nathanael greene/close memorial park

This park has it all. A large pond/small lake full of wildlife to observe, beautiful flower gardens to explore, playgrounds for the kiddos, a butterfly house to marvel in, picnic areas for families, the Japanese Stroll Garden - something for everyone.

The Springfield Botanical Gardens at Nathanael Green/Close Memorial Park in Springfield, MO is a 111 acre site that has nine different gardens, walks/trails, butterfly house and a typical Ozark farmstead and play ground. There is always something to do at this park. There are plenty of no cost activities, but a few of the venues have fees. This is a great place to take photos, especially in the spring, summer and fall.

There are many reasons to visit this park: both for the extensive, manicured trails, lake and waterfall browsing, or just admiring the natural scenery. However, frequently there are even more reasons to visit this park with their many festivities throughout the year. There is always plenty of parking, no matter how large the event, but you may have to do quite a bit of walking to get to the area of the park you want to go if you have to park far enough away. I definitely suggest locals see this venue, but out-of-towners may find the Springfield Nature Center or Wilson's Creek Battlefield a much more interesting option if there isn't a festival scheduled during their stay.

It's always fun to take a walk around the big pond with my little sister, and there are stops where she can play. Or I can go alone and jog. People are usually friendly. In the summer, the flowers are absolutely beautiful. I love to go and take pictures just for fun.

This place is right out very pretty in of its self... Now when you add the changing colors of the tree leaves what an awesome view!! There are so many things to do here and trails to walk and many play grounds for little ones to play at.... If you are into bird watching this is the place to be, from geese to ducks and cranes...... If your deal is walking, jogging and/or bike riding this is the place to be.... you can bring picnic lunches and flying kites in this nice, but windy days..... Come on out and enjoy the beauty of this park...... hope to see you on the trail eh?!!

It's the best park in Springfield for those that like to walk and see city nature. The best park for kids would be Rutledge Wilson Farm Park. Lots of trails and several attractions/areas within the park that are unique. I enjoy going there for a jog or bike ride. The kids love the ducks (which you aren't allowed to feed anymore). You can feed the ducks at Rutledge Wilson however. There is several gardens, a pond, a large circle walking track that is pretty level and several playgrounds for kids. A fun place indeed. I am a local and I hope I helped ya.

There are so many things to do here, and the park is beautiful, With the lake, gardens, playgrounds, bike trails, butterfly house, and more you could spend hours here! In my opinion, this is Springfield's best park.

One of our favorite places to visit while in Springfield. They have been doing a lot of renovation and it shows. It is a beautiful ground and has a great walking/running trail around it.

This is a relaxing place to enjoy God's creation. This well kept park is a great place for family photographs or any special event. There was a wedding party having a photo shoot the last time we were there. Our event was a ice cream social with friends. There were plenty of tables, shade, and open space to play bocce too.

My wife and walked around here in the early afternoon. It was very nice! Beautiful area with nice walking paths.

Beautiful, well maintained grounds and gardens. Clean and felt safe.Great place to take pictures.Leashed dogs and doody bag stands around.Easy sidewalks. Benches and lots of grass to run and play, or take it easy. A pond to watch the geese floating on and looked like areas to enjoy events, though there was nothing going on when we were there. This would be my Sunday afternoon spot if I lived there. Great place for the family.Easy access, and never felt hurried on the walking path.I can imagine how beautiful it is in the Spring.

We love taking the kids and letting them explore and run and play and I love the beautiful backgrounds that I can catch in the pictures I take of my kiddo's.. We always have a great time when we go here.

This is a hidden gem in Springfield! Many garden areas to peruse and admire all without costing a penny like other botanical gardens in other cities. I'm disappointed that I didn't get to walk around and see as much of it as I would have liked but if I was a local resident this would be a favorite hangout for sure. Be sure to check out the butterfly house!

We walked around the grounds, lovely plants well labeled and well tended. Such a nice variety of hostas, lillies and other flowers. A peaceful lake with geese and ducks.

THis is my favorite Springfield park. It has so much to offer. We had our family photos taken here in the hosta garden and in front of the lake. Also have taken kids here to play.