Park

Hi Radiant Ladies, Join us for a refreshing Saturday walk at Ruffey Lake Park. 👭 Walk at your own pace 🐕 Dogs welcome ☕ Coffee after 🌦️ We walk every Saturday (unless it’s pouring) New ladies welcome. See you! 

Leanne & Lyn 💕

**PLEASE NOTE THE FOLLOWING DETAILS:** This group is suitable for intermediate/advanced type player - who want to play singles matches. You need to be able to play a high level of tennis to participate. This group is not suitable for a beginner-type player. **YOU WILL NEED TO REGISTER AND PAY VIA THE ATTACHED LINK TO SECURE YOUR SPOT:** https://play.tennis.com.au/RoyalParkTennisClub/Coaching **Players who just register their interest on Meetup, do not have their spots secured and may miss out.** **Registration Opens:** 6 Days in advance at 9am **Registration Closes:** Close 6pm the day *before* the event. This is to finalise player numbers and organise a playing roster. **Social Tennis Structure:** * Location: Royal Park Tennis Club (333 The Avenue, Parkville, Melbourne) * Day: Friday * Time: 6.30pm-8.30pm * Cost: $18 for Non-Members, $12 for Members. * Participants will play some singles matches on the day. * After each set, participants will rotate around. * Balls are provided each week. * Racquets are available for hire if required. * Some refreshments are available for purchase. * Please remember to wear shoes suitable for tennis! * Maximum of 8 spots for each session.

EVERY FRIDAY! FREE dance classes & social dancing and Reggaeton every week with Obsesión Latina - Salsa & Bachata & OYE Latino at The Albion Rooftop - South Melbourne! Main room: 6:45pm Doors open. Come in for a drink! 7:00pm 2 levels of Salsa classes 8:00pm 2 levels of Bachata classes 9:00pm Non-stop Bachata & Salsa 11:00pm Reggaeton all night! Rooftop: 11:00pm After the Bachata & Salsa in the main room, we can head upstairs to the rooftop for some more Bachata & Salsa until late. FREE entry all night every Friday! Book your class spots to helps us manage the class ratios and also because we may need to start capping numbers as we sometimes have over 140 students! First-timers welcome! No need to bring a partner, but the more the merrier! Dress as you would usually going to a bar or club. Guys smart casual, no trackies! https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/free-salsa-bachata-classes-social-every-friday-in-south-melbourne-tickets-1978557074471?aff=oddtdtcreator

**Ballarat Day Trip: Autumn Special** 🍂 **Saturday\, 23 May \| 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM** 🌟 Experience the charm of Ballarat in autumn with Bondaroo! Join us for a scenic day trip filled with historic landmarks, cultural discoveries, and beautiful seasonal landscapes. 🏛️✨ Designed especially for international students, this trip blends exploration, connection, and fun group experiences - a great opportunity to discover regional Victoria while enjoying the colours and atmosphere of the autumn season. **📍 Starting Point:** Southern Cross Station platform 5A or 6A **Time:** 8:45 AM sharp **📅 Date:** Saturday (23 May) **💬 RSVP:** Secure your spot on [Eventbrite ](https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/ballarat-day-trip-with-bondaroo-registration-1989444505069?aff=oddtdtcreator)now! **Highlights:** Lake Wendouree, Ballarat Farmers Market, Ballarat Botanical Gardens, Ballarat Tramway Museum, Saint Patrick's Cathedral, Ballarat Town Hall, Chinese Library, and Art Gallery of Ballarat **🎟 Ticket Information** • Please register via **Eventbrite**. This Meetup page is for promotion only — RSVPs here will not be counted in the final attendee list. • **$10 deposit** (secures your spot, non-refundable if cancelled within 24 hours of the event) • **$49 total price including the deposit** (includes BBQ and light refreshments, pay the rest on the day) **⚠️ Important Notes** • Please ensure you have a **valid Myki with sufficient balance** for V/Line travel • Wear comfortable clothing and check the weather * Bring your water bottle to stay hydrated 👉 Limited spots – **book now on Eventbrite:** https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/ballarat-day-trip-with-bondaroo-registration-1989444505069?aff=oddtdtcreator Pack your cameras and ready your senses for a day full of discovery and enchantment in Ballarat with Bondaroo! 🌿🎨 ✨ **Community Rules** ✨ * This is a rain-or-shine event. * 18+ only. * Maintain respect and no unsolicited contact. * No advertising and selling during the event. * By attending this event, you accept our [Terms and Conditions](https://docs.google.com/document/d/11Afnnu5xW6Yhtgl4LGDAVEMSdJ-7M3aC7Cs-s_t0uOo/edit?usp=sharing), including [media consent policy](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1rgNOcewZs-tKYUEBt3gV84hob1HdDXydjrGf_tEiXjQ/edit?usp=drive_link), and agree to adhere to our [liability waiver ](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hKqVIMcXMFdzvpjqO3KRf_uQ5xAzd-jt/view?usp=drive_link)

[Instagram: Road Trips by The Dancing Voyager: Ron Singh](https://www.instagram.com/the_dancing_voyager_ron_trips) Spontaneous day trip to Port Campbell/12 Apostles/Lake Colac! Very short notice! These are always fun! Over 60 road trips done in 4 years! I run 3 Meetup groups (shown on my profile). This road trip is for people new to Australia who have not been to this location (International Students, Working Holiday Makers and tourists)! No evidence is required. I will trust you! **Details given below in sections: (1) Questions / (2) Road trip itinerary / (3) Payment / (4) Responsibility / (5) Breaks / (6) Weather / (7) Phone charging / (8) Contact** **\-\-\- \(1\) QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS \-\-\-** **Your questions for me:** Why is the total fee so low at $20, covering a new, large rental (SUV), fuel and driver, on something that seems really high quality and well planned, like a private tour company? Sounds too good to be true or that there is a catch. Is this genuine? **My answers to you:** Because this project is my community service to give back. I explain this further below. The low fee is just a formality to confirm your place, so that I know you are serious on attending. This is genuine. Over 60 road trips done in 4 years! I have created precious memories for many people new to Australia. Photos on Instagram link further above. **\-\-\- \(2\) ROAD TRIP SUMMARY AND ITINERARY \-\-\-** Day trip to Port Campbell/12 Apostles/Lake Colac. Going to 12 Apostles on a direct, inland route. This will allow more time to enjoy this inspiring place, millions of years in the making! **Itinerary: Lookout at Geelong - Colac - Lake Colac - 12 Apostles lookout - Loch Ard Gorge lookout - Port Campbell - Gibson Steps lookout - 12 Apostles beach walk - Lake Colac encore** **Meeting point: Fed Square, 8:45 am**. Back there by **8:45 pm**. Meet by the steps (main entrance, opposite the Swanston Street tram stop). **\-\-\- \(3\) PAYMENT \-\-\-** **Total fee: $20 in total (no other costs). This covers a new, large rental (SUV), fuel and driver.** **Eventbrite link for payment:** [https://12apostles-road-trip.eventbrite.com.au](https://12apostles-road-trip.eventbrite.com.au/) **Cancellations:** If I cancel the road trip for any unforeseen issues, a full refund will be given. If you cancel, there is no refund. **Why is the fee so low?** The low fee is just a formality. It might sound too good to be true or that there is a catch. There is no catch. I am simply someone who has been giving back for many years. I playfully call this project a “Melbourne travel secret”! There are people in this world who want to genuinely give back without any expectations because they are truly fulfilled and grateful for what they have. I am one of those people. This is my community service. I am not doing this for money and I never have. Money cannot buy passion. The nature of majestic Australia helped me find peace and passion and I want to give back by sharing that inspiring nature with people new to this country. If they are also inspired by that nature, then that is my reward. There is no hidden agenda in doing this project. The reason I am being quite upfront is because in this day and age, there is always a catch when people do something like this. There is none with me and I am not selling or promoting anything. I do not need anything because I have peace, passion and fulfilment. I have everything. I am truly humbled and grateful. Photos from road trips are on Instagram link below: [Instagram: Road Trips by The Dancing Voyager: Ron Singh](https://www.instagram.com/the_dancing_voyager_ron_trips) **\-\-\- \(4\) RESPONSIBILITY\, LIABILITY\, SAFETY \-\-\-** As your driver, I am responsible and liable for your safety while we are in the vehicle. Passengers are insured as per the Australian law. For times we are outside the vehicle, we then become responsible for our own liability and safety, just like every other capable adult in society. **\-\-\- \(5\) BREAKS/MEALS \-\-\-** There will be many breaks for sightseeing/walks. I will stop at places where food/snacks will be sold but you are welcome to bring your own as well. There will be a lunch break at either a cafe or takeaway shop. **\-\-\- \(6\) WEATHER AND WHAT TO WEAR \-\-\-** I plan events when weather looks good but please also see itinerary for location details and check the forecast to dress accordingly. My advice is to always be prepared! Recommend to have something to cover you if rain suddenly appears or if winds suddenly get cool. Also recommend to carry sunscreen and a hat. Please also wear good, comfortable shoes that can provide protection from water (in case there are muddy areas). You can bring many things, as the vehicle will have a lot of storage space. My road trips do not have a lot of long walks. The focus is on sightseeing, relaxing and appreciating the beauty of nature. **\-\-\- \(7\) PHONE CHARGING \-\-\-** Please charge your phone before joining. In the past, people have taken lots of videos and photos and used up their batteries! You can bring your charging cable if you want. The vehicle will have various charging ports. **\-\-\- \(8\) CONTACT \-\-\-** If you need to contact me, please reach out through Meetup, Eventbrite or Instagram. If you wanted my mobile number, please let me know.

# There’s a quiet beauty to this landscape a blend of wetlands, bushland and lakes. a place where water, woodland, and open sky meet in a gentle mosaic of lakes, wetlands, and bushland. This walk invites us to slow down and wander through one of the most ecologically rich pockets of the Dandenong Creek corridor. # **📍 Meeting Point** **Tirhatuan Park, 4 Kriegel Way, Dandenong North VIC 3175** **( Google plus code: 363C+JV Dandenong North VIC, Australia )** # **🕙 Start Time: 10am** **(please arrive a bit earlier so we can start on time)** # **🥾 About This Walk** The area is home to **diverse birdlife**, the soft calls of **frogs**, and the quiet movement of **fish** beneath the surface. Along the way, the presence of **Dandenong Creek** and open views toward the **Police Road Retarding Basin** add to the sense of space and calm. It’s a walk filled with subtle beauty — shifting light on water, the rustle of bushland, and the gentle rhythms of a thriving natural ecosystem. A relaxed, social walk through along flat paths, with time to enjoy nature and connect with others. Everyone is welcome — whether you’re building fitness, seeking community, or simply wanting a peaceful moment outdoors. # **📏 Distance & Difficulty** **Distance: 11km** **Grade: 3** **Difficulty: Moderate** **Duration: 3 hours** # **🎒 What to Bring** Water, snacks, weather‑appropriate clothing, comfortable shoes, sunscreen/hat, and any personal items you need. Dogs - there is an off leash area at Tirhatuan Park and dogs can come on the walk on leash. # **🌦 Weather & Safety** We hike in all conditions unless they become unsafe. If strong winds, storms, extreme heat, or track closures arise, we may adjust or postpone the walk. # **⚠️ Safety Disclaimer** This is a social, community‑led outing, not a guided or professionally supervised activity. By attending, you accept responsibility for your own safety and wellbeing. The route may include uneven ground, water crossings, and natural hazards. Please consider your fitness and bring suitable gear. Our volunteers carry first aid, an emergency radio, and satellite communication devices, but these are not a substitute for personal preparedness. # **❤️ About Walking With Grace** Walking With Grace is a faith‑inspired, non‑profit community that welcomes people from all backgrounds and beliefs. Our hikes are volunteer‑run and focused on connection, kindness, and enjoying nature together. This event is part of club.hiking.org.au — a friendly community for sharing adventures and GPX files. Because Adventures Are Meant to Be Shared. # **🌟 We Look Forward to Sharing This Adventure With You**

Join me for a family friendly afternoon walk, coffee and a game of bocce in the Royal Botanic Gardens. This environment is a stunning place to relax, explore, and make new connections in all seasons. There are winding paths, groves, lakes, lawns and more than 8,500 species of plants. We will stop in at the Terrace cafe for takeaways, or bring your own drinks and snacks and we can stop for a chat and a game on the lawns. Our walk will finish at the Shrine of Remembrance to see the beautiful views of the city. This walk is rated easy, it is relatively flat and we will walk at a slow to moderate pace so we can socialise along the way. There are a few sections with stairs but there are alternative pathways close by. **Agenda:** I will meet you at **2pm** at the circular sculpture near the Observatory & Visitors Centre, 100 Birdwood Avenue. There is a map and photo of the meeting place below. We will head off no later than **2.15pm** We will reach the Terrace Cafe by **3pm**, have a coffee and a game of bocce on the lawns, then explore the gardens finishing at the Shrine of Remembrance at 5pm. When you RSVP **please click Attend** on the event page and I will be in touch about the details via direct message. As this is a rain or shine event I will also be available in the Event Comments on the day, and add any updates there if needed regarding weather conditions.

Hey! 😊 **Note:** This event is posted on multiple platforms, so more people come than just the RSVPs here. This is a **Speed Dating event** ❤️ **Why participate:** Easy way to meet your **new girlfriend / boyfriend!** No need to go first or stress, **the host does everything for you.** Easy way to find **new friends.** **🎫 GET YOUR TICKET HERE: 🎫** **www.datemap.net/melbourne -** (if link doesn’t work - it means we sold out) 🕊️ **Changed plans?** Just DM us 24h before the event for **full refund**! 😊 ❗ **Note:** We usually sell out around **1 week** before the event! ❤️ **Why People Love Our Events:** ⚖️ **50/50 gender ratio guaranteed** \- cared for closely so the numbers stay balanced 😌 **Professional host included** \- the host guides everything for you ☺️ **Relaxed, welcoming atmosphere** \- easy\, friendly\, and no awkward moments 🎉 **Friendly people** \- everyone is usually very sweet and polite\! 🧭 **YOUR FIRST TIME? 😊 HERE IS HOW IT WORKS:** 🧭 You have a **5 min conversation** with every participant ⏱️ You will have **question cards** on every table! Men rotate every 5 minutes, women stay seated. At the end you get your matches. ❤️ 📍 **LOCATION:** The venue location is sent to **ticket holders** after purchase. It is always a big cafe lounge in central Melbourne. 💌 **QUESTIONS?** Email us! We reply to everyone! **🎫 GET YOUR TICKET HERE: 🎫** **www.datemap.net/melbourne -** (if link doesn’t work - it means we sold out) 🕊️ **Changed plans?** Just DM us 24h before the event for **full refund**! 😊 ❗ **Note:** We usually sell out around **1 week** before the event! I’m really excited to welcome you! See you on Saturday! 😊❤️

We will meet at the starting point and take a round trip within Elsternwick Park (See **Getting There** 👇 for direction). Please feel free to BYO a coffee or a drink bottle. Dress for comfort and outdoor walking. Come along & simply say, "Hi, it's my first time joining the group event." or ask the organisers to introduce you. You can take it slow and start from there. If you enjoyed the conversation, you're welcome to continue on afterwards. **\-\-\- Running Late \-\-\-** If you are running late, please message at least 30 mins in advance. We will wait up to 15 mins before heading off. We won't be able to keep track of messages once we start. **\-\-\- Getting There \-\-\-** Via Sandringham Train Line : Elsternwick Station Via tram: Take tram line no. 67 Via bus: Take no. 630 bus Via car: parking is available at the park **\-\-\- RSVP / Change of Plan \-\-\-** Change of plan or decide not to attend is absolutely okay. Please do update your RSVP to "NO", so others can have the opportunity to attend. **\-\-\- Intro \-\-\-** Kudos 2 Friends is a Melbourne based community created for individuals who are looking to expand their social circle and form long term friendship overtime. Join us on a fun journey as we explore cafes, restaurants and bars, including drinks, meals, outings, hiking, sporting, chilling, etc. Above all, we’d like to celebrate the importance of friendships. So if you are looking to expand your social circle and explore new adventures and venues in Melbourne, come join us! **— Heylo App Group —** We use Heylo App for more fluid communication, including ideas, interest groups, questions etc. Please let the organizer know if you would like to be added to the WhatsApp Group at the event. We will send an invite to attendees to the group. (give us some time) **\-\-\- Rules \-\-\-** Admin will only add members to the group with a clear profile picture. (No hidden behind sunglasses, masks, drawings) **You might be removed from the group in the case of…** * no show * without a clear profile picture * anti-social behaviour (i.e. acts rude / disrespectful regularly) * take advantage of individuals for personal gain(s) **\-\-\- Privacy \-\-\-** Do not disclose your contact number in this post comment. We will delete your comment/info as soon as we see it to protect your privacy.

WHEN: **Every Sunday** MEET TIME: **8:50am** START TIME: **9:00am** MEET LOCATION: **Jells Park, Wheelers Hill** (Meet outside of the "T House at Jells" Cafe) DISTANCE: **5km** DIFFICULTY: **Easy** COST: **Free** **ABOUT THIS WALK** Come along for our free weekly Jells Park Social Walk, a relaxed and scenic Sunday morning walk through one of Melbourne’s most loved parks. We’ll meet at Jells Park "T House at Jells" Cafe and set off at 9:00am (sharp) for an easy paced social walk through beautiful open parkland, peaceful walking trails and lakeside surrounds. This walk is designed to be enjoyable, welcoming and suitable for a wide range of fitness levels, with plenty of fresh air, great conversation and a relaxed community vibe. The total walk is approximately 5km and is expected to take around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the group and pace. After the walk, anyone who would like to can stay around for a coffee and chat. This walk goes ahead rain, hail or shine. **WHAT TO EXPECT** Expect an easy, friendly and social walk with a relaxed pace. Jells Park offers a great mix of scenic lake views, open green spaces, birdlife and well formed walking paths, making it a perfect setting for a Sunday morning stroll. This walk is all about connection, movement and starting the day well. **WHO CAN COME** Everyone is welcome. Whether you come on your own, with a friend, or you’re brand new to Social Walks, we’d love to have you join us. **WHAT TO BRING** * Water * Comfortable walking shoes * Weather appropriate clothing * A hat and sunscreen if it’s sunny * A rain jacket if wet weather is forecast **PUBLIC TRANSPORT** Jells Park is best accessed by car. If you need a lift, you may be able to organise a carpool with others in the Melbourne Social Walks Facebook group. **IMPORTANT INFO** By attending this event, you acknowledge that you are participating at your own risk. Please make sure this walk is suitable for your fitness and health level. Children are welcome if supervised by a parent or guardian at all times. Dogs are welcome if they are friendly, well behaved and kept under effective control in line with local laws. **ABOUT SOCIAL WALKS** Social Walks is all about bringing people together through walking, hiking, adventure and community connection

**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'll get in around 4 miles at Three Creeks Metro Parks, primarily natural trails. 17-18 minute miles, no one left behind, and faster walkers are free to lead out. Optional lunch after! If you're joining for hiking all the metro parks, this is the sixth one!

**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.

Let’s meet and wander the galleries! General admission on Sundays is free.