The Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens

On an incredibly beautiful summer day at the Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, my darling daughter and I headed out for a walk and a picnic.

I’m always up for taking a simple snack to any park for a bit of laid back sunshine, but this wasn’t that kind of day.

Nope, we were after something special, so we hopped in the trusty minivan and headed out. Our first stop was Dean and DeLucas out on 119th in Leawood. I know this isn’t a locally own place, but I can’t help it, I love it! And I wasn't near Better Cheddar--my local fave!

We were greeted at the front door by a stunning array of locally made Christopher Elbow chocolates and truffles, where we each, with much agonizing over the choices, selected a few pieces of decadence.

We then set about to ooh and ahh and sample our way around the store. We decided on a fresh fruit medley of strawberries, raspberries, blueberries melons etc., to start with. A wedge of this heavenly cheese that was similar in character to parmesan, sort of nutty and buttery, was next in our basket. We picked up a bag of pretzel rods and a jar of stoneground, honey mustard dipping sauce. We finished our shopping with a couple of bottles of sparkling citrus water.

We filled our cooler ( see tips page ) and headed off to picnic heaven. From Dean and Deluca, take 69 highway south to 179th St. to arrive at this glorious location.

The Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens

The entry to the garden is composed of a mass planting of sunny rudbeckias. Then it’s up to drive to a roomy shelter house and a short walk to the visitors center. Did I mention that the entry fee to the Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens is free? Yep, it doesn’t cost a dime to visit this patch of gardening, flower and nature lovers heaven right here on the prairie. In my mind this sort of balances out what I spent at Dean and DeLuca's! LOL

Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens

They’re any number of places throughout the gardens to sit and enjoy a picnic, all with different views. We chose to sit at one of the shaded wrought iron table and chair sets on the terrace of the visitor center. After lunch, we stowed our leftovers in the van and headed out along the garden path. I fell in love with not only the variety of flowers (I’ve been in the floral industry for over 20 years), but the variety of sculptures and multitude of water features. The Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens is a happy dance for the senses. I’m certain that this is a place you must visit throughout the year to enjoy all of its seasonal nuances.

Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens

There’s something for everyone at the Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, unlike Powell Gardens you don’t have to grab a tram or walk an endless path. The distance around the garden area seemed “just right” for an afternoon stroll. However, for those wanting a little more distance and challenge there are trails throughout the Arboretum. Regardless of which you desire to do, there are plenty of benches and rocks to rest upon while you meander through.

Needless to say, we thoroughly enjoyed our day trip to Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, and you will too. So, get out there and tour our town!

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