Social and Cultural Outings

**The most exciting night for singles in Dublin — high-energy, social, and unforgettable.** **[GET YOUR TICKET HERE!](https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/big-social-singles-meetup-tickets-1984964049907)** **🔥 What Is Big Social Singles Meetup?** This is NOT speed dating — it’s a vibrant, modern way to meet people through **fast-paced group challenges**, clever prompts and playful interactions. Expect a buzzing atmosphere, smooth rotations, and the perfect mix of fun, spontaneity and chemistry. Designed for people who want a bigger, fresher and more dynamic social night out in Dublin. **🎯 What to Expect** * **6 interactive activities** (ice-breakers, missions, challenges and surprise tasks) * Constant group rotations so you meet plenty of people * Creative prompts instead of awkward small talk * A fun, international crowd in their 20s–40s * **Drink tokens** for winners and standout players Everything is designed to make meeting new people feel natural, energetic and genuinely enjoyable. **🎁 Rewards & Mini-Prizes** Each activity has its own mini prize — usually a **drink token** or small treat — for the most engaged groups or standout players. It keeps the night lively, competitive and extra fun. **🌍 A Social, International Atmosphere** Expect a friendly, diverse group of people who come ready to talk, laugh and enjoy a memorable night out. The guided structure makes it easy to connect, even if you come alone or tend to be shy at first. **🎟️ Balanced Numbers & Better Early Prices** We manage the gender balance throughout all releases so the experience works for everyone. Early releases always offer the best value — once they’re gone, they’re gone. **💳 [Membership Options (Save € & unlock perks)](https://buymeacoffee.com/newindublin)** **🟡 Regular Membership (€12/mo)** ✔ Free: Singles, Language Exchange, International Meetup ✔ –50%: Quizzes, Big Singles, Theme Party, Cultural Mix, Social Games, Music Challenge ✔ Extra perks **🔵 Theme Membership (€15/mo)** ✔ Free: Quizzes, Big Singles, Theme Party, Cultural Mix, Social Games, Music Challenge ✔ –50%: Singles, Language Exchange, International Meetup ✔ Extra Perks **🟣 Complete Membership (€20/mo)** ✔ Free access to ALL events ✔ Extra Perks **📱 Stay Connected** 🔗 **[Linktree](https://linktr.ee/newindublin)**[ ](https://linktr.ee/newindublin)– full weekly calendar 💬 **[WhatsApp](https://chat.whatsapp.com/L8IcUuQzHVVLGaoUZ8ONRt)**[ ](https://chat.whatsapp.com/L8IcUuQzHVVLGaoUZ8ONRt)– reminders & updates 📘 **[Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/newindublinmeetup)**[ ](https://www.facebook.com/newindublinmeetup)– photos & highlights 📸 **[Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/newindublinmeetups/)**[ ](https://www.instagram.com/newindublinmeetups/)– stories & behind-the-scenes 🌐 **[Website](https://newindublin.net/)**[ ](https://newindublin.net/)– all information about our events **🎉 Join the Experience** No pressure. No awkward silences. Just games, great vibes… and the chance to meet someone special (or many amazing friends). We can’t wait to see you! ❤️

Come join at no. 14 Henrietta Street to see a new exhibition by lace artist Fiona Harrington. Fiona brings the history of the museum to life through a collection of new artworks created during her 2025 residency at the museum. Fiona spent a year researching the history, architecture, and stories of 14 Henrietta Street. She responded to the buildings rooms, objects, and histories through traditional irish needle and bobbin lace techniques. During this thirty minute session, you can visit the exhibition, view the artwork and have an opportunity to see Fiona lacemaking and ask her questions. **Meeting: Outside the entrance door for 2.15pm.** **Date: 1st of May** **If you are on the going list, there is a ticket for you. This exhibition has been on since the 20th of April and finishes on the 2nd of May 2026.** **This event is booked out on all dates.** **Please only RSVP if you are available and interested in attending.** All members are responsible for their own Health & Safety at meetups. There will now be no Meetup host. Enjoy .

Plan to be at the theatre at 7:30pm for a pre-drink if anyone feels like joining. Please secure your own ticket here: [https://www.abbeytheatre.ie/whats-on/do-you-come-from-gomorrah/ ](https://www.abbeytheatre.ie/whats-on/do-you-come-from-gomorrah/) “I do not like the past. It is not kind to me. It does not belong to me.” Do You Come From Gomorrah? is a memory play, one man’s elegy to a younger self who survived impossible circumstances. In this world premiere, written by **Frank McGuinness** and performed by **Ryan Donaldson**, over the course of 75 minutes, we meet a man who has come through a terrible experience with enough humanity left that he can tell us about it. This story is a testimony of all people who have been abused by those in authority, a protest against cruelty. Exploring the strangeness and contradictions of 1970s Ulster, it registers the damage done and celebrates the act of survival. “his cheek bones so beautiful I have to close my eyes in case he blinds me” **Running time:** approx. 1 hour and 15 minutes

A relaxed, light-hearted singles social evening hosted by RTE Hijacked Jack Malone. Located in The Palm in Bray. Come for an evening of laughs and socialising with other singles. Two groups that night. 28-40 and 40+ **For details on this event and to get your ticket, click on Eventbrite link:** https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/the-palm-bray-singles-social-mixer-prosecco-on-arrival-28-40-40-tickets-1986759929431?aff=oddtdtcreator **Important information:** Strict ticket event. Tickets will be scanned at check in. **Do not show up without an Eventbrite ticket.** Get your ticket here: https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/the-palm-bray-singles-social-mixer-prosecco-on-arrival-28-40-40-tickets-1986759929431?aff=oddtdtcreator RSVPs are not a true representation of the people attending. By joining this event, you accept our T&Cs, check them out on our website: Yinyangevents.ie **Follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/yinyangevents.ie/**

You'll meet your local guide at the meeting point a little before 11AM and show your booking. Then we'll commence a fascinating walking tour through the streets, sights, and sounds of Dublin old and new. You'll get an unrivalled insight to the history and culture that has shaped the capital you see today - warts and all, discover the lesser-known, intriguing oddities of our city, and get unique insider tips for the rest of your stay. Sites and topics covered include: Dublin Castle, Christchurch, Viking & Medieval Dublin, Temple Bar, fables, folklore and mythology, Trinity College, Stephen's Green, risings and rebellions, writers & rogues and so, so much more... please remember, places are limited and you must book your spot via: https://www.generationtours.com/dublin See you soon!

All welcome! - See you in the Black Sheep, 61 Capel Street, Dublin for an evening of craic and chat. Caoimhghin (keeveen) 0878309001

ANOTHER chance TO DANCE WITH John Travolta s grandad? sort of "old school" disco night.. dance or just look foolish,.. (but risk the plank of you let down the Pirate Captain \- meet at Chorus 4\-4\.30 PM \, for a coffee or "preparation chat" the following info provided to those attendees who are trusted "Pirate friends" ;) last chance to have fun? NOTE I must know if you are 100% attending by May 1 (am)

**Hello Mishmashers 👋** Excited to see you at our next meetup! Here's what you can look forward to: 💬 **Great chats with lovely people**! whether you're a local or from the other side of the world, you’re very welcome here! 🌍 **Not a native English speaker?** Awesome, you’ll get to practice with native speakers in a relaxed, no-pressure setting. 🇮🇪 **Are you a native English speaker?** Cool! Chat in English or find someone to practice another language with. Why not mix it up? ✨ We’re a **diverse, super-friendly, and inclusive bunch**, open to everyone, whether you’re shy, outgoing, or somewhere in between. 🎯 Our awesome organizers are always around to make sure things run smoothly and everyone feels included. 💡 One of the nicest things we hear again and again: even introverts feel at ease here. That’s something we’re really proud of. 🤝 **Instant connections!** You might walk in alone, but you'll probably leave with new friends. 📅 **This Saturday at 2:30pm!** We’ll be downstairs around the big oval table at a much-loved venue that's perfect for easy-going conversations and real connection. 🎉 **Theme: “International Mishmash”**: A chill space for people from all over (including Ireland!) to swap stories, share laughs, and practice languages if you fancy. (Shout-out to our lovely Irish regulars!) 🍻 **And after?** At 5pm, we’ll head over to the nearby **RIOT Pub** for tasty burgers and proper pints. Always a good time!!! *** **Want to support the group? 🙏** Running this thing costs over €200 a year (yep, all out of pocket for now 😅). If you’d like to chip in, we’d really appreciate it: * [PayPal](https://paypal.me/meetuppay) * [Revolut](https://revolut.me/michelf9a) (you can pay with your card, no need to be on Revolut!). Your help keeps the group going and opens the door for even more cool events (like day trips and gigs!). Cheers and see you soon! **– Michele & the Meetup Crew**

Join us for our annual May Bank Holiday Weekend Event in The Odeon Terrace Bar (Saturday 2nd May) Reserved area/seating for group. Guests are welcome but please include on your rsvp and update your rsvp if you can no longer attend. Organiser Bernard Cullen M 0852717432. DJ there from 9pm.

***Join us on a history-focused walking tour of Dun Laoghaire and Sandycove!*** Hello! My name is Marina Boyle and I'm a local tour guide excited to share Dublin with you. This is a tour for both locals and those new to the area to learn about beautiful Dun Laoghaire and make friends at the same time! We'll start at Dun Laoghaire DART station and visit landmarks like the East Pier, Dun Laoghaire Baths, the Forty Foot, and the James Joyce Tower and Museum. All the way along I'll be explaining the local history, with time for guests to chat and make connections between stops. Come and see what makes the coast of Dublin so captivating! This event will start at 2 pm sharp and last approximately 2 hours. Please note that this is a tip-based tour, and most guests choose to contribute around €5–€10 per person (or more if the tour was unforgettable 😄). The tour will include entry into the James Joyce Museum, including access to the roof for 360 degree views of Dublin. I am looking forward to meeting you :)

**[Early Bird Discount!](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/social-karaoke-night-tickets-1984840246608)** ### 🎤 What Is the Social Karaoke Night? A fun and social karaoke night designed to help people meet, laugh and enjoy music together. This is **not a professional singing competition** — it’s a relaxed and friendly event where people sing well-known songs, support each other and enjoy a great atmosphere. Whether you come alone or with friends, you’ll quickly feel part of the group. Our events bring together **international people living in Dublin**, making it a perfect place to meet new people while enjoying music. ### 🎶 How The Karaoke Works During the karaoke session, participants will sing **in small groups**. You can sing: • With your friends • With other attendees (groups will also be created randomly) This makes the experience more relaxed and fun, even if you’re not used to singing. The focus is simply to **have fun and enjoy the music together**. Most songs will be **well-known hits in English**, so everyone can easily sing along. ### 🏆 Voting & Prizes At the end of the performances, everyone attending will vote for the groups they enjoyed the most. Participants will assign points to their **three favourite performances**. At the end of the night, the **three groups with the highest score will win a prize.** So bring your best energy, creativity and stage presence! ### 🌍 Who Is This Event For? This event is perfect for: • People new in Dublin • Expats and international professionals • Locals looking to meet new people • Anyone who enjoys music and social events You don’t need to be a great singer — the goal is simply to **have fun and enjoy the experience**. Many people attend alone, and the group format makes it easy to interact with others. ### 💬 Friendly & Inclusive Atmosphere Our events are known for being **welcoming, respectful and easy-going**. No pressure, no judgment — just good vibes, music and people enjoying a fun night together. ### 🎟 Entry • €8 **[Early Bird Discount](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/social-karaoke-night-tickets-1984840246608)** • €10 Regular Ticket 🟡 Regular Members: 50% off 🔵 Theme Members: Free 🟣 Complete Members: Free ⚠️ Limited spots available. ### 🎉 Join Us Expect **great songs, lots of laughs and a friendly crowd**. Whether you sing enthusiastically or just enjoy the show, this is a fantastic way to spend a social evening in Dublin. Reserve your spot and get ready for a **fun karaoke night with an international community 🎤✨**

Make New Friends💏! This Event is a large Monthly Social Salsa Dance Party 🎉🎊🎇 for Salsa Dancers and for those New Solo people who want to learn Salsa dancing. This Salsa Dance Party will be held in a large hall. There is Bar facilities, cheaper drinks and toilets are avaliable. Time of Dance Party from about 9.30pm/10pm. till after 1 am. Dress: Neat Dress. (Salsa Dance class lesson from 8.45pm to 9.30pm.) There may also be free Pizza at the end of the party like in previous parties. There are Salsa Social Dance Classes on Thursday evenings for those who like to learn or improve Salsa dancing. The entrance fee for the Salsa Party is 10 euros at the Door, which includes the Salsa class lesson. This is very good value. Place of large Hall is in Dublin 8. There is a large Free Car Parking at the back also. Dublin Bus 2 mins walk. There will be many other solo people attending from all around Ireland beside this meetup who already know this venue. In the past Social Salsa Dance Parties, over 270 people attended. https://youtu.be/DWir_XczIE8?is=YWe0j-H3tECeWaQx https://youtu.be/iyLdoQGBchQ?feature=shared So if you are Solo, like Social Dancing, meeting new people and or like a free lesson to start learning Salsa dancing, RSVP and I will send you the Dance Party Address Details on the day of the event. Many people come solo, so do not worry, come solo or bring your friends with you and enjoy the great Latino music and social Salsa dancing.

Hello all Pool this Saturday - kick off - 7.30PM Beginners and all levels welcome. We play a lot of doubles , so everyone gets a good few games. **The Hideout** (the venue) has a policy , that **EVERYONE** must **pay** **€5 corkage** , to bring in drink , **EVEN IF YOU DO NOT HAVE DRINK.** We have to pay for the tables separately @ **€12 to €15 each,** ( approx) Please can you update your RSVP if you can no longer make this evening.. Ed 086 8335672

Join us every Sunday and tell a story as a group by playing a beginner-friendly roleplaying game. Every week we have 2-3 different games - you will choose which game you play on the day. All materials provided and rules are explained at the start of each game, you just need to bring your imagination. 🎭 **This week's facilitators:** * 🧬 **Cyrus** with *[Dead Serious](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1a_8HoeLE_anm-9TifDPy71cig5l92P9P/view?usp=sharing)*, a one-page RPG where you play invincible unyielding warriors. The most ELITE of the ELITE: The DREADBUTCHERS. But the squad has a malfunction - they can experience EMOTION. In this game you must always remain in character. If you laugh, stop talking in a DEEP IMPOSING voice or don't take the mission seriously your character might.... EXPLODE! * 🐺 **Scott** with *[Campfire](https://witchpleas.com/products/campfire-the-any-story-anywhere-intro-rpg)*, a story-based game by our own Wojtek Borowicz. A group of friends have rented a cottage in the woods near Briançon, a remote Alpine village in France. They plan to spend a couple of days kicking back, drinking mulled wine, and skiing in a nearby resort. They are weary from their long journey, but that will soon be the least of their worries. Can they survive the night once the deadly secrets of Briançon emerge from the darkness on the night of the full moon? *** Feel free to ask the organisers any questions you have (here or on our [Discord server](https://tinyurl.com/indie-rpgs-dublin)).

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.

We will meet next to the restrooms at the [Big Meadows Picnic Area](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/HBK_Web_1980.png). They're all the way at the back of the park, and they can be found at coordinates [40°09'06.6"N 83°02'30.2"W](https://www.google.com/maps/place/40%C2%B009'06.6%22N+83%C2%B002'30.2%22W/@40.151828,-83.0423587,214m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m10!1m5!3m4!2zNDDCsDA5JzA4LjAiTiA4M8KwMDEnNDUuMSJX!8m2!3d40.1522222!4d-83.0291944!3m3!8m2!3d40.151827!4d-83.041715?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTIwNC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) (near the playground and the zip line). We'll hike about 5 miles at [Highbanks Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/highbanks/) on the Dripping Rock and Overlook Trails. Afterward, we'll head over to [Olentangy River Brewing](https://www.olentangybrew.com/) for drinks, coffee, or food (their Sunday [food truck](https://www.olentangybrew.com/eventsandfood) is Venezuelan and always gets good reviews). The actual address of the brewery is [303 Green Meadows Dr S, 43035](https://www.google.com/maps/place/303+Green+Meadows+Dr+S,+Lewis+Center,+OH+43035/@40.1551938,-83.0144045,17.25z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x8838f395cef06c97:0xe407de61b3e30069!8m2!3d40.1551765!4d-83.0124352!16s%2Fg%2F11c26jc7j9?entry=ttu). If you can't make the hike, we should be there by noon. **How to find our starting point in Big Meadows:** If you are new to Highbanks, the Big Meadows picnic area is 1.5 miles into the park just after you turn into the park off of U.S. Route 23. That is, after you enter the park, drive a mile and a half into the park. You will come to a crosswalk with a yield sign in the middle of it (this is not to be confused with the first such crosswalk you come to just in front of the Nature Center, which you arrive at maybe a quarter of a mile into the park). Just after this second crosswalk, make a left. Then make another almost immediate left into the parking lot on your left. There you will see the jungle gym and the kiddie zip line to your left. I will be just in front of the restrooms just a bit further down from the jungle gym and picnic shelter; the restroom building will also be on your left.

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: * Please Bring Something to share for the potluck cookout signup sheet [https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E49ABA92EA2FAC70-63781787-saturday](https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E49ABA92EA2FAC70-63781787-saturday) * Clothes you can move around in RSVP on Meetup is free. A small contribution helps keep events sustainable and ensures those who RSVP actually show up. Great events take time, effort, and consistency to organize. Most people contribute $2–5 per event to help keep these going. Appreciate everyone who supports — it genuinely makes a difference. If you find value in these events or maybe even made a new friend, consider contributing what feels fair to you. **Contribution link** listed below in the comments

Coffee and conversation at [The Roosevelt Coffeehouse](https://www.olentangybrew.com/roosevelt-coffee), located at Olentangy River Brewing. They will also have a Venezuelan [food truck](https://www.olentangybrew.com/eventsandfood) that always gets good reviews.

**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.