Best spots around Kansas City to catch the peak fall colors before they’re gone
With autumn leaves falling down like pieces into place, now’s the time to check out the fall scenery Kansas City has to offer before the colors are gone.
Horticulture specialist and Star contributor Dennis Patton said this year’s fall colors are some of the best the city’s seen in years. The sugar maples and red maples are at their peak colors right now and heavy winds didn’t knock the leaves off the trees over the summer, giving the city beautiful views all around.
The color is lasting longer than anticipated, so take advantage before the cold weather creeps in and wipes it away. Here are some of our recommendations for places to visit. Feel like we overlooked your favorite spot? Let us know at kcq@kansascity.com.
The vibrant and warm trees make it the perfect destination for picnics or walks around the 75 acres. The rose garden near the playground gives it a little extra flair.
Kansas City’s botanical garden offers a wide variety of sights across its 915 acres. Journey to the barn silo to take in a view of fall color treetops as far as the eye can see. Observe seasonal favorites, such as the native beautyberry shrub, throughout the Island Garden, Perennial Garden, Rock and Waterfall Garden and Wildflower Meadow.
It’s open every Wednesday-Sunday through Nov. 11 to Dec. 30 from 4-10 p.m. to accommodate for the Festival of Lights, which adds sights to behold. Tickets are $13 for adults, $11 for seniors and $6 for children ages 5-12.
Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens
The garden offers color year-round, making this a prime location for fall lovers. The wildflowers decorating the hillsides and the warm hues of sumac and persimmon throughout the grounds are just a small sample of the variety the arboretum has in store.
The trails offer visitors the opportunity to view over 300 acres and 1,700 unique plant species, setting the tone for fall. Whether native to the land or planted, there’s no shortage of color here.
Tickets are $3 for adults and $1 for children ages 6 to12. It’s free for kids under age 6.
It’s a nightmare to drive on, but it’s quite the view as the leaves change. The boulevards with the center islands, the mature, established trees and the houses surrounding the 12-mile run make this a worthy destination for sightseeing.
Currently closed to motorized vehicles, this is the optimal place for fall walks and bike rides. Let the wind flow through as you marvel at the limestone bluffs, natural vegetation and wildlife. It’s a scene only available to George E. Kessler Park.
The byway is more than 4 miles long, starting from The Paseo and Independence Avenue and going through Indian Mound on Gladstone Boulevard at Belmont Boulevard. Wander through all of it, as there’s no better time than now.
“Beauty is in the eye of the beholder,” Patton said. “Just stop, put your phone down and look.”