30 years ago a group of urban pioneers, in what was then consider a sketchy neighborhood on the edge of downtown Kansas City, decided to show that there was beauty and life in Union Hill by inviting folks to come and have a look at the gardens they had carefully and lovingly cultivated at their homes.
In the neighborhood's newsletter that August, there was the following report:
Today Union Hill has become a highly desirable place to live, whether you rent or own, and our annual garden tour regularly attracts more than 500 visitors who enjoy the day, visit the food trucks, listen to some great music, enjoy buying from local vendors and visit gardens throughout our community.
This year's Union Hill Garden Tour is going to be bigger and better than ever in celebration of the Anniversary of this neighborhood event that began so humbly 30 years ago.
There are several ways for you to be involved in this year's tour.
First and foremost, you can offer up your garden to be on the tour. It can be hosted, with you or a proxy guiding visitors through the garden viewing experience, or it can simply be an unhosted, walk-by opportunity for folks to appreciate the work you've done to make your space beautiful.
Second, and also important, you (or some business you know is supportive) can become one of our Sponsors. The success of this event is largely dependent on the donations from these sponsors.
Finally (and also very important), we do sell most of the tickets for our tour in advance because we offer a discount of 33% off the regular ticket price of $15 (which, unlike the price of eggs) has not changed in several years!
Mark your calendar for the first Sunday in June: June 1, 2025 - we will see you then!