With its own settlement roots dating back to 1857, Gardner, Kansas holds a unique distinction among American cities. Setting at the major intersection of the Santa Fe and Oregon Trails, Gardner’s rich heritage derives from the great Westward movement, and the dreams of the sons and daughters of a young nation. The Santa Fe and Oregon-California trails divided southwest of town owning to its early reference as “the point where the trails west divided.”
Today, Gardner is a thriving community of almost 7,000, that exudes small town charm. Brick and stone buildings line Main Street, and the historic and quaint downtown is now home to numerous unique, interesting shops and restaurants. Gardner is also well located for easy access to all the amenities and attractions of the Kansas City metropolitan region.
Recreational opportunities abound with six parks totaling 50 acres, including the Westside Memorial Sports Complex and the Gardner public golf course. Cornerstone Park, near the center of town, has an amphitheater and municipal swimming pool nestled among picnic areas and flower gardens. While you’re here, read about the historic bell on display in the park, an artifact from frontier trail days. Escape to one of our nearby lakes. Picturesque Gardner Lake offers fishing, boating and picnic area, and Hillsdale Reservoir is only 15 miles away. The Johnson County Fair offers old-fashioned fun for the whole family every summer at the fairgrounds.
