Oppenstein Brothers Memorial Park

A Downtown Retreat

Tucked away at the corner of 12th and Walnut Streets lies Oppenstein Brothers Memorial Park, a compact urban sanctuary in the midst of Kansas City's bustling Central Business District. This one-acre space provides a momentary escape from the busy downtown area surrounding it.

With One Kansas City Place and Town Pavilion towering nearby, this little green space has become something of a lunchtime ritual for downtown workers. The benches and tables scattered throughout are good for enjoying a sandwich while getting some sunshine between meetings.

The Story Behind the Space

The park pays homage to the Oppenstein Brothers, whose jewelry business and philanthropic efforts made a lasting mark on Kansas City. Established in 1981, the space got a fresh start between 2006 and 2008, culminating in a rededication ceremony on April 18, 2008.

Where Art Meets Astronomy

The park's 2008 makeover, a collaboration between artist Laura DeAngelis and architect Dominique Davison, introduced the captivating "Celestial Flyways" theme that celebrates Kansas City's natural environment in an unexpected way.

At the heart of the park sits an interactive star disc - an interesting astronomical feature inspired by ancient designs. This feature allows you to rotate the disc, revealing over 450 stars and 50 constellations etched into its surface. Come nightfall, the installation's LED lighting creates a gentle glow throughout the park.

What to Expect

Beyond the star disc, you can find thoughtfully landscaped areas with comfortable seating that create little pockets of tranquility. The integration of artistic elements with natural features connects city life with touches of the natural world.

Four-legged friends are welcome, but the limited space means this isn't exactly a doggy playground. Note that there are no public restrooms available, so plan accordingly if you're settling in for lunch or a coffee break.

Community Connections

Keep an eye out for occasional community events that bring the park to life. The open design provides just enough room for gatherings around performances by local artists - including aerial displays by groups like Voler that literally take the park experience to new heights.