Photo Walks
Meet other local people interested in Photo Walks: share experiences, inspire and encourage each other! Join a Photo Walks group.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Check out photo walks events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.
Discover all the photo walks events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.
Absolutely! Find photo walks events near your location here. Connect with your local community and discover events within your area.
Photo Walks Events Today
Join in-person Photo Walks events happening right now
Street Photography - Telling a Story
Part of the art of street photography is telling a story. In this workshop you'll learn how to tell a story and develop street photography skills. You'll be given some tips and then set a series of challenges to help build your confidence when shooting street photography.
EXPERIENCE
Complete beginners or those who would like a refresher.
WHAT YOU WILL LEARN:
* What makes an interesting subject
* Candid or posed and how to approach people
* The legalities
* Camera settings
* Depth of field
* Composition
* What shutter speeds are important
* Black & white and why you need to think about colour
EQUIPMENT:
* Any camera
* A standard 18-55 kit lens will do or use a 70-200 for candid shots
OTHER ESSENTIALS
* A fun and experimental attitude!
PAYMENT OPTIONS
* PayPal via RSVP - Meetup transaction fee will be added. and you'll automatically be added to attend
* Send £25 via PayPal to \*\*[creativebeansproductions@gmail.com**](http://creativebeansproductions@gmail.com%2A%2A/) with no extra fee.
* Text Alex on 07956264049 and we will add you to the event attendee list.
TRAVEL
* As usual check TFL website for any issues that may delay your journey.
CONTACT
Alex 07956 264049
**VENICE PHOTOGRAPHY WEEKEND - Oct 2026**
[https://www.meetup.com/londonphotographic/events/313109100/](https://www.meetup.com/londonphotographic/events/313109100/)
**UPCOMING EVENTS**
[www.meetup.com/londonphotographic/events](http://www.meetup.com/londonphotographic/events)
London Content Walk: Better Photos & Short Videos - Phone Only
This event is designed for people who want to create better content with their phone.
Whether you’re a beginner or already posting regularly, you’ll leave with practical skills you can use immediately, not theory, not complicated techniques. Real tips that work.
**Tickets Must Be Booked in Advance here:**
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/london-content-walk-better-photos-short-videos-phone-only-tickets-1990792717609
The price is £19.99
During the walk through Mayfair, I’ll guide you through:
• How to film smooth, cinematic short videos for any platform
• How to find the best angles, light and details in any location
• How to think like a content creator, not just a tourist with a phone
• How to use London’s streets to create content that actually looks premium
This is not just a meetup. This is a guided content session led by a London photographer and content creator with over 10 years of professional experience working with brands, venues, and influencers.
Small group only - maximum 4 people, so everyone gets personal attention.
You will leave with fresh content ready to post and a completely different way of seeing your phone as a creative tool.
Limited spots. Book in advance.
Cancelled due to rain- Hampstead Garden Suburb walk
Nature walk and talk in Bigwood and Health Extension. Meet at the entrace to Bigwood at the junction of Thornton Way and Northway. We will take a walk in Bigwood. If time allows, we can meander to Central Square or Heath Extension.
Meeting point: https://maps.app.goo.gl/kh2u8ddhTyVkJCwZA
Street Photography Borough Market and along Southbank
Morning at 11:00 am in Borough Market. 12:00 midday lunch, social and chat in the Mudlark pub for an hour followed by a walk along the Southbank. Meet in Minerva Square at 11:00am and again at 1:00pm if you are joining us for the second part only. What 3 words location for the start is: ///cars.woods.lively
I will create a WhatsApp group for the walk the week before and post a link on comments here. Please note that this is an analogue photo walk and we will be shooting film.
Walk & Talk About Life's Big Questions
If you crave depth and genuine connection, join a walking think tank of curious people, topics spark meaningful conversations, and you leave inspired.
## Details
[The Board Walks](http://www.theboardwalks.com/) are for curious people who love deep conversations.
If that sounds like you, **bring a thoughtful topic** and join us for a 5-mile walk (10,000+ steps!).
**HOW IT WORKS**
**Step 1: Bring a topic**
Before you arrive, think of **one** topic you want to explore. A question. A thought that's been on your mind. An obsession you want to geek out on. This is your ticket to the event.
**Step 2: Circle up & share**
We gather in a circle. Your friendly walk host gives a speech to set the tone. Everyone shares: your name, what you're grateful for, and your topic. That's it. 60 seconds.
**Step 3: Walk, talk & float**
We walk 5 miles. You naturally drift into conversation with 2-3 people at a time, pulled by topics that spark your curiosity. When you're ready to move on, just say: "I'm going to float!"
**Step 4: Feel more alive**
Two hours flies by. You're back where you started — but you feel different. More alive. More energized. More connected to yourself and others. That's why regulars join 20+ times.
*For more details, read our [Orientation Guide.](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation)*
**HOW TO BRING A GREAT TOPIC**
A great topic = something you're genuinely curious about.
Recent topics include:
* "What are you passionate about right now?"
* "What makes a good friend?"
* "What's a belief you used to hold that you've completely changed?"
* "How do you want to be remembered?"
* "What would you do if money wasn't a factor?"
Think of your topic like the dish you're bringing to our conversational potluck. If everyone brings an A+ dish (i.e. energizing, uplifting, expansive), we'll all walk away feeling lighter and brighter.
**WHAT TO EXPECT**
This isn't a fitness event with casual chitchat. It's a walking think tank where we explore life's big questions together, beyond small talk. *If you're looking for light banter or a standard networking event, this probably isn't the right fit.*
But if you crave depth, genuine connection, and conversations that make you feel alive? You'll love it here.
**FAQ**
* Wear casual athletic attire and sneakers. It's a long walk!
* We have multiple first-timers at each event. We work hard to create a welcoming, inclusive, clique-free space.
* We welcome people of **all** ages, backgrounds, and industries who align with the [intention](https://www.theboardwalks.com/ground-rules) of this space.
* Rain or shine, we've been out here nearly every week since July 2022. If the event is cancelled, we'll let you know.
* Dogs, babies in strollers, parents, and friends are welcome — please text/email them the event link so they can RSVP and prepare a topic!
**LOGISTICS**
* If you'll arrive over 10 minutes late, we suggest skipping the event. It's hard to find us once we start walking, and your host can't answer messages during the event.
* This walk is designed for everyone to *move together at the same steady pace* (about 20 min/mile). This format works best when the whole group moves in unison. If you have mobility limitations, we kindly encourage you to find an event better suited to your needs.
* Read our [Orientation Guide](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation) for full details.
* If you enjoy the event, send **[this](http://www.theboardwalks.com/)** to a friend or sign up for our **[newsletter](https://theboardwalks.beehiiv.com/)**. We're in multiple cities with more on the way. 🤠👋
**IF YOU WANT TO GO DEEPER...**
[The Board](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board) is the next step: a high-trust collective for renaissance people devoted to creating, connecting, and building lives that light us up.
* This is a global HQ for people who crave big talk, deep connection, and dream collaborations with people across industries. If the walks feel like a spark... The Board is the fire. Apply [here](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board).
Regents Park stroll, 2.5miles
* We will meet outside the Baker Street tube station, in Front of Pizza Express, and make our way to Regent's Park.
* The Regent’s Park is one of the Royal Parks of London and combines large open spaces with tree-lined pathways, formal gardens, and four children’s playgrounds. It has excellent sports facilities, and contains central London’s largest outdoor sports area.
* The Regent's Park is named after the Prince Regent, sometimes known as the playboy prince, who later became King George IV (1762-1830).
* We will walk round the Boating lake, through the elegant flowerbeds in the Avenue Gardens to arrive at English Gardens. We will also visit newly oppened Queen Elizabeth II garden (if it'not too busy).
* From there we will make our way to Queen Mary’s Rose Gardens to see more than 12,000 roses. From there to the Japanese garden island (pictured above) and carry on by the rockery garden. finish our walk at the Baker Street station.
Optional lunch drinks in local spoons at the end of the walk.
What to bring:
Comfortable footwear
Water
Photo-taking gadgets and chargers
An umbrella just in case (it's London after all)
The walk is free for members who have subscribed for an annual membership. For other members the fee is £5 cash/card on arrival to contribute towards the organiser's meetup fees and costs.
The annual pass option is £15 payable by cash/card on the day. This will provide access to at least 40 walks per year (members are welcome to bring a guest to each event).
All walks are free for the NHS staff (also welcome to bring a guest).
***'No Show' Policy:*** *If the member replied 'yes' but did not attend the event, did not update the RSVP and did not inform the organisers on 3 occasions – this triggers an automatic removal from the group. That's once for events with a waiting list.*
***Trivium***: Queen Mary's Gardens, in the Inner Circle, were created in the 1930s, bringing that part of the park into use by the general public for the first time. The site had originally been used as a plant nursery and had later been leased to the [Royal Botanic Society](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Royal_Botanic_Society)
Pangboune to Wallingford via Goring Stunning Thames Path walk
A most glorious and stunning 11.5 mile gently undulating walk that takes in wonderful Pangbourne, Coombe Park and the Goring Gap - one of the most beautiful and dramatic stretches of the River Thames !
Please arrive by 9.05am so as to facilitate the purchase of group return train tickets for the 9.38am train that arrives at Pangbourne at 10.33am.
Train ticket : Pangbourne return
Or you may decide to drive.
Meetup fee £8 payable in cash or £6 by Saturday in advance by bank transfer, details available upon request. No PayPal.
Please use the toilets on the trains as much as possible as there shall be no toilet stop at Pangbourne train station.
Please bring packed lunch, water, snacks etc plus waterproof jacket and walking shoes/ boots or trainers.
We shall have a lunch break in delightful village of Goring and then have a drink in wonderful Wallingford.
We shall aim to take the bus at 4.52pm from Wallingford to Reading followed by the subsequent train to London.
Some of us shall be staying over in Wallingford for the Oxford to Abingdon walk on Sunday.
You should be able to walk 2.5 miles per hour and have adequate and appropriate insurance for this type of activity.
Please only post photos of others with their consent.
My no 07714250849.
Photo Walks Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
COASTAL WALK - Herne Bay - Whitstable 🦞🐠🌿
Alert : 2 brand new coastal summer walks coming soon !
😀 Join us for an invigorating coastal walk starting in beautiful Herne Bay, with time to explore the crafts and atmosphere around the pier, before continuing along the coast to the picturesque old-world seaside town of Whitstable.
Expect whitewashed houses, sea views, characterful streets and of course the chance to sample some fabulous local seafood 🦞
⭐️ Bring your camera!
📷 PHOTO CONTEST – Best photo of the day wins a local seaside-themed print
If the weather is kind to us, we may stop for tea at the beautiful Whitstable Castle & Gardens ☕🌷
…and for the brave, perhaps even a little dip in the sea 🙂🌊
⭐️ Optional food and drinks in a local pub afterwards 🍻
⭐️ Walk details:
• Approx. 5.5 miles
• Linear walk
• Gentle social pace
🚆 Meet: St. Pancras station by top of escalators at 9.45
🚆 Train departs: 10.20 train to Herne Bay ( gets in at 11.42am)
(Approx. 1/3 off with GroupSave – I recommend a Network Railcard for regular trips)
💳 Organiser’s fee: £8 (cash/contactless)
📞 Contact Mairead – 07816 866300
Looking forward to a lovely day by the sea 🌊✨
Ballerina Shoot in Westminster
Explore the streets of Westminster with Molly, a professional ballerina who brings the elegance of ballet to the urban landscape. As we wander from Westminster to Leake Street tunnel, we capture Molly seamlessly integrating classic ballet poses and movements into the dynamic setting.
Molly - https://www.instagram.com/molly_shawdownie/
Bring your portrait lens and flash if you have one, and possibly a wide-angle lens to get the cityscape. We will bring some props and a reflector.
More details about the location will be sent to people who have signed up.
There is a maximum of 6 people and a minimum of 4.
Start at 1pm till 3 pm, arrive 15 min before.
A full refund will be given if the event is cancelled due to the weather. However, if it goes ahead, there will be no refunds 48 hours before the event.
Please read our terms and conditions before paying. https://blog.andrewlalchan.co.uk/shop/terms-conditions-for-photography-shoots-workshops/
Instagram
London Photography Group - https://www.instagram.com/londonphotographygroup/
Jose - https://www.instagram.com/portugueezer/
Andrew - https://www.instagram.com/alalchan/
Chasing Light : Creative Portrait Workshop
Are you ready to shoot unusual, creative portraits and learn about making the most of light?
Shooting each other we'll try to get the best out of everyone and you'll get some tips to help you get the best out of the event. The thing about shooting portraits is that they are super fun! So out challenge today is knowing how to make people look good and shooting in a creative way.
We'll set a few challenges to get you pointed in the right direction. To help get your creative juices flowing you'll work in a group which will allow you to bounce ideas off each other.
Bring some props or wear something wacky and prepare to have a super fun day!
EXPERIENCE
* Any
EQUIPMENT
* Any camera
* Any lens
OTHER ESSENTIALS
* Check the weather and wear appropriate clothing/shoes
* A fun and experimental attitude!
TRAVEL
* As usual check TFL website for any issues that may delay your journey
CONTACT
Alex 07956 264049
VENICE PHOTOGRAPHY WEEKEND - Oct 2026
[https://www.meetup.com/londonphotographic/events/313109100/](https://www.meetup.com/londonphotographic/events/313109100/)
UPCOMING EVENTS
www.meetup.com/londonphotographic/events/calendar
Photo © Drew Garty
Hackney Sunday Walk- Cafe-to-pub
[Having trouble? RSVP Here - Hackney Sunday Walk](https://events.letsloop.app/f9ab0e9f)
Come if you live around here, just moved nearby, want an excuse to wander Hackney, or just need something to do on a Sunday.
London Fields Lido, Pool Terrace Cafe. 2pm sharp. Look for the coral pin. We walk for about 45 minutes — across London Fields, down Broadway Market, along the canal where the herons live, ending at Mare Street Market for a drink.
No name tags. No "let's go around and introduce ourselves." No agenda. Just a walk.
Light rain we walk. Heavy rain we head straight to the pub. Solo or +1, both welcome. Comfortable shoes help. About 4km, flat.
People first. Property second.
Long Exposure Location Jumping!!! PLATYPOD Provided!!!
Join us on this long exposure session where we will be providing (almost) everything you need to smooth water, blur clouds and make moving objects turn ghost-like or disappear.
**KASE FILTERS**
* We will provide a set of **Kase Magnetic Filters** for this session.
**PLATYPOD TRIPOD SUPPORT**
* We will also provide you with a PLATYPOD tripod support so you'll be able to LEAVE YOUR TRIPOD AT HOME!
* All you need to bring is your camera and of course a fun and experimental attitude!
Be prepared to hop on and off public transportation to get to locations where our Platypod will be more useful.
WANT TO BUY? USE OUR DISCOUNT CODES
Kase filters **www.kase.com** code for a 10% discount code **10kaalex**
Platypod **www.platypod.com** 20% discount code: **London20**
WHAT YOU WILL LEARN
* Exposure settings
* How to focus and compose
* Best practise for long exposure photography
* Filter types - what they do - how and when to use them
REQUIRED EQUIPMENT
* A tripod
* Shutter release
* Lens: 18-55mm, 24-70mm or similar
EXPERIENCE
* Beginners and refreshers
CLOTHING
* Check the weather and dress accordingly
OTHER ESSENTIALS
* As usual check the TFL website for any delays that may interrupt your journey
CONTACT
Alex 07956264049
**UPCOMING EVENTS**
**VENICE PHOTOGRAPHY WEEKEND - Oct 2026**
**[https://www.meetup.com/londonphotographicopa/events/313109095](https://www.meetup.com/londonphotographicopa/events/313109095)**
**MONTHLY EVENTS**
**[www.meetup.com/londonphotographicopa/events](http://www.meetup.com/londonphotographicopa/events)**
Oxford to Abingdon Stunning Thames Path walk
A most glorious 9.5 miles walk - one of the most beautiful and scenic stretches of the River Thames !
Please arrive by 9.05am so as to facilitate the purchase of group return train tickets to Oxford for the 9.50am direct train that arrives at Oxford at 10.43am.
Train ticket : Oxford return.
Please note that I shall not be at Paddington as staying overnight in Wallingford after the walk on Saturday.
Or you may decide to drive.
Walk will commence at 11am.
Meetup fee £8 payable in cash or £6 in advance by Saturday by bank transfer, details available upon request.
Please bring packed lunch, water, snacks etc plus waterproof jacket and walking shoes/ boots or trainers.
We shall have a drink at the end of the walk in Abingdon before aiming to take a bus between 4pm and 4.30pm that arrives back in Oxford by around 5pm followed by direct train back at 5.32pm.
You should be able to walk 2.5 miles per hour and have adequate and appropriate insurance for this type of activity.
Please only post photos of others with their consent.
My no 07714250849.
Chasing Light : Creative Portrait Workshop
In this workshop we explore portraiture photography - learn to see light, work with shadows, and bring out the best in both our subjects and the environment.
The thing about shooting portraits is that they are super fun! So our challenge today is knowing how to make people look good and shoot in a creative way.
WHAT YOU'LL LEARN
* Develop an intuitive understanding of light and how it interacts with your subject
* Experiment with shadows to add depth, drama and emotion to your portraits
* Improve your ability to adapt to changing lighting conditions
* Learn how to guide and connect with your subject
**PAYMENT OPTIONS**
* **PayPal via RSVP**
* The Meetup transaction fee will be added. and you'll automatically be added to attend
* **Send £25 via PayPal** to \*\*[creativebeansproductions@gmail.com**](http://creativebeansproductions@gmail.com%2A%2A/) with no extra fee.
* Send us a text or comment below and we will add you to the event attendee list.
EXPERIENCE
* Beginners/refreshers
EQUIPMENT
* Any camera
* Any lens
OTHER ESSENTIALS
* Check the weather and wear appropriate clothing/shoes
* A fun and experimental attitude!
TRAVEL
* As usual check TFL website for any issues that may delay your journey
CONTACT
Alex 07956 264049
VENICE PHOTOGRAPHY WEEKEND - Oct 2026
[https://www.meetup.com/londonphotographicopa/events/313109095](https://www.meetup.com/londonphotographicopa/events/313109095)
UPCOMING EVENTS
[www.meetup.com/londonphotographicopa/events](http://www.meetup.com/londonphotographicopa/events)
Photo ©Drew Garty
Photo Walks Events Near You
Connect with your local Photo Walks community
Walk & Talk About Life's Big Questions
[The Board Walks](http://www.theboardwalks.com/) are for curious people who love deep conversations.
If that sounds like you, **bring a thoughtful topic** and join us for a 5-mile walk (10,000+ steps!).
**HOW IT WORKS**
**Step 1: Bring a topic**
Before you arrive, think of **one** topic you want to explore. A question. A thought that's been on your mind. An obsession you want to geek out on. This is your ticket to the event.
**Step 2: Circle up & share**
We gather in a circle. Your friendly walk host gives a speech to set the tone. Everyone shares: your name, what you're grateful for, and your topic. That's it. 60 seconds.
**Step 3: Walk, talk & float**
We walk 5 miles. You naturally drift into conversation with 2-3 people at a time, pulled by topics that spark your curiosity. When you're ready to move on, just say: "I'm going to float!"
**Step 4: Feel more alive**
Two hours flies by. You're back where you started — but you feel different. More alive. More energized. More connected to yourself and others. That's why regulars join 20+ times.
*For more details, read our [Orientation Guide.](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation)*
**HOW TO BRING A GREAT TOPIC**
A great topic = something you're genuinely curious about.
Recent topics include:
* "What are you passionate about right now?"
* "What makes a good friend?"
* "What's a belief you used to hold that you've completely changed?"
* "How do you want to be remembered?"
* "What would you do if money wasn't a factor?"
Think of your topic like the dish you're bringing to our conversational potluck. If everyone brings an A+ dish (i.e. energizing, uplifting, expansive), we'll all walk away feeling lighter and brighter.
**WHAT TO EXPECT**
This isn't a fitness event with casual chitchat. It's a walking think tank where we explore life's big questions together, beyond small talk. *If you're looking for light banter or a standard networking event, this probably isn't the right fit.*
But if you crave depth, genuine connection, and conversations that make you feel alive? You'll love it here.
**FAQ**
* Wear casual athletic attire and sneakers. It's a long walk!
* We have multiple first-timers at each event. We work hard to create a welcoming, inclusive, clique-free space.
* We welcome people of **all** ages, backgrounds, and industries who align with the [intention](https://www.theboardwalks.com/ground-rules) of this space.
* Rain or shine, we've been out here nearly every week since July 2022. If the event is cancelled, we'll let you know.
* Dogs, babies in strollers, parents, and friends are welcome — please text/email them the event link so they can RSVP and prepare a topic!
**LOGISTICS**
* If you'll arrive over 10 minutes late, we suggest skipping the event. It's hard to find us once we start walking, and your host can't answer messages during the event.
* This walk is designed for everyone to *move together at the same steady pace* (about 20 min/mile). This format works best when the whole group moves in unison. If you have mobility limitations, we kindly encourage you to find an event better suited to your needs.
* Read our [Orientation Guide](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation) for full details.
* If you enjoy the event, send **[this](http://www.theboardwalks.com/)** to a friend or sign up for our **[newsletter](https://theboardwalks.beehiiv.com/)**. We're in multiple cities with more on the way. 🤠👋
**IF YOU WANT TO GO DEEPER...**
[The Board](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board) is the next step: a high-trust collective for renaissance people devoted to creating, connecting, and building lives that light us up.
* This is a global HQ for people who crave big talk, deep connection, and dream collaborations with people across industries. If the walks feel like a spark... The Board is the fire. Apply [here](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board).
Bondage Photography Demonstration
*Note: this is a demonstration event only, you **will not** shoot you own images. However, if you bring your camera we can test it for compatibility with the studio lights.*
Bondage elements can add an extra layer of emotion and artistry to your images. Sample images on the internet are however dominated by BDSM style shots that are often sexualized and emphasize the model being in distress. In this demonstration Rachel and I show ways to use bondage elements in an artistic way. We explore the types of accessories that work best in artistic images and the best way to photograph them.
Our model is Rachel Adams, an internationally known fetish model with many years of experience in this genre.
Two For Tuesday : Social walk and Duckpin (option)
**Not everyone will come. That is exactly why you should.**
**Two for Tuesdays** is for the people who actually want to get out and do something instead of just talking about it. We’re kicking off the night with a one-hour social walk before Duckpin Social.
**Expect a laid-back** But an Intentional 1 hour walk (2-3 miles), good people, and a better way to spend your Tuesday than staying home and doing the same thing you always do.
**If the weather does not cooperate, we’ll move indoors.**
A small contribution helps keeps events sustainable and ensures those **who RSVP actually show up.**
Payment **Link Found in comments**.
Walk RSVP **$2**
Walk / DuckPin Social **$5**
Walk / DuckPin Social + 1 game of duckpin **$12**
Please be sure **to Put Event and Event Date** in the note when paying RSVP Fee
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 doesn’t have to wait for you often. We don’t want to lose you!
Blendon Woods Metro Park
Hi Ladies , Let's Hike Blendon Woods Metro Park .
We will meet at the nature center parking lot.
Hiking about 4 miles completing the blendon woods loop and the sugarbush trail .
Wear appropriate footwear and bring water for hydration .
Columbus Art Festival
Let's stroll the artists' booths and enjoy some of the festival's opening day!
The Columbus Art Festival features a wide and vibrant range of visual art from local and national exhibitors, plus, live music, and all kinds of food and refreshments, along the waterfront downtown.
(The featured painting is by Columbus Art Festival exhibitor, Joe Engel - joe-engelart.com)
Franklin Park Conservatory / Columbus Brewing Company
**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.






















