Some of our favorite Kansas City parks just got makeovers! From new playgrounds to updated sports fields to sustainable landscaping, these improvements have brought new life to our parks. Here are some of the best renovations that occurred in 2024 and 2025.
Armstrong Park, Grain Valley — Welcome to Kiki’s Playground! Armstrong Park’s new playground is named in memory of Christina “Kiki” Claphan, a parks employee who was passionate about supporting the children in her community. This inclusive play area has smooth surfacing, climbing structures, spinners, accessible swings and slides of all shapes and sizes.
Maple Hills Park, Overland Park —Maple Hills Park recently won a Design Excellence Award for its modern, eco-friendly renovations. And it’s not hard to see why! The park boasts a solar-powered shelter and restroom, charging stations for electric vehicles and drought-tolerant landscaping. Sports fans will appreciate the two new pickleball courts, and kids will enjoy the new playground.
Tomahawk Park, Leawood — This spring, locals celebrated the opening of Tomahawk Park’s new playground. Standout features include a tall purple slide, climbing nets, swings, a suspension bridge and a sensory wall. My favorite addition is the beautiful sculpture of a giant dragonfly that sits atop a play tower.
Mohawk Park, Mission — Whether you prefer sports, playgrounds or scenic strolls, you’ll love Mohawk Park’s updated look. A new 10-foot-wide trail follows the park’s perimeter, and a multi-sport court accommodates both pickleball and basketball players. The park also has a new inclusive playground, complete with slides, swings, climbing towers, balancing pods and more.
Gum Springs Park, Shawnee — It’s a bird! It’s a plane! It’s … a hot air balloon! Gum Springs Park’s new playground features a 30-foot-tall climbing tower shaped like a hot air balloon. Other popular amenities include a seesaw, trampolines, an accessible merry-go-round, swings and more slides.