Walking Tours

**Meet:** Tanjong Rhu MRT (TE23) Passenger Service Centre **When:** Thursday, 28 May, 5:00 PM Most of our events take place rain or shine unless otherwise stated in the event chat. Please check the event page on the day of the event for the latest updates and important information. Please be punctual. Attendees are encouraged to arrive slightly early to avoid disappointment. There will be a 5-minute grace period for attendance taking. We are unable to wait beyond that, as it would be unfair to those who arrived on time. Join us for a relaxing walk along the Kallang River! We’ll follow the river via the Pelton Canal towards Grantral Mall — otters have been spotted along the canal, so keep an eye out :-) Dinner will be at Grantral Mall after the walk. See you there! :-) **What to Bring:** * Shades * Umbrella * Water * Comfortable walking shoes * Long pants (preferred) * Mosquito repellent This is a rain-or-shine event. In the event of thunderstorms, we will pause for coffee or an early dinner and resume the walk once the weather improves. All event updates and communication will be via the event chat. Please check the chat on the day of the event for any changes or announcements. Kindly note that I may not be able to respond to messages once the walk has started, as I will be assisting attendees and leading the group. Please RSVP responsibly to give those on the waitlist an opportunity to join. If you are unable to attend, do update your RSVP by the day before the event whenever possible. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. **Disclaimer** Your physical well-being and safety are your own responsibility. Please exercise caution during the walk and inform me if you feel unwell or need to leave early. Walking carries an inherent risk of personal injury. By joining this event, you acknowledge and accept responsibility for your own safety and participate at your own risk. The organizer(s) will not be held liable for any accidents, injuries, or incidents arising from participation in the event.

Come join us for an evening wind down walk after work - a pause in the bustle of the week to breathe, stretch your legs, and unwind with good company. You can chat, listen, or walk quietly - all are welcome. **How it works (super simple):** * **5 mins** * We’ll meet, say quick hellos, and wait for individuals who may have difficulty finding the location or are rushing to end off a call (it happens, but please understand that we will move off after). Will be in black shirt, beige knee-length shorts. * **40 mins** * We’ll walk from Star Vista to One North along a beautiful park (2.5km, \~4000 steps). * Feel free to get to know others on the walk. Some optional light prompts on hand are... sharing a question or thought that you're hoping to reset from today, a hobby that you've been exploring, music preferences, latest quirky obsession etc. Leave some mental load behind. Optional dinner if there's group interest. **A quick note:** * This isn’t a networking or sales event. Please no pitching, recruiting, or solicitation. No pressure at all to introduce yourself through work. * Priority to folks who have attended a session previously. Please update RSVP if you can't make it so we can gage the group size prior. * Will keep a lookout for weather forecast in case there's rain to be expected in the area. **Friendly Reminders:** * Do come in comfortable footwear. * If possible, leave bulky equipment behind. * Have fun, feel the breeze, and unwind...

This May, we will be moving to.....**Satay By The Bay!** 🎉 Come join us for a relaxed, casual dinner session to meet new friends, share stories and exchange cultures in a fun and friendly group setting! 🌸 Location: **Satay By The Bay. Check out our IG stories for the exact location.** Time: **7-9pm** (Feel free to come and leave earlier or later!) 📍**Note:** Social Sisters SG is a space for genuine connection and friendship — not for business promotion or MLM (multi-level marketing) activities. Unlike similar groups, we are not run by financial consultants or salespeople. You’re welcome to exchange contacts, but please do so at your own discretion. Follow us[ @socialsisterssg](https://www.instagram.com/socialsisterssg/) for real-time updates on our exact location within the foodcourt or any unexpected venue changes on the day itself ✨

You will Never ride alone with MBG as no rider will be left behind (unless extreme circumstances). Weather check at 7.00pm Meet at 8.00pm Rolling off 8.15pm Do look out for updates in comments section. Exact meeting point is The Essen next to the PCN Group Size : Limiting group size for compliance to LTA regulations. Do still sign on Waitlist and we will open up if we are able to manage another pack. Ride Grading: 3.0 (1 easy - 5 very strenuous) Terrain: Road Bike Type: Any Distance: Est 30Km Speed: rolling 25-30 km/hr Route : 2 Loops around SA Rolling off : 8.15pm Start/Endpoint: Anchorvale CC/ Jalan Kayu **Ride Safety Instructions:** 1\. Come on time to NOT miss pre\-ride briefing 2\. No overlapping of wheels 3\. Do not overtake appointed Pullers 4\. Pullers will give instructions on direction\, filtering and lights\. The rest shall not\! 5\. Do not fall behind the appointed sweepers\. If you have to break off\, inform the sweepers 6\. Ride predictably; ride well inside \(2/3 when in double paceline\) inside traffic lanes \- do not drift close to the line on the ride causing disruption to oncoming vehicle on the right lane 7\. Do not filter to next lane without instruction from pullers and/or sweepers 8\. No free wheeling \- play with gears and tap brakes 9\. Pass on messages\, and point to obstacles and potholes 10\. No sudden brakes\. If you drop anything\, inform the lead and continue to ride\. Stop at convenient location and pick up safely *** Important Safety Instructions! 1. **Strictly comply to LTA rules on riding formations : 5 riders in Single file, or 2x5 in when riding abreast. Maintain 30m gap between packs** 1. Follow traffic rules. Stop at the red light. (Do not follow the front rider blindly) 1. No overtaking on left 1. When overtaking on right, check blind spot & signal to the cyclist on the left, keep left after overtaking. 1. Ride in a predictable manner and keep to your lane 1. Keep one-meter length from the front cyclist. 1. Do not ride or stop beside tipper truck or bus. Always stay behind big vehicles. 1. No helmet no ride! 1. Rides must have rear red lights and front lights. *** Participation agreement - disclaimer Terms and conditions: The organizers/event host are just volunteers organizing for cycling trips and we are not liable for any damages and injuries for our events. All participants are to read up and abide by the Road Traffic Act stated in the discussion tap. By signing up for this event, you agree to the terms and conditions outlined above.

Flow class is a style of yoga that is moving from one posture to another posture in synchronizing with our breath. The class will begin with gentler movements to warm up the body, then move into progressively more challenging flowing sequences. Flow Yoga These may include standing poses, balances, inversions, and peak poses. Then the class will end with slower, deeper stretches, and often floor-based yoga poses. Classes will be conducted via Zoom LINK to the class registration: https://www.yogasojourn.com/login-register-class/

**DISCLAIMER: NOT FINANCIAL ADVICE** Casual run of about 3.5km - 4km. Route can be lengthen if group is small. We will meet 7:00pm at BK eating house beside the zebra crossing: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ntCCoQz1UDvcKT8r9 Nearest MRT can be Clarke Quay OR Raffles Place At the moment no bag drop provided. Please do offer if you have a place for bag drop. Warm up 15mins and start at 7.15pm latest. Running route brings us to around Fort Canning Park and back. Please note that we are running Fort Canning Park area in the night and runners must be comfortable in a dimly lit environment. We will usually end off our runs at BK Eating House for a drink / Meal. This is a group about discovering bitcoin as a savings technology. We welcome anyone who is interested in knowing more about saving in bitcoin or simply just want to join us to have a good run. We start out casual and as things get more consistent, we might do what others have been doing worldwide: https://www.bitcoinrunners.org/community/

**Every Friday & Sunday \| All Levels Welcome** Reconnect with your body, breath, and nature through a grounding Hatha Yoga practice set in the lush greenery of Singapore Botanic Gardens. This class is designed to energise the body, calm the mind, and leave you feeling refreshed and centred for the day ahead. **What to Expect** * **Kriya (breathing techniques)** to cleanse and detox the body * **Hatha Asanas** to stretch, strengthen, mobilise, and relax the body * **Pranayama & long mindful relaxation** to quieten the mind and reduce stress * Gentle guidance with **variations for every body**, including complete beginners No prior yoga experience needed. We have been practising there since 2018. If you’ve never done yoga before, you are most welcome 💙 **Class Schedule** **Friday** * 7:15am – 8:15am * 9:00am – 10:30am **Sunday** * 8:00am – 9:30am *Other weekday classes are also available and taught by other teachers:* * Monday: 8:30am – 9:30am * Wednesday: 7:00am - 8:00am **Fees** * **$40 per person (single drop-in)** * Class packages available on[ www.namastewithhwee.com](https://www.namastewithhwee.com/booking-calendar/botanic-garden-yoga-class?referral=service_list_widget) **Meeting Point** * Meet **10 minutes before class** * **Botanic Gardens MRT, Exit A (Level 1)** **What to Bring** * Comfortable exercise clothing * Yoga mat * Towel & water bottle **How to Reserve Your Spot** Your spot is **only confirmed after WhatsApp confirmation from the host**. -> **WhatsApp Hwee:**[ +65 9646 9599 ](https://wa.me/6596469599) -> Or purchase a ticket via [www.namastewithhwee.com](https://www.namastewithhwee.com/booking-calendar/botanic-garden-yoga-class?referral=service_list_widget) Follow on social media: Instagram & Facebook: **@NamasteWithHwee** **About the Instructor – Hwee Hwee** Hwee is a yoga instructor who hurt her wrist, dampening her asana practice and just could not recover it 100% with physiotherapy and Traditional Chinese Medicine. A calling drawn her to **Reiki healing** and her recovery progressed so much more! Hwee is an advanced Reiki Level 3 practitioner. With yoga, Hwee fell in love with the **low impact** workout (which was gentle for her teenage injured lower back). Wanting to know yoga beyond the physical aspects (asanas), she went to one of the oldest yoga school in world, G.S. College of Yoga and Cultural Synthesis, Kaivalydham in Lonavla, Pune, India in 2017 and attained her Hatha Yoga teaching certifications from both Kaivalydham and Quality Council of India (QCI) by Indian Yoga Association. Hwee is also into meditation since 2013 and with Hatha Yoga now, the practice between asana (physical exercise) and meditation has integrated into one. > *“We don’t do meditation — meditation happens to us.”* Join Hwee for a nourishing outdoor practice of yoga, pranayama, and gentle healing. Hwee also speaks **Chinese & Japanese.** Instagram & Facebook: **@NamasteWithHwee** [https://www.facebook.com/namastewithhwee/](https://www.facebook.com/namastewithhwee/) [https://www.instagram.com/namastewithhwee/](https://www.instagram.com/namastewithhwee/) [www.namastewithhwee.com](www.namastewithhwee.com)

👣 Walk & Talk SG – Labrador Park Sunset Walk Join us for a relaxed evening walk as we explore the scenic coastal trails around Labrador Nature Reserve. Expect sea views, greenery, easy conversations, and a good way to unwind after the week. This route is beginner-friendly and will be at a comfortable pace with short breaks along the way. 📅 Date: 30/5/26 ⏰ Time: 6:00pm 📍 Meeting Point: HarbourFront MRT Station Exit B 🏁 Ending Point: Labrador Park MRT Station Route HarbourFront → Boardwalk → Berlayer Creek → Labrador Park trails → Labrador Park MRT What to expect Casual social walk Around 1.5–2 hours Easy pace, beginner friendly Nice sunset and waterfront views Friendly conversations and meeting new people Most people come alone, so don’t worry if it’s your first time joining 🙂 Feel free to join our WhatsApp group for faster updates during the event: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/LUkkqwTaePM32HVrMsGtzy?mode=gi_t](https://chat.whatsapp.com/LUkkqwTaePM32HVrMsGtzy?mode=gi_t)

Ease into an evening calm, as we follow one of the island’s most scenic coastal stretches. This gentle, unhurried walk is all about wide open sea views 🌤️, and the soft shift in sky colours as day slowly melts into dusk. 🌇 It’s an easygoing route made for conversation, quiet moments, and simply unwinding together in good company. We’ll keep things relaxed and comfortable throughout, ending the evening with an optional dinner for those who’d like to linger a little longer 🚶‍♀️🤝🚶🍴😋 **This is a free community walk, created simply for the joy of exploring together. To protect** your privacy, we do not collect telephone numbers. Communication will be through the Event chat. Kindly check for any updates, especially on the day of the event, so that you will be updated on any changes. The route may be amended or the hike postponed in the event of inclement weather, for the safety of our walkers. 🚶🚶‍♂️ \*Disclaimer: By joining this walk, you assume responsibility for your own safety and well-being 🚸, and will not hold the organizers/hosts liable for any loss or injury or other unforeseen events, ensuring a shared commitment to a safe and enjoyable experience for all. 😊 Thank you. 🙏

Come join us for a scenic Saturday morning stroll around the water's edge in MacRitchie Reservoir *🌞* *Meet new friends while rediscovering Singapore with sunshine and fresh air for better health.* **Walking time:** 1.5 hours **Walking distance:** 3 to 5 km **Difficulty rating:** Easy stroll **When and where to Meet:** Saturday 30th May at 10AM MacRitchie Reservoir Park Amenities Centre The Visitor Centre is next to the Car Park. Lornie Road, *298717* **What will we do on the walk?** * A scenic stroll around the water's edge starting at the Visitor Centre * Panoramic views of the reservoir against the backdrop of dense tropical rainforest * Enjoy the sunshine, fresh air and see if you can spot a few forest creatures **Don't forget:** * Wear comfortable walking shoes. * Bring water to stay hydrated during the walk. **How to connect with organizers?** Join this telegram group **Sun. Trail. Walk. (May 30)** to connect with organizers on the day. https://t.me/+Gjb5auvBw2NmYjU1 This chat will be closed after the walk **Transport:** By Bus: Take bus no. 52, 74, 93, 130, 132, 156, 157, 162, 165, 166, 167, 852, 855 or 980. Alight along Lornie Road at the bus-stop in front of MacRitchie Reservoir Park. By car: The entrance to the MacRitchie Reservoir Park car park is along Lornie Road. **Note:** Any changes due to the weather conditions will be communicated to this group. **Disclaimer:** This is not a guided tour. It is a great way to meet people, explore, and chat with individuals coming from all over Singapore.

Hello everyone! Place to Meet: Bedok MRT Passenger Service Control Centre Time: 5pm 1\. Dinner at Bedok MRT 2\. Walk along New Upper Changi Rd/Bedok South Rd/Bedok South Ave 3/Tanah Merah Kechil Rd/Upper Changi Rd/Xilin Ave/Changi South Ave 3/Changi Business Park Vis/Changi South Ave 1/Expo Dr/Simei Rd/Tampines Ave 2/Tampines Street 23/Tampines Street 21/Tampines Ave 4/Tampines Central 1 before ending at Tampines MRT\. The route may be modified during the walk to better suit the group’s pace and fitness levels. The organizers will make adjustments as needed to ensure the walk remains enjoyable and manageable for all participants. Do drop me a message via whatsapp or via meetup if you will be late. You may consider the following: 1\. Comfortable Clothing • Moisture-wicking fabrics: Avoid cotton, as it traps moisture and causes chafing. Instead, choose clothing made from materials like polyester, nylon, or merino wool, which keep you dry.
 • Comfortable socks: Opt for moisture-wicking socks with cushioning to reduce the risk of blisters. 2\. Proper Footwear
 • Well-fitting shoes: Ensure your shoes are properly broken in and provide enough support, especially if you're walking long distances. Sturdy hiking or walking shoes with good arch support are ideal.
 • Blister prevention: Consider blister-resistant socks or pack blister pads to address any discomfort before it becomes a problem. 3\. Hydration
 • Water bottle: Stay hydrated throughout the walk to maintain energy levels and prevent dehydration. 4\. Snacks
 • Energy bars or trail mix: Portable, nutrient-packed snacks high in carbohydrates and protein—perfect for refueling during breaks.
 • Nuts or dried fruit: Easy to carry and great for providing long-lasting energy. 5\. Umbrella
• Umbrella: Bring one in case of rain to stay dry and comfortable\. 6\. Optional Gear
 • Tissues or wet wipes: Handy for personal hygiene or cleaning your hands after eating or drinking. 7\. Small Backpack or Waist Pack
 • Use a small, comfortable bag to carry your essentials. Ensure it fits snugly and doesn’t rub or chafe over time. Disclaimer:
By participating in this walk, you acknowledge and accept that you are responsible for your own physical well-being. Please exercise caution while walking, and listen to your body. If you feel unwell at any point, please inform the organizer and discontinue participation. Walking involves inherent risks, including the potential for personal injury. By joining the walk, you accept these risks and agree that the event organizer(s) are not responsible or liable for any accidents, injuries, or incidents that may occur during or as a result of your participation in the walk.

Join us for a walk around NTU to explore heritage sites and futuristic architecture. Attractions we will visit include the original and replica Nanyang University Arches, Yunnan Garden, CleanTech Park, and the Dragon Kiln at Thow Kwang Pottery Garden. This is a leisure walk. Meeting Point : Pioneer MRT, Exit B, street level Meeting Time : 8:30 am End Point : Pioneer Mall Est. End Time : 12:30 pm Est. Distance : 9-10 km Things to bring: \- Umbrellas \- Sun protection \(e\.g\. sunblock\) \- Water \- Snacks \- Walking shoes

We'll walk from Hillview MRT Exit A towards Diary Farm Carpark B, up Devil’s stairs,Bt Timah summit, Rifle Range, heading towards Rifle Range Nature Park, stop at Colugo Deck for some photos, walk along Rail Corridor, Wallace Trail and back to Diary Farm Carpark A Suitable for beginners. **Date : 30 May 2026 (Sat)** **Meeting Time: 7.15am** **Meeting point: Hillview MRT Exit A** **Est distance: 8.5km (about 2 hours 15 mins)** **Event Host : Mak** Pre-hike checklist: \* Eat a light breakfast. \* Bring about 500ml of water Bad weather contingency plan: \* Waterproof your belongings and bring rain gear (rain cover, jacket, poncho, or umbrella). Please read this #1 - This is a number-controlled event. Please come only if you are on the attending list. #2 - We will move out at 0715 sharp. We are not able to wait for late-comers. #3 - As this is a limited number event, please check your calendar and make sure you can come before you RSVP. Do not change your attendance at the last minute and deny someone else who genuinely wishes to come.

**Framing is the art of using elements within a scene—archways, foliage, or window panes—to create a "frame within a frame." It draws the eye to your subject and adds depth to the composition.** Expect a high-contrast journey through Chinatown, where the symmetry of historic shophouses meets the vertical energy of the city's modern core. Walk, shoot, and connect with photographers & creators as we explore the layers of **Chinatown** and **Keong Saik Road.** Beginners, enthusiasts, and pros — all are welcome. –––––––––– **EVENT DETAILS** **Location:** Chinatown → Keong Saik Road → Duxton Hill **Date:** 30.05.2026 **Time:** 17:00 – 19:00 **Meeting Point:** **Starbucks, Chinatown Point (Street Level).** **Address:** 133 New Bridge Rd, #01-05, Singapore 059413. **Google Maps:** [Starbucks Chinatown Point](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Starbucks+Chinatown+Point+Singapore) We’ll meet at the **outdoor seating area** right on the corner of New Bridge Road and Upper Cross Street. It is very easy to spot from the sidewalk. –––––––––– **EVENT FLOW** **17:00** \| Meet & Connect We’ll gather at the outdoor seating area, grab a cold brew, and introduce the "Framing" theme. **17:15** \| Main Walk Capturing the red lanterns of Pagoda Street, the intricate details of the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, and the colorful shophouse symmetry of Keong Saik Road. **19:00** → Optional social hour at one of the rooftop bars or local hawker centers in the area. –––––––––– **IMPORTANT** This isn’t a class. It’s not a tour. It’s a creative meetup. We’ll walk. We’ll shoot. We’ll connect. –––––––––– **WHAT TO EXPECT** Bring your: • Film camera • Digital camera • Smartphone • Curiosity Whether you're a beginner, seasoned photographer, content creator, or just creatively curious — you’re welcome here. Come solo or bring friends. Spots are limited — reserve your place ASAP. –––––––––– **STAY CONNECTED** • 📍 Join our [ WhatsApp group](https://chat.whatsapp.com/EVbjlzM4ig83yRhreG7CzS?mode=gi_t) for live location updates. • 📸 Follow [@takeaphotowalkcommunity](https://www.instagram.com/takeaphotowalkcommunity/) and tag us in your photos. ABOUT TAKE A PHOTO WALK Founded in Barcelona in July 2024, Take a Photo Walk connects photographers and creators around the world through real-life creative experiences. Now Singapore is part of the story.

Join us this Thursday 6:30 pm at the Westerville Veterans Memorial for two loops around the Westerville Sports Complex fields. This 1 mile loop is a flat fully paved trail that straddles Alum Creek. Join us for a beautiful evening hike together!

[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).

**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.** **This is a paid event.** A small contribution helps keeps events sustainable and ensures those **who RSVP actually show up.** Payment **Link Found in comments** or you can pay on Venmo, Paypal, @WiseUnlimitedLLC or Cashapp $WiseUnlimitedLLC. 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

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

**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 share discussion of the James Baldwin short story collection, Going to Meet The Man.