February was a rough month, but the sunshine has come out—both literally and figuratively—and spring is upon us. A joy of mine is spending time in nature, unplugged from technology and screen time. It helps me feel like I’m coming home to myself and resets my stress baseline. But finding opportunities for this can be difficult when you live in the city.

For me, it’s essential to seek out these little green pockets for relaxation, mindfulness, and overall well-being. Especially for those of us balancing city life and busy careers. I grew up in the scenic rolling green hills of Oregon, and while long winters definitely make me miss home, I’ve learned that there’s beauty all around me, no matter where I am, if I only slow down enough to appreciate it.

While it’s not the lush forests and rolling hills of my childhood, I’ve found that even a bustling city can have its own kind of natural beauty—if you slow down enough to appreciate it. Today, I’ll be sharing some key locations that most can find in their city, as well as some personal favorites in my area, Kansas City.

Why Green Spaces Matter in the City:

There are several benefits to connecting with nature, even in small doses: boosting mood, lowering stress, and finding mental clarity. I’ve found that when I just sit outside in the grass or overlook the city, with my eyes closed listening to the wind or the water, I’m reminded that there is so much more to the world than me, and it’s a beautiful thing.

“Adopt the pace of nature. Her secret is patience.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson.

No matter how noisy or hectic life feels, serenity can always be found if you take a moment to seek it. Even when I can’t plan a full day trip or getaway, I make do with beautiful city options. Peacefulness is in your mind, and you can find serenity regardless of where you are.

Types of Urban Green Spaces to Seek Out:

Parks & Scenic Trails:

You don’t have to travel hundreds of miles outside of the city to find a park or scenic trail. Most cities have green spaces, urban hiking trails, and waterfront paths. They’re perfect for soaking in vitamin D, going for a run, having a little picnic, or just sitting quietly to soak in the calm.

Local Loves: Shawnee Mission Park, Mill Creek Trail, and the Blue River Parkway Trails.

Botanical Gardens & Conservatories:

I LOVE a botanical garden—indoors, outdoors, they are just beautiful escapes. These spaces are perfect for year-round greenery and inspiration. Let your imagination run wild and imagine you’re in Wonderland or a secret garden all your own.

Local Loves: Powell Gardens is on my list to visit this year, along with the Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, and the Ewing and Muriel Kauffman Memorial Garden.

Rooftop Gardens & Green Spaces:

Rooftop gardens and green spaces are becoming more popular in cities. I’ve seen rooftop summer bars or patios with this vibe where you can unwind after a long day and enjoy the greenery with a cocktail. Or for more private spaces, you can enjoy an elevated view mixed with nature—ideal for reading, journaling, or unwinding.

Local Loves: If you love a happy hour cocktail during golden hour (who doesn’t?) and are in KC, try Prime Social, John’s Big Deck in downtown, and Percheron Rooftop Bar.

Community Gardens & Farmers Markets:

Farmers markets and community gardens are seriously underrated. They have the best local produce and flowers for homemade arrangements. Plus, they often have fun local products like jams, honey, beeswax wraps, or even alpaca scarves—so much joy in one place!

It’s not just about the fresh produce; it’s about connecting with people, the environment, and a simpler way of living, even if just for an hour or two.

Local Loves: The River Market farmers market is my go-to in Kansas City. It’s definitely busy on the weekends, so be prepared to drive in early or take the streetcar in from downtown.

Hidden Gems & Pocket Parks:

These are my favorite—unexpected little green spots tucked between buildings or within city squares. They’re often unmapped and discovered during leisurely walks. I once found a house that looked just like the one from Up, and on the other side of the block was a hidden mini garden and park.

These places remind me that you don’t always have to travel far to find a little magic. Sometimes, it’s right around the corner waiting to be discovered. It doesn’t even need to be green space specifically, just a space that speaks to you for its serenity or authenticity.

Local Loves: Thou Mayest coffee shop and bar in River Market has a beautiful, otherworldly vibe. Betty Rae’s ice cream shop and Green Lady Lounge will be places I frequent this summer.

How to Make Green Spaces Part of Your Urban Routine:

The busyness of city life makes it easy to forget to slow down, so we have to be intentional about taking time for ourselves. I try to set aside four days per month to stay on top of things that are important to me:

• One Adventure Day: Explore somewhere completely new.

• One Nature Walk: Visit a favorite trail or garden to unwind.

• One Productivity Day: Knock out appointments and life admin.

• One Rest Day: Absolutely nothing on the agenda.

If you’re anything like me, you may get nervous about going somewhere new for the first time. Try bringing something familiar with you so you can relax: a book, earphones to listen to a meditation or audiobook, or a water bottle to stay hydrated.

Try treating your hometown like a new city. Seek out local gems or romanticize visiting old favorites. Your time is what you make it, so you might as well make the most of it.

Glimmer Moment:

Finding peace in nature, even in the middle of the city, is essential. Finding solace in the midst of the chaos creates a sense of mindfulness and balance that I simply cannot harness when I don’t take the time to slow down.

Sometimes, it’s those quiet moments in nature that bring us the most clarity and joy. I hope you find yours. Where do you go when you need to slow down? Share your favorite places below.

Join us next week when we talk about creating mindful routines in the city.

Mindfully,
MK