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Yes! Check out park events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.

Discover all the park events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.

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Park Events Today

Join in-person Park events happening right now

Thursday 5k Park Run
Thursday 5k Park Run
Letโ€™s shake off the Thursday blues with some easy kilometers. This is a no-drop social run designed to keep the heart rate down and the vibes high. Meetup: 18:55 (for a quick briefing) Start Time: 19:00h ๐Ÿ“Meeting Point: Guingette Maurice, Parc Du Cinquaintenaire - In front of the Monument for European Solidarity (Intwined hands) ๐Ÿ‘Ÿ Target Pace: 6:30 โ€“ 7:00 min/km Distance: 5.0 km Effort Level: Conversational. If you can't speak in full sentences, we're going too fast! ๐Ÿ“ Note No Bag/Sweater Drop
Evening Walk Woluwe Brussels
Evening Walk Woluwe Brussels
Join us for a laid-back **2-hour evening walk** in the green surrouindings of Brussels. Expect a **social, easy-paced stroll** with good company, relaxed vibes, and plenty of time to chat. We discover the green parts of Woluwe. ๐Ÿ•— **When:** Evening ๐Ÿšถ **Duration:** About 2 hours ๐Ÿฅค **Bring your own drink** โ€“ something refreshing to enjoy as we walk ๐Ÿ’ฌ **Open to all** โ€“ solo walkers, locals, and newcomers alike Letโ€™s walk, relax, and connectโ€”Brussels-style.
Rooftop Sunset Bowling and Social at Sablon
Rooftop Sunset Bowling and Social at Sablon
Join us bowling and drinks at Crosly Bowling. We'll kick off the night with a few rounds of bowling on one of their 25 lanes, offering both classic and disco-themed experiences. Whether you're a seasoned bowler or a first-timer, it's all about fun and making friends. It's the perfect opportunity to unwind, socialize, and take an evening drink with other people. The cost of the event is **12 euro**, which includes one game + shoes rental + organisational fees, to give to the host at the beginning of the event. PLEASE NOTE: We are asking this time to bring the amount IN CASH to make things smoother for the person that will collect the money. The host won't be able to exchange the money for everyone, so please make sure to bring the right amount. Any additional game, drink or snack will be at personal expenses. Please note that for respect of the participants, we are asking to be **on time** to the event. People that arrive late might not be able to play. **Additional Information:** *Crosly Bowling is located just 500 meters from Brussels Central Station, making it easily accessible by public transport. - Feel free to invite friends or colleagues; the more, the merrier! We look forward to seeing you there for an evening of fun, relaxation, and spectacular views!
๐Ÿ‹๏ธโ€โ™€๏ธ Thursday After-Work fitness workout F45 x Sunday Vacations
๐Ÿ‹๏ธโ€โ™€๏ธ Thursday After-Work fitness workout F45 x Sunday Vacations
Shake off the workday and train with a welcoming crew of internationals and Brussels professionals. This is a **co-hosted session with F45 Brussels**โ€”fast, fun, and coached circuit training that fits perfectly after work. **Why join?** * **Community vibe:** Friendly, social, in English. * **All levels welcome:** Coaches demo every move with **easier/harder options**. * **Time-smart:** 45 minutes, full-body, high energy, great music. * **Accountability:** Come with the group, leave with endorphins. **What weโ€™ll do** 1. Quick intro & warm-up 2. **F45 functional circuits** (intervals that mix strength + cardio) 3. Team finisher & cool down 4. Optional post workout social drink/rooftop bowling nearby (meet new people, not just new burpees ๐Ÿ˜‰) **Good to know** * **When:** Thursday, **6:30 PM start** (arrive 6:15 to check in) * **Where:** **F45 Brussels** (Brussels Central Station) Galeries Ravenstein * **Bring:** Clean trainers, towel, water bottle * **Fitness level:** Beginner to advanced (scalable stations) * **Capacity:** Limited spots โ€” **RSVP required** * **Price:** Free weekly tryout **Who this is for** * New in Brussels and want a **friendly fitness + social** routine * Busy professional looking for a **structured, coached** workout * Sunday Vacations regulars who want to stay fit for hikes & trips **About F45** F45 = **Functional 45-minute training**: coach-led, station-based, results-driven. Expect variety, technique tips, and a positive team atmosphere. See you on the floor at 6:30! ๐Ÿ’ช๐Ÿฝโœจ 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)
THE FOOTBALL VILLAGE๐Ÿ“Œ PLACE WIENER - GUINGUETTE DE BOITSFORT | FREE ENTRANCEย 
THE FOOTBALL VILLAGE๐Ÿ“Œ PLACE WIENER - GUINGUETTE DE BOITSFORT | FREE ENTRANCEย 
THE FOOTBALL VILLAGE BRUSSELS ๐Ÿ“Œ PLACE WIENER \- GUINGUETTE DE BOITSFORT \| FREE ENTRANCE โšฝ๐Ÿ”ฅ LIFE IS FOOTBALL & FOOTBALL IS AT THE FOOTBALL VILLAGE BRUSSELS ๐Ÿ”ฅโšฝ ๐Ÿ† WORLD CUP 2026 ๐Ÿ“ NEW OUTDOOR LOCATION ๐Ÿ“ Place Wiener โ€“ Guinguette de Boitsfort, Brussels ๐ŸŽŸ๏ธ FREE ENTRANCE ๐Ÿ“… FROM THURSDAY 11 JUNE UNTIL THE FINAL โšฝ ALL MATCHES LIVE ON GIANT SCREENS! โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ” ๐ŸŽ‰ FREE ENTRY FOR EVERYONE! For this World Cup 2026, join thousands of football fans in the best football atmosphere in Brussels! To help us organize the event and welcome you in the best conditions, please confirm your attendance by registering here: ๐Ÿ‘‰ https://www.facebook.com/thefootballvillage/events โœ… CHOOSE YOUR MATCH โœ… RESERVE YOUR SPOT โœ… INVITE YOUR FRIENDS โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ” โšฝ WATCH EVERY MATCH LIVE ON OUR GIANT SCREENS ๐Ÿน Enjoy drinks on the terrace by La Guinguette de Boitsfort ๐ŸŒฎ Food available on site ๐ŸŽถ Friendly and festive atmosphere ๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿ‘งโ€๐Ÿ‘ฆ Families, friends and football fans of all nations welcome! AFTERWORK - FOOT - FOOD - DRINKS - DRINKS โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ” โ˜” WEATHER INFO In case of heavy rain, an alternative indoor venue will be announced. โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ” ๐ŸŸ๏ธ THE FOOTBALL VILLAGE Since 2010, The Football Village has been the reference meeting place in Brussels for fans of all teams and all nations to enjoy international football together. ๐Ÿ‘ Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thefootballvillage/ ๐Ÿ“ธ Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefootballvillage/ โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ” ๐ŸšŠ EASY ACCESS โ€ข Tram 8 โ€ข Bus 95 & 17 โ€ข Safe bicycle paths โ€ข Easy parking nearby โฐ The Football Village โ€“ Guinguette de Boitsfort is open all day, every day, so come early and stay late! ๐Ÿ“ง corporate@thefootballvillage.eu ๐Ÿ“ž +32 495 53 43 40 โšฝ See you at The Football Village Brussels! โšฝ #WorldCup2026 #FootballVillage #Brussels #PlaceWiener #GuinguetteDeBoitsfort #FootballFans #LiveFootball #BigScreen #Belgium #FanZone #FootballTogether โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ” ๐Ÿ“ PLACE WIENER โ€“ GUINGUETTE DE BOITSFORT 1170 Brussels
๐ŸŽฌ The Club โ€“ Summer Movie Festival (Private Garden)
๐ŸŽฌ The Club โ€“ Summer Movie Festival (Private Garden)
Small curated movie nights in a hidden garden in Ixelles, next to Place Flagey. A mix of: * **cult classics** * **recent movies** * **international cinema** * **comedy nights** * **karaoke & dubbing chaos nights** * **comfort food and summer vibes** **This is not a giant public Meetup** where 40 strangers stand awkwardly around overpriced drinks pretending networking is fun. Humanity already suffered enough. Our idea is simple: we gather in a private home and transform the courtyard into a small outdoor cinema. Sometimes we cook together before the movie: Italian, Thai, Lebanese, Japanese, Balkan, Greek, Latin American street food etc. Sometimes people simply grab pizza from the excellent pizzeria next door and join the screening. Food is intentionally relaxed: bowls, finger food, street food, popcorn, snacks, comfort food. **Some nights are more gourmet.** Some are glorified pizza-and-movie nights. Both are valid forms of civilization **;-)** ## **What makes this different** The group is i**ntentionally small**: usually 6 to 8 people maximum. **People are introduced properly.** Nobody gets abandoned in a corner. The atmosphere stays human, social and safe. **No heavy drinking.** **No creepy behavior.** No random people showing up uninvited. Smoking is allowed because is outside in the courtyard and occasionally we may have **hookah nights** depending on the movie/theme. ## **Typical evenings** * Wong Kar-wai + Asian comfort food * Spaghetti western + Italian street food * Anime + sushi night * Greek cinema + mezze * Balkan chaos cinema + burek * Cult movie dubbing nights where people voice scenes live karaoke-style Yes, this is a real thing now apparently. ## **Important** Because Meetups and public internet are full of bots, spam accounts and socially radioactive individuals, **we do NOT post the exact address publicly.** To join: scan the QR code on the image and request access to the private WhatsApp group or send me a DM. From there: * we announce movies * vote on menus * organize cooking nights * coordinate places **If you are new in Brussels, introverted, traveling, recently arrived, or simply tired of giant impersonal events, this may be your thing.**
PLUX Social Drinking & Networking - Thursday
PLUX Social Drinking & Networking - Thursday
Socializing and Networking ๐Ÿ›œ๐Ÿ†• at PLUX on Thursday. Making new friends and drinking ๐Ÿšฐ๐ŸŽˆ๐ŸŽ‰๐Ÿšฟ๐ŸŒŠ. Everybody Welocme, locals, expats or new ๐Ÿ†• in town.

Park Events This Week

Discover what is happening in the next few days

๐Ÿฅพ The Wild Ninglinspo Adventure - 19Km
๐Ÿฅพ The Wild Ninglinspo Adventure - 19Km
**Get your tickets here: https://www.sundayvacations.com/event-list** **Waterfalls, Panoramic Viewpoints & Hidden Ardennes Treasures** **Escape Brussels and discover one of the most spectacular hiking routes in Belgium.** Join Sunday Vacations for a full-day hiking adventure through the legendary Ninglinspo Valley, often considered one of the most beautiful natural areas in Belgium. Expect cascading waterfalls, crystal-clear river pools, dramatic forest trails, panoramic viewpoints, rugged Ardennes landscapes, and plenty of opportunities to connect with fellow explorers. This is not a casual stroll. It's a rewarding and sporty hike designed for people who love nature, movement, and discovering extraordinary places alongside a welcoming international community. Whether you're new to Brussels, an expat looking to meet like-minded people, or simply searching for an unforgettable Sunday outdoors, this hike offers the perfect mix of adventure, scenery, and connection. **๐ŸŒฟ Curated Experience** **Experience Overview** The Ninglinspo is Belgium's only mountain river, carving its way through a wild valley filled with waterfalls, natural pools, wooden footbridges, rocky trails, and breathtaking viewpoints. Throughout the day, we'll follow the river upstream, climb towards spectacular panoramas overlooking the Ardennes, discover historic landmarks including the ruins of a medieval castle, and enjoy some of the most photogenic landscapes Belgium has to offer. Along the way, we'll share conversations, picnic together, and create new memories with a community of international professionals, expats, locals, and outdoor enthusiasts. People often join these experiences not only for the destination but for the people they meet along the way. Community and meaningful social connection remain among the strongest motivations for joining outdoor events. **Highlights** โœจ The famous Ninglinspo waterfalls โœจ Belgium's only mountain river โœจ Natural pools and forest streams โœจ Panoramic viewpoints over the Amblรจve Valley โœจ The spectacular Drouet viewpoint โœจ The historic ruins of Chรขteau de Montjardin โœจ Dense Ardennes forests โœจ Scenic wooden bridges and rocky paths โœจ Community picnic surrounded by nature โœจ International and welcoming atmosphere โœจ Perfect for solo joiners โœจ Nearly 19 km of adventure **Plan / Itinerary** **07:45 โ€“ Meet at Brussels Central Station** Meet the group, collect train tickets if applicable, and start the journey together. **10:00 โ€“ Arrival in Aywaille** Short coffee stop and welcome briefing. **10:10 โ€“ Start of the Hike** Distance: 18.9 km Difficulty: Moderate to Sporty Elevation: Approx. 600m+ Expected hiking time: 5.5 to 6.5 hours **Stage 1: The Ninglinspo Valley** We begin by following the famous Ninglinspo River through one of Belgium's most spectacular natural landscapes. Expect: \*Cascading waterfalls * Crystal-clear pools \*Wooden bridges * Rocky river crossings \*Moss-covered forest scenery This section feels surprisingly wild and is one of the most photographed hiking areas in the country. **Stage 2: The Drouet Panorama** After a rewarding climb, we'll reach one of the highlights of the day. From the Drouet viewpoint, the Ardennes unfold beneath us with stunning views across forests, valleys, and rolling hills. A perfect moment for photos and a well-earned break. **Stage 3: Chรขteau de Montjardin** Continuing along scenic trails, we'll reach the remains of the medieval Chรขteau de Montjardin. Surrounded by forest and history, this hidden site offers a glimpse into the region's past and provides a unique atmosphere rarely found on Belgian hikes. **Stage 4: Picnic in Nature** We'll stop for a relaxed picnic lunch at one of the scenic viewpoints or forest clearings along the route. Bring your own lunch and enjoy the views while getting to know fellow participants. **Stage 5: Return Through the Ardennes** Our return route follows the valley back towards Aywaille, with small variations where possible to discover additional viewpoints and quieter sections of trail. The afternoon light often transforms the valley, creating entirely different perspectives from those seen in the morning. **17:00 โ€“ Return to Aywaille** Optional social stop on a terrace for drinks and well-deserved relaxation. **17:55 โ€“ Return Train to Brussels** Expected arrival in Brussels early evening. **Meeting Point** ๐Ÿ“ Brussels Central Station Exact meeting location shared with registered participants. Participants are welcome to join directly in Aywaille if preferred. **Price / Contribution** **Sunday Vacations Community Contribution** Explorer Members: โ‚ฌ5, Voyager and Ambassadors free Contribution includes: * Event organisation \*Volunteer coordination * Route planning \*Community hosting Not included: * Train tickets \*Food and drinks * Personal expenses \*Optional purchases during the day VAT not applicable โ€“ small business exemption scheme, Article 56bis Belgian VAT Code. **Membership** Become part of the Sunday Vacations community: **Explorer** โ‚ฌ5/year **Voyager** โ‚ฌ50/year **Ambassador** โ‚ฌ150/year Members enjoy discounted event pricing and access to a growing network of international professionals, adventurers, and explorers. **Who This Is For** โœ… Nature lovers โœ… Hikers looking for a challenge โœ… Expats and international professionals โœ… Solo joiners โœ… Weekend adventurers โœ… Photography enthusiasts โœ… People looking to meet new friends This hike is suitable for participants with a reasonable fitness level and comfortable walking on uneven terrain. **What To Bring** \*Hiking shoes or trail shoes * Weather-appropriate clothing \*Rain jacket * Packed lunch \*Snacks * At least 1.5 litres of water \*Power bank (optional) * Small backpack \*Camera or phone for photos **Important Notes** \*This is a sporty hike with significant elevation gain. * Trails may be muddy and slippery in wet weather. \*The itinerary may be adjusted according to weather or trail conditions. * Participants join at their own responsibility and should ensure they are physically able to complete the route. \*Solo participants are warmly welcomed. * Respect for nature and fellow participants is expected throughout the day. **Legal Disclaimer** Sunday Vacations is a community organiser operated by UJAMAA ASBL and is not acting as a travel agency. Participants remain responsible for their own transport tickets, meals, personal equipment, travel arrangements, and personal expenses unless explicitly stated otherwise. Activities are organised by volunteers and covered under the COCOF volunteer insurance framework. **Call To Action** ๐ŸŒฒ Ready to discover Belgium's most beautiful river valley? Join us for a day of waterfalls, panoramic viewpoints, forest trails, meaningful conversations, and unforgettable Ardennes scenery. Come for the landscapes. Stay for the people. **Reserve your place and explore the wild side of Belgium with Sunday Vacations.**
Women's Circle: Walk around Park Abbey
Women's Circle: Walk around Park Abbey
โ€‹A womenโ€™s circle is a gathering of women, by women, and for women, to come together in a safe space and supportive environment without judgment. We will share, listen, connect with our ourselves and our sisters. We might laugh, we might cry, we might share, we might just listen, but we come together with deep respect for one anotherโ€™s journey, experience, and where we are at this moment in time to hold space for one another. To honor the sanctity and safety of the circle, we will create some guidelines for how we'll be together and what values we'll hold in our time together. The women's circle invites you to be in your heart, for whatever may be needed in the moment. This session will take us out into nature and enjoy a walk around the Park Abbery (Abdij van Park). After the walk there will be a possibility to get drinks together. **Meeting Point**: In front of the restaurant (Brasserie) at the Abbey. https://maps.app.goo.gl/8Jo5TfRTXg9YeKui6 What to expect: * 1.5-2 hrs hours of quality time for yourself, in the company of others. * Please arrive between 5 minutes early so we can start on time * We will enjoy a beautiful walk around the Park Abbey. This is an easy walk of about 4 km. What to bring and to know: * Please bring comfortable shoes for walking and check the weather before hand to dress accordingly. * If you have signed up but cannot make it after all, please cancel here on MeetUp, so we know not to expect you and so you can make that place available for another woman who may want to join.
Clothes Swapping in Parc Royal
Clothes Swapping in Parc Royal
Got clothes you no longer wear? Join us for a fun and sustainable clothes swap in Park Royal! Bring along clothes you are ready to part with and trade them with some new treasures. Please make sure you only bring clothes that is: - washed - undamaged - and that you don't mind trading 1-to-1 against another item. See you there!
Discover Dinant: Social Walk & Light Hike ๐ŸŒฟ๐Ÿž๏ธ
Discover Dinant: Social Walk & Light Hike ๐ŸŒฟ๐Ÿž๏ธ
**Join us for a relaxed day trip to beautiful Dinant! ๐Ÿฐโœจ** We will meet at Central Station at 08:00 AM and take the 08:37 AM train to Dinant together ๐Ÿš†. Once there, weโ€™ll explore the city, enjoy the views, walk around, and do a light hikes in the area ๐Ÿฅพ. The goal is simple: meet friendly people, enjoy nature, have good conversations, and take some nice photos ๐Ÿ“ธ. Everyone is welcome, join us and bring a friend with you ๐Ÿ˜Š. Please bring comfortable shoes and water ๐Ÿ˜ Looking forward to discovering Dinant with you! ๐Ÿ™Œ Join the WhatApp group for an easier communication: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/FEtMTnGWfzE1pJAnKLkuD1](https://chat.whatsapp.com/FEtMTnGWfzE1pJAnKLkuD1) Personal number: 0471695419
12-15km walk Calevoet station - Fox food court ๐Ÿฅ‚
12-15km walk Calevoet station - Fox food court ๐Ÿฅ‚
Hi, 12 to 15km walk from Calevoet train station to the Fox food court where we can end with a beer, tartlet or home made ice tea ๐Ÿฅ‚ We meet on the train track at Brussels Midi station at 10:30, train departure at 10:44, arriving in Calevoet at 10:53 where we start hiking. Bring your lunch that we will eat in the Sonian forest, 1.5 liters of water and your rain gear just in case (current forecasts says almost dry till arrival ๐Ÿ˜…). Sign in only if you are committed to come and bring your best vibes to share a funny walk together ๐Ÿฅ‚
Walking in the woods+picnic ๐ŸŒˆ๐Ÿฅฐ
Walking in the woods+picnic ๐ŸŒˆ๐Ÿฅฐ
Hey Folks, Sunday looks like it's going to be a beautiful day (you never know :)) for a light hike (8-10km). Let's make the most of the sunshine, enjoy the fresh air, and spend some time in nature! You can bring your own food and drinks with you, and then we will enjoy it next to woodpeckers at La Cambre. Very much looking forward to seeing you guys! P.S. Be on time, we leave at 10:35 Cheers Yifei

Park Events Near You

Connect with your local Park community

Port St. Lucie Checkpoint Orienteering Walk Park
Port St. Lucie Checkpoint Orienteering Walk Park
We'll meet here, get maps, and head out to find a set of controls around the area. At each control, take a photo so we know you made it, then post your best shots to the group afterward. Expect light running, quick thinking, and a fun outdoor challenge. Wear comfortable shoes, bring your phone, and be ready to explore.
Tampa Orienteering Adventure In Park
Tampa Orienteering Adventure In Park
We'll meet here, get maps, and head out to find a set of controls around the area. At each control, take a photo so we know you made it, then post your best shots to the group afterward. Expect light running, quick thinking, and a fun outdoor challenge. Wear comfortable shoes, bring your phone, and be ready to explore.
Miami Checkpoint Adventure In The Park
Miami Checkpoint Adventure In The Park
We'll meet here, get maps, and head out to find a set of controls around the area. At each control, take a photo so we know you made it, then post your best shots to the group afterward. Expect light running, quick thinking, and a fun outdoor challenge. Wear comfortable shoes, bring your phone, and be ready to explore.
Blendonwood Ravine Day Hike, 10:30 am
Blendonwood Ravine Day Hike, 10:30 am
Sharon Woods Hike
Sharon Woods Hike
Join us for a full three mile hike this Thursday (6/11) at 6:30 pm at Sharon Woods Metro Park. This scenic hike includes dirt trails (with hills) through the woods, grass trails through the meadows and paved trails along the pond. Please be able to hike at least at a moderate pace so that the group doesnโ€™t have to wait for you often. We donโ€™t want to lose you!
Columbus Museum of Art, Free Admission Sundays
Columbus Museum of Art, Free Admission Sundays
Letโ€™s meet and wander the galleries! General admission on Sundays is free.
Trails & Ales! Chestnut Ridge Metro Park / BrewDog DogTap
Trails & Ales! Chestnut Ridge Metro Park / BrewDog DogTap
**History** [Chestnut Ridge Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/chestnut-ridge/) is historically significant because it sits on a 300-million-year-old outcropping of Blackhand sandstone. Geographically recognized as the very first foothill of the Appalachian Mountains, the ridge rises 1,116 feet above sea level. Long before European settlement, the land served as a sacred site for ancient civilizations. The park contains the Old Maid's Orchard Mound, an eight-foot-tall burial mound constructed by the Adena culture between 1000 B.C. and 100 B.C. This ancient landmark has remained largely intact and is now protected on the National Register of Historic Places. The documented modern history of the land began with an official survey conducted by Ebenezer Buckingham in 1801. Original land deeds of sale from this period notably bear the signatures of United States Presidents Thomas Jefferson and James Madison. In the 1830s, Irish laborers arrived at the ridge to quarry its rich Blackhand sandstone. The blocks they hewed were used to build the crucial locks for the nearby Ohio and Erie Canal. Remnants of this early sandstone quarrying operation can still be spotted by sharp-eyed hikers along the modern trails. Agricultural transformation defined the ridge throughout the mid-to-late 19th century. Settlers discovered that the high elevation created a natural air flow that prevented late-season frost damage to crops. Extensive fruit orchards were planted across the slopes between 1860 and 1880. One notable orchard was established by John Wagner, a Spanish-American War veteran who chose the ridge specifically for its proximity to the bustling Columbus market. The park's current name pays homage to the massive American chestnut trees that once dominated the ridgeline before a devastating ecological blight wiped them out in the early 20th century. The conservation story of the modern 486-acre park began in March 1962. The Metro Parks board announced land acquisition plans to block developers from building a residential housing development called Chestnut Heights. Director-Secretary Walter A. Tucker advocated heavily for the purchase, citing the ridge's immense value as a scenic overlook for central Ohio. The district systematically purchased multiple agricultural parcels over the next two decades. After operating strictly as undeveloped farmland through the 1970s, Chestnut Ridge Metro Park officially opened to the public on December 18, 1988. In recent decades, the park has evolved from a quiet hiking spot into a premier regional destination for outdoor sports. A major turning point occurred in 2010 when the Central Ohio Mountain Biking Organization (COMBO) partnered with the park district to develop new infrastructure. Volunteers worked extensively to construct a single-track mountain bike trail, which officially opened in October 2011. An expert gravity and flow trail featuring advanced jumps was later integrated into the loop in 2016. Today, the park successfully balances its deep ancient, industrial, and agricultural history with active recreation. **Map of the Park** Here is a [map of Chestnut Ridge](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/CHR_map_1980px_2026.jpg). **Summary** For this event, we will hike the Ridge, Meadows, and Homesite Trails, and Law's Lane, which is unmarked on some maps. None of these trails is individually very long, so we will hike a few permutations and loops until we get in 4-5 miles. The hike will be moderately strenuous. **Where We'll Meet** Drive to the rearmost picnic area at the back of the park. There's a latrine here, but there's no water fountain here or anywhere else at Chestnut Ridge. I strongly recommend you bring some water of your own, at least for after the hike. Cell service at the park is spotty, although your GPS will get you there just fine. The map pin I've provided here is exactly where we'll be meeting and should be able to be used directly in Google Maps, although Chestnut Ridge isn't big and you're unlikely to get lost here. **After the Hike** Afterward, we'll head over to [BrewDog DogTap](https://drink.brewdog.com/usa/brewdog-dogtap-columbus) for [drinks](https://usa.brewdog.com/pages/brewdog-lineup) and [food](https://usa.brewdog.com/cdn/shop/files/DogTap_Menu_2025_65e1ff8b-97d4-4f26-80f1-68321d482025.pdf?v=17356939232910340498). They also have an outdoor area that's extremely popular. I've had their burgers and their pizza, and I think they're both very good. I also really like their [Cold Beer](https://usa.brewdog.com/products/cold-beer-2024) (that's its actual name), which is their American light lager. BrewDog's actual address is [96 Gender Rd, Canal Winchester, OH 43110](https://www.google.com/maps/place/96+Gender+Rd,+Canal+Winchester,+OH+43110/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x88387c06afa21a85:0x804c611d373d8c54?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111), and they have a large, free parking lot. We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks.