Walking Tours
Meet other local people interested in Walking Tours: share experiences, inspire and encourage each other! Join a Walking Tours group.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Check out walking tours events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.
Discover all the walking tours events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.
Absolutely! Find walking tours events near your location here. Connect with your local community and discover events within your area.
Walking Tours Events Today
Join in-person Walking Tours events happening right now
Transform Strengthen Workout – Perfect for Beginners & Intermediate
🗓️Midweek Power Workout
⏳60-minute session
🎟️ New Participant Benefit
Elevate your midweek routine with our energizing full-body workout experience, designed to help you move better, feel stronger, and stay motivated.
This dynamic 60-minute session is suitable for all fitness levels—from beginners to experienced participants—combining cardio, strength, and endurance training through engaging circuits and effective resistance exercises. Each workout is thoughtfully structured to build total-body strength, enhance stamina, and support lean muscle development.
🎟️ New Participant Benefit First-time attendees receive a complimentary body composition analysis to establish a fitness baseline and support personalized goal-setting.
🕒 Schedule: Wednesdays, 7:15 PM – 8:15 PM
📍 Location: Aperia Mall, Open Plaza
🎒 What to Bring: Yoga mat, towel, water
Whether your goal is strength, endurance, or maintaining an active lifestyle, our experienced team is committed to helping you achieve sustainable, long-term results. Join us and take the next step toward a healthier, stronger you. 💪
⚠️ Disclaimer
Participation in this event is voluntary. Attendees acknowledge that physical activity carries inherent risks and agree to take part at their own discretion. The organizers are not liable for any injuries or health-related incidents.
Parkour Training
http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/d/4/7/2/600_434874386.jpeg
Check out www.A2 Movements.com for detailed info!
[Parkour Training]
Wednesday 7pm at Raffles Place - UOB plaza 1 - big bird area
Bring water, wear sporty attire (long pants & covered shoes + rubber sole
and the waiver form (can be found on website)
Wednesday Evening Full Body Circuit Training for Beginner & Intermediate Levels
**Wednesday Evening Full Body Circuit Training for Beginner & Intermediate Levels**
**Event Description:**
Ready to get moving? Join us every Wednesday evening for a fun and energizing Full Body Circuit Training session, designed especially for beginners! ️♂️ Each class will guide you through a circuit-style workout that targets all major muscle groups, helping you build strength, increase endurance, and improve overall fitness. No stations, just one solid circuit workout that keeps your body moving from start to finish!
Our friendly trainers will be there to ensure you stay on track, providing modifications and tips to help you succeed. Whether you’re just starting out or returning to fitness, this workout is perfect for you!
**Time:** Wednesdays at 7:15PM - 8:15PM
**Location:** Aperia Mall, Level 3 Open Plaza
**What to bring:** Comfortable workout clothes, water , a towel, and yoga mat
Come sweat it out and take your fitness to the next level! ♀️✨
Kids Parkour Class
http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/d/5/8/7/600_434874663.jpeg
Bring water, wear sporty attire (long pants & covered shoes + rubber sole
and the waiver form (can be found on website)
Game Night: Tabletop Card & Board Games Session @ Clark Quay
**NEWCOMERS & BEGINNERS WELCOME** 🥳
\> First time attending? Hosts will gladly settle you into a table and recommend easy\-to\-learn games
Whether you're a curious beginner, seasoned gamer or new in town looking to make connections, join us for a night of friendly competition, good company, and maybe discover a new favorite game!
\> Over 100 party\, social deduction & light strategy games
\> Welcome to bring your own game\! \(Any genre\)
🎫 Entry: **$12/pax**
Inclusive of a complimentary welcome treat:
\> **FREE 1\* Dessert Bowl, or**
\> **FREE 2\* Can Drinks**
🏠 Venue: **The Noodle Place**
**15A Circular Road (2nd Floor)**
Nearest MRT: Clark Quay / Raffles Place
Do Whatsapp 8337-0678 to confirm your attendance and share about your game genre preference, if any, so we can put you on a suitable table!
\>\>\>\>\>
By signing up for the event, you agree to the following:
🪑 Be mindful of your RSVP!
Update 4 hours prior to the event if something else comes up and you can’t attend so someone else can join the fun!
📸 Photos will be taken during the event for publicity purposes. Please sound out if uncomfortable.
🚫 No soliciting, MLM, investment pitches or harassment. Let's keep it friendly!
No outside food please!
For inclusivity, gameplay will be in English and may be less accessible if you’re not fluent.
**‼️ No refunds for sudden unavailability. In the event of cancellation, a full refund will be provided promptly.**
For more information, please feel free to whatsapp 8337-0678
Conquer your Fear of Public Speaking
FOC. Room opens 6.30pm for networking. Meeting starts 7pm sharp. Free of Charge. Meeting at
LENG KEE CC Room 02-05 opposite REDHILL
MRT
Green line
Come Upgrade yr Public Speaking Skills & Leadership skills at the most premier club in Singapore. 1st IN THE WORLD to qualify for 10/10 of the distinguished club program. The club which clocks in all the Memberships ribbons conquer yr Fear of Public Speaking. Singapore's Top Public Speaking Club. FREE OF CHARGE (Usual $10/meeting)
Wed evening run. Make new friends from an international run n social group.
Hi all, join us for an easy pace social run (45 mins +/-) and evening drinks / dinner.
Here’s the plan for the evening:
* 7:00 PM: Meet at fatbird statue for our run (no bag drop avail). 🏃🏻🏃🏻♀️
* 8:00 PM: Head to neaby BK eating House behind boat quay for drinks / dinner.
Thanks for signing up—we’re looking forward to a great time!
Have a wonderful day ahead! 😎
Walking Tours Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
Queenstown ➡️ East Cost Lagoon ➡️ X Makan x Drinking 🍹
Meet/Brief/Start : **4.45pm @ Queenstown MRT Exit C**
Distance: **27.60km**
\*Minumum age requirement to participate: 21 years old**
Routes :
Queenstown MRT exit C-> Alexandra PCN -> Marina Bay -> Gardens by the Bay -> Marina Barrage -> ECP
Dinner : East Coast Lagoon Food Village
**Attendance Confirmation** is required 2 days before event start. please check incoming messages from event chat.
**Safety/Disclaimer**:
Participants should **ride in a single file** at all times, keeping a **safe braking distance** and **look out and give priority to pedestrians**.
Participants recognise that cycling can be **strenuous and must ensure they are in good health and have the required fitness level** for the ride.
Participants are to **ensure their bikes are in proper riding condition, with working brakes, wheels properly inflated, font and rear reflectors/lights fitted** according to LTA regulations, and **wearing of helmets** and **appropriate cycling clothing/footwear**.
Weekend Social & Leisure Riders is a not for **profit, social interest group**. While the Organisers do their best to facilitate a safe ride, participants who join our rides do so **at their own risk** and **accept full responsibility for their safety** during the event.
By joining our rides, participants accept that the organisers are not **responsible or liable for any injury, accident, death or other unforeseen incidents, nor loss or damage to your belongings/equipment**, and that you agree also for **yourself, your heirs, executors and administrators to waive any claims** associated with the afore-mentioned.
Organisers reserve the right to **amend, postpone or cancel the event at any time, as well as not to allow a participant to take part or continue the event** for various reasons, not limited to: **late turnout, unsuitable clothing/footwear, unsafe cycling equipment, un-roadworthy bicycle condition, unsuitable fitness level/health issues or inappropriate behaviour**.
Thank you for your **attention**! :)
Walk & Talk SG: Sunset Walk @ Labrador Park
👣 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: 23/5/26
⏰ 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)
Sembawang Park Walk
Meet: Canberra MRT Station (NS12) Passenger Service Centre
When: Thursday 21st May - 5 pm
Event communication will be through the event chat. Please check the event chat on the day of the event to stay updated on any changes.\*\*\*
Start our journey from Canberra MRT as we walk towards Sembawang Park facing the Straits of Johor. Sembawang Park is one of the few parks with a naval history.
During the war, it was used as the site of a Naval Base. Along the way, we will explore some tunnels and bunkers used during WWII, an ancient mosque, the secret beach, Eagle Point, Sembawang shipyard, and the colonial Black & White Houses built for the British Navy.
We will end at Bukit Canberra hawker centre for dinner
What to bring:
\- Shades
\- umbrellas
\- Water
\- Good walking shoes
\- Long pants preferred
\- Mosquito Repellent
This is a Rain or Shine event. Where there are thunderstorms, we will adjourn for coffee or early dinner. We will resume the walk once the rain subsides.
Event communication will be through the event chat. Please check the event chat on the day of the event so that you will be updated on any changes.
Please try to be punctual. There will be 5 minutes grace for attendance taking. Please remember that we cannot wait because this would be unfair to those already present.
Please keep in mind that I may not respond to messages sent after the walk starts because I will be busy helping the attendees and leading the walk.
Please RSVP responsibly to help those on the waitlist get the chance to come for the walks.
***As a consideration for others, please confirm your RSVPs the day before the event to allow those on the waitlist sufficient time to schedule for the event.***
I may, at my discretion, place you in the waitlist so that others can join my walks.
Thank you for your kind understanding.
Disclaimer:
Your physical well-being is your responsibility. Exercise care while you walk. Please let me know when you feel unwell and need to drop out.
Walking comes with a risk of personal injury.
***By joining the walk, you accept responsibility for your safety and join the walk at your own risk. The organizer(s) will not be responsible or held liable for any accidents or injuries during or arising from the event.***
Our Thirty-Seventh Walk!
Hello everyone!
Place to Meet: Admiralty MRT Passenger Service Control Centre
Time: 5pm
1\. Dinner at Admiralty MRT
2\. Walk along Woodlands Ave 7/Admiralty Dr/Sembawang Dr/Admiralty Lane/Canberra Rd/Wellington Circle/Montreal Dr/Sembawang Rd/Yishun Ave8/Yishun Ave 6/Yishun Street 42/Yishun Ave 6/Yishun Ave 11/Yishun Central before ending at Yishun 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.
Nomad Walk: From Sentosa Boardwalk to Palawan Beach Via Imbiah Trail
Join **The Nomad People** for an urban trekking adventure!
Group chat :
https://chat.whatsapp.com/EBv11zeeBAG3w3IRUSjGlE?mode=gi_t
We’ll meet at **VivoCity Waterfront at 4:00PM (Sentosa Broadwalk)** and embark on a leisurely walk all the way to **Palawan Beach** **Via Imbiah Trail**.
This is the perfect chance to peek into tourism, nature, history and the beach.
**What to Expect:**
**Adventures Route:** Enjoy the blend of tourist charm at Universal Sentosa and natural beauty as we stroll along Imbiah Trail to Palawan beach. And fun *suspension bridge walk* at Palawan Beach!!!!
**Keep your distance:** Always observe wildlife from a safe distance and avoid disturbing them.
**Great Company:** Meet like-minded adventurers who share your passion for exploration
**Medium Pace:** This walk is designed for everyone with medium pace—whether you’re a seasoned walker or just looking for a fun, slightly thrilling way to spend an evening.
**What to Bring:**
* Comfortable walking shoes
* A water bottle
* A positive attitude and a spirit of adventure
Whether you’re new to The Nomad People or a regular explorer, this event is all about enjoying the journey, discovering local gems, and making new friends!
RSVP now, and let’s hit the pavement together as we explore **Palawan Beach Via Imbiah Trail!**
**Optional:** Dinner @Kopitiam (Vivo City)
The mono rail back to Vivo City is free of cost!
Punctuality is always respected. :)
[Mini Hike] Maju Forest
Meet: King Albert Park MRT Station (DT6) Passenger Service Centre
When: Saturday 23rd May 4pm\*\*
Event communication will be through the event chat. Please check the event chat on the day of the event to stay updated on any changes.\*\*\*
Do something different on a Saturday. Join us for a Mini Hike through the Maju Forest. There will be \*MUD\*! Come prepared with a good hiking shoe.
The Jurong Railway Tunnel is an abandoned, 1960s-era freight railway tunnel located under Clementi Road, near Maju Camp and the Bukit Timah area in Singapore. Built around 1965 to connect the Jurong industrial estate to the main railway line, the structure is a popular urban exploration spot known for its muddy conditions, "hidden", and often flooded, passageway covered by jungle. - *Mothership*
We will end at Clementi Mall for dinner
What to bring:
\- Shades
\- umbrellas
\- Water
\- Good walking shoes
\- Long pants preferred
\- Mosquito Repellent
This is a Rain or Shine event. Where there are thunderstorms, we will adjourn for coffee or early dinner. We will resume the walk once the rain subsides.
Event communication will be through the event chat. Please check the event chat on the day of the event so that you will be updated on any changes.
Please try to be punctual. There will be 5 minutes grace for attendance taking. Please remember that we cannot wait because this would be unfair to those already present.
Please keep in mind that I may not respond to messages sent after the walk starts because I will be busy helping the attendees and leading the walk.
Please RSVP responsibly to help those on the waitlist get the chance to come for the walks.
***As a consideration for others, please confirm your RSVPs the day before the event to allow those on the waitlist sufficient time to schedule for the event.***
Thank you for your kind understanding.
Disclaimer:
Your physical well-being is your responsibility. Exercise care while you walk. Please let me know when you feel unwell and need to drop out.
Walking comes with a risk of personal injury.
***By joining the walk, you accept responsibility for your safety and join the walk at your own risk. The organizer(s) will not be responsible or held liable for any accidents or injuries during or arising from the event.***
Walking Tours Events Near You
Connect with your local Walking Tours community
Creekside Hike
Join us this Thursday at 6:30 pm for a nice hike along the Big Walnut Trail along the Gahanna golf course, circling Creekside and back. This 2 mile hike is fully paved and a beautiful walk through the heart of Gahanna.
Tuesday Social Walk + Optional Topgolf
# Stop Scrolling. Start Living.
Sometimes the best way to meet new people is simple **get out of the house and do something in real life.** With weather still unpredictable, we’re keeping this one simple **we’ll be walking indoor or outdoor at Polaris.**
Most people who attend often come alone. **This is a casual social walk designed to meet new people.**
No awkward networking. No pressure.
Just walking, talking, and good company.
Whether you're new to the group or a regular, this is a great way to **get some steps in, meet new people, and do something different on a Tuesday evening.**
Location
**Polaris Fashion Place**
**Meeting Spot:** Outside or just inside **"Dicks Main entrance"** from parking lot
Look for the **Meetup sign and green or gold wristbands.**
The Plan
**6:45 PM — Meetup / Check-in**
Arrive, say hello, meet a few people, and get checked in.
*The first 15 minutes are usually the best time to meet people before we start walking.*
**7:00 PM — Walk Starts (Sharp)**
We’ll begin a **casual indoor or outdoor social walk around Polaris Mall.**
by the end of the hour we should be near 3 miles approx. 6k steps
**8:00 PM — Walk Ends**
Anyone who wants to keep the fun going can join us for Topgolf.
**Optional Activity** After
We’ll head over to **Topgolf**
No golf experience needed — **beginners welcome.**
**Let’s** **see your best Happy Gilmore swing!!!**
To reduce no-shows and keep events sustainable:
**$2 — Walk RSVP**
**$15 — Optional Topgolf add-on**
or **$17 TOTAL**
Topgolf is **limited to the first 6 paid players per bay.**
If the first bay fills, I’ll open another lane if enough people want to join.
**To keep group sizes manageable and reduce no-shows, this event is limited to paid attendees. RSVP alone does not reserve a spot.**
Use payment link in comments to confirm your reservation.
Even if only 1 person signs up and confirms their rsvp the event will happen!
**Important**
RSVP alone **does not guarantee a spot.**
Paid attendees receive:
• Event wristband
• Guaranteed Topgolf spot (if purchased)
• Inclusion in group activities
Why These Events Exist
Wise Unlimited events exist to help people:
• meet new friends
• get off their phones
• **do more things in real life**
Too many people **want to go do things** but **don’t want to go alone.**
This solves that.
**Stop scrolling. Start doing stuff.**
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.
* There's a restroom along the route at [Tuttle Park Community Center](https://maps.app.goo.gl/KTZJgLE1CrrbRNmJ7), which is about two‑thirds of the way from [Clinton-Como Park](https://maps.app.goo.gl/z8Cx8evwLiWundMe8) to our [turnback point](https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZXk7qUVszLQ8EJxHA).
* 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).
Columbus Museum of Art, Free Admission Sundays
Let’s meet and wander the galleries! General admission on Sundays is free.
Trails & Ales! Blendon Woods Metro Park / Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery
**History**
The history of [Blendon Woods Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/blendon-woods/) began long before its 1951 opening, rooted in a landscape of rugged ridges and deep ravines that made the land unsuitable for traditional farming. In 1945, a report proposing a metropolitan park system for Franklin County specifically highlighted these cliffs of Bedford Shale as some of the "wildest land in the vicinity". Following this recommendation, the recently formed park district purchased the first 229 acres in early 1949. Because the terrain was so uneven, developers had to cut a mile-and-a-half-long roadway through dense woods just to bring in heavy equipment. This initial preservation effort ensured that the mature second-growth hardwood forests remained largely untouched by the urban expansion spreading toward Westerville.
Opening day arrived on Labor Day, September 3, 1951, marking Blendon Woods as the second park in the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks system. The final push to open was a frantic race; the State Highway Department only finished the primary gravel access road four days before the gates opened. Early staff members, consisting of just four full-time employees, had to hand-dig pit toilets and learn construction skills on the fly to build the first picnic shelters. Despite the dusty conditions and limited facilities, the park was an immediate success, drawing massive crowds from across Central Ohio. By the end of the 1950s, annual visitation had already climbed to over 190,000 people.
As the surrounding suburbs grew in the 1960s, the park faced severe overcrowding that threatened its natural habitats. In response, Franklin County voters passed the first Metro Parks levy in 1960, providing the funds necessary for a decade of steady expansion. During this era, the park nearly doubled in size, growing from 264 acres to over 570 acres by 1968. Planners also addressed a critical water shortage by collaborating with the U.S. Soil and Conservation Service to build a lake in 1964. This body of water originally served as a temporary reservoir before its role shifted toward conservation and wildlife support.
The 1970s marked a transition toward the specialized wildlife and educational focus for which the park is known today. In 1971, the Walden Waterfowl Refuge was established around the 11-acre Thoreau Lake, creating a sanctuary that remains restricted to provide a quiet habitat for migratory birds. A formal nature center was also developed during this period, expanding on the guided Sunday walks that had been a park staple since the early 1950s. The park’s famous "Monarch Mansion" also became a prominent fixture, starting a long tradition of raising and releasing thousands of monarch butterflies each September. These initiatives cemented the park’s reputation as a premier destination for birders and nature enthusiasts.
In more recent decades, Blendon Woods has continued to modernize while maintaining its wilderness character. The 10-acre Natural Play Area was added in 2017, encouraging kids to explore the ravines and woods off-trail. This was followed by the opening of a $1.5 million inclusive playground in April 2025, designed to accommodate children of all physical abilities. The nature center also underwent major renovations to include immersive, three-dimensional exhibits and a new butterfly house. Today, the park encompasses 653 acres, preserving a unique geologic and biological corridor amidst the bustling Westerville and Northeast Columbus area.
**Map of the Park**
Here is a map of [Blendon Woods](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/BLN_map_Inclusive-Playground-and-Butterfly-Trail_May-2025_1980px.png).
**Summary**
For this event, we will hike the Lake View, Hickory Ridge, Ripple Rock, Overlook, Brookside, and Sugarbush Trails. This sounds like a lot, but it will really be only a little over five miles. Blendon Woods has a few hills here and there, but it's not one of the more strenuous metro parks.
**Where We'll Meet**
We'll meet just in front of the Nature Center. This is about a mile into the park from the main entrance. You have to go past the Ranger Station and the Shadblow Reservable Area to get to it, so don't stop too early at the Ranger Station and get it confused with the Nature Center.
**After the Hike**
Afterward, we will head over to [Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/) at Easton for [drinks](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/#dinner-menu) and [food](https://forbiddenroot.com/wp-content/uploads/Cbus-Food.pdf). We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks.
The brewery's actual address is [4080 Worth Ave, Columbus, OH 43219](https://www.google.com/maps/place/4080+Worth+Ave,+Columbus,+OH+43219/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x88388a86d10b6619:0x4d42b470a5cf11d3?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111); however, I recommend pointing your GPS to the [Worth Garage](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Worth+Garage/@40.0542293,-82.9137962,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x88388b4df6082825:0x17582f0eccd9dda1!8m2!3d40.0542293!4d-82.9137962!16s%2Fg%2F11rzfvvv8b?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDQxNS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) across the street. Parking in this garage is free as long as you're not on the first floor, and it is literally right next to the brewery.






















![[Mini Hike] Maju Forest](https://secure.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/4/a/f/e/highres_534079198.webp?w=640)




