If you haven’t visited the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens lately, you don’t know what you’re missing.
In late July 2011, phase 1 of the Train Garden, located next to the Children’s Garden, began with the addition of a full-size bright red caboose. When all four phases are complete, the Train Garden will house seven G-scale trains, a depot, two mountains, several water features and the re-creation of Historic Downtown OP and the Strang Line, along with the caboose.
As if that’s not enough to get its name on the national radar, the OPA&BG also has started working on an international sculpture garden. Showcasing works of art by internationally known sculptor Kwan Wu, the first phase will showcase 30 sculptures; phase 2 will expand into the Kemper Farm area, hopeful that the sculpture garden eventually houses 100 sculptures created by local, national and international artists. The result? This cultural highlight in the Midwest will be the first and only Chinese/U.S. culture park in the country and may include works from other countries.
Kwan Wu's " The President and The Empress"
So, if you haven’t been out to the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens — 8909 W. 179th St., in Overland Park — stop by with the kiddos today. You’ll be amazed at what you’ll see in its lush, picturesque surroundings.
For a complete list of upcoming events, click here.
