Social and Cultural Outings

Skyline Milano: Torre Branca Experience // aperitif & party at JustMe * **Sat 27/09 → Closing party with Sexyy Red** **The Experience** Enjoy Milan from above: the **Torre Branca** is your privileged balcony over the city. Begin with an **exclusive aperitivo**with high-quality delights, followed by **DJ sets under the stars** in the vibrant setting of Parco Sempione. **Access & Prices (limited spots)** * **€15 per person – 7:30 pm to 9:30 pm** Includes: **1 drink + royal buffet + terrace party access (JustME)** **+ Torre Branca ticket** * **After 9:30 pm → €20** (no Torre Branca and no buffet). **Includes: 1 drink.** *Torre access available until midnight; in case of **bad weather** the climb may be suspended for safety reasons. Aperitivo served until **10:00 pm**.* **Dress code** **Smart attire required** (no shorts), in line with the event and venue style. **Reservations** Reservation is **free of charge** and secures your spot on the **Milano Expat guest list**; **payment at entrance**.

Considered one of the best panoramic viewpoints over Lake Maggiore, the Belvedere di Pollino is truly appreciated for its stunning views of the Castles of Cannero, Luino, Caldè, Porto Valtravaglia, Laveno, and the entire southern part of the lake. **PROGRAM** 11:00 Meeting point at Ristorante La Trinità, Via Santissima Trinità 73, 28823 Ghiffa (VB) 11:15 Departure towards Belvedere di Pollino 12:45 approx. Arrival, free time and Lunch (packed lunch or arranging with local facilities) 14:30/15:00 approx. Return Medium Level – About 1h20 of walking each way, 380 m elevation gain. No special equipment or clothing required, but always bring food and water “to keep you going”, plus trekking shoes. **Note 1:** Participants must reach the starting point independently (car, bus, train, etc.) or via carpooling by coordinating with other participants in the private Facebook and/or Telegram groups reserved for members (request access once you have your membership card). **Note 2:** The “I will attend” button on Meetup is not considered valid for us. Meetup is only used to publish the event and gauge interest. Once you become a member, please follow the instructions for the event’s *official* registration. **COSTS AND PARTICIPATION – MIN 7 PEOPLE, MAX 30** Event reserved for Gitup Enac members. Free for 2026 members - request your participation ticket here: [http://www.gitup.it/iscrizione-eventi/](http://www.gitup.it/iscrizione-eventi/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExNXJOZlBOUFo2TnU0MlJrTHNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR40isxRJnPDxRFBNp_iADFxV_t_IXXYerPrzof2wC-vrsxh7YCQuE9AZYVKrA_aem_0zRMrPM9cBRzv2anqxS0Zg) Not a member yet or need to renew? A membership card is required — request it here: [http://www.gitup.it/iscrizione/](http://www.gitup.it/iscrizione/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExNXJOZlBOUFo2TnU0MlJrTHNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR40isxRJnPDxRFBNp_iADFxV_t_IXXYerPrzof2wC-vrsxh7YCQuE9AZYVKrA_aem_0zRMrPM9cBRzv2anqxS0Zg) In case of bad weather, the outing may be canceled. Participants will be notified through the dedicated groups and via updates on this page. **P.S.** Please remember that GitUp is not a travel agency but a non-profit association that brings people together to enjoy pleasant shared experiences. [www.gitup.it](http://www.gitup.it/) [https://www.facebook.com/gitupassociazione](https://www.facebook.com/gitupassociazione)

Hello everybody, I usually look for events on Saturdays but I can hardly ever find any, so I asked myself, "Why don't I organise one ?" The idea is to meet at **Next Bar in Via Crema 7** (Very close to P.ta Romana underground station / yellow line) at **18:00** and hang out there for some time. You can also enjoy drinks and eat for 13 Euros (p.s. the buffet is mind-blowing). Guests are required to buy their first drinks upon entry. I kindly encourage you to RSVP during the week if you can. I really hope to meet you on Saturday! Don't worry if you can't see many people who've RSVPed, the event is advertised on other platforms, so there will be plenty of people to mingle with. When you get there ask for **Riccardo**. Feel free to WhatsApp me at **+39 334 283 1963** During the event, you'll have the opportunity to join our WhatsApp group by scanning QR codes displayed on the tables to stay in touch. Looking forward to a great time together! Best regards, Riccardo WhatsApp group: On site Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aperitivoandhangout/?hl=en Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/3522012771345456

Are you ready to meet new people, practice your spoken english and spanish, have a drink and enjoy the evening in a different way? Let's meet up at 19.00 at Pacino cafè for aperitivo, cocktails and for a new evening together !!! Every Saturday night other groups from meetup, tablo and Instagram are coming and with them you will have the possibility of interacting in English, Italian and Spanish 💯 Therefore the number of participants you see registered here is only one part that is coming just from this group 🤩 To find out exactly how many we are, you can contact the organizers a few hours before the event 💌 Aperitivo euro 11 Siete pronti a conoscere nuove persone, conversare in inglese e spagnolo, bere qualcosa e godervi la serata in modo diverso? Ci vediamo alle 19:00 al Pacino cafè per un aperitivo con cocktail e per una nuova serata insieme!!! Ogni sabato sera si uniranno altri gruppi di meetup, tablo e Instagram, con i quali avrete la possibilità di interagire in inglese, italiano e spagnolo 💯 Pertanto, il numero di partecipanti che vedete registrati qui è solo una parte, ossia quelli che provengono solo da questo gruppo 🤩 Per scoprire esattamente quanti siamo, potete contattare gli organizzatori qualche ora prima dell'evento 💌 Aperitivo euro 11

Free English Stand-up Comedy show at Churchill Caffe, Porta Venezia at 20:30. Join us on Saturday at Churchill Caffe!! Featuring comedians from all around the world— some flew here, some took the metro, and a few just got lost and ended up on stage. From culture shocks, Questura visits 💀, to metro fails🚇, Uni disasters🎓, aperitivo gossips🍹, Milano traumas🤷🏻‍♂ and dating mishaps💕 — nothing’s off-limits. Grab a drink🍻, and get ready for an evening of laughter, and you can get to vote for your favorite comedians. IMPORTANT: While the entry for the comedy is free, there is a 10€-minimum-consumption (includes 1 cocktail) from the bar that has to be paid at the entrance itself. If you also wish to book a table to eat, please do call the bar to confirm a reservation so that they can arrange your table accordingly. 📌 Via Manuzio 6, Milano (M1 Porta Venezia, M3 Repubblica) 📲 Book your table: call 3493119945 or reserve on Eventbrite For more info, contact the organiser Vamshi on Instagram @vamshicomedy

INTERSCAMBIO IN SPAGNOLO tutti i sabato sera per migliorare la lingua, conoscere gente e divertirsi assaggiando i fantastici drink del Pacino cafè. 🍹💯😋 Ogni sabato il nostro gruppo di spagnolo si riunisce anche con altri gruppi provenienti da meetup, tablo e Instagram per conversare in spagnolo ma anche in inglese e italiano per gli stranieri. Comincia pure in spagnolo e poi scegli il gruppo che vuoi! 🗣️🔝 I partecipanti che vedi qui iscritti all'evento sono quindi una parte e provengono solo da questo gruppo! 🤩 per sapere in quanti siamo il sabato contatta pure gli organizzatori qualche ora prima dell'evento 💌 >> << INTERCAMBIO DE ESPAÑOL todos los sábados por la noche para mejorar tus conocimientos del idioma, conocer gente y divertirte probando las fantásticas bebidas del Pacino café. 🍹💯😋 Todos los sábados nuestro grupo de español se reúne también con otros grupos de meetup, tablo e Instagram para conversar en español pero también en inglés e italiano para extranjeros. ¡Comienza en español y luego elige el grupo que quieras! 🗣️🔝 ¡Los participantes que ves registrados para el evento entonces son solo una parte y provienen únicamente de este grupo! 🤩 Para saber cuántos seremos contacta con los organizadores unas horas antes del evento 💌

**[Italiano]** Pomeriggio rilassato al Parco Sempione per giocare, chiacchierare e conoscere nuove persone. Porterò giochi leggeri e facili da spiegare, perfetti anche per chi non gioca spesso. Puoi venire anche da solo/a: l’idea è creare un gruppo tranquillo, social e aperto, tra giochi da tavolo, risate e nuove conoscenze. **[English]** A relaxed afternoon at Parco Sempione to play, chat and meet new people. I’ll bring light, easy-to-learn games, perfect even if you don’t usually play board games. You can come alone: the idea is to create a friendly, social and easy-going group with games, conversation and new connections.

**Hai bisogno di calma?** Prenditi il tuo tempo. Con SUPMindfulness puoi ritrovare il tuo equilibrio sul SUP e rilassarti senza lasciare Milano. **👉 Cosa vivrai sui Navigli:** * lezione introduttiva al SUP, ideale se è la tua prima volta * Tour in SUP dalla Darsena al Naviglio Grande * Momenti di consapevolezza e ascolto del respiro sul SUP * Chiusura con una tisana sul SUP **Ti aspetto!** **🗓️ Domenica 3 maggio \| 9\.30–12\.30** **📍 Navigli di Milano**

Join us for a unique rooftop yoga experience in Milan combining a dynamic Vinyasa flow with a live DJ set. We’ll move through a fluid, energizing sequence guided by the rhythm of the music, surrounded by a beautiful terrace view over the city. This class is designed to help you move, breathe, and fully disconnect, while enjoying a vibrant and inspiring atmosphere. ✨ All levels welcome — options will be offered throughout the practice. Practical info: 🕚 Sunday May 3rd, Time: 11:00 AM 📍 Location: Private terrace (details shared after registration) 💰 Price: 15€ per person 🧘‍♀️ Bring your own mat 🧺 5 mats available for rent (on request for 1€)

Join Milan Expats & Locals for a fun evening of board games at Draft, a cozy pub located near the bolivar area. This event is a perfect opportunity to meet new people, have a great time and enjoy some good beers and food while playing games.
Bring your own favorite board game or play with our strategy games like Catan, Coup, Uno, Cards against Humanity and Magic The Gathering. Whether you're an experienced player or a newcomer, this event is open to everyone and there is no obligation to spend, the event is free and open to everyone. So come along, relax and have a great time playing board games with a friendly community of expats and locals from Milan.
We'll also be crowd-sourcing for more games in the future, so be sure to bring any suggestions.
RSVP now to secure your spot.
Looking forward to seeing you there!
IG: https://www.instagram.com/p/CotIwk1KR-P/
Whatsapp: https://chat.whatsapp.com/BUSBYLAmhxx0M8sfKobdex

Immerse yourself in the world of matcha in this hands-on workshop, where you'll learn the traditional techniques of preparing and enjoying this vibrant green tea. You’ll explore matcha’s rich history, health benefits, and different grades, while mastering the art of whisking the perfect frothy bowl. Experience a mindful tea ritual and discover how to incorporate this superfood into modern recipes. Whether you’re a tea enthusiast or a curious beginner, this workshop offers a unique blend of culture, flavor, and relaxation. 🍵✨ **Les Amis** is a women-only community of friendly souls. We provide access to hundreds of experiences that explore your passions and connect you with other event participants. **Check our website to learn more, and apply to join our community and events**: [lesamis.cc/apply](https://www.lesamis.cc/apply)

**May 24th · 5:00 PM** **Parco Sempione — Milan** **Limited spots available** \*\*\* *An elevated late-afternoon designed to slow down, reconnect, and immerse yourself in a moment of refined wellbeing in the heart of Milan.* The experience will begin with a **guided Yoga session**, *with our Yoga Teacher Camilla,* thoughtfully curated for all levels, focused on intentional movement, breath, and alignment. All mats will be provided, allowing you to fully step into the practice with ease and presence. Following the session, guests will be invited to a **curated post-workout moment**: a soft, aesthetic snack experience designed to gently extend the feeling of the practice. Each guest will receive a **personalized picnic box**, carefully prepared to offer a light, nourishing and visually refined pause, surrounded by nature and effortless conversation. Every detail has been designed to feel intentional, minimal, and quietly luxurious. *More than an event, this is a space for connection:* with yourself, and with women who share a similar appreciation for beauty, balance, and lifestyle. **Dress code:** refined activewear in black, pink, white tones. You may wish to bring a small bag with extra water and a personal towel. Everything else is taken care of. Due to the intimate nature of the experience, availability is extremely limited. **Early reservation is strongly recommended.** We look forward to welcoming you. 🤍✨ \*\*\* **⚠️ Participation Terms & Conditions** **Cancellations** – Refunds are available up to 72 hours prior to the event. – After this timeframe, the reservation remains non-refundable. However, you may transfer your spot to another guest, with prior notice. **Privacy & Media** – By attending, you consent to the capture of photo and video content, which may be used across our digital platforms and communication channels.

What to expect Un aperitivo creativo per rilassarsi con arte, drink e buone vibrazioni. Passa un pomeriggio dorato all’aria aperta, sorseggiando cocktail o succo fresco mentre ti lasci ispirare da un po’ di creatività con acquerelli e creazione di gioielli. 👨‍🎨✨🍹 Non serve esperienza — vieni come sei. Forniamo noi tutti i materiali, un’atmosfera rilassata all’aperto e un piccolo aperitivo per tenere alto lo spirito. 🤗 Se dovesse piovere durante l’evento, riceverai un rimborso completo — zero stress, zero pensieri. ✨🤌 Che tu venga per l’arte, per i drink o solo per l’energia positiva, andrai via con qualcosa fatto da te e un bel sorriso (che sia per la creatività o per il cocktail — a te la scelta). 😌🤷‍♀️ il presentatore parla inglese ENGLISH Spend a golden afternoon outside, sipping cocktails or fresh juice while getting creative with jewelry making and watercolor painting. 👨‍🎨✨🍹 No experience needed — just come as you are. We’ll provide all materials, a chill outdoor vibe, and a light aperitivo spread to keep you inspired. 🤗 If it rains during the event, you’ll get a full refund — no stress, no worries. ✨🤌 Whether you’re here for the art, the drinks, or just the good energy, you’ll leave with something handmade and a happy buzz (from creativity or cocktails — your choice). 😌🤷‍♀️ Note: the host speaks English

La domenica ormai è appuntamento fisso per il nostro gruppo sia d'estate che in inverno al Just me (ex Just cavalli) Ci incontriamo alle 20:00 per socializzare al nostro tavolo riservato e gustare un ottimo buffet con la prima consumazione inclusa al costo di soli 10€. target età media 30/55 ma aperto a tutti Alle 22:30 faremo un brindisi offerto dagli organizzatori 🍾🎉💥 e chi vuole può rimanere a ballare. È gradita conferma via whatsapp ai nostri numeri: Enrico 3930134920 melissa 3755058482

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.