Springfield Botanical Gardens at Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park, Springfield

We love this park! Here are some reasons why: 1. It is so beautiful! The time and care they put into the landscaping is obvious. Every time we go there is something new blooming! 2. There are great walking trails around the park, through flower gardens and around the lake. 3. It has little playground areas along the trails for breaks for kids on the walks and a huge playground area you can use as a destination for the kiddos. 4. It is pet friendly! Just keep your pet leashed and carry your “uh oh” bags to clean up any uh ohs! Lots of people walking with dogs. 5. There are historical buildings to check out for even more fun and a butterfly house! These are just a few things we love about it. It’s big and beautiful and never disappoints!

This is one of the best outdoor gems of the Springfield area, and it just keeps getting better year after year. They have many nice trails to walk, run, or bike, and the trail around the lake happens to be my favorite. There is a large empty field which is great for flying kites, tossing a football, etc, but also some shaded tree-dense areas where you can pitch a hammock and enjoy an afternoon of peaceful reading. The many gardens here will certainly delight your senses, and there is something blooming every season (except for winter, of course). If you get a chance to check out the Japenese Garden here, it is like stepping into another world. I highly recommend it. It is only a few dollars for admission. Everything else is free in this park. Thank you to the City of Springfield and all the volunteers who make this beautiful paradise on earth a reality! Check it out soon if you haven't.