In Topeka, Kansas, the best entertainment isn't manmade. Here, Mother Nature has created a natural environment filled with stunning views, waterfront adventures, exhilarating trails, natural sports, and serene spaces for quiet reflection. Local and state authorities have helped preserve that natural bounty by designating certain spaces as public parks.  

The Topeka area features over 100 parks that occupy hundreds of acres and offer a wide range of activities to ensure there are options for every personality and fitness level. Whether your idea of the perfect outdoor space is a rugged trail, cultivated gardens, or a space structured for your favorite sports, outdoor weekend entertainment in Topeka is always close by.  

Whether you're vacationing in Topeka or you're a Shawnee County resident, these popular parks are worth adding to your weekend itinerary. 

Ted Ensley Gardens 

Location: 3650 SE West Edge Road, less than 10 miles away from Fleming Court Apartments 

Leave the hustle and bustle of everyday life behind for an hour or two in the tranquility of a 37.5-acre garden on the west side of Lake Shawnee. Stroll garden trails to admire 1,200 varieties of perennials and 300 varieties of annuals, roses, trees, and shrubs in the meticulously cultivated Ted Ensley Gardens.  

Wander through the arboretum to see 450 trees that represent 120 species, enjoy the quiet beauty of water and rock gardens, and relax in the picturesque gazebo. Trees, blooms, and ponds create stunning photo backdrops around every turn, and leashed pets are welcome on the outdoor trails.  

For an extra-special treat, visit the park in April to see an oasis of color as more than 100,000 tulips reach peak bloom, or plan to stop on Tuesdays in July to enjoy free concerts by ensembles from the Topeka Symphony Orchestra. Ted Ensley Gardens are conveniently located on West Ridge Road, making them easily accessible for local residents. 

Gage Park 

Location: 635 SW Gage Blvd., only half a mile from Fleming Court Apartments, making it an easy 10-minute walk for residents 

With 160 acres to explore and enjoy, Gage Park is one of Topeka's star attractions. This expansive park offers a range of activities for visitors of all ages. During the summer, the Blaisdell Family Aquatic Center is a top attraction, featuring a 50-meter pool with diving boards, water slides, a dump bucket feature, shade structures, picnic areas, and even a party room.  

The Helen Hocker Theater and Gage Park Amphitheater host live shows and concerts. The Topeka Zoo inside the park is home to nearly 400 animals from all over the world and includes a petting zoo for getting hands on with some of the zoo’s friendlier residents. While the park itself is free and open to the public, the zoo does charge admission.  

Additional attractions at Gage Park include a carousel, mini train, playgrounds, a rose garden, the Kansas Children's Discovery Center, a two-mile fitness loop, and a fully fenced dog park where dogs can run and play leash-free.  There truly is something for everyone here!  

Dornwood Park 

Location: 2815 SE 25th Street, only 6.5 miles from Fleming Apartments 

Find the perfect balance of activity and serenity in this scenic park that features facilities for hiking, group sports, or relaxing outdoors. Kids love the spray park, featuring spray cannons, a water bucket tower, a run-through hoop spray, and similar features for cooling down and playing in the summer. The park's nearly 10 miles of natural trails are a favorite among mountain bikers and hikers, with natural terrain and forested surroundings. Dornwood is also home to five baseball diamonds with bleachers and a concession stand.  

Ward Meade Park

Location: 124 NW Fillmore Street, only about 3 miles from Fleming Court Apartments 

Step back in time at this 6-acre historic site that preserves the family history of one of the earliest settlers in the area. Explore a 2.5-acre botanical garden to see spectacular displays of more than 500 varieties of flowers, shrubs, and trees, a footbridge, and a gazebo. Tour historic buildings, including a fully operational one-room schoolhouse and an 1880 church building. During your visit, don't forget to visit the Potwin Drug Store, where you can shop for vintage candy and sit at the marble counter and order a soda fountain treat. 

Lake Shawnee 

Location: 3137 SE 29th Street, only 9 miles away from Fleming Court Apartments. 

The 1,100-acre park surrounding Lake Shawnee features foot trails, a golf course, a marina, tennis courts, shelter houses, ball diamonds, campgrounds, and the Ted Ensley Gardens. The 416-acre lake is a top location for swimming, fishing, boating, kayaking, and sailing. There's even a heated fishing dock, perfect for early-morning adventures.  

The campground offers 140 sites, 87 of which are full hookup spots. Paved foot and bike trails offer opportunities for exercise only minutes from downtown. As Topeka's top community gathering space, Lake Shawnee is also home to various festivals, tournaments, and events throughout the year.  

Find Your Topeka Home at Fleming Court Apartments