The Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens is a dream destination for kids who love to explore, play, and discover the wonders of nature.
With acres of space to run, climb and observe wildlife, it’s the perfect outdoor escape for families. Kids can discover hidden wonders, from gardens and trails to ponds teeming with life. Plus, exciting events and programs throughout the year offer hands-on learning experiences and create lasting memories.
Here’s our guide to everything you need to know before you go.
What Kids Will Love
There are so many spots for kids to explore and experience nature. My kids love looking for turtles and fish in the ponds, playing on the nature playground, and watching the trains loop through the Train Garden. There are easy trails, both paved and not, that are great for families wanting a short hike.
What Moms Will Love
The Arboretum is so accessible for strollers and wagons, making it a great place to get out in nature with your family and friends. You get to enjoy the beautiful gardens and displays, and your kids get to have a great time experiencing nature themselves.
Who It’s Best For
All ages! There is something for everyone to enjoy in this scenic and interactive space.
It’s a great place to take out of town visitors like grandparents.
Location and Parking
8909 W. 179th St. Overland Park, KS 66013
Enter through the new LongHouse Visitor Center on the west side. If you’re bringing your dog for a walk on the trails, enter through the original entrance on the east side.
Mom Pro Tip: If you want to be close to the Train Garden and children’s nature playground, park at the new visitor center for a quick entrance (and exit!)
Admission Cost
Kids 5 and under get in free. Kids 6-17 are $3 and adults are $7. Admission is free on the first Tuesday of every month.
Membership
The Friends of the Arboretum pass is a great deal if you plan to visit multiple times in a year. Since kids 5 and under are free, families with young kids can often get the less expensive single or dual memberships to cover just the adults. Check out all the membership levels here.
In addition to admission to the Arboretum, members get admission to the spring plant sale preview night, discounts on events, and reciprocity with over 200 other gardens and arboretums (the ones in St. Louis and Wichita are fantastic!)
Events All Year Long
From hands-on activities to magical evenings under the stars, the Arboretum offers events for all ages throughout the year. Kids can create and explore at Discovery Days, hear captivating tales at Nature Story Time, enjoy a summer movie night on the lawn and watch colorful kites take flight at Kite Fest. Nights at the Arboretum invite you to stargaze and meet live creatures like hawks and owls and enjoy other family activities. Plus, don’t miss beloved favorites like the Enchanted Faire, Luminary Walk, and Terra Luna. Adults can also enjoy nights out at wine and beer tastings, Stems and Botanical Brewfest. Check the calendar to see what’s coming up next!
Bathrooms
Bathrooms can be found in three places. There are many bathrooms located inside the LongHouse Visitor Center and bathrooms by the east entrance in the Environmental Education Visitors Center, and a family bathroom located between the train garden and children’s garden.
Stroller and Wheelchair Accessibility
The majority of the walkways throughout the gardens are paved and the sculpture garden trail is paved. Other trails have wood chips so they are not well suited for strollers and wheelchairs.
Seating Areas
Throughout the Arboretum and botanical gardens, you’ll find benches and picnic tables where you can sit down and rest.
Food Policies and Purchase Options
The new Café Celeste is located inside the LongHouse Visitor Center and will offer a variety of food options including grab and go items and coffee. You are also welcome to bring in your own food for a picnic or a snack.
Birthday Parties
Many spaces can be rented by the hour for special events. The Leatherwood Depot by the Train Garden would be a perfect spot to host a birthday party for a train-loving child.
Don’t Miss This Hidden Gem
Check out the gift shop located in the LongHouse Visitor Center. This is a great spot for seeing the work of local artists and buying gifts for people of all ages.
