KANSAS LANDSCAPE ARBORETUM (Map)488 UTAH ROAD
WAKEFIELD
KS 67487
(Arboretums, Botanical Gardens & Nature Centers)
The Kansas Landscape Arboretum is a beautiful outdoor space spanning over 120 acres that features various themed gardens, tree and plant collections, walking trails, and scenic vistas. It is located at 488 Utah Road on the outskirts of Wakefield in north central Kansas. The arboretum was established in 1972 by Michael and Lucy Smith, local nursery owners who had a passion for collecting and propagating trees and plants from around the world.
Upon arriving at the arboretum, visitors are greeted by the Grand Allée, a long straight pathway lined with over 200 varieties of crabapple trees that explode into color in the spring. The path leads up to the Mediterranean Garden which contains olive trees, lavender, rosemary, and other plants well-suited for dry climates. Meandering gravel paths wind through the Mediterranean Garden past terracotta pots spilling over with flowers and gurgling fountains.
To the west of the Mediterranean Garden lies the Conifer Collection featuring stately evergreen trees like giant sequoias, Norwegian spruces, and exotic varieties of false cypress. The conifers provide year-round greenery and interesting textures to the landscape. The Shade Garden nearby contains leafy maples, dogwoods, and other trees that prefer partial sunlight along with shade-loving perennials like astilbe, coral bells, and hostas.
At the heart of the arboretum is the Sunken Garden, a peaceful oasis featuring ponds, waterfalls, and flowers galore. Visitors can sit on benches beside the reflecting pool and enjoy the tranquility of the space. Meandering trails wind up and down small hills surrounding the Sunken Garden, leading to scenic overlooks.
On the eastern edge of the arboretum lies the Rose Garden which contains over 150 varieties of roses in vibrant hues. Visitors can stroll among the rose bushes and enjoy the sweet, distinctive scent in the air. The nearby Fragrance Garden features aromatic plants like gardenias, lilacs, and dianthus. Further east, visitors will find the Child's Garden perfect for little explorers to get their hands dirty and learn about gardening.
The arboretum has numerous facilities to enhance the visitor experience including a cafe, gift shop, research library, event pavilion, and conservatory exhibiting tropical plants and exotic flowers. Experienced horticulturists and volunteers are on hand to answer questions and provide garden tours. The arboretum frequently hosts gardening workshops, concerts, art shows, and other special events throughout the year.
With its diverse plant collections, scenic vistas, and winding trails, the Kansas Landscape Arboretum offers a peaceful natural retreat for visitors to explore and enjoy the beauty of trees, flowers, and landscapes from around the world. It is an unforgettable experience for garden enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The arboretum is open year-round so guests can experience the beauty of each season, from the first blooms of spring to the stunning fall foliage.