It’s been hot outside, but it’s still a great time to visit the Veterans Memorial Garden, located at the intersection of 76 Country Blvd. and Roark Valley Rd. in Branson. Visitors can relax in the shade or stroll paths bordered by beautifully colored flowers while being inspired to honor and remember our country’s military veterans.
The summer color is spectacular right now, with both shady and sunny garden beds and containers interspersed with memorial statues, signage and of course, the Wall of Honor and the Flag Plaza. “We hope folks cannot just drive by, but will stop and visit and walk through the garden,” said director Jana Evans. “They can see the hundreds of varieties of plants, but also pause to remember our veterans for their service.”
Plenty of benches are available for that relaxing break. The Garden is also a wonderful place to take pictures. This is particularly appropriate if your family or group includes a veteran, of course, but the beautiful colors are a fitting background for many other occasions or that souvenir photo of your Branson visit. The beauty won’t end with summer—many fall perennials are just waiting for the new season, as well.
Founded in 2008, the Veterans Memorial Garden represents the vision of the late Ben Kinel, a U.S. Marine veteran and Master Gardener who worked tirelessly to coordinate community volunteers and donations, including a favorable long-term lease arrangement from the Herschend family, to transform the rocky hillside into one of Branson’s most beautiful and visible attractions and add to the city’s reputation for hospitality to veterans.
The Garden’s year-round beauty is the result of hours invested by dedicated volunteers who want to honor veterans and beautify the community. Whether you already enjoy gardening or would like to learn alongside other volunteers, there’s a place for you! Visit www.VeteransMemorialGarden.com for more information.
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