Have you ever noticed how magical a stroll through the woods or our favorite park can be? Nature, after all, is full of wonder and surprises. Simply wandering through Kress Farm Garden Preserve, one of the best botanical gardens in Missouri, holds so much promise as we pass colorful wildflowers, hidden fairies, and a few surprises.

As you travel down a winding road in Hillsboro, you'll notice the sign that announces you've arrived at Kress Farm Garden Preserve, a hidden gem that stretches across more than 140 acres.
All Trails/Matt Oitman
This is one of the best gardens in Missouri, making it a worthy addition to any bucket list.
Nestled on protected land, this natural wonder in Hillsboro, Missouri is best explored on one of its hiking trails. Trails range from three-quarters of a mile to two miles.
Google/John Gilbert
Wear a pair of comfy shoes; you've got a lot of exploring to do at Kress Farm, one of the best botanical gardens in Missouri.
If you have the time, consider following as many as you can, so you can really experience all this Missouri nature preserve has to offer.
Facebook/Kress Farm Garden Preserve
The warmer months mean strolling past meadows brimming with colorful wildflowers. Stop to smell them, but leave them in the ground so others can enjoy them, too.
As you explore, keep an eye on and near the trees, too. You might just cross paths with tiny gnomes and fairy houses.
Facebook/Kress Farm Garden Preserve
So many magical moments await at Kress Farm. You really have to experience it at least once.
If you're short on time, the three-quarter-mile Yellow Trail is well worth exploring. While it scores a moderate rating, the scenery more than makes up for the challenges.
All Trails/Melissa Johnson
Meander along the Yellow Trail, which will lead you through fields and forested areas and past two wet-weather waterfalls. If you're hiking in the winter, you just might be lucky enough to see the waterfalls frozen.

Related Stories

Walk Along A White Sand Beach For A One-Of-A-Kind Experience In Missouri

Walk Along A White Sand Beach For A One-Of-A-Kind Experience In Missouri

 The Unique Hike In Missouri That Leads You To Scenic Bluffs

The Unique Hike In Missouri That Leads You To Scenic Bluffs

 Hike To These 6 Hidden Caves In Missouri For An Unforgettable Adventure

Hike To These 6 Hidden Caves In Missouri For An Unforgettable Adventure
You'll need at least an hour on the Red Trail. Tallying 1.2 miles, the scenic trail loops around the pond. Wear waterproof shoes, unless you don't mind getting your shoes wet, as there are a few water crossings.
Google/KO
Feel like you've been transported to another planet along the Blue Trail. While it only stretches one mile, that mile can be a bit challenging due to some rough terrain.
Google/Kayla Christopher
Arguably the highlight of all the trails is the towering cliffs and caves that Native Americans once used for shelter.
All Trails/Patricia Robison
The cliffs and caves are believed to date back to 3000 BC.
Want to hike all of the trails? Follow the two-mile White Trail that combines the Red, Yellow, and Blue Trails.
All Trails/Anna Labedz
Time will simply melt away during your visit to one of the best gardens in Missouri.
Learn more on the official website of Kress Farm Garden Preserve. Or, stop by the Facebook page of one of the best gardens in Missouri.
All Trails/Becky Coe

Have you been to Kress Farm Garden Preserve, one of the best botanical gardens in Missouri? What did you think? Let us know in the comments! Then plan a visit to Sandy Creek Covered Bridge State Historic Site, one of the last four covered bridges in Missouri.

Up for even more adventures? Why not follow one of the best hiking trails in Missouri? You can find them on AllTrails.

The One Covered Bridge Hike In Missouri That Will Charm You Beyond Words

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Best Gardens In Missouri

Beth Price-Williams | March 31, 2024

Are there any other botanical gardens in Missouri?

Kress Farm is just one of the amazing gardens in Missouri. When you want to explore even more, check out one of these breathtaking botanical gardens in Missouri:

  • Stroll along a three-mile nature trail at Powell Gardens in Kingsville near Kansas City that leads past vibrant flowers and lush green foliage.
  • Journey through the Sculpture Garden at the College of the Ozarks. You’ll be treated to jaw-dropping views of Lake Taneycomo. If you can, time your visit to catch one of Missouri’s most glorious sunsets.
  • Perhaps one of the most well-known gardens in Missouri, the Missouri Botanical Garden in St. Louis is brimming with awe-inspiring beauty, including horticultural displays and international gardens.
  • A visit to Springfield Botanical Gardens naturally means spending some time at the 7.5-acre Japanese Mizumoto Garden, the oldest attraction in the gardens. The fairy tale garden features footbridges, stepping stones, and a waterfall.
  • If you’re a fan of the Precious Moments figurines, you’ll fall head over hills at the Precious Moments Chapel and Gardens in Carthage. The gardens feature life-size statues of the figurines and fountains.

Related Articles

Explore Missouri

Featured Addresses
Kress Farm Garden Preserve, 5137 Glade Chapel Rd, Hillsboro, MO 63050, USA