Back to Nature

Kansas City is home to three botanical gardens. Kauffman Memorial Gardens may be the smallest, but it earns its place in the hearts of locals as one of the most beautiful places in the city, perfect for a stroll and photography. The gardens are FREE and open to the public. Something is always blooming, and the fountains make a beautiful centerpiece to the landmark. Powell Gardens is home to a beautiful island garden, rock wall garden, conservatory, Heartland Harvest Garden, Iris Hill and acres of trails overlooking beautiful flowers, plants and prairie. The Overland Park Arboretum is home to a Monet garden, train garden and beautiful trails to explore.

For beautiful and unique outdoor scenery at area parks, visit three of our favorites. Loose Park (51st & Wornall, Kansas City, MO), a 75-acre park with a beautiful pond, fields, play areas, and an exquisite rose garden, is truly one of the most picturesque parks in the city. Firefly Forest (along Tomahawk Creek Trail behind Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead in Overland Park) is one of the newest attractions in Kansas parks. Gnome homes have been popping up in trees along the trail complete with fairy-sized furnishings and décor. Children love to walk the trail and discover the fairy houses along the way. Another newer favorite is Meadowmere Park’s Brumble’s Forest (13610 Byars Rd., Grandview, MO). The park features an incredible playground depicting a magical forest kingdom with woodland creatures.

Kansas City is also rich with terrific parks and green spaces, many of them featuring creative playgrounds with larger-than-life animals, castles, pirate ships, fire trucks and more. Search for “Best Parks in Kansas City” to discover our top picks.