As the weather cools down, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors in Kansas City. While we can’t cover everything, here are some of our favorite spots to spend time outdoors. 

Ernie Miller Nature Center 

Address: 909 N Highway 7, Olathe, KS 66061 
Website: Ernie Miller Nature Center 

The Ernie Miller Nature Center features a new gallery showcasing live plants and animals, highlighting the botanical history of the Kansas City area. The center is open Monday to Saturday from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM. You can even host a birthday party there! Ernie Miller Park offers nature trails and a family-friendly scavenger hunt to explore local wildlife. Remember: take only pictures and leave only footprints. Admission is free. 

Lakeside Nature Center/Swope Park 

Address: Swope Park, 4701 E Gregory Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64132 
Phone: (816) 513-8960 
Website: Lakeside Nature Center 

Located in Swope Park, Lakeside Nature Center features the Fox Hollow Trail, a nature center, and Missouri’s largest wildlife rehabilitation center. Enjoy native plant gardens adjacent to the center. Admission is free, and while the center is closed on Mondays, it is open Tuesday to Sunday from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The trails are accessible from dawn to dusk.

The Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens 

Address: 8909 W. 179th Street, Overland Park, KS 66013 
Website: Overland Park Arboretum 

Covering 300 acres, the Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens primarily features plants native to the region. The arboretum includes themed spaces such as the Monet Garden, Children’s Garden, and Sculpture Garden. Various events are hosted throughout the year, including wine tastings, movie nights, and immersive performances like Terra Luna. Admission is free on the first Tuesday of each month; otherwise, children five and under are free, children aged 6-17 are $2, and adults are $5. Tickets can be purchased at the Longhouse Visitors Center or online. 

Burr Oak Woods Conservation Area 

Website: Burr Oak Woods Conservation Area 

Burr Oak Woods Conservation Area encompasses 1,071.4 acres of diverse landscapes, including steep hills, prairies, and restored woodlands. The nature center is open Tuesday to Saturday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, while the trails are accessible from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM. To reach Burr Oak Woods, take Highway 7 north of I-70 for 1.1 miles, then west on Park Road for 1 mile. Admission is free. 

Powell Gardens 

Address: 1609 N.W. U.S. Highway 50, Kingsville, MO 64061 
Website: Powell Gardens 

Powell Gardens features 970 acres of managed gardens and trails, with various themed areas such as The Heartland Harvest Garden and The Fountain Garden. The garden hosts numerous events, including pumpkin painting and immersive performances like “Dark Forest.” Currently, the Gardens are open Tuesday to Sunday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but hours may vary seasonally. Admission fees vary; please check their website for the latest information and events. 

Let Us Improve Your Outdoor Living Area 

Royal Creations Architectural Landscaping specializes in designing and installing beautiful outdoor spaces, from natural retreats to outdoor kitchens and everything in between. Schedule a consultation today to get started!