This memorial garden is a public space located in the Powell Botanical Gardens and dedicated to Ewing and Muriel Kauffman. It is open year-round so guests can enjoy all four seasons and the immutable differences they bring. The Kauffman's were the quintessential city philanthropists, in addition to this tranquil oasis, Ewing found the hometown Kansas City Royals as well as establish his eponymous foundation which helps underprivileged youth with charitable contributions to education and the arts. Though the garden is small, it is a nice nook to see a bit of the flora and fauna within the larger Powell Gardens acreage.
Upon first glance, Loose Park doesn't conjure up images of a bloody Civil War battle within the cozy confines of this now tranquil place. Where the park now sits was the site of the bloody Battle of Westport, considered the 'Gettysburg of the West' due to the large number of troops who engaged. Inside the park, there is a monument to this battle, a replica cannon and for a little more levity, the Laura Conyers Smith Memorial Rose Garden.
This 35-acre historic site and nature preserve sits on land that once was part of the Santa Fe Trail. Today, it is dedicated to the preservation of local history and natural surroundings. A variety of interactive programs is available, including one that focuses on Lepidoptera (Butterflies), Ornithology basics, O' Pioneers and more. For those that love to hike, bird watch, picnic or just get lost, Cave Springs Park is truly a getaway from it all. As its name suggests, there is a small cavern and a riparian pond within the park.