Griff Martin Commissioner griff.martin@firstcity.org
It’s been a joy serving as mayor of Leavenworth, my hometown. I have learned so many things and appreciate everyone who shares in our enthusiasm for Kansas’ First City.
This year, I started a new program, the State of the City address, an event held in April. Attendees got a first-hand account of how City services work.
In June, we celebrated the 250th birthday of the U.S. Army! I attended a celebration honoring the Army birthday on Fort Leavenworth with Lt. Gen. Milford Beagle and Kansas Governor Laura Kelly. In just two years, Fort Leavenworth will become 200 years old.
Also in June, the Leavenworth chapter of the NAACP organized our annual Juneteenth festival. I was deeply honored to serve as Grand Marshal of this year’s parade. Juneteenth is when Leavenworth commemorates the day that emancipation finally reached all Americans – a reminder of the struggle for freedom fought here in our City many years ago.
Here at the City of Leavenworth, we’ve been through a rigorous study of our local budget. As I write this, we are planning for a public hearing for our budget in late August. This year’s budget is especially tough with historic levels of inflation, reduced sales tax income for the City, fewer federal grant opportunities and increased costs for staff and services. I’m proud of the job our staff and elected officials have done in examining the budget – line item by line item – and finding the right cuts to make.
One of those cuts includes our government cable station, Channel 2. In 2025, there are newer resources for communicating information to our residents. One of those will be a new texting service now available to everyone, offered at no cost to the City of Leavenworth through a partnership with the Leavenworth County Emergency Management office. Go to page for 4 to learn how to sign up.
This fall and winter, you’ll see many fun events and activities in our First City of Kansas. Camp Leavenworth’s headliner is the Gin Blossoms and other musical acts are returning including two bands with local connections.
On the back of this guide, you’ll see a list of Parks and Recreation Department events such as Trunk-or-Treat, Mayor’s Holiday Lighted Parade and Tree Lighting and Breakfast with Santa. Be sure not to miss the Leavenworth County Veterans Day Parade Committee’s event also. If you are a veteran, you’ll find fellowship in beautiful downtown Leavenworth on Veterans Day.
2025 has been a wonderful year to be your mayor! I look forward to continuing to serve on the City Commission. Next year we will welcome three new commissioners to the City. Be sure to vote Nov. 4.
Holly Pittman, Mayor of Leavenworth, meeting International Military Students attending the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College.
7th Street corridor study to focus development, zoning
The City of Leavenworth, in partnership with the MidAmerica Regional Council (MARC), has launched the 7th Street Corridor Study to shape the future of one of the community’s most important gateways. Stretching from Fort Leavenworth to downtown, the corridor serves as a vital link for residents, visitors and businesses. The study will guide improvements that strengthen safety, connectivity, and economic vitality while celebrating the city’s history and character.
The study is part of a broader effort to enhance the quality of life for Leavenworth residents and create a more welcoming and functional street scape. Key goals include improving pedestrian and bicycle facilities, increasing safety for all users, and fostering an environment that supports local businesses. The project will also evaluate beautification opportunities, such as landscaping, gateway features, and public art, to reinforce the corridor’s role as both a transportation route and a civic asset. Community input is a central component of the process. Through public meetings, steering committee’s and online engagement, residents are helping shape the vision and priorities for the corridor. An interactive ArcGIS StoryMap provides updates and visual concepts for elements such as widened sidewalks, bike lanes and enhanced public spaces.
A wide range of potential improvements are being considered to enhance the corridor. These enhancements are designed to make 7th Street both functional and inviting — encouraging more people to walk, bike and spend time enjoying the corridor.
The final plan will be developed later this year, outlining strategies that are practical, implementable, and aligned
with community priorities. By investing in the 7th Street Corridor, the City of Leavenworth is taking a significant step toward building a safer, more connected, and economically vibrant future for the entire community.
City begins new texting communication tool, ends cable Channel 2
After more than 25 years of serving the public, the city's Channel 2 will cease operations on Dec. 31, 2025. City leaders cited the need for budget cuts. The channel was only available for cable subscribers in Leavenworth, not on streaming services, and reached a continually shrinking audience. Meetings will continue to be videotaped. City Commission meetings from 2016 to the present are available on the City's YouTube Channel. The Leavenworth Planning Commission, Leavenworth Preservation Commission, Board of Zoning Appeals and Community Development meetings are available on YouTube. Anyone with an internet connection can watch these meetings by clicking on a link from the City of Leavenworth website, www.leavenworthks.gov. You do not need a YouTube account or a sign-in. The Leavenworth City Commission meetings are streamed live on YouTube, typically at 6 p.m. on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month. City of Leavenworth content https://www.youtube.com/@leavenworthkansas USD 453 content, including school board meetings www.youtube.com/@LeavenworthUSD453
The City of Leavenworth is partnering with the Leavenworth County Emergency Management Office for a texting tool that benefits the public by providing text or e-mail news notifications. This is a pilot program provided at no additional cost to the City. The City uses this service to send out messaging as it relates to City services. This includes trash collection changes during holiday or weather events, road closures, park or pool closures. Members of the public interested in the service can sign up for additional messaging from the Leavenworth County Emergency Management on the same website or download the Alert Sense app.
The website is https://public.alertsense.com/SignUp/publicUser. aspx?RegionId=1422
The list for the City is called “Leavenworth City.” Any member of the public may sign up.
The website also has sign-ups available for County emergency information, such as weather related alerts.
7th Street links Grant Gate on Fort Leavenworth to downtown.
Pavement Management Program invests $2 million in major street repairs
Frontage Road - 4th Street to McDonald's parking lot and Idaho Street from 4th Street to this frontage road received mill and overlay repair in 2025 as part of the Pavement Management Program.
The City's annual Pavement Management invested $2 million in major street repairs, including mill and overlay of several streets and granite seal repair. Mill and overlay was completed in the spring. Granite seal repair is taking place in August.
Limit Street from 15th to 14th received mill and overlay repair in 2025 as part of the Pavement Management Program.
10th Avenue from Spruce Street to Sherman Avenue received mill and overlay repair in 2025.
10th Avenue from Muncie to Gatewood received mill and overlay repair in 2025 as part of the Pavement Management Program.
Limit Street to 20th Street intersection received mill and overlay near the intersection leading to Henry Leavenworth Elementary School.
10th Avenue from Cherokee to Shawnee street near Fire Station 2 received mill and overlay repair.
Trevor Cook, Assistant to the City Manager, talks to residents about options for the City of Leavenworth trash service at a Town Hall meeting August 6. A public feedback survey was also conducted. The City is considering changes of what it does with trash once it is collected. Staff have been taking municipal trash to the landfill in Shawnee for several years. The distance, time and wear and tear on equipment is making this no longer feasible. Staff presented several options to the City Commission during the summer budget cycle.
How to Schedule a Ride:
Android phone users - download our app on Google Play to schedule a ride: https://play.google. com/store/apps/details?id=com.rideco.kcata
iPhone users - download our app on Apple Store to schedule a ride: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/ id1671636916
Cost: Costs are a flat $2 rate. This is $2 per direction, per rider. If paying with cash, please bring exact amount for fare. Drivers cannot give change.
Kansas
Free Business Symposium Nov. 3
Join us Monday, Nov. 3 for the Business Symposium. Each year, the City of Leavenworth hosts a FREE business education event featuring expert speakers and resources available from the Small Business Administration, University of Kansas Small Business Development Center, Grow Leavenworth County, and many other resources. Check our website for information on this free event, leavenworthks.gov/ed
Riverfront Community Center
Riverfront Community Center 123 South Esplanade Street (913) 651-2132
The Riverfront Community Center is a charming 1880s former Union Depot train station on the banks of the Missouri River. Originally constructed in 1888, this historic depot was restored and remodeled in 1988 as a multi-functional facility. This classic building provides an ideal atmosphere for all types of special events.
The Women’s Waiting Room - Adjacent to the Riverview Room, this cozy room has a working fireplace, wood-paneled ceilings, and versatile side doors that can be opened to access the Riverview Room. The doors may be closed to offer a smaller space with a view of Leavenworth’s historic downtown.
The Men’s Waiting Room - Impressive 30-foot woodpaneled ceilings soar above the original woodwork and fireplace. This lovely room also boasts a river view to the east and historic downtown Leavenworth to the west.
The Activity Room - This small room downstairs by the basketball gym is perfect for kids’ birthday parties, fitness classes, study sessions, and other smaller events.
Room Fees and Deposits – A 4-hour minimum rental, a security deposit, and a $25 service charge are required to reserve a room. Fees include set-up and take down of tables and chairs and trash removal. Contact Tammy Metzgar, Riverfront Community Center Manager, at (913) 680-2709 or email her at tmetzgar@firstcity.org.
Event Space Fee Schedule
Harvey Girl Luncheons - Step back into the late 1800s when Fred Harvey was helping tame the west with his train depot restaurants and the Harvey Girls. A lovely lunch is served at the Riverfront Community Center by the Harvey Girls, followed by a brief history of Fred Harvey and the girls. Reservations must be made a minimum of two weeks in advance with a minimum of 20 guests. For more details contact the Leavenworth Convention and Visitors Bureau at (913) 758-2948.
The Riverview Room - Aptly named for its beautiful views of the majestic Missouri River. It is an elegant room that can host banquets, receptions, weddings, or other special events. It also has an adjoining outdoor patio that overlooks the river.
Park Programs
Legacy Trees - $325/tree - The Legacy Tree Program makes it possible to help preserve the rich history of trees in our parks while commemorating either a person or event. Through this program, old trees are replaced and new areas rejuvenated. All contributions to this program are placed in a Park Special Gift Fund and are only used for the planting of Legacy trees. More information and applications are available on our website.
Memorial Benches - Another way to honor a person or recognize an organization is through the purchase of a memorial bench with an attached plaque in a park of your choice. Location must be approved by the Parks and Recreation Department. This department will also install the bench. Cost varies. Email parksandrec@firstcity.org for more information, or find the application form online.
Adopt-A-Park – Looking for a way to make a difference in our community? Consider adopting a Leavenworth city park or other landscaped public area. City staff will provide guidance and some materials for projects. See which parks are available and register through our website at www.leavenworthks.gov/parksrec.
Shelters – We have 13 shelters available for rent at 10 of our parks. See our chart for parks and amenities. You can reserve and pay for these online through Eventbrite (convenience fees apply). Visit our website at www. leavenworthks.gov/parksrec for details.
Alcoholic Beverage Permit - $20 By City ordinance, alcoholic beverages are prohibited in City parks, except as authorized by Parks and Recreation to Leavenworth City residents with a valid park reservation. Beverage must be an enhanced cereal malt beverage (beer) containing not more than 6% alcohol by volume.
of Leavenworth, Kansas
Parks and Recreation Department Administrative Office 123 S. Esplanade Street Leavenworth, Kansas 66048 (913) 651-2203
Office Hours: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Leavenworth is home to more than 420 acres of dedicated park land. There are over 20 parks, 14 shelters, an aquatic park, a splash pad, a campground, multiple playgrounds, basketball, pickleball, cornhole courts, tennis courts, ball fields, flowerbeds, disc golf courses, batting cages, a skate park, a dog park, and several miles of walking trails.
Leavenworth Landing Park - This scenic park on the Missouri River located by the Riverfront Community Center is available to rent for special occasions. Permit fees start at $30/hour with a $100 refundable damage deposit. Choose the Paddlewheel Plaza or the Railroad Roundhouse. For more details, go to www.leavenworthks.gov/parksrec or email parksandrec@firstcity.org.
Tree City USA and Arbor Day
Mayor Holly Pittman and Commissioner Edd Hingula joined Coach Jim Mathis in April to plant a tree in his honor for his support of healthy activities throughout Leavenworth. Each year the City honors a community individual with a tree planting as part of our commitment to maintaining an urban forest.
Rent a Shelter
Go to: Parks Programs
Pickleball courts at Cody Park.
Leavenworth City Parks
Fitness at the Riverfront Community Center
123
Closed on Major Holidays: New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Presidents' Day, Easter, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving Day and the Friday after, and Christmas Day. The center closes early on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve Fitness Facilities
Admission fee includes use of the weight room, cardio room, indoor track, pool during lap and open swim times, open pickleball gym, and racquetball courts. For general information, call (913) 651-2132 or email parksandrec@firstcity.org.
Indoor Track and Fitness Rooms
Monday – Friday 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Sunday 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Open Gym *Hours for gym may vary for special events.*
Open Basketball Gym – For schedule and rules regarding open basketball gym, please see our website at www. leavenworthks.gov/parksrec. Hours vary during winter months to allow for basketball programs.
Open Pickleball Gym
Scan to visit our Leisure and Fitness activities on the website:
• Tuesdays and Thursdays, 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Fridays, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Corporate Pass Program: Businesses and organizations can pay a $250 annual fee entitling their employees to purchase fitness facility passes at a discount. Organization identification required. Email parksandrec@firstcity.org or call Tammy Metzgar at 913-680-2709.
Cardio and Weight Rooms: Elliptical machines, stair steppers, stationary bikes, treadmills, and weight equipment are available. See “Fitness Facility Policies” for age restrictions.
Fitness Facility Policies:
General Use – It is the responsibility of the patrons to ensure they have been properly trained before using the fitness equipment. Improper use may cause serious injuries. The City of Leavenworth is not responsible for injuries or gross negligence. All visitors age 16 and older must present ID at the front desk.
Age Restrictions – 10 and under must be accompanied by a parent/ guardian age 18 or older to enter the community center; 11 and under are not allowed in the weight
Leavenworth, Kansas
Riverfront Community Center passes
Admission fee includes use of the weight room, cardio room, indoor track, pool during lap and open swim times, open pickle ball gym, and racquetball courts. Call (913) 651-2132 or email parksandrec@firstcity.org.
*Leavenworth city limits and Fort Leavenworth
Indoor Track: The center has
room or cardio room or on any fitness equipment; ages 12–14 must be supervised by an adult at all times in the fitness rooms; ages 15-17 must have a signed permission form from the parent; ages 60 and over are advised to consult their physician before beginning any type of fitness regimen. Conduct – No foul language, vulgar music, aggressive or disrespectful behavior will be tolerated. Absolutely no tobacco or vaping products of any sort are allowed in the center. No food or soft drinks
are allowed in the fitness rooms or the gym.
Equipment - Wipe down equipment before and after use. Our staff disinfects all the equipment once each day. Do not drop or slam weights. Place items back where you found them.
Attire - No cleats or spike shoes of any type, including bike shoes. Athletic shoes covering the entire foot must be worn at all times (except in the pool). Proper swimwear or workout attire is required.
Toddler Tyme – $2.50/child or $40/20-punch passChildren ages 5 and under are invited to the gymnasium for open play time with basketballs, bouncy balls, tricycles, and other fun toys. Adult supervision required. Offered Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays 10 a.m. to noon.
Dog Manners and Obedience - $100/dog - Dog trainer Kim Downing will teach you and your four-legged friend the basic commands. Geared for dogs ages 4 months or older. Must be current on vaccinations. This is a 7-week program. The first week is without your dog. For more information visit www.yourbestdog.com. Class min 4, max 10. Class is on Saturdays.
PiYo Live - $5/class or $50/12-punch pass - Join certified instructor Rachel Smith as she combines the musclesculpting, core-firming benefits of Pilates with the strength and flexibility of flowing yoga movements. This class is suitable for all fitness levels. Bring your own mat and plenty of water for this fun class. For teens and adults. Class is Wednesday evenings at 5:45 p.m. and Saturday mornings at 9 a.m.
Revelation Fitness - Cost is $5 to drop-in. Punch passes are available for purchase. - Join certified instructor, Brooke Ross for Revelation Fitness. A faith-based workout that will train your body, mind, and spirit. The format for this class will include a variety of movement styles including choreographed cardio, kickboxing, strength, and flexibility. The use of drumsticks, hand weights, and mats will also be incorporated at different times throughout the class. Modifications are shown and
encouraged, enabling you to customize your movements to the best benefit of your body. Bring your mat, handweights (optional), and water for this energizing and uplifting class. Drumsticks provided. Class is Tuesdays and Thursdays starting at 5:30 p.m.
S.L.A.M. Sweat Like a Mother Leavenworth - A highenergy fitness community for moms in all stages of motherhood. We offer challenging, full-body workouts with built-in fun for the kids -- plus bimonthly playgroups and monthly Moms Night Out events. More than just a workout, S.L.A.M. is a supportive community where moms connect, sweat and grow led by certified fitness instructors specializing in women's fitness. Sign up for a free trial at sweatlikeamother.com/leavenworth or contact owner Wanda Aviles at wanda@sweatlikeamother.com.
Riverfront Tae Kwon Do - Cost is $55/month for the first family member and $35/month for each additional family member - This popular martial art combines combat techniques, self-defense, sport and exercise. Text Master David Wrigley at 913-683-4315 for information. Class is Tuesdays and Thursdays starting at 5:45 p.m. for ages 10 -14 and 6:45 p.m. for adults.
Youth Futsal - $40/player – discount for third child - Similar to indoor soccer with boundaries - for boys and girls in grades one through six. Instructional program on Sundays in January and February. Register October 15 –November 15. Late registration is $65/player and ends on November 30. Not eligible for scholarship use.
Men’s Basketball League - $345/team - Open to men age 18 and over whose high school class has graduated. Current active college players are not eligible to play. Requires a minimum of 4 teams. Season begins in January. Registration is November 15 – December 15, in person at the Riverfront Community Center.
River City Community Players
Performing Arts Center
500 Delaware Street
The River City Community Players is a local community theatre group. Participation is open to the general public. All shows are family-friendly. Curtain times are 7:30 p.m., or 2:00 p.m. for Sunday matinees. Tickets are available online and at the door. Call 913-651-0027 for more information.
The God Committee (dramatic play)
Friday, October 24 at 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, October 25 at 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, October 26 at 2:00 p.m.
Friday, October 31 at 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, November 1 at 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, November 2 at 2:00 p.m.
A Christmas Carol (holiday play)
Thursday, December 4 - 7:30 p.m.
Friday, December 5 - 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, December 6 - 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, December 7 - 2:00 p.m.
Youth Basketball - $40/player - discount for third child - For boys and girls in Grades 1 - 6. Teams play in January and February. Registration is October 1 – October 31, online or in person. Late registration is $65/player and ends on November 15. Eligible for scholarship use (must make appointment with Tabor Medill). Scholarship does not cover late fee.
Bitty Basketball - $35/player - discount for third child - For ages 3-6 (not yet in 1st grade). A fourweek instructional clinic offered on Saturdays in January. Register November 1 – 30. Late registration is $60/player and ends on December 15. Eligible for scholarship use (must make appointment with Tabor Medill). Scholarship does not cover late fee.
Sports Officials – Interested in officiating for any of our sports programs? Contact our Recreation Program Supervisor for Sports, Tabor Medill, at 913-758-6648.
Field or Court Rentals – The City has 6 tennis courts, 8 dedicated outdoor pickleball courts, 3 outdoor basketball courts, a recreation complex with 5 baseball/softball fields, and 7 other baseball/softball fields throughout the city. Contact Tabor Medill at tmedill@ firstcity.org or call 913-758-6648 to reserve these locations for special use or league tournaments.
Inclement Weather Line – Call (913) 364-5821 for information on game cancellations. Recreation Activity Scholarship Program for City Residents - Qualifying citizens who live in the city limits of Leavenworth and are currently receiving public financial assistance may be awarded a $100 credit per approved person per year to be used toward certain Parks and Recreation Department programs. For information email Tabor Medill at tmedill@ firstcity.org or call him at (913) 758-6648. You must set an appointment with Tabor Medill before dropping off your application. Applications must be renewed each year by completing a new form and scheduling another appointment for verification and approval. Minimum copay of $10 per program registration is required.
Aquatics
Aquacise - Aquacise tones and sculpts your body with no impact to your joints. Classes are Monday, Wednesday, and Friday mornings at 9 a.m. and afternoons at 1 p.m. Also on Monday and Wednesday evenings at 6 p.m. During the summer, there is also a class at Wollman Aquatic Center from 11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Cost is $5 per drop-in class. 20-Punch passes are also available, valid for any session, and does not expire
Water Walking - Join Lori Mathews as you discover the benefits of water walking. The water provides resistance, making your muscles work harder to move forward. At the same time, it provides buoyancy, helping reduce strain to your joints. Changing your water walking routine keeps it interesting while allowing you to work different muscles as part of the exercise. Class is Monday, Wednesday, and Friday mornings at 10:05 a.m. at the Riverfront Community Center. Cost is $5 per class or $50 for a 10-punch pass.
American Red Cross Lifeguard Training Class - Students will be certified in Lifeguarding, CPR, AED and First Aid. Student must demonstrate these skillsets:
• Jump in, submerge, resurface and swim 150 yards using the front crawl, breaststroke, or a combination of both. Swimming on the back or side is not permitted. Swim goggles are allowed.
• Maintain position at the surface of the water for 2 minutes by treading water using only the legs.
• Swim another 50 yards using the front crawl, breaststroke, or a combination of both.
• Complete a timed event within 1 minute, 40 seconds.
• Starting in the water, swim 20 yards. Face may be in or out of the water. Swim goggles are not allowed.
• Surface dive (feet-first or head-first) to a depth of 7 to 10 feet to retrieve a 10-pound object. Return to the surface and swim 20 yards on the back to return to the starting point, holding the object at the surface with both hands and keeping the face at or near the surface. Exit the water without using a ladder or steps. Minimum age is 15. Cost is $180 for residents or $200 for non-residents. Check our website or call 913-651-2132 for the next scheduled date. Online registration and payment is available (convenience fees apply). https://www. leavenworthks.gov/parksrec/page/american-red-crosslifeguard-training.
American Red Cross Learn-to-Swim Group LessonsCertified instructors will teach students in a supportive environment in which to learn and obtain skills. Students must be registered for Tuesday/Thursday sessions by noon the Friday before the session is scheduled to begin, and by noon on Wednesdays for the Saturday sessions. Cost is $45 per child for residents or $55 per child for non-residents. Families with three or more children will pay half-price for the third and subsequent children in the same household. Check the website at www. leavenworthks.gov/parksrec/page/swim-lessons for a detailed description of each level available.
Riverfront Community Center Lap Swim Schedule
123 S. Esplanade Street, Leavenworth Kansas
See page 12 for fees.
Days Times
Monday 6 a.m. - 8 a.m.
11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
5 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Tuesday 6 a.m. - 8 a.m.
11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
5 p.m. - 6 p.m.
Wednesday 6 a.m. - 8 a.m.
11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
5 p.m. - 6 p.m.
Thursday 6 a.m. - 8 a.m.
11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
5 p.m. - 6 p.m.
Friday 6 a.m. - 8 a.m.
11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
5 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Saturday 9 a.m. - 11 a.m.
Sunday 1 p.m. - 2 p.m.
Private Swimming Lessons - Based on availability with a total of 8 classes per session. Email Patrick.Clark@ firstcity.org to schedule. Private lessons are $40/class ($320 total per session); semi-private lessons (2 students) are $50/class ($400 total per session).
Riverfront Community Center Open Swim - The Riverfront Community Center is available for open swim when Wollman Aquatic Center is closed. Stop at the front desk to pay the cashier and sign in, then join the fun on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Check our website for more details. Email parksandrec@firstcity.org.
Open Swim (After Labor Day until last Sunday in May)
• Friday - 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
• Saturday - 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
• Sunday - 2 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
For rules and regulations regarding our pools, please check www.leavenworthks.gov/parksrec under Aquatics.
Riverfront Community Center Pool Parties - Come celebrate your birthday or special event at the indoor pool. Prices vary for these events. Email parksandrec@firstcity. org for information and to check available dates. Open Swim Parties - Reserve the balcony during open swim and enjoy cake and presents overlooking the pool. Private parties: available on Fridays starting at 8 p.m. and Saturdays starting at 5 p.m.
Safe Havens
In a quiet forest near the western edge of Leavenworth, 65 acres of quiet space invite patrons to a cool, shady respite from their daily activities.
Havens Park is part of land given to the City by the Anthony family to honor Mrs. Frannie Anthony's family, the Havens. Situated on gentle rolling slopes perfect for hiking, an improvement proposal for this park recommends it be kept "as close to its natural state as possible."
This quiet park is for walkers and bicyclists only. Horseback riding, all-terrain vehicles, motorized bikes and snowmobiles are not allowed.
The park has several paved and unpaved trails. Many of the unpaved trails are intended for mountain biking and maintained by a dedicated group of volunteers. Bicyclists can find way finding signs along paths for a challenging
These trails built in 2025 wind through a former racetrack, where native cedar trees and other wildlife are returning the site to its natural state.
ride experience.
A paved trail through the park had been available for many years. The City was able to allocate extra funds to this park in the years following the pandemic. In 2022, the central paved trail was extended. In 2023, flushable toilets and parking spaces were added to the front entrance off 22nd and Ottawa. A trailhead sign near this area provides a map for patrons.
Newer sections of the paved trail were added in 2024 and 2025 that now connect to Shawnee Street and Ottawa Street - in all, two miles of paved walking trails are at this park.
Those wanting a longer walk can even use the road to walk over to the adjacent Sportsfield Park just two blocks away, where there is another short trail around the ballfields. Come and see us at the parks!
Several new benches have also been installed along the paved trails for a comfortable place to sit. Many have been erected in honor of individuals or community groups.
Several barricades across trails are intended to discourage motorized bikes, vehicles and ATVs. Walkers and bicyclists are welcome on Havens Park trails.
Leavenworth Parks and Recreation
123 S. Esplanade
Leavenworth, KS 66048 Postal Customer
Leavenworth, KS 66048
Calendar of Events
Annual Doggie Splash - Saturday, September 6. bring your canine companions to the annual Doggie Splash at Wollman Aquatic Center. Cost is $5 per dog, per session. Two small dog sessions and four large dog sessions available. You may purchase advance tickets online through www.leavenworthks.gov/parksrec (convenience fees apply) or in person at the Riverfront Community Center. Proceeds benefit the Waggin' Tails Dog Park. Schedule available on our website.
Mother-Son Superhero Dance – October 5 from 1 – 3 p.m. This super event is for boys, 9 and under, and their moms, aunts, grandmas, or big sisters. All will enjoy an afternoon of games and activities, music, dancing, a snack buffet, and prizes. Moms and sons are encouraged to come in their favorite superhero costumes. Photos will be available to purchase and make a great keepsake. You may preregister online at www.leavenworthks.gov (convenience fees apply) or in person at the Riverfront Community Center. No event-day walk-ins accepted. Cost is $35 per couple, $6 for each additional guest. Proceeds will benefit the Waggin’ Tails Dog Park.
Trunk-or-Treat – October 18 starting at 5 p.m. - Join us if you dare. Bring the family to Sportsfield and join us for some Halloween fun and LOTS of candy. Be sure to dress up in your favorite costume and bring your Halloween bag or Jack-O-Lantern to carry the candy.
Indoor Holiday Market - Join us November 1 to get an early start on holiday shopping. General admission is
free and open to the public at 10 a.m. Vendor booths are available starting at $35 and include one 6-foot table and two chairs. You may register and select your table online at www.leavenworthks.gov (convenience fees apply) or register at the Riverfront Community Center during normal business hours. Email parksandrec@firstcity.org for more information.
First Grader Santa Claus Drawing Contest: We invite Leavenworth and Fort Leavenworth first-graders to participate in our annual contest. All drawings should be free hand and submitted by their teacher by November 14 to the Riverfront Community Center manager. Drawings will be judged and displayed at the Riverfront Community Center. The winner will receive a grand prize and other special prizes and recognition.
Mayor’s Holiday Lighted Parade and Tree Lighting: Friday, November 21 - An annual community event held the Friday before Thanksgiving at Haymarket Square. Christmas music synchronizes to the lights at Haymarket Square and areas downtown, and available to enjoy through the season until the New Year.
Breakfast with Santa: December 6 from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. - Come join Santa Claus for pancakes and pictures. Advance tickets are $7 (plus convenience fee if ordered online) and get you express entry into the event. Tickets at the door are $8.
Daddy and Me Sweetheart Tea – Check website for details - Little girls, 9 and under, and their daddies or big brothers, uncles, grandfathers, etc., can enjoy an afternoon of fun and refreshments. Come to the Riverfront Community Center dressed in your best and have a photo taken with your favorite date. Cost is $35 per couple, $6 for each additional guest.
