The state's capital has some lovely public spaces, including Gage Park, Crestview Park and the garden at Ward-Meade Park Botanical Gardens, but the Ted Ensley Gardens functions as the best pound for pound garden space in the Top City.
The flowers, trees and shrubbery and attended to throughout the year and it features a fountain, numerous viewing areas of Lake Shawnee, a monarch garden nestled in a grove of trees as well as several covered structures (gazebo, pagoda, etc.) to enjoy a respite from the sun or wind.
The 37.5 acre park is named for the former long serving Shawnee County Commissioner and parks administrator Ted Ensley. Mr. Ensley oversaw much of the site's development before his name was chosen for the gardens based on his long history of service as a public servant.
Generally, the park should take you two hours to traverse on a nice day with brief pauses to enjoy the lake and the flowers. It makes a wonderful site for professional pictures as well, but try to come early in the day unless you don't mind being photo-bombed by various leisurely Topekans who may also be in the garden with you. read more