Kansas City's Most Beautiful Gardens

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Although many attractions are closed this summer, Kansas City’s gardens are reopening. These gorgeous areas offer an open space to enjoy nature while maintaining social distancing. Here, we’ve listed some of our favorite gardens that have reopened or are about to reopen.

Tips Before You Go:

Deanna Rose Children's Farmstead, 13800 Switzer Rd., Overland Park, KS

Reopening July 1st, the Farmstead features multiple gardens to enjoy. Bring the whole family to admire the blooming plants in the 50th Anniversary Garden; the various apple species growing in the orchard; and the wide selection of flowers, trees, and vegetables in the Master Gardens. A nature trail leads to additional gardens, including Beverley’s Butterfly Garden, the Chime Garden, and the Kiwanis Repose Area. Don’t forget to stop by the Friends of the Farmstead Plaza exhibit, which features farm equipment nestled in planter beds.

Ewing and Muriel Kauffman Memorial Garden, 4800 Rockhill Rd., Kansas City, MO

Now that this garden has reopened, visitors can once again soak in its beauty. Admission and parking are free, and the garden is wheelchair accessible. At least four times a year, the staff and volunteers change the plant displays, ensuring that there is always something new to see. Beds of perennials contribute to the garden’s vibrancy, and the unusual trees instill a sense of awe. If you grow tired, take a moment to rest by the fountains to admire the bronze sculptures and lush vegetation.

Loose Park, 5200 Wornall Rd., Kansas City, MO

In addition to being the major site for the historic Battle of Westport, Loose Park contains an award-winning rose garden. 4,000 roses of over 165 varieties adorn this 1.5-acre garden. The central fountain adds to the peaceful ambiance, and the stone archways create a sense of timelessness.

Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens, 8909 W. 179th St., Overland Park, KS

This garden reopened to members on June 10th and is expected to reopen to the public in just a few days. Over 1700 types of plants grow in this 300-acre location. The diverse landscape includes woods, ponds, waterfalls, and open prairie. You can observe the park’s sculptures on the hiking trails, some of which are paved for accessibility. With educational opportunities around every turn, this garden is ideal for parents and children.

Pilgrim Labyrinth & Butterfly Garden at Hyde Park, 37th & Gillham Rd., Kansas City, MO

Hyde Park’s butterfly garden is a peaceful retreat from the stresses of 2020. The path along the garden is designed in a labyrinth pattern, which is meant to help visitors unwind. Lining the pathway are native plants that attract various butterflies, including monarchs. The garden’s calm atmosphere makes it an ideal place for meditation, so feel free to relax and stay awhile.

Powell Gardens, 1609 NW US Hwy. 50, Kingsville, MO

This article wouldn’t be complete without a mention of Powell Gardens! Its 970 acres of themed gardens, woody trails, and green meadows make it the perfect place to refresh in nature. Paths lead to sculptures and unique displays, while ponds feature some of the area’s wildlife. Having recently reopened to the public, Powell Gardens now requires visitors to register online for tickets. Admission is free to all healthcare workers.

West Flanders Park, 10920 W. 55th St., Shawnee, KS

Fans of West Flanders Park will be delighted to know that the park just added a brand-new garden. This colorful garden provides multiple educational opportunities, as well as a walking path, benches, and accessible parking. Most popular of all is the garden shed, which is designed to look like the buildings in West Flanders, Belgium.

Do you have a favorite reopening garden in Kansas City to add to our list? Please share it in the comments below!

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