Ewing and Muriel Kauffman Memorial Garden, Kansas City (must see)

The Ewing and Muriel Kauffman Memorial Garden, nestled in Kansas City, is a lush 2-acre botanical oasis, part of the larger Kauffman Legacy Park. This serene space is a collaborative effort between the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation and Powell Gardens, dedicated to providing a tranquil escape for the community. Located near the bustling Country Club Plaza and the University of Missouri–Kansas City, the garden is a testament to the legacy of Kansas City philanthropists Ewing and Muriel Kauffman, whose final resting place is also here.

Enclosed by limestone walls, the garden's brick paths guide visitors through a series of five distinct garden designs, each offering a unique sensory experience. The Allee, a tree-lined walkway, features Peking Tree Lilacs providing shade to blue Endless Summer Hydrangeas and other seasonal blooms. In the heart of the Green Garden lies an octagonal pool, encircled by a pergola draped with cascading flowers and gardenias, Muriel Kauffman’s favorite. Magnolias add to the springtime charm of this area.

The Orangery, just north of the Green Garden, offers a sheltered space where citrus, camellias, and gardenias thrive during the colder months, alongside orchids nestled within pindo palm trees. The Orangery also hosts an annual winter holiday display, bringing a touch of festive cheer. The Parterre Garden is highlighted by a long reflective pool flanked by the bronze sculptures "Jazz I" and "Jazz II" by Tom Corbin, surrounded by a vibrant mix of seasonal plants, tropicals, and perennials set against a backdrop of flowering crabapples. For those seeking solitude, the Secret Garden offers a secluded spot behind the conservatory, complete with its water features for quiet reflection.

Inspiration for the garden's design stems from the Kauffmans’ world travels, with plant selections reflecting both Canadian and Missourian influences, honoring Muriel and Ewing’s heritage. The garden boasts over 7,000 plants, including a rich variety of vintage and modern perennials, annuals, shrubs, bulbs, and trees, all meticulously maintained by local volunteers and gardeners in partnership with Powell Gardens. Whether for quiet contemplation or the simple joy of nature, the Ewing and Muriel Kauffman Memorial Garden provides a peaceful retreat in the heart of Kansas City.