
Ted Ensley Gardens
A free, stunning botanical garden on Lake Shawnee, famous for its vibrant spring tulips and tranquil beauty.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Tulips and flowers in full bloom

Ted Ensley Gardens
Best Time
Tulips and flowers in full bloom

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A free, stunning botanical garden on Lake Shawnee, famous for its vibrant spring tulips and tranquil beauty.
"It is so beautiful!!! Everywhere you turn there is some beautiful tree or spring with so many flowers scattered about."

🚶♀️ Stroll or Bike the Trails
Enjoy paved walking paths and a 7-mile biking loop around the lake. Outdoor restrooms are available for changing.
📸 Perfect for Photoshoots
The gardens are a stunning backdrop for family photos, proposals, and nature photography.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Tulip Fields in Bloom
Throughout the gardens
Witness a breathtaking carpet of over 100,000 tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths painting the landscape with vibrant colors.

Tranquil Lake Shawnee Shoreline
Along the lake
Enjoy peaceful walks or quiet contemplation with serene views of Lake Shawnee, complemented by gentle breezes.

Asian-Inspired Architecture
Various garden sections
Discover beautiful and serene Asian buildings that add a unique cultural and aesthetic dimension to the gardens.

Sculptural Water Features
Throughout the gardens
Admire charming waterfalls and garden sculptures that enhance the natural beauty and create a picturesque atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Admission, Big Beauty
Springtime Tulip Spectacle
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Stroll or Bike the Trails
Enjoy paved walking paths and a 7-mile biking loop around the lake. Outdoor restrooms are available for changing.
📸 Perfect for Photoshoots
The gardens are a stunning backdrop for family photos, proposals, and nature photography.
🧺 Picnic Spots Galore
Find numerous beautiful places to sit, relax, and enjoy a picnic amidst the botanical displays.
🌸 Peak Bloom Alert!
Visit in spring to see over 100,000 tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Stroll or Bike the Trails
Enjoy paved walking paths and a 7-mile biking loop around the lake. Outdoor restrooms are available for changing.
📸 Perfect for Photoshoots
The gardens are a stunning backdrop for family photos, proposals, and nature photography.
🧺 Picnic Spots Galore
Find numerous beautiful places to sit, relax, and enjoy a picnic amidst the botanical displays.
🌸 Peak Bloom Alert!
Visit in spring to see over 100,000 tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths.
🥕 Free Community Produce
Discover a free community garden with fresh produce like kale, peppers, and okra available for picking.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Ted Ensley Gardens for its stunning beauty, especially during the spring tulip season. The free admission and peaceful lakeside setting are major highlights, offering a perfect spot for relaxation, photography, and family outings. Some visitors noted the presence of local vendors during peak times.
"It is so beautiful!!! Everywhere you turn there is some beautiful tree or spring with so many flowers scattered about ( in an organized fashion) The lane hugs the Lake and there are so many beautiful places to sit and have peace. I totally love the Asian buildings. They are so beautiful 😍. I am so happy to find this place where I can walk and be in nature , and it doesn't cost anything. I can't rave enough!!! 🥰🥰🥰"
Shelly Dagenais
"This was a beautiful stop on our trip! The gardens and structures were lovely. There was a wide variety of plants, both native and cultivars. Gorgeous variety of daylilies! Nice walking paths and would be a great place to sit and relax also. Highly recommend."
Tiffany M
"I highly recommend both the garden for a short and relaxing stroll, and the 7-mile biking loop around the lake. I brought my biking clothes and changed in the large on-site outdoor bathroom outside the gardens without any issues."
Travis Johnson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ted Ensley Gardens is located at Lake Shawnee in Topeka, Kansas. The address is 3650 Southeast West Edge Road. It's easily accessible by car, with ample free parking available.
Information on direct public transportation routes to Ted Ensley Gardens can be limited. It's generally recommended to drive or use ride-sharing services for the most convenient access.
There is a spacious free parking area available at the gardens, making it easy for visitors to access the site.
Yes, the gardens are situated along the shoreline of Lake Shawnee and are connected to its walking and biking trails, allowing for access from various points around the lake.
The gardens are well-marked and situated on the popular Lake Shawnee, making them relatively easy to locate, especially if you are familiar with the Topeka area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Ted Ensley Gardens offers completely free admission, making it an accessible and budget-friendly destination for everyone.
The gardens are generally open daily from dawn to dusk, allowing visitors to enjoy the beauty at their leisure. It's always a good idea to check local park schedules for any specific event closures.
Since admission is free, no advance booking or tickets are required to visit Ted Ensley Gardens.
While the gardens are usually open, it's wise to check the local parks and recreation website for any scheduled events or temporary closures that might affect your visit.
Typically, pets are allowed in Topeka parks on a leash. However, it's best to confirm specific pet policies with the local parks department to ensure compliance.
📸 📸 Photography & Scenery
Spring is spectacular for photography due to the vibrant tulip blooms. Fall also offers beautiful colors and pleasant lighting.
Absolutely! The gardens provide a stunning natural backdrop with diverse flora, water features, and architectural elements, making it ideal for memorable photos.
You'll find a wide variety of plants, including over 100,000 tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, and a gorgeous variety of daylilies.
Yes, the gardens feature beautiful Asian buildings and charming sculptures that add unique visual interest to your photographs.
The lakeside location and diverse plant life can attract various birds and other small wildlife, offering opportunities for nature photography.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly within the gardens. However, the surrounding Lake Shawnee area and Topeka offer various dining options.
Yes, picnicking is highly encouraged! There are many beautiful spots to sit and enjoy your own food amidst the scenery.
Occasionally, local vendors may be present, especially during peak seasons like the tulip bloom, offering items like lemonade.
Topeka offers a range of restaurants from casual cafes to sit-down eateries. Exploring the downtown area or areas near Lake Shawnee will provide numerous choices.
While not directly in the gardens, convenience stores or small eateries can be found a short drive away from Lake Shawnee.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy leisurely walks, admire diverse plant species, relax by the lake, take photos, and explore the unique Asian architecture and water features.
The gardens feature paved walking paths, which generally makes them accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, though some areas might have slight inclines.
Yes, it's a wonderful place for families. Kids can enjoy the open spaces, the beauty of the flowers, and the peaceful environment. There are also nearby playgrounds at Lake Shawnee.
A leisurely stroll can take anywhere from 1 to 2 hours, depending on how much time you spend admiring the plants, taking photos, or relaxing by the lake.
While official guided tours may not be regularly scheduled, the beauty of the gardens is best explored at your own pace. Local park information might offer details on special guided walks during peak seasons.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Kids will be fascinated by the variety of flowers, the tranquil water features, and the chance to see the community garden produce. It's a wonderful opportunity to introduce children to the beauty of nature in a relaxed and accessible environment. The gardens also offer a peaceful backdrop for family photos, creating lasting memories.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
Whether you're capturing a proposal, a family photoshoot, or simply the beauty of the gardens, you'll find endless opportunities. The free admission and ample parking make it easy to access for extended shooting sessions. Consider visiting during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic lighting.
🚶♀️ Fitness Enthusiasts & Day-Trippers
As a day-trip destination, the gardens provide a beautiful and free way to spend a few hours. You can easily combine a visit here with exploring other attractions around Lake Shawnee or in Topeka. The peaceful atmosphere and scenic views make it a refreshing break during any journey.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Spring Tulip Phenomenon
To make the most of the spring visit, consider arriving on a weekday morning to avoid the largest crowds. The gentle slopes and well-maintained paths allow for easy exploration of the different beds and arrangements. The visual impact of the tulips against the backdrop of Lake Shawnee is particularly striking, offering a serene yet visually stimulating environment.
Beyond the tulips, the gardens also showcase a gorgeous variety of daylilies and other seasonal flowers, ensuring there's always something beautiful to discover. The thoughtful landscaping integrates these blooms seamlessly, creating a harmonious and aesthetically pleasing environment throughout the spring months.
Lakeside Serenity and Recreation
For those seeking activity, the gardens are integrated with the 7-mile biking loop around Lake Shawnee. This makes it an ideal starting or stopping point for cyclists. Additionally, the paved walking paths within the gardens are perfect for a leisurely stroll, birdwatching, or simply enjoying the fresh air. The presence of outdoor restrooms near the gardens also adds convenience for those planning longer outings or bike rides.
The peaceful ambiance of the lakeside setting makes Ted Ensley Gardens a perfect spot for quiet contemplation, reading a book, or enjoying a picnic. The combination of manicured gardens and the expansive lake creates a dual appeal, catering to both those who seek vibrant floral displays and those who appreciate the simple beauty of nature.
A Community Gem: Free Access and Produce
Beyond the ornamental flowers, the gardens also feature a functional community garden section where visitors can pick fresh produce. Items like kale, peppers, and okra are often available, embodying the spirit of sharing and local bounty. This unique feature adds another layer of engagement, allowing people to connect with the source of their food and experience the garden's productivity firsthand.
The combination of free admission and the availability of fresh produce highlights Ted Ensley Gardens as a valuable community resource. It's a place where nature's beauty is shared freely, and the benefits of gardening are accessible to all, making it a truly special destination in Topeka.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit