Lakeside Nature Center
Explore Lakeside Nature Center – Kansas City, MO
A Wildlife Sanctuary in Swope Park
Nestled in Swope Park at 4701 East Gregory Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64132, Lakeside Nature Center is a nature-focused gem in the heart of the city. Owned by KC Parks and Recreation and supported by the Friends of Lakeside Nature Center, it's a leading wildlife rehabilitation center and educational hub.
A History Rooted in Nature Education
1931 – The site began as a WPA-built concession stand during park expansions.
1966 – Reopened as Lakeside Nature Center, Missouri’s first facility where visitors could view live native animals up close.
1999 – A modern, award-winning center designed by International Architects Atelier (IAA) opened, featuring passive solar design and sustainable materials.
What You’ll Find
Interactive Animal Exhibits: Home to ~60 native species—including bald eagles, reptiles, mammals, and fish.
Wildlife Rehab Hospital: One of Missouri’s largest, pairing medical treatment with education.
Gardens & Trails: Fox Hollow Trail winds past bluffs, riparian zones, and native gardens; picnic pavilions and a pavilion space are available for events.
Educational Programs: Includes guided hikes, animal demos, scout events, birthdays, and public programs like “Bugs Extravaganza”.
Admission and parking are free; open Tues–Sun, typically 9 AM–4 PM.
Whenever you're in Kansas City, be sure to catch a game at the GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium.
Protect Your Home with Kansas City Chimney Repair
Just as the Nature Center cares for local wildlife, Chimney Restoration of Kansas City takes expert care of your home. We specialize in Kansas City chimney repair, offering comprehensive inspections, sweeps, leak fixes, and rebuilds to keep your chimney safe and efficient.
Call or visit us to learn more!
Directions: Lakeside Nature Center → Chimney Restoration of Kansas City
Starting Point: 4701 E. Gregory Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64132 Destination: 15145 S Keeler St, Olathe, KS 66062
Exit the park onto Gregory Boulevard heading east.
Turn right onto US-71 S/I‑49 S via ramp toward Lee's Summit.
Merge onto I‑435 W toward Olathe via exit.
Use exit 27A to merge onto I‑35 S toward Wichita.
Take exit 4 for 151st Street west.
Turn right onto Keeler Street—your destination is on the right.
Estimated drive time: ~25–30 minutes, depending on traffic.
Discover the beauty of Kansas City's native wildlife—then protect your home with trusted Kansas City chimney repair from Chimney Restoration of Kansas City.
Chimney Restoration of Kansas City 15145 S Keeler St, Olathe, KS 66062 (913) 374-7902














