Park

Join us for a 3 day intensive trekking in the Julian Alps and one cultural evening in Venice (for those who survive)! The Julian Alps are a stunning, limestone-dominated mountain range stretching from northeastern Italy into northwestern Slovenia. We will operate on the border of Italy and Slovenia (Julian Prealps). Possible attack on the Kanin summit (2587m). Very good physical condition required (approximately 800m ascents with 10-15kg backpacks per day,6-8h trek/day). 2 nights in unmanned mountain huts, last night near Venice (sightseeing/Vivalidi's concert?). Mountain/snow experience/equipment not required. The schedule: 22.5 - 04:00 a.m. departure (the car of the trip leader) to Charleroi Airport, flight: 06:45 to Venice Treviso (or the day earlier for those who prefer)-> Stolvizza (by rented car - possibility of teleworking from the car in the morning of 22/5 for those who can ;)(650m)-> mountain hut 1 (1450m), possible ascent towards Kanin summit on the same day (or the next one). 23.5 - mountain hut 1-> Bivacco Franco (1700m) -> (optional) pass Med Baban (2031m)-> Forcella Predolina->Monte Guarda and Plange-> mountain hut 2 (1200m). 24.5 - mountain hut 2-> Monte Plagne->Capella del Chila->Stolvizza (car)->evening in Venice->Hotel 25.5 (national holidays in BE) flight from Venice Treviso 11:50 (or 17:50 or the next day for those, who wish) to Charleroi ->13:30 return to BXL by the car of trip leader around 15:00. We will share the real costs equally + small organising fee for the Sunday Vacations/ Ujamaa ASBL platform. Budget (excluding meals, attractions in Venice and flight tickets-currently at 150E return ticket): car (Italy+Belgium+parking)+fuel, 1x20kg checked-in luggage, hotel in Venice (1 night) = around 150 EUR/pp. 4 or 9 people maximum (mountain huts/cars constraints)

Ready to shake off the work week and channel your inner rockstar? Join us for an unforgettable night of music, drinks, and questionable vocal choices at Red Karaoke in the heart of Brussels! Whether you’re a shower-singer extraordinaire or a seasoned stage pro, this is your night to shine. From timeless classics to the latest chart-toppers, we’ve got a microphone with your name on it. 🕒 The Game Plan * When: This Friday * Time: 9:00 PM (We’ll grab drinks first to find our "liquid courage") * Where: Red Karaoke, Brussels * Vibe: High energy, zero judgment, and 100% fun. 📝 What to Expect * Meet & Greet: We’ll gather at the bar at 9:00 PM to introduce ourselves before the singing starts. * The Playlist: Red Karaoke has an extensive library. Start thinking of your "go-to" song now! * No Pressure: Not a singer? No problem! We need enthusiastic backup dancers and professional "applause-givers" too. 📍 Logistics * Entry: Please RSVP so I can manage the table/booth booking. * Costs: Everyone covers their own drinks and their share of the room/singing fee (if applicable). * Finding Us: I’ll post our exact spot in the comments/chat on the night of the event. Look for the group laughing the loudest! > Pro Tip: Friday nights get busy! Please arrive on time so we can maximize our stage time. Let’s make some noise, Brussels! 🥂

🏃‍♂️ Sunday Vacations | Train Together, Finish Together --- Thinking about joining the **20km of Brussels on May 31st**… but don’t want to train alone? 👉 Join our **after-work training group** and prepare together in a fun, social, and motivating atmosphere. Whether you're a beginner or already running regularly — **you’re welcome.** --- ## 📆 Weekly Runs (April → May) We train **twice a week after work**: ### 🔵 Once per week – Easy Social Run 👉 Perfect to build consistency and meet the group --- ### 🟣 Once per week – Long Run (Main Session) * Distance increases every week * Structured pace groups 👉 This is the **key session** to prepare for the 20km --- ## 🏳️ Follow Your Flag (Pace Groups) To keep things simple, we use the official **20km Brussels pacemaker system**: * 🟠 **Beginner (≈ 2h15)** Run/walk friendly — just aim to finish * 🟣 **Steady (≈ 2h00)** Comfortable and regular pace * 🟢 **Intermediate (≈ 1h45)** Faster group for those who want a challenge 👉 Not sure? Start easy — you can switch anytime. --- ## 📊 Long Run Progression We gradually build up to the race: 6 km → 8 km → 10 km → 12 km → 14 km → 16 km → 18 km 🔥 * lighter week before the race --- ## 🏁 Goal 📅 Sunday 31 May 2026 🎯 Run the 20km of Brussels — together --- ## 💡 What to expect * Friendly, international group 🌍 * No one left behind * Natural pace groups * Motivating and social vibe 👉 We start together, run in groups, and finish together. --- ## ☕ After the run Optional drink or snack — because it’s also about **meeting people and having fun** --- ## ⚠️ Practical info * Bring water * Wear proper running shoes * Join at your own responsibility * Beginners welcome --- ## 🌍 About Sunday Vacations We are a **Brussels-based community** organizing social activities, hikes, and trips. 👉 This training is part of our mission: **bringing people together through shared experiences** --- ## 🔗 Participation To join, a **Sunday Vacations membership** is required: * Explorer (€5/year) → + €5 organizing fee * Voyager (€50/year) → no organizing fee * Ambassador (€150/year) → no organizing fee + perks 👉 Details: [www.sundayvacations.com/membership](http://www.sundayvacations.com/membership) --- 🔥 Don’t train alone — join us and enjoy the journey to the 20km!

We do cycles of 4-6 weeks, with a progressive intensity, and the last session is lighter. Program: 15’ warm up **To be defined** Cool down to get back to the starting point… or more S=All out sprint RF = Run fast, at MAS (Maximum aerobic speed) CF = Run comfortably fast (1h threshold) J = Jog, recuperation Notes: It should take about one hour in total, as the cool down will end when we reach back to the meeting point. It's NOT required to have an activity tracker or smart watch to be able to follow the program, as I'll be giving signals with a whistle. For the "run" part, you can follow your own pace and we'll be regrouping in the "jog" part. Intervals training is not advised for total beginners. To have an idea, the average pace at the warm up is around 5'45"/km-6'/km so this pace should feel very comfortable ***Acknowledgement of member responsibility and release of liability.*** By signing up for this event, you agree to release the organizers from any responsibility and liability in all claims. As the participation is strictly voluntary and you freely choose to join, it is the responsibility of individuals participating to ensure that they are fit enough and have adequate coverage to protect themselves.

Info & booking: [https://ploef.eu/fr/events/concert-handpan-flute-traversiere-et-violoncelle/](https://ploef.eu/fr/events/concert-handpan-flute-traversiere-et-violoncelle/) Suite à un désistement le trio initialement prévu est remplacé par un duo Handpan Sitar Porté par **Gérard Spencer**, l’un des pionniers du handpan en Belgique, ce projet propose une musique à la fois intime et immersive, où se rencontrent **musique du monde, fusion acoustique et atmosphères méditatives**. Sur scène, Gérard joue simultanément du handpan, du didgeridoo et des percussions, créant une base rythmique et mélodique riche et vibrante. Il sera accompagné par Joachim Lacrosse au Sitar Envie de découvrir avant le concert? Un moment musical chaleureux et captivant, qui transforme chaque lieu en espace d’écoute et de voyage. Participation en conscience (prix conseillé: 15€) ``` Due to a cancellation, the originally planned trio has been replaced by a Handpan Sitar duo. Led by Gérard Spencer, one of the pioneers of the handpan in Belgium, this project offers music that is both intimate and immersive, where world music, acoustic fusion, and meditative atmospheres converge. On stage, Gérard plays the handpan, didgeridoo, and percussion simultaneously, creating a rich and vibrant rhythmic and melodic foundation. He will be accompanied by Joachim Lacrosse on the sitar. Want to discover it before the concert? A warm and captivating musical experience that transforms any venue into a space for listening and exploration. Pay what you can (suggested price: €15) ``` [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dtl7MxeXCJw&source_ve_path=MjM4NTE&embeds_referring_euri=https%3A%2F%2Fploef.eu%2F](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dtl7MxeXCJw&source_ve_path=MjM4NTE&embeds_referring_euri=https%3A%2F%2Fploef.eu%2F)

## 💃 Dance & Meet Experience – Afterwork pour danser et rencontrer *Scroll down for EN* 📅 Vendredi 22 Mai 📍 Barabar 🕖 18h – 21h Et si on changeait la façon de faire des rencontres à Bruxelles ? Bienvenue à **Dance & Meet Experience**, un concept original qui mêle **danse, rencontres et bonne énergie** dans une atmosphère conviviale et élégante. Inspiré de la nouvelle tendance des **soirées dansantes en début de soirée**, cet événement vous permet de profiter pleinement de l’ambiance festive **sans devoir sortir toute la nuit**. Après le travail, venez vous détendre, bouger, rencontrer de nouvelles personnes et partager un moment vibrant — tout en gardant votre soirée libre. *** ### ✨ Le concept **Dance & Meet Experience** n’est pas simplement une soirée. C’est une **expérience sociale autour de la danse**, conçue pour favoriser des rencontres naturelles et authentiques. La soirée combine : • une atmosphère chaleureuse et ouverte • de la musique entraînante pour faire bouger tout le monde • des rencontres spontanées • une énergie festive mais détendue Pas de pression, pas de formats artificiels : **la musique et la danse créent naturellement les connexions.** *** ### 💫 Ce qui vous attend • une ambiance internationale et conviviale • un dancefloor accessible à tous • des rencontres simples et naturelles • une énergie afterwork positive Que vous veniez **seul(e) ou avec des amis**, l’atmosphère est faite pour que chacun se sente rapidement à l’aise. *** ### 🕺 Pour qui ? Pour les personnes à Bruxelles qui ont envie de : • rencontrer de nouvelles personnes • danser et relâcher la pression de la journée • vivre une soirée élégante et différente *** 👗 **Dress code :** smart casual / chic décontracté 📍 Lieu : Barabar 📅 Date : Friday 22 Mai ⏰ Horaire : 18h – 21h 🎟 **Ticket\*:** 12 euros **\*Restez en contact** avec l'**ambassadeur** pour l'obtenir. ✨ **Danser. Rencontrer. Ressentir l’expérience.** # 💃 Dance & Meet Experience – Afterwork Party & Social Vibes 📅 Friday 22 Mai 📍 Barabar – Brussels 🕖 18:00 – 21:00 Looking for a different way to meet new people in Brussels? Welcome to **Dance & Meet Experience**, a fresh social concept where **music, movement and connection** meet in a relaxed and elegant atmosphere. Inspired by the new wave of **early-night dance events**, this experience offers the joy of dancing and socializing **without the late-night exhaustion**. The idea is simple: come after work, move your body, meet inspiring people and enjoy a vibrant evening — all while still having your night ahead. ✨ **The concept** Dance & Meet Experience is not just a party. It’s a **social dance experience designed to spark authentic connections**. The evening blends: • a friendly and stylish crowd • uplifting music to get everyone on the dancefloor • spontaneous encounters and conversations • a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere No pressure, no complicated icebreakers — **just music, energy and human connection**. 💫 **What to expect** • A welcoming international crowd • Great music to dance and connect • A social atmosphere where meeting people feels natural • A vibrant afterwork energy Whether you come **with friends or alone**, you will quickly feel part of the experience. 🕺 **Who is it for?** Professionals, expats, creatives and curious minds in Brussels who want to: • meet new people • dance and release stress • enjoy a classy yet relaxed social evening 💡 **Dress code:** Smart casual / stylish 📍 **Location:** Barabar – Brussels 📅 **Date:** Friday 22 May ⏰ **Time:** 18:00 – 21:00 🎟 **Ticket\*:** 12 euros \***Stay in contact** with the **ambassador** to obtain it. Come for the music. Stay for the connections. ✨ **Dance. Meet. Experience.**

Making news Friends doesn’t not be hard at all🤍❤️

What's up Friends! 👋 If the weather gods feel generous 🌤️, we’re going full park mode: picnic 🧺🌳, games, laughs… and a touch of chaos ✨ ‼️If not - we'll switch to the usual indoor format at Le Pantin or Café Leopold PDN. 📍Where Park Cinquantenaire, Tour de Tournai 🏰 (that little castle-looking thingy in the park). Can’t find us? 🤷‍♀️ Just ping me here. 💡 The Idea Chill picnic: bring your own drinks 🧃, snacks 🥪🍓, blanket, and games 🎲🏸 (sharing always appreciated 😋). We’ll break into small groups depending on the vibe: games, chats, sports. ⏱️ Timing We kick off at 14:00. Stay as long as you like. Joining later? Just drop a message in the chat in case we decide to move 😊. 🎲🏸 Games All games are welcome in the park - boards, cards, balls, random stuff! I’ll have a few with me, but feel free to add your own favorites too. 🚦On the waitlist but really want to join? Or got any questions? Just DM me. 📢 Extra info might drop in the group chat or via DM 💬. Check your messages 👀 the day before so you don't miss anything critical 🙄. 🐈‍⬛ The Friends Code: 👉 Games we play = group decision 👉 Smaller groups = cozier vibes 👉 Got a favorite game? Suggest it or show up with it 👉 Can't make it? Cancel on time so someone on the waitlist can grab your spot 👉 If you’re on the waitlist, showing up is at your own risk 😄 See you there, folks 😉

## Escape Brussels for a Sunny Coastal Sunday 🌿 Need a break from the city routine? Join Sunday Vacations for a relaxed coastal escape to the beautiful Zwin nature area near Knokke-Heist — one of Belgium’s most scenic seaside landscapes. This experience is all about slowing down, enjoying nature, meeting new people, and spending a meaningful Sunday outdoors with an international community of expats, locals, and solo joiners. We’ll follow the shorter 9.2 km Zwin walking loop, a beginner-friendly route surrounded by dunes, coastal scenery, peaceful walking paths, and fresh sea air. During the walk, we’ll enjoy a relaxed beach picnic and social time by the sea. Sunny weather is expected — perfect for a spring nature escape. ☀️ ## Event Type 🌿 Curated Experience ## Highlights - Scenic 9.2 km coastal nature walk - Beginner-friendly hiking pace - Beach picnic & seaside relaxation - International & expat-friendly community - Solo joiners welcome - Nature escape from Brussels - Meaningful conversations & relaxed social vibe - Slow Sunday outdoors ## Plan / Itinerary ### Morning 📍 Meet at Brussels Central Station (in front of Starbucks) ⏰ Meeting time: 08:30 🚆 Train departure: 08:43 We’ll travel together toward the Zwin coastal area near Knokke-Heist. ### During the Day - Start of the 9.2 km Zwin walking route - Relaxed social hiking pace - Coastal scenery & nature viewpoints - Beach picnic stop - Free time to relax, connect, and enjoy the sea atmosphere ### Evening Return to Brussels by train after the beach stop and group relaxation time. (Exact return timing may vary slightly depending on the group pace and weather conditions.) ## Meeting Point 📍 Brussels Central Station In front of Starbucks Please arrive on time — trains will not wait. ## Price / Contribution ### Sunday Vacations Member Pricing - Ambassador Members → Free - Voyager Members → Free - Explorer Members → €5 contribution 🚆 Train tickets are paid individually by participants. We strongly recommend checking SNCB weekend discounts and Train+ offers before booking. VAT not applicable – small business exemption scheme, Article 56bis Belgian VAT Code. ## Membership ### Sunday Vacations Memberships - Explorer → starting at €5/year - Voyager → starting at €50/year - Ambassador → starting at €150/year Sunday Vacations is a community for internationals, expats, and locals who want to discover Belgium and beyond through meaningful shared experiences. ## Who This Is For This experience is ideal for: - Nature lovers - People looking to meet new people naturally - Anyone wanting a peaceful Sunday away from the city No hiking experience required. ## What to Bring - Comfortable walking shoes - Picnic/snacks - Water - Sunscreen - Light wind/rain layer - Portable charger (recommended) - Positive energy ✨ Please check your preferred weather forecast source before departure and dress accordingly. ## Important Notes - Beginner-friendly experience - Distance: approximately 9.2 km - Dogs are not allowed - Participants are responsible for booking their own train tickets - WhatsApp coordination group will be shared before departure - Sunny weather is expected, but conditions may still change - Respect for nature and group atmosphere is important ## Legal Disclaimer Sunday Vacations / UJAMAA ASBL acts as a community organiser and not as a travel agency. Participants remain individually responsible for: - transportation, - personal insurance, - physical condition, - and personal belongings during the activity. Activities are organised by volunteers and covered under the Belgian legal volunteer insurance framework. This experience may involve third-party transport providers including SNCB. ## Call to Action Ready for sea air, nature, and good company? Come spend your Sunday exploring one of Belgium’s most beautiful coastal areas with a welcoming international community. 🌊🌿 Solo joiners are always welcome. RSVP early so we can coordinate the group smoothly.

**Come join us for a friendly social run at Parc du Cinquantenaire** 🌳🏛️ We’ll meet at Parc du Cinquantenaire, Brussels and run either 5 km, depending on how everyone feels on the day. All levels are welcome 🤝 The focus is on enjoying the run, staying active, and meeting new people. Bring your running shoes 👟, water 💧, and positive energy . **📍 Location: Parc du Cinquantenaire, Brussels** **📞 Contact: 0471695419** Let’s enjoy a great run together! 🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️✨

This Sunday we will do around 10Km walk in the sonian forest starting from the parking by Bistro Pilko. The walk will look like this: https://mapy.com/s/nudoluhave After the walk we will stay for a drink/bite in the terrace of Bistro Pilko. For further details, you can contact me +32472828639

Join Sunday Vacations for a cozy Saturday brunch at **Aksum Coffee House**, one of Brussels’ most beautiful cafés, where rich Ethiopian coffee, fresh Moroccan crêpes, and vibrant international vibes meet in perfect harmony. This is more than just brunch, it’s a relaxed way to start your weekend, meet new people, and enjoy a soulful spot full of stories and flavors. ### 📍 Where? **Aksum Coffee House – Galeries Sainte Hubert (Just a few steps from Grand Place) ### 🕚 When? **Saturday at 11:30 AM** Come hungry, curious, and ready to mingle! ### 🍽️ What’s on the menu? ☕ Fresh-roasted Ethiopian coffee 🥞 Moroccan-style crêpes & artisan pastries 🥚 Tasty brunch dishes (vegetarian options too) 🧾 Everyone pays their own order at the counter. ### 👋 Who’s joining? Expect a mix of international professionals, friendly locals, and Sunday Vacations regulars. Solo? New in town? Come anyway, this is the perfect place to connect. --- 🧡 **Limited spots** – RSVP early to secure your place at the table. By joining this event, you agree to the Sunday Vacations [Terms & Conditions](https://www.sundayvacations.com/terms), [Privacy Policy](https://www.sundayvacations.com/privacy) & [Code of Conduct](https://www.sundayvacations.com/code)

You are invited to join hike #2 of the Meetup group "**Walking, Talking, maybe a Picknick**". **Intro** We're going to hike **22km** on the **Kalmthoutse heide**, one of the most scenic nature areas of Belgium. This time we start from **station Wildert**, finishing at the Arboretum near Station Kalmthout. Contrary to Kalmthout station, sufficient car parking space available at station Wildert. **By car** Participants arriving by car in station Wildert carpark (Sint-Jansstraat 28, Essen), after the hike will obviously need to take a train from Kalmthout back to their car. Travel time Bxl to Wildert by car approx 1h15. Travel time Kalmthout to Wildert by train 4 minutes (17:20/18:20) To car arrivals, please be on time as **We will leave at 10:30.** **By train** Travel time **BxlC** to Wildert approx 1h30+. **08:49** platform 1 Travel time **AntwC** to Wildert approx 30+ min. 09:50 platform 21 The train should arrive Wildert 10:24. **We will start the hike at 10:30.** Travel time Kalmthout to Bxl 1h20 16:41/17:41/... platform 1 **The hike and your preparation** This 22km hike will take approx 6 hours, including necessary breaks. Bring-your-own-lunch, as we will be not close to catering of any kind . The weather forecast suggests sunny, few clouds, 24 °C, make sure to carry enough water, a hat and sun cream. **Optional** After the hike participants may want to join for a drink on the terrace of the Arboretum buffet. The **Arboretum** closes at 17h. Some may want to visit the excellent Arboretum, currently with plenty plants like Rododendron/Azalea/etc in spring blossom. Later some may also want to join for a diner at a Kalmthout/Wildert restaurant. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ To cover my costs as a Meetup organiser I'm going to ask for a voluntary calendar year contribution starting with hike #2. #/ Price / Contribution **Community contribution:** €5 for non members Includes: *Event organisation - Group coordination *Guided community hiking experience Not included: - Train tickets *Food & drinks - Personal expenses ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

***CE DIMANCHE 24.05 > GAY FRIENDLY RENDEZ-VOUS*** ***LA CROQUE OPEN AIR XXL \- FREE ENTRANCE 🌈 TERRASSE O2 & LES APRÈS\-MIDIS CROQUE\-MONSIEUR \| SUNDAY 24\.05*** 🌈☀️ **LA CROQUE OPEN AIR XXL** ☀️🌈 **Terrasse O₂ x Les Après-Midis Croque-Monsieur** 📅 **Dimanche 24 mai** \| 🕔 17:00 → 00:00 *** 💘✨ **LOVE • SUN • MUSIC • FREEDOM** ✨💘 Prépare-toi pour une édition XXL de **La Croque Open Air** dans l’un des spots les plus stylés de Bruxelles : **La Terrasse O₂** 🌿🌇 Un lieu unique avec : 🌞 Grande terrasse en bois baignée de soleil 💦 Piscine centrale pour se rafraîchir 🌴 Vibes naturelles & ambiance chill ✨ Lumières chaleureuses au coucher du soleil *** 🎉 **UN OPEN AIR COMME ON LES AIME** 🎉 🍹 Drinks frais & cocktails d’été 🎶 Sounds feel good : classics + hits actuels 💃 Dance, chill & sunset energy 💞 Espace rencontres & good vibes only 👉 Une atmosphère libre, safe & inclusive — **LGBTQIA+ friendly** 🌈 Viens comme tu es. Aime. Danse. Profite. *** 🎟️ **ENTRÉE GRATUITE** ➡️ Prends ton ticket : [https://www.partyfinder.com/en/event/16140](https://www.partyfinder.com/en/event/16140) ➡️ Event FB : [https://fb.me/e/4kTTV44pY](https://fb.me/e/4kTTV44pY) *** 🔥 **LE PLAN PARFAIT DU DIMANCHE** 🔥 On trinque, on danse, on profite du soleil… et on crée des souvenirs magiques ensemble ✨ Parce que cette soirée sera spéciale grâce à **toi** 💖 *** 📍 **La Terrasse O₂** 51-53 Chaussée de La Hulpe, 1180 Bruxelles 🕔 17:00 → 00:00 *** 🎶 Direction artistique : Gabriel Lelièvre 🌈 **OPEN TO ALL – ALL LOVE WELCOME** 🌍💫 *** 🕖 17h00 → 00h00 🎩 La Terrasse O2 : 51-53 Chaussée de La Hulpe -1180, Bruxelles

**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.