Cunningham Park, Joplin Travel Guide

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Joplin's historic Cunningham Park: A place of remembrance, recreation, and community spirit, rebuilt after the 2011 tornado.

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Cunningham Park

Cunningham Park in Joplin, MO, is a beautifully maintained city park with playgrounds, walking trails, ponds, and picnic areas. It stands as a symbol of resilience, having been rebuilt after the devastating 2011 tornado. The park offers a peaceful atmosphere and several memorials.

A brief summary to Cunningham Park

W 26th St &, 2409 S Maiden Ln, Joplin, MO, 64804, US
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Monday 7 am-11 pm
Tuesday 7 am-11 pm
Wednesday 7 am-11 pm
Thursday 7 am-11 pm
Friday 7 am-11 pm
Saturday 7 am-11 pm
Sunday 7 am-11 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Cunningham Park.

Visit the Butterfly Garden and Overlook for a peaceful experience.
Explore the walking trails to enjoy the park's natural beauty.
Reflect at the memorial dedicated to the victims of the 2011 tornado.

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Explore Cunningham Park on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Cunningham Park, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

Cunningham Park is located at 26th Street and Maiden Lane in Joplin. From nearby Mercy Park, simply walk east along 26th Street. A designated pedestrian crossing ensures safe passage. The walk is short and straightforward.
Public Transport

Joplin's Sunshine Lamp Trolley is scheduled to resume service on February 3, 2025. The fare is $2, with a reduced fare of $1 for veterans, military members, those with disabilities, seniors (60+), and Medicare recipients. Check the City of Joplin website for route maps and schedules once the service reopens. Alternatively, MAPS (Metro Area Public Transit System) may offer transportation to the vicinity of the park. Contact MAPS for specific routes and fare information at (417) 626-8607. A general fare is around $4.
Taxi/Ride-share

From anywhere in Joplin, a taxi or ride-share service like Uber or Lyft provides a direct route to Cunningham Park at 26th Street and Maiden Lane. A short trip within Joplin typically costs between $8 and $15, depending on distance and demand. Verify rates with the driver or app before starting your trip.
Driving

Cunningham Park is accessible via 26th Street and Maiden Lane. From I-44, take US-71 south, then exit onto 20th Street and head east. Turn south onto Maiden Lane, and the park will be on your left. Parking is available within the park. Limited parking is available; during peak times, it may be necessary to park on nearby streets. Parking is free.

Discover more about Cunningham Park

Cunningham Park, Joplin's first park, was established on land donated by Mayor Thomas W. Cunningham in the late 19th century. Originally known as Cunningham Grove, it quickly became a beloved community space. In May 2011, the park was almost entirely destroyed by an EF-5 tornado that ravaged the city.Following the disaster, Cunningham Park was rebuilt with the help of volunteers and donations from across the country. Today, it features walking trails, playgrounds, reflective ponds, and picnic areas. The park also includes memorials dedicated to the victims of the tornado and tributes to the volunteers who helped rebuild the community.Visitors can explore the Butterfly Garden and Overlook, a serene koi pond, and a water wall with 38 segments representing the minutes the tornado was on the ground. A replica of the original Proclamation of Restoration fountain stands as a symbol of the city's resilience. Cunningham Park is more than just a recreational area; it's a place for reflection, remembrance, and community gathering.