Skip to content

True Crime

Meet other fans of true crime books.
pin icon
1,818
members
people1 icon
2
groups

Largest True Crime groups

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

Absolutely! Find true crime events near your location here. Connect with your local community and discover events within your area.

True Crime Events Today

Join in-person True Crime events happening right now

Jack the Ripper: London’s Darkest Secrets Walking Tour
Jack the Ripper: London’s Darkest Secrets Walking Tour
Step into the gas-lit streets of Victorian London and uncover the chilling story of Jack the Ripper. This evening walking tour takes you deep into Whitechapel, where one of history’s most notorious serial killers stalked his victims. Follow your expert guide as you: Visit the actual sites of the Ripper’s murders Explore hidden alleys and cobblestoned lanes Hear the true stories of the victims and the suspects See rare photographs and police reports Learn how the crimes shocked London — and the world Your guide will separate fact from fiction, using historical evidence and forensic insight to paint a vivid picture of life in East London in 1888. ⚠️ **IMPORTANT**: Attendance Confirmation Required To help us manage attendance, please complete the form below if you will be attending. You will only be added to the confirmed list once the form has been completed. **Confirm here:** https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfO_ujT7S1q-3EiZgkxHfPxJGgG8CnlYNCrHqQkLPNXmEC4Gw/viewform?usp=header If you are unable to join, please just send us a message to let us know.
Weekend Cricket Match
Weekend Cricket Match
Join us for a cricket match organized in East London by Millwall Stars CC (https://millwallstars.play-cricket.com/home) Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to be a part of the East London cricket scene and make a difference together We are looking for players of all levels as we run 3-4 teams every weekend. If you are interested to take part, please reach out to Himanshu Singh at 07466491118
May Meeting 1 - Real Life (Brandon Taylor)
May Meeting 1 - Real Life (Brandon Taylor)
In our first meeting of May, we discuss Brandon Taylor's *Real Life.* Shortlisted for the Booker Prize in 2020, the novel was the much-lauded debut for the Alabama-born writer. 'Deftly zooming in and out of focus, *Real Life* is a deeply affecting story about the emotional cost of reckoning with desire, and overcoming pain.' (Book jacket) 'A campus novel told from the perspective of a Black student, Taylor’s powerful tale embraces themes of grief, desire and alienation in rich, eloquent prose.' -Waterstones https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/46263943-real-life We will discuss the Real Life in the Real Greek - Bankside. So come along for some tasty Greek fare on a Sunday afternoon as we dive into this fascinating premier. N.B. We will be charging an event fee of £3, non-refundable, to discourage no-shows and contribute to the running costs of the group. Please only sign up if you intend to come along as space is limited to make for an effective discussion!
Whitechapel Wimmin!
Whitechapel Wimmin!
### 🚶‍♀️Whitechapel & The East End: Radicals, Rebels and Real History Whitechapel is so much more than one misogynistic murderer. This walk dives into the real East End—the thinkers, immigrants, agitators and communities that shaped it. We’ll explore the streets once walked by: • **Anarchists and radicals** • **Brilliant social reformers and Fabians** • **Waves of migrants who transformed the area** Our route takes in **Whitechapel, Stepney Green, Brick Lane and Spitalfields**, where: • Stunning **Huguenot houses** sit beside bold **street art** • **Bangladeshi curry houses** rub shoulders with **hipster cafes** • Cultures overlap in the most fascinating way We’ll finish just opposite **Spitalfields**, at the steps of Hawksmoor's Christchurch. Built to tame and control. A final resting place for hundreds of women and children, the heart of the East End. ⭐ A past participant said: *"A phenomenal tour! Mandy is an incredible tour guide and she gave us some truly wonderful insights into the area and the fantastic women who lived there. We highly recommend this tour if you are in London—it's a must!"* **Cost:** £10 (cash or card or on the website: [www.flockle](http://www.flocklessbutfree.com/)ss.world **Length:** 2–2.5 hours, around 3–4 miles **Note:** You’ll need to be reasonably fit. By joining, you agree to walk at your own risk. Please note once the tour starts I cannot answer any messages or the phone. Make sure you arrive at least five minutes before the tour starts. I am not responsible for any cancellations of public transport or any delays to your journey. If you want culture, rebels and real London stories—this is it. Want to come? 👣
Brunch Bunch
Brunch Bunch
The Ritz afternoon cuppa.
The Ritz afternoon cuppa.
Join me for a cuppa/drinks and nibbles in the luxurious Ritz hotel. No trainers/sportswear allowed. As this is for a small group please do not sign up and forget about it - you need to cancel your place if you can no longer go. I have booked a table in The Gallery.
Relaxed Mafia (Beginner Friendly)
Relaxed Mafia (Beginner Friendly)
## Welcome to Relaxed Mafia Come and play Mafia, an exciting social deduction game, in a welcoming and friendly atmosphere. Players of all levels of experience are welcome, including complete beginners. There is a recommended donation of between £5 and £10 to help us to cover our Meetup fees. If you can't afford this though, then don't let this stop you coming! If you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask.

True Crime Events This Week

Discover what is happening in the next few days

FULL - Social Pub Quiz & Games Afternoon | London 20s and 30s
FULL - Social Pub Quiz & Games Afternoon | London 20s and 30s
**It’s that time again! With May now here, we're hugely excited to be hosting our latest Social Pub Quiz, exclusively for 20s and 30s.** Yep that's right, every month we host latest our very special creative and quirky pub quiz in Central London, just for our community ❤️ And as always, our crack team of quizmasters have concocted a range of entertaining and social quiz rounds, each designed to challenge your wit and intelligence with a range of fun and fascinating questions. And we'll also be throwing in some fun team games designed to test your speed, creativity and teamwork - with previous quizzes featuring everything from crafty challenges, poetry duels to Marmalade Sandwich time trials ⏱️ Best of all, we have some amazing prizes up for grabs and so don't miss out on what promises to be a memorable afternoon of quizzing, socialising, and friendly competition. Unfortunately as the pub can only fit a limited number of us in for the quiz and so as always, places will be offered on a first come, first serve basis. **\- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \-** **WHERE/WHEN** Venue Address: The Star By Liverpool Street, 94 Middlesex St, London E1 7EZ ([https://maps.app.goo.gl/hcx4jN9BnqDry2Ws5](https://maps.app.goo.gl/hcx4jN9BnqDry2Ws5)) Nearest Tube Stations: Liverpool Street (5 mins walk) and Aldgate (10 mins). Start Time - 4:30pm Finish time: 7:30pm - 8:30pm (Approx) **\- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \-** **JOIN THE COMMUNITY** Set up in November 2021, the project was set up to help 20s and 30s in London meet, connect and hopefully build life-long friendships. To help make this happen, we also host all kinds of events from free social walks, games evenings, day trips, social events, activity nights to picnics. To learn more about our community or to follow us on social media, please follow one of the links below. **Website - [https://friendship-project.co.uk](https://friendship-project.co.uk/)** **Instagram - [https://www.instagram.com/great.friendship](https://www.instagram.com/great.friendship)**
Coffee morning Holiday Inn
Coffee morning Holiday Inn
GREEN £5 🌲🌳🌱🌿 WALK: HORNIMAN GARDENS and DULWICH PARK and WOODS
GREEN £5 🌲🌳🌱🌿 WALK: HORNIMAN GARDENS and DULWICH PARK and WOODS
ENJOY THIS UNIQUE WALK IN STUNNING GREEN SPACES. STRENGTHEN NEW FRIENDSHIPS IN A PUB SOCIAL AFTER THE WALK. **WALK START: Forest Hill Railway Station** (National Rail and London Overground - Travel Zone 3) WALK ROUTE: Today we walk through the contrasting scenery of Horniman Gardens, Dulwich Park, Sydenham Woods Sydenham Wells Park and Crystal Palace Park. WALK DISTANCE: Approx 6 miles. WALK FINISH: Crystal Palace Station ( National Rail and London Overground). STOPOUT POINT: Throughout the walk we will cross several London bus routes. **Scroll down to see Disclaimer and Notice of Risks.** ENJOY UNIQUE HEALTHY WALKS IN STUNNING GREEN SPACES OR ALONG WATERWAYS IN LONDON. STRENGTHEN NEW FRIENDSHIPS IN A PUB SOCIAL AFTER THE WALK. **COST of EVENT**: **All of the walks on this group are only £5 each to attend. Payment is not collected before the day of the event to allow you maximum flexibility.** **This walk is free for holders of the Ken's Events Membership Card.** Get out, explore and enjoy London's abundant green spaces and surprising surrounding countryside. Give up the city streets for a day and breathe some fresh air. Improve your overall fitness levels and make some new friends at the same time. Social Event: Our walks are social walks, where the emphasis is on meeting new people, enjoying nature, healthy exercise, and fresh air. Our walks are not interrupted with running commentaries or historical lectures, although occasionally features of significance may be pointed out. As such our walks will be continuous with few stops and it is your responsibilty to keep walkers ahead in view and to follow the direction of the walk. We always end the walk at a pub where the socialising can continue. Take this opportunity to visit green parts of London, unknown to most people, and that you would not otherwise have an opportunity to see. RISKS:Please dress appropriately for weather conditions and carry a bottle of water and necessary medication. You need to be moderately fit for this walk and be able to walk for four miles without a break. In these walks we use; pavements, cross busy roads, public parkland, towpaths alongside water, other public paths, and tracks through woodland and countryside. Please only wear good sturdy shoes, trousers are recommended, and take care as surfaces may be uneven, and some paths are also used by joggers and cyclists. Be wary of portruding tree roots and low overhanging branches. If you require insurance for these walks then you must arrange this yourself. No large dogs or small children please. Please arrive in good time to allow opportunity to use toilets at the start of the walk as there may not be any toilet breaks available during the walk. WANT TO COME ON ANOTHER WALK? For a list of future walks go to[ http://www.meetup.com/KENS-EVENTS-EXPLORE-LONDON-SECRETS/events/](https://www.meetup.com/KENS-EVENTS-EXPLORE-LONDON-SECRETS/events/) DISCAIMER All Ken's Events are subject to a disclaimer. Please click here [https://www.meetup.com/kens-events-explore-london-secrets/](https://www.meetup.com/kens-events-explore-london-secrets/) to find out more about Kens Events/Walks and click on 'read more' to see full disclaimer. Please post no pre-event messages unless you are posting something relevant for the whole group. Kens Events also has a facebook page. [http://www.facebook.com/Kens.events](http://www.facebook.com/Kens.events) When you arrive at the station look for Ken with Kens Events/Meetup Badge outside the station. WHAT IF THE WEATHER IS BAD? - Light rain is not a problem, only very heavy rain will lead to a postponement.
GREEN £5 🌲🌳🌱🌿 WALK: CRYSTAL PALACE PARK- NORBURY PARK
GREEN £5 🌲🌳🌱🌿 WALK: CRYSTAL PALACE PARK- NORBURY PARK
ENJOY THIS UNIQUE WALK IN STUNNING GREEN SPACES. STRENGTHEN NEW FRIENDSHIPS IN A PUB SOCIAL AFTER THE WALK. Today we walk through the contrasting scenery of Crystal Palace Park, Biggin Woods, Norwood Grove and Norbury Park **WALK START:Crystal Palace Park Railway Station** (National Rail - Travel Zone 3/4) WALK ROUTE: From Crystal Palace Park Railway Station we walk across Crystal Palace Park and then enter Westow Park, Upper Norwood Recreation Ground, Biggin Woods, Norwood Grove and Norbury Park. WALK DISTANCE: Approx 6.5 miles. WALK FINISH: Norbury Station ( National Rail). STOPOUT POINT: Throughout the walk we will cross several London bus routes. **Scroll down to see Disclaimer and Notice of Risks.** ENJOY UNIQUE HEALTHY WALKS IN STUNNING GREEN SPACES OR ALONG WATERWAYS IN LONDON. STRENGTHEN NEW FRIENDSHIPS IN A PUB SOCIAL AFTER THE WALK. **COST of EVENT**: **All of the walks on this group are only £5 each to attend. Payment is not collected before the day of the event to allow you maximum flexibility.** **This walk is free for holders of the Ken's Events Membership Card.** Get out, explore and enjoy London's abundant green spaces and surprising surrounding countryside. Give up the city streets for a day and breathe some fresh air. Improve your overall fitness levels and make some new friends at the same time. Social Event: Our walks are social walks, where the emphasis is on meeting new people, enjoying nature, healthy exercise, and fresh air. Our walks are not interrupted with running commentaries or historical lectures, although occasionally features of significance may be pointed out. As such our walks will be continuous with few stops and it is your responsibilty to keep walkers ahead in view and to follow the direction of the walk. We always end the walk at a pub where the socialising can continue. Take this opportunity to visit green parts of London, unknown to most people, and that you would not otherwise have an opportunity to see. RISKS:Please dress appropriately for weather conditions and carry a bottle of water and necessary medication. You need to be moderately fit for this walk and be able to walk for four miles without a break. In these walks we use; pavements, cross busy roads, public parkland, towpaths alongside water, other public paths, and tracks through woodland and countryside. Please only wear good sturdy shoes, trousers are recommended, and take care as surfaces may be uneven, and some paths are also used by joggers and cyclists. Be wary of portruding tree roots and low overhanging branches. If you require insurance for these walks then you must arrange this yourself. No large dogs or small children please. Please arrive in good time to allow opportunity to use toilets at the start of the walk as there may not be any toilet breaks available during the walk. WANT TO COME ON ANOTHER WALK? For a list of future walks go to[ http://www.meetup.com/KENS-EVENTS-EXPLORE-LONDON-SECRETS/events/](https://www.meetup.com/KENS-EVENTS-EXPLORE-LONDON-SECRETS/events/) DISCAIMER All Ken's Events are subject to a disclaimer. Please click here [https://www.meetup.com/kens-events-explore-london-secrets/](https://www.meetup.com/kens-events-explore-london-secrets/) to find out more about Kens Events/Walks and click on 'read more' to see full disclaimer. Please post no pre-event messages unless you are posting something relevant for the whole group. Kens Events also has a facebook page. [http://www.facebook.com/Kens.events](http://www.facebook.com/Kens.events) When you arrive at the station look for Ken with Kens Events/Meetup Badge outside the station. WHAT IF THE WEATHER IS BAD? - Light rain is not a problem, only very heavy rain will lead to a postponement.
Hidden Gardens of the City of London
Hidden Gardens of the City of London
Discover London's Secret Gardens! Join us for a 2-hour (approx) stroll through some of The City's hidden gems - tucked away gardens and green spaces that its easy to miss. We'll end up at a pub just a short walk from Monument and Liverpool Street stations. Come for the gardens, stay for the company!
Romería
Romería
We will go to see Romería, Carla Simón’s third feature – nominated in 6 categories at the 2026 Goya Awards – is the concluding episode of the filmmaker’s semi-autobiographical trio of films exploring her upbringing and family history. Set on the Galician coast in the early 2000s, the film follows 18-year-old Marina, who travels to Vigo in search of information about her biological father; she is seeking his death certificate to be able to apply for a scholarship to film school. Reconnecting with her paternal side of the family, she discovers a huge amount of shame and secrecy around his death. Reading from her biological mother’s diary entries from her youth, Marina takes the opportunity to uncover what she can about her parents’ relationship with the estranged family, and discovers the reason for their secrecy. For those who can stay will go for a drink after the screening to discuss the film.
The Game Show: Taskmaster Style
The Game Show: Taskmaster Style
**A night of ridiculous challenges, questionable strategy, and glorious chaos — inspired by the hit TV show Taskmaster.** Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the series or just love the idea of doing something delightfully silly with a room full of strangers, this event is built for maximum fun, zero pressure, and plenty of laughter. You’ll take on a series of playful, surprising, and occasionally absurd tasks. Some will test your skill, some your creativity, and some your ability to keep a straight face while doing something utterly ridiculous. Every challenge is designed to be accessible, social, and fun — no special skills required. **Please use the link below to sign up to this event.** [https://dplsk.eventcube.io/events/95493/the-game-show-taskmaster-style](https://dplsk.eventcube.io/events/95493/the-game-show-taskmaster-style) **⭐ What Makes This Event Special ⭐** **The Tasks:** A mix of original challenges created in the spirit of chaotic, creative game shows — some clever, some silly, some gloriously pointless. **The Vibes:** Light-hearted, social, and welcoming. This is not a serious competition; it’s a chance to be playful and enjoy the chaos. **The Hosts:** Friendly, encouraging, and just the right amount of mischievous. They’ll guide you through each task and award points with interpretive fairness. **🎯 Who This Event Is For 🎯** Great for anyone who enjoys: \*Creative, silly challenges * Doing something a bit ridiculous \*Meeting new people in a relaxed, playful setting You’re welcome to come alone or with friends. This is not a hardcore quiz night or a high-stakes competition. It’s all about fun, not winning. **💷 Price — £5 per person 💷** Your contribution helps us create new tasks, buy props, and keep the event running smoothly. Please note that tickets are non-refundable and non-transferrable. **📍 Where & When 📍** **Address:** The Red Lion, 41 Hoxton Street, London, N1 6NH **Google Maps:** [https://maps.app.goo.gl/U8xYQE34otpfxHh77](https://maps.app.goo.gl/U8xYQE34otpfxHh77) **Nearest Tube Station:** Old Street Underground Station (approx 9 min walk) **Doors Open:** 5:00 PM **Event Starts:** 6:00 PM **Event Ends:** 9:00 PM You must arrive before 6 PM if you wish to participate in this event. Anyone who arrives after this time may only be able to watch the event unfold. **Disclaimer** This event is an independent, fan-made experience inspired by the style and spirit of the Taskmaster TV show. It is not associated with, endorsed by, or affiliated with the official Taskmaster programme, Avalon, or any related entities.

True Crime Events Near You

Connect with your local True Crime community

Unknown Number: The High School Catfish
Unknown Number: The High School Catfish
IMPORTANT!!! THE DATE OF THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CHANGED TO SUNDAY MAY 17, 2026!!! A very unusual choice for his group... Unknown Number: High School Catfish is an American [true crime](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/True_crime "True crime") documentary film directed by [Skye Borgman](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Skye_Borgman "Skye Borgman") and released to [streaming](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Streaming_media "Streaming media") on [Netflix](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Netflix "Netflix") on August 29, 2025. The documentary explores the events and investigation into an unknown person [cyberbully](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cyberbullying "Cyberbullying") and [harassing](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harassment "Harassment") teenagers in [Beal City, Michigan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beal_City,_Michigan "Beal City, Michigan") using an unknown number via insults and sexual claims. It also explores the increasingly great impact of the harassment on the community, the eventual reveal of the culprit, and the trial that followed. IMPORTANT INFO: I strongly suggest not reading anything about it online before seeing it. It's best viewed with no previous knowledge. This documentary contains crude terminology and deals with cyberbullying, which may be a trigger for some folks. Please be ready to discuss the movie by 7PM. Thanks. Unfortunately, it is only available on Netflix. If you would like to attend but do not have Netflix, say so and maybe we can figure something out.
Choose Your Movie: THE SHEEP DETECTIVES vs HOKUM at Cinemark Stoneridge!
Choose Your Movie: THE SHEEP DETECTIVES vs HOKUM at Cinemark Stoneridge!
Join us as we get together to see your choice of two VERY different movies – one sweet and wholesome – the other a terrifying folklore horror! Option 1 is the fun whodunnit-action-comedy-mystery led by Hugh Jackman, THE SHEEP DETECTIVES! Option 2 is the top-reviewed supernatural-horror-thriller starring Adam Scott, HOKUM! Here’s a description, trailer and plan for this event: THE SHEEP DETECTIVES: Every night a shepherd reads aloud a murder mystery, pretending his sheep can understand. When he is found dead, the sheep realize at once that it was a murder and think they know everything about how to go about solving it. The film is directed by Kyle Balda and take a look at this ensemble cast: Hugh Jackman, Nicholas Braun, Molly Gordon, Hong Chau and Emma Thompson and the voices of Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Bryan Cranston, Chris O'Dowd, Regina Hall, Patrick Stewart, Bella Ramsey, Brett Goldstein and Rhys Darby. TRAILER: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pyZI5oM6hWk HOKUM: In this film, a horror writer visits an Irish inn to scatter his parents' ashes, unaware the property is said to be haunted by a witch. It is written/directed by Damian McCarthy stars Adam Scott, Peter Coonan, David Wilmot, Florence Ordesh and Austin Amelio. Hokum premiered to rave reviews at this year’s SXSW Festival and is being release by Neon. It is earning a stellar 97% positive rating on Rotten Tomatoes, which calls it, “A classic haunted house story enriched with atmospheric folklore and perfectly-timed shocks!” TRAILER: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EVCIK_MPyhc PLAN: For those seeing HOKUM, please purchase your ticket for the 7:00pm showing and meet inside the theater lobby at 6:50pm! For those seeing THE SHEEP DETECTIVES, please purchase your ticket for the 7:15pm showing and meet inside the theater lobby at 7:00pm! For BOTH films, we’ll plan for a pre-show bite at nearby El Vaquero! For those joining for dinner, we’ll meet at El Vaquero at 5:45pm! Should be a couple of fun movies and a good time together, Dan
Speak Easy (Storytelling)
Speak Easy (Storytelling)
The topic for May is "Ink" Speak Easy: true stories, told live. The idea is simple: an audience, an open microphone, and great stories. Hilarious, gripping, poignant- it's up to you. Audiences are invited to come to listen or come to tell as folks from all corners of Columbus offer their stories live on stage! Held at Wild Goose Creative's warm, intimate space, this night of tales occurs on the 3rd Thursday of every month. Doors open at 6:30 pm, show starts at 7:00 pm. Please arrive early if you want to tell, as we generally only have room for a limited number of tellers, and the sign-up sheet has a tendency to fill up fast. Formed around the idea that people need stories--they're what hold and draw us together--SpeakEasy celebrates the strangeness and commonness of being human. And in a world of smartphones, Facebook, Twitter, and more . . . it gives people a real, breathing, in-person way to connect. The night is geared for true stories of all kinds, taking the best tales told around kitchen tables, in darkened pubs, on the street corner, and at late-night parties and giving them an audience. Speak Easy is also a great outlet for performers, writers, and artists looking to share their favorite stories and perfect their skills. We strongly encourage tellers to please tell the story rather than read it so we keep within the spirit of good storytelling and stay engaged with the audience. All are welcome. Hang around after the show for a drink and build community!
Happy hour book club
Happy hour book club
Trails & Ales! Blendon Woods Metro Park / Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery
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.
First Look at Bank Run
First Look at Bank Run