Bartlett Arboretum

Established in 1910, “The Arb,” as it’s called, is open by appointment and by

accident, its steward says. Courtesy of Randy Bradbury

The Bartlett Arboretum might not be able to cure what ails you, but it certainly will give you a restorative respite from the hustle and bustle of life.

The grounds in Belle Plaine were first nurtured in 1910 by Walter Bartlett, a doctor, naturalist and civil leader, and now are in the hands of steward and musician Robin Macy and her devoted band of Soil Sisters and Brothers. 

The Bartlett Arboretum has beautiful flora
and fauna year-round. Courtesy of
John D Morrison

“The Arb,” as it’s called by its fans, features several state-champion trees as well as show-stopping buds and blooms. Add in the lush Zoysia lawn, and it’s a great place to forget your worries for an afternoon or evening. 

Open by appointment or by accident, as Macy says, the Bartlett Arboretum regularly puts on concerts, art fairs and other events. A $75 season pass gets people into the gate for all concerts, salons and open days. Information about season passes as well as the cost of admission for individual events is available at www.bartlettarboretum.com.

Macy, an original founding member of the Dixie Chicks, is a small but mighty force who is dedicated to preserving and honoring the piece of paradise just a short drive south of Wichita.

Upcoming concerts include Driven, a bluegrass band, which will perform on Father’s Day, when barbecue will be served. Nashville Americana singer and songwriter Nora Jane Struthers is on tap July 1 with The Party Line. Willis Alan Ramsey, described by Macy as an iconic Texas songwriter, plays July 15. Reservations are needed for a house concert July 29 featuring Bruce Forman and the Red Guitar.

A Story Walk featuring HWY 55 is free and open to families Aug. 19.

The Outside Track will provide a “Winfield warmup” with Celtic songs and stepdance on Sept 9.
All events are listed on the website.


The Arb is a favorite place for photographers. Courtesy of Randy Bradbury