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. Click here to complete a 2025 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!
12 events found.
Featured
First Day of Summer Party!
Homestead
4675 Cosgray Road, Hilliard, OH, United States
It’s officially summer! Schools out and there’s lots to do at the parks. Join us for an afternoon full of sun, animal encounters, games, and lots more as we celebrate ...Read More
Summer Solstice SUP
Prairie Oaks
3225 Plain City-Georgesville Road, West Jefferson, OH, United States
Come out and enjoy the longest day of the year trying stand-up paddleboarding at Prairie Oaks! All instruction and equipment will be provided. Meet at Prairie Oaks Metro Park, Darby ...Read More
For Adults 50+: Music in the Park with Joanie Calem
Three Creeks
3860 Bixby Road, Groveport, OH, United States
Join local singer, Joanie Calem, as she leads us on a musical trip through a time tunnel, singing songs that are seldom heard on the radio these days. Joanie will ...Read More
Try it! Kayaking and SUP
Prairie Oaks
3225 Plain City-Georgesville Road, West Jefferson, OH, United States
Come out and try stand-up paddle boarding and kayaking for free at Prairie Oaks Metro Park, Darby Bend Lakes. SUPs and Solo sit-in kayaks ages 10+ only. Tandems open for ...Read More
Summer Nature Crafts
Blacklick Woods
6975 East Livingston Ave, Reynoldsburg, OH, United States
Stop by the Nature Center and create sum simple, fun summer-themed crafts.
Celebrating Pollinators
Slate Run Living Historical Farm
1375 OH-674, Canal Winchester, OH, United States
Program ongoing from 1-3pm. Join us as we celebrate National Pollinator Month. Come learn about beekeeping, gardening for pollinators, and the importance of pollinators in our world.
Discovering Dragonflies
Blendon Woods
4265 E Dublin Granville Road, Columbus, United States
Join local experts as we look for dragonflies and damselflies around the lake.
Featured
Pups & Plunges
Battelle Darby Creek
1775 Darby Creek Drive, Galloway, OH, United States
Bring your pup for a fun-filled outing at the lake! Dogs can take a refreshing swim, make furry friends, and enjoy a special treat made just for them. Meet at ...Read More
For Adults 50+: Walk The Dog
Rocky Fork
7180 East Walnut St., Westerville, OH, United States
Take a 1.3-mile paved walk with your furry friend on the Beech Woodland trail. Pets must be leashed. Meet in the Millstone Picnic Area near the bulletin board
Evening Meadow Walk
Highbanks
9466 Columbus Pike (US Rt 23 N), Lewis Center, OH, United States
Enjoy the sights and sounds of summer on an evening meadow walk. This walk will be at a leisurely pace and will be approximately 1 mile. Trail will be flat ...Read More
Family Creeking
Highbanks
9466 Columbus Pike (US Rt 23 N), Lewis Center, OH, United States
Explore the Olentangy River to look for some of the animals that live in the river. Learn about the fish we catch including how we identify them in the field ...Read More
For Adults 50+: Kayaking and Stand Up Paddleboarding
Quarry Trails
2600 Dublin Road, Columbus, OH, United States
Come out anytime during the listed time and enjoy kayaking or stand up paddleboarding the lake at Quarry Trails Metro Park. Kayaks and stand up paddleboards will be first come ...Read More
Find out what’s happening at your local Metro Park
Search our full list of programs, activities and experiences
News & Events
RICK McGIVERN Finance Director Every day in Metro Parks, managers and employees are looking for ways to get the job done at the best price, which is greatly appreciated in the …Read More
R MATT BRIGNER Guest Blogger As the first light of dawn breaks over the Little Darby and Big Darby Creek confluence, the world stirs awake. A cool mist rises from …Read More
GORDON MITCHELL Land Management Coordinator There are a few different species of flycatchers that inhabit our area. One of those species is the Acadian flycatcher, (Empidonax virescens Vieillot). The generic …Read More
In our latest Wander & Wonder video we take a closer look at insects. STILLS FROM THE VIDEO
Get Outside, It’s Your Nature!