Eerie Missouri

Located in Kingsville, Missouri, Powell Gardens is home to more than 175 acres of meadows, rolling hills and and a vast collection of plants that represent the diversity of the Midwest prairie. So it’s little wonder that a few dragons would choose to summer there, too.

For a limited time, “Dragons and Fantastic Beasts” have taken up residence at this sprawling botanical garden near Kansas City. Now through Sept. 24, families will find life-size dragons and magical beasts, along with educational displays, interactive stations and hands-on activities.

“Powell Gardens has always been a place where imagination and nature come together. With acres of themed gardens, woodlands, and winding paths, guests already feel like they’re stepping into another world,” said Laina Burdette, marketing manager for Powell Gardens. “Dragons and Fantastic Beasts builds on that natural sense of wonder by placing life-sized creatures throughout the landscape. We hope the exhibit feels as though these magical beings have always belonged at Powell Gardens.”

Guests are invited to follow clues and complete quests that are designed to help them reconnect with nature and rediscover the wonder and magic of play.

“If someone leaves inspired to spend more time in nature, we’ve accomplished our goal,” Burdette said.

Powell Gardens is hosting special programming throughout the exhibit, including a Dragons and Mimosas series on select Sundays (July 12, Aug. 9 and Aug. 23) from 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Burdette also encourages families to make the event part of their plans this fall.

“As summer transitions into fall, it’s also one of the most beautiful times to visit Powell Gardens, with cooler temperatures, changing seasonal color, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the exhibit in a different atmosphere before it concludes,” she said.

“Dragons and Fantastic Beasts” is included with general garden admission.

Powell Gardens is located at 1609 N.W. US Hwy 50, Kingsville, MO.

Kathryn Deters McDonald is a Missouri native, writer, author and lover of all things spooky, ooky and eerie. Salem, Shmalem. It’s all right here in The Spook-Me State.