Swope Park

Swope Park is the largest park in Kansas City, stretching over 1,800 acres (680 hectares). Named after local philanthropist Thomas Swope, the park was gifted to Kansas City in 1896. It has since become one of the city’s biggest attractions, with over 2 million visitors passing through its gates every year.

Two of the major attractions in the park are the Kansas City Zoo and the Starlight Theatre. Visit the zoo for one of the best African enclosures in America. A free alternative to the zoo is the Lakeside Nature Centre, which operates as a rehabilitation facility for local animals. If you find yourself in Kansas on a clear night, head down to a show at the Starlight Theatre, one of the last self-producing open-air cinemas in the country.

If you’re looking for a bit of exercise, Swope Park has plenty to offer. The park has a 2-mile (3.2-kilometre) exercise trail as well as more than 10 miles (16 kilometres) of bike trails. Wander through the park and catch a local game of baseball or soccer, or go to the Swope Memorial Golf Course for a quick round. The park also has a course for Frisbee Golf, a challenging yet fun outdoor game.

The park is also a great place for simply taking a relaxing stroll outside the busy city centre. Make your way to the Swope Memorial and Fountain or Kansas City Community Gardens. The Beanstalk Children’s garden is a good option if you’re travelling with young kids. It has a small admission fee, but tours are free and usually available.

Swope Park is located about a 20-minute drive south of Kansas City. Entry to the park is free, however, some activities require admission fees. Shows at the Starlight Theatre should be booked in advance.