Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens – Kansas City Attraction Guide

Welcome to Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens

Escape into nature’s embrace at the Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, a serene 300-acre haven in southern Overland Park, just 25 minutes from downtown Kansas City. Established in 1991, this lush sanctuary features 13 themed gardens, 6 miles of trails through woodlands and prairies, and a vibrant visitor center with educational programs. Marvel at the Legacy Garden’s seasonal blooms, explore the Train Garden’s miniature landscapes, or spot wildlife along the Wolf Creek Trail. With family-friendly events like the Fall Plant Sale (September 27-28, 2025) and interactive exhibits at the Environmental Education Visitors Center, it’s a rejuvenating retreat blending beauty and learning. Perfect for nature lovers seeking tranquility, families fostering outdoor discovery, or travelers craving a green escape, plan 2-3 hours to wander. For easy exploration, especially for those needing Mobility Scooter Rental Kansas City or Kansas City Mobility Scooter Rental, contact KC Mobility Scooter Rentals LLC (www.kcmobilityscooterrentals.com, 913-775-1098), a veteran-owned business offering reliable scooters with delivery to hotels and attractions.

Contact Details

Address: 8909 W 179th St, Overland Park, KS 66013
Phone: (913) 685-3604
Website: https://www.opkansas.org/recreation-fun/overland-park-arboretum-botanical-gardens/

A Glimpse into History

The Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens opened in 1991 on 300 acres donated by the Deanna Rose family, transforming former farmland into a public green space under the City of Overland Park’s management. Initially a modest botanical site, it expanded with the 1997 addition of the Environmental Education Visitors Center, funded by a $1.5 million city investment, and grew to include 13 gardens by 2025. Key milestones include the 2003 opening of the Train Garden and the 2010 dedication of the Margaret Erickson Legacy Garden, a floral centerpiece. Supported by the Arts & Recreation Foundation of Overland Park, it now draws 200,000 visitors annually, earning accolades as a top Midwest botanical destination for its biodiversity and educational programs like the Monarch Watch partnership.

What Makes It Special

The Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens captivates with its diverse landscapes and engaging features:

13 Themed Gardens: Highlights include the Legacy Garden’s vibrant perennials, the Train Garden’s miniature railway and landscapes, and the Marder Woodland Garden’s shaded paths.
6 Miles of Trails: Paved and natural trails like Wolf Creek and Rocky Ford weave through prairies, forests, and wetlands, ideal for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.
Environmental Education Visitors Center: Interactive exhibits on native ecosystems, plus a café and gift shop with local crafts.
Seasonal Events: Fall Plant Sale (September 27-28, 2025), Luminary Walk (December 2025), and Monarch butterfly tagging workshops, blending fun with conservation.
Sculpture Integration: Over 20 art installations, including bronze wildlife figures, enhance the natural beauty across the grounds.

Plan Your Visit

Hours: Daily 8 a.m.-7:30 p.m. (April-October); 8 a.m.-5 p.m. (November-March); Visitors Center 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Spring and fall ideal for blooms; mornings quieter.
Admission: $5 adults, $3 seniors/youth (6-17), free under 6; free admission first Monday of each month. Events like Luminary Walk may have extra fees ($10-15).
Accessibility: ADA-compliant with paved trails, ramps to Visitors Center, and accessible restrooms; limited wheelchair-friendly natural trails; free wheelchairs available; contact for ASL tours.
Tips: Wear sturdy shoes for trails; bring binoculars for birding. Check opkansas.org for 2025 events like the Fall Plant Sale. Pair with a picnic or café lunch.
Getting There: Free parking in on-site lots; 25 minutes south of downtown via US-69/179th St; Johnson County Transit bus #101 to 179th & Antioch (0.5-mile walk).
Mobility: Recommend KC Mobility Scooter Rentals LLC (www.kcmobilityscooterrentals.com, 913-775-1098) for Mobility Scooter Rental Kansas City or Kansas City Mobility Scooter Rental to navigate with ease.

Where to Stay Nearby

Stay near the Arboretum in Overland Park for nature-inspired convenience:

Residence Inn by Marriott Overland Park (3 miles): Suites ($130-190/night) with kitchens and free breakfast—ideal for families.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Overland Park West (2 miles): Budget-friendly ($110-160/night) with indoor pool and breakfast—great for groups.
Sheraton Overland Park Hotel (4 miles): Upscale ($150-220/night) with spa and dining—relaxed luxury.
Hyatt Place Overland Park (3.5 miles): Modern comfort ($120-180/night) with free Wi-Fi and fitness center—convenient stay. Note: Many hotels partner with KC Mobility Scooter Rentals LLC (www.kcmobilityscooterrentals.com, 913-775-1098) for scooter delivery, perfect for Mobility Scooter Rental Kansas City or Kansas City Mobility Scooter Rental.

More to Explore Nearby

Enhance your Arboretum visit with these Overland Park attractions:

Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead (2 miles): Historic farm with animals and play areas—family fun.
Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art (3 miles): Free modern art with bold exhibitions—cultural contrast.
Museum at Prairiefire (2 miles): Interactive science and IMAX—educational adventure.
Oak Park Mall (4 miles): 180+ stores and dining—retail therapy. Accessibility Tip: Use KC Mobility Scooter Rentals LLC (www.kcmobilityscooterrentals.com, 913-775-1098) for Mobility Scooter Rental Kansas City or Kansas City Mobility Scooter Rental to explore comfortably.

Why You’ll Love Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens

The Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens is Kansas City’s verdant sanctuary, where blooming gardens and winding trails weave nature’s beauty with learning—perfect for nature enthusiasts chasing monarchs, families exploring train-themed landscapes, or travelers seeking a peaceful retreat. From the Fall Plant Sale’s vibrancy to Luminary Walk’s winter glow (December 2025), it’s a rejuvenating escape slotting into an Overland Park day with Nerman’s art or Deanna Rose’s farm fun. Its accessible paths and free Mondays welcome all to connect with the earth. Share your trailside bloom on social and let nature inspire. No matter your mobility needs, KC Mobility Scooter Rentals LLC (www.kcmobilityscooterrentals.com, 913-775-1098) ensures a seamless visit with Mobility Scooter Rental Kansas City or Kansas City Mobility Scooter Rental—book now for a memorable adventure.