Via Ferrata

Join us for our regular and casual Friday evening, on playing Padel. We reserve our right to adapt the setup according to the audience level, vibe, health, weather, shape etc SETUP ● 2 courts (2 vs 2), 1 team is rotating or taking a rest court 1: minim 6 players court 2: minim 4 players ● 2 courts - 10-12 people (more players, we make small teams and play shorts, all combination; the hosts have the last word. proposals are welcome) ● The event organisers or experienced player are entitled to send players on the second court ● We are respectfull and warm with each other, our cultural and professional background is diverse. ● New proposals are welcome :). Sometimes we adapt. ● The host toghether with the regular players, can ask new or misbehaved players to step out from the court, in order to maintain the good vibes Price to pay (in cash) (Aprox, for this season, could vary with 1-2 euros) ■ 12 euros for 1h ■ 20 euros for 2h ■ If you need a racket, you can rent it from us for 2 € (if available). Otherwise you can always rent from the venue for 5 €. ■ Cancelation 4-6h, ahead or you pay 12 euros the fee for 1h ● We use the monney to cover the courts rent & subscription for renting, smaller hostings or welcome expenses Important ● New commers, intermediate, out of shape, friendly players are playing on their own risk. If they choose to play with advanced players in a more "competitive" way (hitting the ball in the direction of opponent player is allowed). ● Playing competitive is allowed on the first court ● Playing friendly is our main goal. For this we understand both advanced people, who want to consume their energy, and the social people who play for fun. Please collaborate on the court and don't go to advanced court if you are injured or recovering from illness. ● Please anounce the hosts and/or the players on your court, if you have some injuries or specific conditions. ● We love to play social and all levels. ● Be welcoming with newcomers ● Once you know us (couple of games together), You are welcome to hang out with us, even when you can't play.

Join us on Friday, for friendly afterwork Beachvolleyball! It is Outdoor on Donaucity Sportcenter! AGENDA Beachvolleyball 3vs3 and 2vs2, 2 courts - 4:00 - 4:10 PM: warm Up - 4:05/4:10 PM: Filling Up the courts - 4:10 - 4:40 PM: 3vs3 Games - 4:40 -5:40/ 5:50 PM: 2vs2 Games - 5:40/5:50 -6:00 PM: Back to 3 vs3 for more social and friendliness 🫠 or maybe tryout some new beach fun. Everyone on the court - everybody will play 2vs2, starting with 6:40 pm (minim 2 or 3 consecutive games, after which will Take 1 Game break) - We Reserve the right to adapt on the court Level and requests of Hosts and regular Players in the aim of maintaining good vibes, be inclusive and playfull. Games are social and fun, Not competitive! It is tended for welbeing, mindfulness, less devices, more fresh Air, Outdoor social and IRP conections. - We Play 2 or 3 Games in a row in the same Team comppsition (plus a small decisive If Teams want it); after that WE mixed with the Players on the other court. - please be mindful and announce asap if u don't come, you are late or the duration (in case u don't intend to play full time). Bring in cash: aprox 10-12 Euros/Person to Cover the courts price. In case we are 4players/ court ( this is 2 vs2 ) then it is 12 Euros/person . Have a ☀️ and warm day!

We meet up to do comfort zone challenges in the streets of Vienna. Our goal is that everyone goes home having had experiences out of their comfort zone. ​​Most important things first: * ​You should speak either German or English to join. * ​​We're coordinating before, during, and after the meetup in our "Social Adventures in Vienna" Telegram group, join it here: [https://t.me/czc_vienna](https://t.me/czc_vienna) * ​​Check out our Instagram to see pictures from previous meetups: [https://www.instagram.com/improv_czc/](https://www.instagram.com/improv_czc/) ​​Experience the fun to get out of your comfort zone, to grow beyond your expectations and to surprise yourself! Join the event to experience how easy it can be to be thrown in new situations! ​​What will we do? * ​​Introduction into the "comfort zone challenge" * ​​Introducing ourselves and our goals for this meetup * ​​Deciding on the groups & challenges * ​​(Optional) group-warm-up * ​​Doing the challenges in group of 3-4 * ​​Reflection: Meeting in a bar to reflect and have a drink ​​Be aware that consuming alcohol is discouraged until reflection. Also, make sure you have enough time to attend the event through to the end, since the reflection is an important part of the process and a good opportunity to let the other participants learn from your experience. ​--- ​Wir treffen uns, um Comfort Zone Challenges in den Straßen von Wien zu machen! Unser Ziel ist es, dass jede/r nach Hause geht mit dem Erlebnis, aus seiner/ihrer Komfortzone gegangen zu sein.

**Was ein erfolgreiches Sport-Innovations-Ökosystem braucht – und wie KI den Moment gerade beschleunigt** Runtastic. Eversports. myClubs. Österreich hat bewiesen, dass aus dem Sport heraus Weltklasse-Unternehmen entstehen können. Aber es sind Einzelfälle geblieben – noch kein vernetztes Ökosystem dahinter, das gezielt mehr davon hervorbringt. Was braucht es, damit das nächste große Ding nicht Zufall ist? Welche Verbindungen fehlen zwischen Sportorganisationen, Gründer:innen, Forschung und Kapital? Und was verändert KI gerade – in der Trainingssteuerung, der Sportmedizin, im Fan-Erlebnis – und wer in Österreich nutzt diesen Moment? Diese Fragen wollen wir gemeinsam stellen – beim **Sports Innovation Breakfast** für Sportbegeisterte, Gründer:innen, Investor:innen und Innovationstreiber:innen. **Speaker Line-up:** * [Horst Nussbaumer, OLY](https://www.linkedin.com/in/horst-nussbaumer-oly-b31b87133/), Präsident [Österreichisches Olympisches Comité](https://www.linkedin.com/company/oeoc/) * [Michaela Huber](https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaela-huber-1b5557150/), Vizepräsidentin [SPORTUNION Österreich](https://www.linkedin.com/company/sportunion-oesterreich/) * [Stefan Litzenberger](https://www.linkedin.com/in/stefan-litzenberger-23389027/), Studiengangsleiter Sports Technology, [FH Technikum Wien](https://www.linkedin.com/company/uas-technikum-wien/) * [Klaus Müller](https://www.linkedin.com/in/klausmuller/), Gründer [Wictory](https://www.linkedin.com/company/wictory-ai/) * [Thomas Berger](https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-berger-6131a3189/), Geschäftsführer [LAOLA1](https://www.linkedin.com/company/laola1/) * [Conny Wilczynski](https://www.linkedin.com/in/conny-wilczynski-67757498/), Gründer [Sportbox](https://www.linkedin.com/company/sportbox-gmbh/) Veranstaltet von **weXelerate** in Kooperation mit [Innovation Salzburg](https://www.innovation-salzburg.at/). **Agenda:** 08:30 AM Check-In mit Kaffee 09:00 AM Welcome & Intro Ernst Novak (Innovation Salzburg) 09:10 AM - 09:30 AM Impuls Interview Horst Nussbaumer (ÖOC Präsident) 09:30 AM Panel-Diskussion Michaela Huber (VP Sportunion), Klaus Müller (Gründer Wictory.ai), Thomas Berger (GF LAOLA1), Stefan Litzenberger (FH Technikum) 10:30 AM - 11:00 AM Netzwerken

Helloooo all :) Picaro will be playing at the Twins Irish pub, I was at his last performance there and it was GREAT! The pub might has a good atmosphere and there are pool tables etc so come along, lets socialize and listen to some great music. Looking forward to seeing you there!

**Lachkrampf – Das deutsche Open Mic im The Comedy Pub. Jede Woche neue Comedians, neue Witze und jede Menge Lacher. Eintritt frei!** **[GRATIS TICKETS BUCHEN!!!](https://www.universe.com/events/deutsches-stand-up-comedy-open-mic-lachkrampf-thecomedypub-tickets-PFLZ8G?ref=MeetUp)** Bereit für einen Abend voller Lacher und unerwarteter Comedy-Momente? Willkommen bei **Lachkrampf**, dem deutschen Open Mic im **The Comedy Pub**! Hier probieren erfahrene Comedians neue Gags aus, und mutige Neulinge wagen sich zum ersten Mal ans Mikrofon. Von überraschenden One-Linern bis hin zu schrägen Alltagsgeschichten – hier ist alles möglich! ### 🤔 **Was ist ein Open Mic?** Ein **Open Mic** ist die Spielwiese der Comedians. Hier testen Profis neues Material und Anfänger wagen ihre ersten Schritte ins Rampenlicht. Es kann grandios werden... oder grandios schiefgehen – aber genau das macht den Charme aus! Das Publikum ist live dabei, wenn neue Witze entstehen oder alte Pointen in neuem Glanz erstrahlen. ### 🍻 **The Comedy Pub – Wiens Einziger Stand-Up Comedy Club** Mitten im Herzen Wiens, in der **Kettenbrückengasse 7**, findet ihr **The Comedy Pub** – den einzigen echten Stand-Up Comedy Club der Stadt! In gemütlicher Pub-Atmosphäre, mit einem breiten Angebot an Getränken und Snacks, könnt ihr die besten Comedians Wiens live erleben. Hier wird gelacht, gefeiert und jede Menge improvisiert. ### 💡 **Warum ist der Eintritt frei? (Spenden Willkommen!)** Comedy lebt vom Publikum – ohne eure Reaktionen funktioniert es nicht! Euer Lachen, Klatschen oder auch das betretene Schweigen helfen den Comedians, ihre Gags zu verbessern. Deshalb ist der Eintritt kostenlos, aber Spenden sind herzlich willkommen. Wenn ihr einen tollen Abend hattet, zeigt uns ein bisschen Liebe. ### 🎟️ **Verhaltensregeln für das Publikum:** Damit der Abend für alle unvergesslich wird, bitten wir euch um Folgendes: * **Seid pünktlich:** Wir starten pünktlich! * **Befolgt die Anweisungen:** Ist wirklich nicht schwer. * **Lacht, wenn es lustig ist:** Eure Reaktionen machen die Show aus. * **Spendet, wenn es euch gefallen hat:** Damit unterstützt ihr die lokale Comedy-Szene. * **Kein Zwischenrufen:** Ihr werdet verlieren. Jedes Mal. * **Nicht quatschen während der Show:** Respektiert die Comedians und die anderen Gäste. Dies ist nicht euer Wohnzimmer – es ist ein Privileg, hier zu sein. Wenn ihr die Show, das Publikum oder die Comedians stört, fliegt ihr raus. Keine Rückerstattung, keine zweite Chance. Wir sind hier für gute Vibes und großartige Comedy – versaut das nicht! ### 🎉 **Lachkrampf – Der lustigste Abend in Wien, jede Woche neu!** #Lachkrampf #OpenMicWien #TheComedyPub #WienLacht #DeutscheComedy #StandUpOpenMic #ComedyNightVienna #LachenIstGesund #WienEvents #LiveComedy #LustigInWien #ComedyShowcase #HumorHochZehn #ComedyInWien #KostenloseComedy #SpendenWillkommen #DeutschsprachigeComedy #ComediansAusWien #ComedyClubWien #BühneFrei #HumorAusÖsterreich #StandUpNight #LivePerformance #LokaleComedians #ViennaLaughs #DonnerstagsLachen #WitzigeDonnerstage #OpenMicNight #BesteComedyWien #TheComedyPubVienna

Marchfeldkanal Cycle Path – from the source to the mouth Fancy a demanding ride that isn’t at race pace? We’ll ride the entire Marchfeldkanal Cycle Path: from the source in Langenzersdorf to the mouth near Hainburg. Flat, fast, and scenically varied—ideal for rolling along at a brisk pace. **Course:** [https://www.bergfex.at/sommer/niederoesterreich/touren/wanderung/4988938,marchfeldkanalradroute/](https://www.bergfex.at/sommer/niederoesterreich/touren/wanderung/4988938,marchfeldkanalradroute/) * Distance: approx. 60 km * Elevation gain: practically none * Pace: average 21–23 km/h * Not relaxed, but not race pace either. We’ll ride briskly and steadily. * Bike type: Gravel or mountain bike recommended (treaded tires helpful) * Meeting point: We’ll meet at the bike parking at Langenzersdorf train station. * Start: 12:00 * Planned finish: approx. 15:30 **Pace & Group Dynamics** * Target pace: 21–23 km/h on average over the entire route. * Riding style: Drafting encouraged, steady pulls, no hard accelerations. * We ride as a single group with “regroup” points after open sections or at intersections. * If the pace is consistently too high for you, please speak up—we’ll try to regroup, but we’ll maintain the target pace. **Breaks & Supplies** * Breaks: depending on group preference, either one longer break OR 2–3 shorter stops (snack, water, photos). * Please bring enough food and water (at least 1.5–2 L, depending on the weather). There are places to refill, but not everywhere. **Gear** * Helmet, spare tube/plug, pump/CO₂, multitool, quick link, chain lube. * Weather-appropriate clothing, wind/rain jacket. * Lights (front/rear) in case the ride back runs later. * Map/GPS (GPX track can be provided on request). **Arrival & Return** * Start point: directly at Langenzersdorf train station—easy to reach by train. * Return: This is not a loop—you’re responsible for your own trip home. * Option 1: Ride approx. 35 km back towards Vienna with the organizer (to just outside Vienna). From there, it’s at least another 15 km solo to the city center. * Option 2: Ride about 10 km to the nearest train station: * Marchegg Bahnhof * Hainburg/Donau * Please check connections/timetables in advance if you plan to take the train. **Schedule** * 12:00 Start * En route: short stops or one longer break * Approx. 15:30 Arrival at the mouth in Hainburg **Safety & Rules** * Follow traffic laws; be considerate of other cyclists, pedestrians, and nature. * Use hand signals/calls for obstacles and direction changes. * Personal responsibility: You ride at your own risk; please only join if your bike is maintained and you feel fit. **Interested?** * Please let us know if you’re coming so we can get a headcount. * Questions (e.g., GPX, return options, weather): just ask. We’re looking forward to a fast, flat canal ride—brisk, focused, and with good vibes!

(Deutsch unten.) Sunday's portrait sessions start at 3 PM. Everyone is welcome to join our Open Sessions, just bring pencil, paper and any other utensils you may need. (Easels & Boards are available in the atelier). One pose will be maintained for the whole session, so that it is also possible to paint in watercolor, oil, etc. For the breaks we will offer some drinks and snacks. Free snacks and non-alcoholic drinks are available. Registration through this Meetup is suggested but not required. You can pay the 12 Euros fees in cash upon arrival. For more information, feel free to send email at info@viennaatelier.com Looking forward to see you soon! ============================= Die Porträtsitzungen am Sonntag beginnen um 15 Uhr. Bringe Bleistift, Papier und andere Materialen selbst mit, Staffeleien & Bretter gibt es im Atelier. Die gleiche Pose wird, unterbrochen von kleinen Pausen, über den gesamten Zeitraum beibehalten, daher ist es auch gut möglich mit Aquarell, Öl, usw. zu malen. Kostenlose Snacks und alkoholfreie Getränke stehen zur Verfügung. Eine Anmeldung über dieses Meetup wird empfohlen, ist aber nicht erforderlich. Sie können die 12 Euro Gebühr beim Ankommen in bar bezahlen. Für weitere Informationen senden Sie bitte eine E-Mail an info@viennaatelier.com

(Deutsch unten.) Saturday's figure drawing/painting session starts at 3pm. Bring pencil, paper and any other utensils you may need. Easels & boards are available in the atelier. The long pose will be maintained for about 5 times 20 minutes, so that it is also possible to paint in watercolor, oil, etc. Free snacks and non-alcoholic drinks are available. Registration through this Meetup is suggested but not required. You can pay the 12 Euros fees in cash upon arrival. For more information, feel free to send email at info@viennaatelier.com ============================= Das Aktzeichnen und Malen am Samstag beginnt um 15 Uhr. Bringen Sie Bleistift, Papier und andere Materialen mit. Staffeleien & Bretter gibt es im Atelier. Die lange Pose ist etwa 5 mal 20 Minuten lang, daher ist es auch gut möglich mit Aquarell, Öl, usw. zu malen. Kostenlose Snacks und alkoholfreie Getränke stehen zur Verfügung. Eine Anmeldung über dieses Meetup wird empfohlen, ist aber nicht erforderlich. Sie können die 12 Euro Gebühr beim Ankommen in bar bezahlen. Für weitere Informationen senden Sie bitte eine E-Mail an info@viennaatelier.com

**Wachau Trip: Scenic Hike & Dürnstein Ruins** ❗️Even if Meetup shows the event as full, please still join the WA group and fill out the registration form. The form will indicate whether there are still spots available for the hike❗️ Join the WA group for the information: https://chat.whatsapp.com/GqWhKBUCR5RAhI6WUguIcR?mode=gi_t —————— **You asked for something more challenging… here it is** 😉 An adventure that’s still doable for most people — but not so easy that it gets boring. And trust me, the views are absolutely worth it. This one is going to be a hit. 📅 Date: May 24 🕒 Time: ~9:00 📍 Location: Franz-Josefs-Bahnhof **What makes it special:** — breathtaking viewpoints over the Danube valley — charming Dürnstein village — a visit to the famous castle ruins 📏 Distance: ~5–6 km ⛰ Elevation: ~330 m ⏱ Duration: ~2.5 hours (plus breaks & photos) **About the hike:** This route is sometimes classified as red or black. But I’ve done it several times, and it’s absolutely manageable if you’re reasonably active. It’s definitely more challenging than a typical Stadtwanderweg, but far from an extreme hike. ⚠️ **Expect:** – some steep and narrow sections with cables – a few rocky parts – beautiful exposed views 👉 You don’t need climbing experience, but you should: – feel comfortable walking on uneven terrain – not have a strong fear of heights – have basic fitness level Perfect for active people who want a bit of adventure, but not a hardcore hike. 🥾 Hiking shoes are a must 💶 **Participation fee:** 28 € (including train & bus tickets) 👥 **Group size:** strictly limited to 14 participants I keep the group intentionally small so the experience stays comfortable, safe, and enjoyable for everyone. 🎫 **If you have a Klimaticket:** Just mention it in the registration form, and you’ll only pay a 12 € organizational fee. In case of bad weather conditions the trip will be postponed. 🚸The main goal of my trips is about enjoying the moment, meeting new people, and making beautiful places accessible even if you’re not a pro. ——————— ❗️Please make sure to fill out the registration form: the link will be posted in the WA group ❗️

Weekly screenings from a large archive of many of the most significant, yet seldom seen and rarely accessible cinematic masterpieces in the history of film - from its earliest beginnings to the present day. Screenings are in original language, if English, or original language with English subtitles. Films are selected democratically on the inspiration of a brief pre-screening discussion. The selected title is typically a "neglected gem" that most of us discover together for the first time. Individual taste is not a criterion and all participants are expected to put the interests of the group as a whole above personal preference or prejudice. In this sense, the emphasis is on openness, exploration, and surprise. Each screening is followed by an in-depth group discussion, led and moderated by the curator. WARNNG: FilmStory is not just about watching movies! Rather, it's a socially responsible, intellectual engagement, involving an organic approach to group study of film language, philosophy, art, history, politics, and technology. In this sense, the film is always merely the current highlight in an explorative, ongoing group discussion. **FilmStory** is a members-only series that involves a closely knit community of cinephiles. Events take place every Sunday in a comfortable, private setting with limited capacity. Participation is reserved primarily for regular members, but we're always ready to make new friends! Non-regular members may request to meet the community and, upon acceptance as a "new joiner," are welcome to participate in one event, according to space availability. New joiners are asked to make a €6 member dues contribution in advance of the requested date. New members receive a message of confirmation and the address of the Living Room in 1080 Vienna upon receipt of their dues contribution. **FilmStory** is presented and hosted by **[KulturSalon Wien](https://www.meetup.com/kultursalon-wien/)**.

Outdoors are back! You are invited to hike with us **on Sunday 24th May** through the peaceful silence of the Green Prater's vast forest, walking all the way to its far side! We meet at 13:55 outside the Praterstern station, on the side of the station that looks at the Prater. The exact **Meeting Point** is just outside the tunnel with the large bicycle parking. In Google Maps look for "Türkis Praterstern", we will wait in front of this restaurant. A funny little pug named Uschi will be with us! We start hiking exactly at 14:00 and we mainly follow the Stadtwanderweg 9. After 2 hours of walk, we'll do a 30-minute stop to have a short picnic in a meadow if it is not wet (please bring a blanket and some snack for you!). We plan to be back at the Praterstern station at 18:00. Please bring 1 liter of water and wear sturdy shoes and comfortable clothes. The walk is long (about 12 km) and the terrain might be wet in some points if it rained the day before. If heavy rain is forecasted we'll postpone the hike and notify all participants 48 hours before the event. IMPORTANT: This is not a guided hike, but simply a chance to experience nature around Vienna together, so everyone is responsible for their own health and safety. If you need more information, please ask in the comments.

Hi everyone, On **Sunday, May 24** 2026, I'm planning a spring hike from Mitterbach train station to the top of Gemeindealpe and walk down along a scenic route to Erlaufsee. This hike is all about walking, wide views, and enjoying the landscape together with plenty of time for conversation, short breaks, and simply being outdoors. **Highlights** 🏞️ **Gemeindealpe** – alpine views 🌄**Erlaufsee** **Hike Details** **Distance:** approx. 15 km **Elevation:** approx. 850m ascent **Walking time:** approx. 6-7 hours **Difficulty:** **MEDIUM**. While technically mostly easy it's a proper mountain after all... so you should be fit enough and have some hiking experience. Since this is a group hike the route might have to be adapted for safety reasons. **[https://www.bahn-zum-berg.at/ybbstaler-alpen/gemeindealpe-erlaufsee/](https://www.bahn-zum-berg.at/ybbstaler-alpen/gemeindealpe-erlaufsee/)** **Meeting Point & Trave** **Meeting Time**: 06:50 at **Westbahnho**f on the top floor near the ticket machines. **Please buy your own tickets before boarding the train** and be on time since we'll take the train we'll take the train CJX5 leaving 07:18 and arrive in St. Pölten at 07:54 where we change to the train leaving 08:05 from St. Pölten with expected arrival in Mitterbach around 09:57 Trains from Mitterbach back to St. Pölten leave every hour **What to Expect** We’ll walk together at a **relaxed, social pace**, staying as a group throughout the day This is **not a race or performance hike as long** as you have basic fitness for this hike — the focus is on shared experience, conversation, and enjoying the landscape at an unhurried rhythm We’ll take regular short breaks whenever useful 🥪 We don’t plan to stop at huts or restaurants during the hike, so please bring your own snacks and drinks (approx. **2 liters of water**) 🌧️ Weather can be changeable, so **basic rain protection is recommended** 🥾 Please wear **sturdy hiking shoes**. Some sections may be muddy, depending on the weather. I reserve the right to refuse people who don't have suitable footwear to join for the hike on the day for safety reasons 🧢 Please bring **sun protection** (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses), especially on warm or sunny days Toilets are only available on the train and on top of Gemeindealpe as well as at Erlaufsee **Important Note** ⚠️ **Disclaimer**: As always, this is a free, private leisure activity. I’m not a certified hiking guide, and participation is at your own responsibility and risk I will send a **weather update on Thursday evening** to everyone registered Feel free to contact me if you have any questions Looking forward to sharing this hike with you Jör **Ticket Option** The **VOR Freizeitticket** costs **€19.90** for the day in Lower Austria and covers all regional trains including Mariazeller Bahn More information [https://www.vor.at/en/tickets/ticket-overview/leisure-ticket](https://www.vor.at/en/tickets/ticket-overview/leisure-ticket)

We meet at lunch each week and each meeting follows a fairly organized agenda. First all participants pass their business cards around. Then each member and guest is invited to give a one-minute overview of their company and what is a perfect referral for the week. We always have a 10 minute presentation from one of the members about their business in more detail. And finally we pass referrals. You're welcome to visit. Nobody is ever put on the spot. Bring plenty of cards!

Click Here For More Videos: https://www.facebook.com/share/r/17bwkttXhV/ *********************************** Salsamante Dance Academy will be at Swerve Every Tuesday Night to share the Rhythm & Energy of Bachata & Salsa. These are Beginner Level lessons to get you comfortable and understand the two dances. Spread the Good News to all. Swerve Dance & Fitness Complex 640 Lakeview Plaza Blvd A, Worthington, OH 43085 Bachata 7pm-8pm Salsa 8pm-9pm $15 - One Lesson $20 - Both Lessons

Bring your Raspberry Pi, Arduino, microcontroller, or any other electronic project and join fellow electronics makers for a night of creativity and collaboration! This session is open forum to share your current projects—whether complete or in progress, it’s all interesting! Whether you’re deep into embedded systems, exploring new ideas, or just getting started, you’ll find a welcoming space to collaborate, share, and get inspired. **New to electronics or curious about tinkering?** You’re absolutely welcome. If you’re a beginner and want to experiment, I’ll have a couple of starter kits available so you can try things out—whether that’s blinking your first LED, putting something on a display, or experimenting with simple sensors. No pressure and no experience required—just an interest in learning and building. While we continue to pursue a more permanent venue for this Meetup, we’ll be using public library facilities based on availability. This session will be at the Worthington Park Library in the Olentangy Meeting Room.

**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.