There’s always something to do in your Metro Parks!

Whatever the season, there’s something exciting to do at Metro Parks. From winter hikes under twinkling lights to summer movies in the park, everyone can join in the adventure. Our inclusive events and programs let you connect with nature, learn about the local wildlife, and find an engaging activity for you and your family.

Want to host your own race, community or sporting event at Metro Parks? You will need a Special Event permit to do so. Metro Parks will begin accepting Special Event applications for 2026 dates at 8:00am on Wednesday, November 12. Special Event Application.

Ready to start exploring? View our Events calendar below to see the most up-to-date offerings at all our parks. Click on each event to learn more, including time, description, and age range, or search by a specific topic or park. Take a refreshing hike on one of our trails, participate in an outdoor adventure program, or check out what else we have to offer!



  • Winter Craft


    Inniswood Metro Gardens


    940 S. Hempstead Rd., Westerville, OH, United States

    Stroll through the seasonal light display and stop into the Innis House to do a craft, enjoy the December art exhibit, and stamp your winter hike card.


  • Filling the Farm Larder


    Slate Run Living Historical Farm


    1375 OH-674, Canal Winchester, OH, United States

    Hog butchering is a seasonal activity that provided much of the meat for the coming year on an 1880s farm. Watch the farmers cut meat, make sausage, and render lard ...Read More


  • Science Lab: DNA


    Battelle Darby Creek


    1775 Darby Creek Drive, Galloway, OH, United States

    What makes you, you? Become a scientist for an hour and learn about DNA, genes, and enjoy a fun science lab in the nature center! Ages 12+.


  • Christmas Bird Count


    Quarry Trails


    2600 Dublin Road, Columbus, OH, United States

    More information coming, check our Facebook page!


  • Owl Prowl


    Blacklick Woods


    6975 East Livingston Ave, Reynoldsburg, OH, United States

    Join a naturalist on a 1.25-mile guided hike as we learn about owls and search for them roosting in the trees.


  • Off-Trail Wandering


    Three Creeks


    3860 Bixby Road, Groveport, OH, United States

    We'll take a slow off-trail walk with frequent stops to observe and learn about rarely seen parts of the park. Total length will probably be 1 to 2 miles and ...Read More


  • Campfire Cookies


    Quarry Trails


    2600 Dublin Road, Columbus, OH, United States

    Join us for cookies over the campfire at Quarry Trails Metro Park! Meet at the firepit at the bottom of the sled hill.


  • For Adults 50+: Late Afternoon in the Gardens


    Inniswood Metro Gardens


    940 S. Hempstead Rd., Westerville, OH, United States

    We’ll look for birds and other critters as we enjoy the nature trails on a 1.5-mile easy stroll through the forest and gardens. Take in the twinkling lights after the ...Read More


  • Toddler Adventure Club


    Pickerington Ponds


    7680 Wright Road, Canal Winchester, OH, United States

    Join us for an exploratory toddler hike at Pickerington Ponds Metro Park! Maps and compasses will be passed out for this program. We will meet at the Park Office, and ...Read More


  • Holiday Hustle! Trail Running


    Battelle Darby Creek


    1775 Darby Creek Drive, Galloway, OH, United States

    Enjoy trail running throughout Battelle Darby Creek with a guide! Meet at the Ranger Station at Cedar Ridge, 1775 Darby Creek Drive. Exact mileage will depend on the comfortability and ...Read More


Find out what’s happening at your local Metro Park

Search our full list of programs, activities and experiences

News & Events

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Behind the Parks: Meet Amanda at Quarry Trails

Amanda Sugerik Park Ranger, Quarry Trails Metro Park Amanda Sugerik is talking with Communications Coordinator, Virginia Gordon About me I was born in Westerville and have lived my whole life …Read More

Come to Ohio, the winter heart of it all

STEPHANIE WEST Blendon Woods Naturalist Of all winter travel destinations, Ohio hardly seems like the perfect getaway. There’s no warm tropical sand, nor towering ski slopes. Vistas are often gray …Read More

Preserving habitat for sandhill cranes

LOGAN DUNN Assistant Resource Manager Sandhill cranes are large majestic birds that capture the attention of almost anyone found within the area of them. They are still listed as “Threatened” …Read More

Tim Talks: Faces of 50+

In our latest Tim Talks video we take a close look at our programs for people age 50-plus and hear from participants. STILLS FROM THE VIDEO


Get Outside, It’s Your Nature!