Photo Galleries Suzanne Walker
I have been a photographer for years, as we traveled throughout the United States in our motorhome. It was an unforgettable experience. Since hanging up our gypsy keys, I have rekindled my interest in gardening and found the wonderful gem – Nathanial Greene Park and Close Memorial Park, which isn’t too far from my home. I am there most weekends during the summer and I hope to take more photos during the winter when the park is less busy.
I have to applaud the many hours that the volunteers have put forth in making this the star of the Springfield-Greene County Park System. Their efforts have made it a wonderful experience for the rest of us.
If you haven’t visited Close Memorial Park, you have missed one of the best parks in Missouri, and maybe the United States! Visit soon and often. You will not be disappointed.A rough day at work? Are you wanting a little peace and quiet from the busy and noisy world? Come sit a spell and enjoy the Park. You will leave with a sense of calm, ready for the next task.
A wonderful time to visit the Park is just before the sunset. Colors change and shadows deepen. But be sure and leave before the gates are locked!
On the East side of the park, you can get lost in all the tall ornamental grasses, which are intersected by walking paths.
While wandering through the park, you are likely to come across the wonderful sculptures that have been added. I'm not sure they are still there, due to vandalism, but the ones that remain are worth the walk to see.
If you want a good laugh, watch the ducks and geese around Drummond Lake. They play, they honk, they chase each other and in the spring they guard their babies with their life! And they do bite, so take care not to get too close to these new offspring.
As you walk from the parking lot, a riot of color unfolds before your eyes. Roses of all hues greet you with their wonderful fragrance and tender petals.
At some point in spring or early summer, stroll through the Daylilly Garden. It is a site to behold! All colors and sizes will be "eye candy" for you. The yellow tiger-spotted ones are my favorite.
I discovered the Butterfly House when it was first being built. One of the volunteers was working there and we talked briefly. He told me that this wonderful addition to the Park would house Missouri Native Butterflies in all stages of their development.
On any given day, when you enter Close Memorial Park there are many people doing various activities; picnics, cyclists, runners, walkers, dog walkers, and of course many children playing around several areas.
The Springfield-Greene County Botanical Center
2400 S. Scenic Ave
Springfield, MO 65807
417.891.1515
Botanical Center & Gardens Brochure (782.17 kB) Park Bench Winter 2011-2012 (3.32 MB)The Friends of the Garden mission is to "inspire the discovery, understanding and appreciation of nature by creating and maintaining gardens at Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park and by supporting the mission of the Springfield-Greene County Botanical Center and Park Board."
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