Botanically Inclined - Kansas City with Kids

Powell Gardens

Set on 915 acres of lush, rolling hills and windswept meadows, Powell Gardens -- Kansas City's botanical garden -- offers breathtaking display gardens, interesting architecture, a nature trail and a year-round calendar of special events and classes for the entire family. Garden features include the Island Garden, Perennial Garden, Rock and Waterfall Garden, Wildflower Meadow, an indoor conservatory, ever-changing Terrace Gardens and native plantings. Besides being a gardening enthusiast's dream, Powell Gardens offers unique contemporary architecture. The Marjorie Powell Allen Chapel, designed by architect Fay Jones, offers a quiet place for reflection and inspiration. Jones, a native of Arkansas and student of the master Frank Lloyd Wright, is famous for his Thorncrown Chapel in Eureka Springs.

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Martha Lafite Thompson Nature Center

Located in Liberty, this nature center includes educational programs, live animal exhibits as well as multiple hiking trails. Try geocaching for an adventurous game during the hike.

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Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens

Amid Overland Park’s hustle and bustle awaits 300 acres of a truly unforgettable retreat. The Arboretum is dedicated to the preservation and restoration of eight natural ecosystems, including Dry Oak Savanna, Reparian Woodland and Old Field. Nearly five miles of paved and wood chip trails wind throughout the picturesque arboretum and gardens. Don’t miss the Monet Garden, Children’s Discovery Garden or the International Sculpture Garden.

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Rose Garden at Loose Park

The 75-acre Loose Park is a popular place to walk, jog or gather. The park is home to a rippling pond, treed areas and the most beloved attraction: the Rose Garden. The Rose Garden began with 120 rose plants. Now, nearly 4,000 roses of more than 160 varieties bloom in a 1.5-acre garden that’s a must-see while you’re in Kansas City. Don’t forget your camera—and a picnic lunch!

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George Owens Nature Park

Open year round and provides 85 acres of beautiful forest, lakes, hiking trails and wildlife. A few of the activities individuals enjoy at George Owens Nature Park include: fishing, hiking, birding, wildflower viewing, picnicking, geocaching and nature photography.

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