The Preservation of Communal Green Space.
That’s one way great cities are distinguished. Think the Tuileries in Paris... London’s Hyde Park... Central Park in New York City. Long ago, Overland Park had the foresight to acquire and set aside 300 acres of land as the City’s Arboretum and Botanical Gardens. In this, we are truly fortunate. Now, that legacy has been passed on to us . . . a responsibility to nurture and grow for your children and your children’s children. If you believe that the preservation of communal spaces, cultural amenities and quality of life are important to keeping Overland Park an outstanding place to live, work and raise your family, then enhancing and expanding the Arboretum and Botanical Garden through the Growing to Inspire campaign deserves your support.
LongHouse opened to the public on September 9, 2023.
Following 30 years of dreaming, 8 years of planning, and 2 years of construction, the new visitor center - LongHouse - opened to the public on September 9, 2023. The first phase of the Growing to Inspire campaign reached its goal! LongHouse is now the front door of the Arboretum and the premier gathering place in Overland Park for celebrations and meetings.
Hundreds of donors contributed nearly $11,500,000 for construction, landscaping, equipment and furnishings.
The Growing to Inspire campaign continues for those who want to ensure that the new building and outdoor spaces are furnished, equipped, landscaped, and enhanced as needed.
Purchase a "Leaf"
One of the most distinctive features of the area surrounding LongHouse is the elevated Hilltop Terrace encircled by the Inspiration Wall adorned with recognition of those who are helping the Arboretum grow. We offer you the opportunity help the Arboretum continue to "grow to inspire" and permanently honor your family or organization with an inscribed "leaf" on the wall. MORE INFORMATION
Support Programming
Education - By definition, a public garden exists not only for visitors to take pleasure in nature, but to enhance their knowledge of horticulture and environmental stewardship. Continuing the Growing to Inspire campaign ensures that there are programs to significantly expand educational opportunities for all ages. With spaces designed into LongHouse and the former visitor center repurposed as the Environmental Education Center, the Arboretum is positioned to partner with other educational institutions to increase the scope and the depth of its programming for children and adults.
Art - Across the country, botanical gardens have truly become outdoor art museums, and the Overland Park Arboretum is no exception. LongHouse is a beautiful venue for art celebrating nature and our environment. Funding will enable acquisition of permanent art and development of temporary exhibits.
Celebration - The Arboretum was already a destination for outdoor community events, private parties, and small weddings. The setting is indeed unmatched in our community! LongHouse with surrounding gardens and terraces allows for more space for formal receptions and dining for up to 200 people, a full catering kitchen, and accommodations for all weather conditions. Funding will provide furnishings and equipment to enhance these spaces.
More Information
From Our Supporters
Campaign Cabinet
Wayne Byrd
Mary Davidson
Georgia Erickson
Scott Havens
Jim Holland
Janet Long
Gary Nevius
Bradley Scafe