Spend quality time in Kansas City’s favourite playground, home to an outdoor theatre, a zoo, a golf course and much more.
Swope Park was given to Kansas City in 1896 by Thomas Swope, and more than a century later his generous act of philanthropy is still appreciated on a daily basis by locals and visitors alike. People come to this magnificent 680-hectare park to play sport, go jogging or stroll around the gardens, but what sets Swope Park apart from others is its famous theatre and zoo.The Starlight Theatre is a legendary Kansas City landmark. Built in 1949, it is one of only three surviving self-producing outdoor theatres in the USA, with a year-round programme of musicals, comedy, drama and dance, all performed under the stars.Another major attraction is the city zoo, which is known throughout the USA for its lifelike recreation of the African savannah, where lions, elephants and rhinos can all be viewed in their native environment. Visitors can also admire the indigenous creatures of the rainforest and the Australian outback at this well-planned zoo.Swope Park is endowed with first-class sporting facilities. Have a healthy workout on the 3.2-kilometre exercise trail, take an exhilarating bike ride around the park perimeter, or test your handicap with a round at Swope Memorial Golf Course. The park also has a Frisbee Golf course, as well as baseball and soccer pitches.Families are well catered for with the Beanstalk Children’s Garden, a popular spot for the youngsters to let off steam while the grown-ups enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the community gardens, or admire the refreshing jets of the fountain by the Swope Memorial.Swope Park is around 20 minutes’ drive south of Kansas City and entry is free, although some of the activities, including the children’s garden, have a small admission charge. Shows at the Starlight Theatre regularly sell out, so advance booking is strongly recommended.
