Welcome to Loose Memorial Park, the third largest park in Kansas City, Missouri, situated at 51st Street and Wornall Road. Rich in history and local culture, this beautiful green space sits on land that once served as a pasture for pioneer Seth Ward and held Confederate gun emplacements during the American Civil War's Battle of Westport.
Today, you can explore historic Civil War markers, stroll past the peaceful lake, or visit the Loose Park Garden Center at 5200 Pennsylvania Avenue, which hosts horticultural exhibitions and meetings. Park highlights include a vibrant Rose Garden that hosts theatrical performances and wedding ceremonies, alongside a traditional Japanese Tea Room and Garden dedicated in 2006 as a cultural exchange with sister city Kurashiki, Japan.
The park also carries a fascinating modern legacy: international artists Christo and Jeanne-Claude famously installed their shiny orange-yellow "Wrapped Walk Ways" art project here in 1977, and the founders of Cerner Corporation conceived their company during a park picnic in 1979. Whether you want to play on the tennis courts, visit the water park, or enjoy the picnic areas, Loose Memorial Park offers a delightful outdoor escape.
What to see at Loose Memorial Park
- Stroll through the famed Rose Garden and traditional Japanese Tea Room and Garden.
- Discover historical Civil War markers from the Battle of Westport.
- Enjoy recreational amenities including a lake, tennis courts, water park, and picnic areas.
- Explore the Loose Park Garden Center, home to horticultural exhibitions and event spaces.
Visiting tips
Visit the Loose Park Garden Center at 5200 Pennsylvania Avenue if you are interested in local horticultural exhibitions or hosting a meeting.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Early morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
Loose Memorial Park is easy to reach on Kansas City’s public transport, and pairs naturally with The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Kansas City travel guide.
See the full Kansas City travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.