Waterworks Park

Natural Setting

Found in the northern part of Kansas City, Missouri, Waterworks Park sits like a green oasis near the Missouri River. Established in 1931, the park balances recreation opportunities with natural beauty.

From its elevated position, the park provides excellent views of downtown Kansas City, the downtown airport, and the Missouri River below. The hilly, wooded landscape is particularly beautiful at sunset and sunrise - worth bringing a camera if you enjoy photography.

Disc Golf Course

The park features a challenging 18-hole disc golf course that incorporates the natural landscape into its design. With significant elevation changes, mature trees, and a mix of open and wooded fairways, it's considered one of the most notable disc golf courses in Kansas City. The course got a fresh redesign in late 2024 that's been earning thumbs-up from disc golf enthusiasts.

Regardless of whether you're just starting out or have a collection of discs that would make a pro jealous, there's something for everyone here with a nice variety of long and short holes. The concrete tees and Mach X targets add a professional touch to the experience. Just be ready for a workout - those hills are no joke! Local players joke that you'll climb about 42 stories during a single round.

If it's your first visit, downloading the UDisc app is a smart move to help navigate the course. Keep in mind that disc golf is the main attraction here, so a good portion of the park is dedicated to the sport.

Trails and Recreation

Beyond disc golf, the park offers a lovely walking trail that meanders through the rolling, tree-covered terrain. These well-kept paths provide a peaceful escape for a morning jog or an afternoon stroll.

For families, there's a small playground that the little ones will enjoy, plus several picnic areas where you can relax and soak in those impressive views while enjoying lunch outdoors.

Historical Significance

The park has an interesting origin story - it was developed using leftover funds and materials from a nearby water treatment plant and opened its gates in 1936. Back then, locals would gather around its spring-fed lake for swimming in summer and ice skating in winter.

Today, Waterworks Park is also home to the Remembered Angels Memorial, offering a quiet space for reflection and remembrance.

Community Value

Many locals appreciate the park's combination of natural beauty, recreational features, and relative quiet, making it a good option when you want to step away from the city while still having access to skyline views.

Note that parking can be limited during busy times, especially when disc golf tournaments are happening, so you might want to plan accordingly.