court at its center. The [ODOT](https://www.transportation.ohio.gov/) booth is here, and I always like to check and see if they have any maps I want. Because Bricker is air-conditioned, it's a good place to stop for lunch. There are booths here with burgers, pizza, chicken, Asian food, and alcoholic beverages. * 1:00 p.m. - *Cox Fine Arts* There are art displays here -- paintings, drawings, sculptures, and such. I always like going through here, and people usually like the displays here. * 2:00 p.m. - *Natural Resources Park* The Natural Resources Park is next to Kiddieland, and I think it's the best area of the fair. It's certainly a very popular area. The Timber Show is popular, though I confess to finding it slightly overrated. This area also includes youth fishing, a kayak pond, archery range, butterfly house, aviary, and animal exhibits -- and these are all free. You can also get free chap stick and pens in the [Oil & Gas building](https://ohiodnr.gov/discover-and-learn/safety-conservation/about-ODNR/oil-gas/oil-gas). The chap stick is functional, though perhaps a bit mediocre, but the pens are absolutely the best possible pens you can get anywhere, and I'm being completely serious about this. These are seriously my all-time favorite pens, so I encourage you to grab a few. **Other Things Along the Way** Again, the Ohio State Fair is a big place! So here are some of the other things we might check out along the way: * *The* *Cincinnati Circus Company, The Nerveless Nocks, Lady Houdini, or some other "death-defying" act* These typically start at 1:30 and run once every two hours in the afternoon. The show is generally decent and worth catching, whatever it happens to be. These used to run at the south end of the fair by the south gate on 11th Avenue, but a couple years ago they moved them to the south end of the Midway and next to Natural Resources Park. My guess is that this is where they will be again this year. * *Main Street Stage / Gazebo Stage* These stages are at opposite ends of the "WNCI Food Highway." They'll have shows like live music, magic, hypnosis, juggling, and the like. I usually end up seeing most of the shows, almost by accident, during my annual trips to the fair. If there's music at the Gazebo, though, it can be a little loud if the performer is using a big amp. But otherwise the shows are generally entertaining, if not spectacular. If [The Beach Geeks](https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=1440916777197254) are playing again this year, we are absolutely dropping everything to check them out. I'll fight people on this. * *The Midway* I'm not a big *riding*-the-rides person, and I doubt we will go through here though unless there's interest. However, I do really enjoy *watching* people ride rides, so I never have a problem taking a stroll down the Midway. I do like doing bumper cars, though, as well as some of the various haunted or fun houses. If you think there's a snowball's chance in hell I'm doing the [Defender](https://talleyamusements.com/attraction/defender/), though, then please put the bong down and slowly back away. * *The Dairy Building* This is where the famous Butter Cow is, and the exhibit is always popular. You can also get fairly overpriced ice cream and milkshakes here. Unless something changes here because of their renovations, there are cheaper places at the fair where you can get dairy desserts, and I can show you where they are. * *Taft Coliseum* An indoor arena where they have rodeo- or cowboy/cowgirl-type shows. Sometimes these shows are very good and entertaining and worth checking out. Note that, while you're out of the sun here and the seating is generally good, the arena is not air-conditioned. If trick riders [Tracie Spitznogle](https://www.tiktok.com/discover/tracie-lee-spitzongle) and [Carlie Hale](https://www.facebook.com/trickriderCarlie/) are here, you are likely to enjoy their show, and it will be free (and well-attended). * *The Petting Zoo* & *Pig Races* These used to be in Kiddieland, but in 2025 they were moved to "The Barnyard," next to the Gazebo Stage and the Celeste Center. I suspect they'll have moved again in 2026, but that they will otherwise be back. They're both free and generally popular, with the Pig Races being *extremely* popular. The woman who does the announcing for the Races always delivers the exact same script year after year, but she has so much charisma you won't care, even if you've seen it many times before. * *Central Park* Sometimes I like to just sit here, people-watch, and listen to the sounds of the fair. There are typically several beer vendors right next to Central Park if you want to relax and nurse a beverage while you do so, and the Dairy Building is also very close by. This area may end up being superseded in desirability by the new "Town Square." The Park does suffer from a paucity of shade, and the Square is supposed to rectify some of this. We will see! * *Live Music* There is likely to be some sort of band performing classic rock from something like 2p-5p either in the Taste of Ohio Pavilion next to the Natural Resources Park, or in the Pavilion's replacement/renovated area near the new Town Square. The show will be free and highly likely to be quite good. You should be able to get drinks and food here, too (wherever the ultimate location is), while you check out the band. * *Zultar - Fortune Teller* I saw this guy for the first time last year. He's one of the fair's "strolling entertainers," meaning he takes his act all over the fair and you never know where he will show up next. He's got a "booth" and he wears a costume and face paint that make him look exactly like one of those fortune-telling-booth mannequins. He is completely hilarious (particularly when dealing with children), and if we see him, we will stop and watch him. Don't make me fight you on this, too, people. * *Ohio History Center* Buying a ticket to enter the Ohio State Fair will automatically get you free admission to the [Ohio History Center](https://www.ohiohistory.org/visit/ohio-history-center/) and [Ohio Village](https://www.ohiohistory.org/visit/ohio-village/), which are located just outside the fairgrounds but otherwise are just next door. They've been doing major renovations of the Village, but these are supposed to be completed by the time the State Fair opens this year. You can walk from the fair to the History Center and the Village, or they have a free shuttle you can take. It's not a short walk, but it's also eminently doable. The History Center is a museum that's really not too terribly big, but is very interesting. And the Village is a living simulation of life in a small 19th-century Ohio town. I suspect most of the people who come out this Meetup would probably enjoy both the Center and the Village. Just keep in mind, though, that if we go, we'll probably be up there for at least a couple hours, which means less time at the fair. However, you won't have to twist my arm to get me to go up, because the whole History complex is actually pretty cool. **Conclusion** Come on out to the Ohio State Fair! 🥳 🎉 😄