Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens

Ready for a reset? Experience the beauty of the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens—a 300-acre outdoor escape filled with 1,700 plant species, curated themed gardens, and nearly six miles of scenic trails.

Just a short drive from downtown Kansas City, this must-see attraction is an easy, peaceful getaway where nature, art, and family fun come together.

Things to Do | Signature Events | Where to Eat | Where to Stay

Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens FAQs

What are the hours of the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens?

The Overland Park Arboretum is typically open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with extended hours on select evenings and for seasonal events. Be sure to check the Arboretum’s website for the most up-to-date hours, especially around holidays.

How much is admission to the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens?

General admission to the Arboretum & Botanical Gardens is $7 for adults 18 and over, and $3 for children ages 6-17. Children ages 5 and under are free.

There is also free admission on the first Tuesday of each month.

Are the trails and gardens accessible for wheelchairs or strollers?

Yes, many paths throughout the Arboretum are paved and accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. Some natural trails may be more rugged, but the main gardens are designed with accessibility in mind. There are also benches along walkways that meet ADA standards and offer a place to sit and enjoy the surroundings.

When is the best time of year to visit the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens?

Every season brings something beautiful to the gardens. Spring and fall are especially popular, thanks to beautiful blooms and mild weather. Summer and winter bring unique ecosystems and seasonal events like the Luminary Walk. Hours vary depending on the season.

Things to Do

Explore the Gardens

Open year-round, the dozen themed gardens change with the seasons and every visit offers something new to enjoy. Relax by Margaret’s Pond in Byrd’s Grove, learn about native Kansas plants in the Legacy Garden, or find butterflies in the wildflowers at the Erickson Water Garden.

Kids of all ages love to watch the model trains weave through a miniature recreation of historic Overland Park in the Train Garden. Then let them get hands on in the Children's Garden where there are fossils and animal footprints to study.

And these are only the beginning! Let curiosity lead the way as you find delightful surprises around every bend.

Art in the Arboreteum

The Arboretum is more than a natural escape. It’s also an outdoor gallery that blends art and nature in unexpected ways. As you explore the grounds, keep an eye out for sculptures nestled along trails and tucked between trees.

The International Sculpture Garden features striking works by artists from around the world, while the Monet Garden displays the same soft colors that inspired the artist in the original Monet gardens in France.

Inside LongHouse Visitor Center, you’ll find the LongHouse Community Art Gallery, a rotating exhibition space that showcases work from local and regional artists. From photography and painting to mixed media and sculpture, the gallery connects visitors with the creative energy of fine art and the beauty of the natural world. Just like the gardens outside, exhibits change seasonally so there’s always something new to see.

LongHouse Visitor Center

LongHouse Visitor Center is the welcoming entrance to the Arboretum. Inside, along with the Community Art Gallery, you’ll find Café Celeste, a cozy café serving coffee and quick bites, plus a gift shop filled with nature-inspired items and local artwork. Floor-to-ceiling windows throughout the visitor center give a panoramic preview of the gardens.

Take a Guided Tour

Want to learn more about the gardens, art, and ecosystems? The Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens offers guided tours by advance reservation, including walking and golf cart options. Tours are $10 per person plus admission, and typically last about an hour to an hour and a half. Availability may vary by season, so check ahead for details.

Signature Events

Time your visit with one of the Arboretum’s signature events for an extra memorable experience.

In spring and summer, enjoy culinary events like wine tastings and Biergarten Thursdays.
In fall, Terra Luna transforms the gardens into an immersive nighttime experience with light, sound, and movement.
In winter, the beloved Luminary Walk lights up the trails with thousands of glowing candles and twinkling displays.

Where to Eat

A day at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens gets even better with great food nearby. Just a short drive away you'll find a mix of family-friendly restaurants and charming local favorites, perfect for lunch, dinner or a mid-day snack.

Where to Stay

Extend your nature getaway and stay nearby. Not far from the Arboretum are convenient hotels with family-friendly amenities, easy access to local attractions, and just the right mix of comfort and value.