Nathanael Greene Close Memorial Park
Discover 118 acres of free, stunning botanical gardens, a butterfly house, and serene walking paths in Springfield, MO.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Redbuds and flowers in bloom
Nathanael Greene Close Memorial Park
Best Time
Redbuds and flowers in bloom
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover 118 acres of free, stunning botanical gardens, a butterfly house, and serene walking paths in Springfield, MO.
"Probably the best park in Springfield! Very pretty, always clean.
"🎯 Free Admission Gem
Enjoy 118 acres of stunning gardens and a butterfly house at no cost!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll want to explore all the walking paths, so wear comfy shoes!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Springfield Botanical Gardens
118 acres of themed gardens
Wander through diverse themed gardens, including hosta, rose, and redbud, showcasing vibrant blooms year-round.
Butterfly House
Within Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park
Experience the magic of hundreds of butterflies in a free, volunteer-run sanctuary.
Serene Walking Paths
Throughout the park
Enjoy peaceful strolls along well-maintained paths, perfect for nature lovers and dog walkers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Free Beauty
Plan for Park Hours
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission Gem
Enjoy 118 acres of stunning gardens and a butterfly house at no cost!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll want to explore all the walking paths, so wear comfy shoes!
🦋 Butterfly House Volunteers
Chat with knowledgeable volunteers at the free butterfly house.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Trails
Leashed dogs are welcome on the park's many walking paths.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission Gem
Enjoy 118 acres of stunning gardens and a butterfly house at no cost!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll want to explore all the walking paths, so wear comfy shoes!
🦋 Butterfly House Volunteers
Chat with knowledgeable volunteers at the free butterfly house.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Trails
Leashed dogs are welcome on the park's many walking paths.
📸 Perfect Photo Ops
Capture beautiful moments in the themed gardens and by the lake.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Nathanael Greene Close Memorial Park for its stunning beauty, diverse themed gardens, and the delightful, free Butterfly House. It's considered a top park in Springfield, offering peaceful walking paths and abundant wildlife, making it a relaxing and enjoyable experience for all.
The main drawback mentioned is the early closing time of restrooms, which can be inconvenient for those enjoying evening visits."This is a beautiful park. Lots of beautiful flowers and trees and great walking paths. Ducks, butterflies, birds and other wildlife. It’s definitely my favorite park in Springfield. I just wish the bathroom was open later. They lock the building up pretty early considering how much daylight remains and people going for evening walks. I couldn’t find a bathroom that was open which is frustrating. It’s huge park so maybe there’s an open bathroom somewhere but I didn’t find it."
Mindy Lin
"Probably the best park in Springfield! Very pretty, always clean. You get a good walk around the path. Lots of botanical/educational things as you walk. Nice pond/lake and waterfall. A few rivers to play in when the water isn't too high. Ducks, geese, squirrels and bunnies. Large fountain you can sit and enjoy. Lots of places to sit around the path. Very dog-friendly! Absolutely recommended!"
Kaleigh Gilbert
"The place was very beautiful. Clean peaceful, relaxing. You can have a picnic there. You can have children playing in the park. You can see wildlife. It was a very soothing atmosphere."
William Jackson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The park is located at 2400 S. Scenic Ave., Springfield, MO. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available.
Many visitors mention it as a must-visit park in Springfield.Information on public transportation routes to Nathanael Greene Close Memorial Park is not widely available in social media or Reddit discussions. Driving is the most common method of access mentioned by visitors.
The primary entrance is off South Scenic Avenue, leading to the main parking areas for the botanical gardens and other attractions.
Yes, the park features well-maintained walking paths that guide you through the various themed gardens and areas.
While there are roads within the park for access to parking, the focus is on pedestrian exploration of the gardens and trails. Some visitors use their cars to drive between points of interest due to mobility limitations.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to Nathanael Greene Close Memorial Park and its Springfield Botanical Gardens is completely free!
The park grounds are generally open from dawn to dusk. However, specific facilities like restrooms may have earlier closing times, which can be frustrating for evening visitors.
The Butterfly House is free to visit and is operated by knowledgeable volunteers. No advance booking is typically required.
While the park is free, special events might occur. It's always a good idea to check local listings for any specific happenings.
mentions an editorial shoot, indicating the park is a popular venue.The park has paved walking paths, and some visitors use their cars to navigate between different sections due to mobility challenges.
The main garden areas are generally accessible.🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the diverse Springfield Botanical Gardens, the free Butterfly House, and the scenic walking paths around the lake.
Absolutely! The themed gardens, blooming flowers, and natural landscapes offer countless beautiful photo opportunities.
Yes, the park offers BBQ and picnic areas, making it a great spot for a relaxing outdoor meal.
Visitors often spot ducks, geese, squirrels, bunnies, and various birds. The Butterfly House is a highlight for insect enthusiasts.
Yes, it's a peaceful and relaxing environment where children can play and explore nature.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no specific mentions of on-site restaurants or cafes within the park in social media or Reddit discussions. Visitors often bring their own food for picnics.
Springfield offers a variety of dining options just a short drive from the park. You can find everything from casual eateries to more formal restaurants in the surrounding areas.
Yes, bringing your own food and drinks is highly encouraged, as there are designated picnic and BBQ areas.
Information about water fountains is not readily available. It's advisable to bring your own water, especially during warmer months.
Picnics often include classic favorites suitable for outdoor dining. The park's serene atmosphere makes it ideal for enjoying a packed meal.
📸 📸 Photography
The themed gardens, especially during bloom seasons like the redbud trees, offer stunning backdrops. The Butterfly House and the lake area are also popular photo locations.
Yes, the park's beautiful landscapes and gardens make it a highly sought-after location for editorial and wedding photography.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best lighting for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and capturing a softer glow.
There is no specific information regarding drone usage in the provided content. It's recommended to check park regulations or contact park management directly before flying a drone.
Yes, visitors frequently photograph the ducks, geese, squirrels, and butterflies. Remember to maintain a respectful distance from all wildlife.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Nature Lovers
🐶 Dog Owners
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Springfield Botanical Gardens
One of the most enchanting features is the free Butterfly House, where you can get up close with a variety of fluttering species. The volunteers here are often on hand to share fascinating insights about the butterflies and their life cycles. Beyond the themed gardens, the park provides ample space for picnics and relaxation, with BBQ areas available for visitors to enjoy. It's a place where you can truly immerse yourself in nature's beauty and find a sense of peace.
Wildlife Encounters and Nature Observation
For birdwatchers, the diverse flora provides ample food and shelter, attracting a variety of avian species. The park's commitment to maintaining natural habitats ensures that visitors can enjoy these wildlife encounters. It's a wonderful place for families and individuals alike to connect with nature and observe the local fauna in a peaceful setting.
Photography and Special Events
Beyond personal photography, the park's beauty makes it a popular venue for various events. While not a primary focus of visitor content, the mention of editorial shoots and the general appeal of the gardens suggest it's a location that can host intimate gatherings or be a backdrop for larger community events. The open lawns and scenic views offer a versatile setting for different types of celebrations or gatherings.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit