Tucked into the 500 block of North McLean Boulevard between Vine and Fern Avenues, Millwood Park is Wichita’s newest public green space—though you won’t find playgrounds, splash pads, or sports courts here. Instead, what you’ll discover is a quiet stretch of mature trees, open lawn, and shady spots perfect for walkers, bicyclists, or anyone who just needs a breath of fresh air.
The land, owned by the City of Wichita since the mid-1990s, was almost lost to development. In 2021, the city considered selling the parcels to developers for multifamily housing. But that plan didn’t sit well with Delano residents. A grassroots movement quickly formed: neighbors went door to door, gathered over 5,000 petition signatures, attended meetings, and voiced their concerns loud and clear to city leaders.
In July 2023, the City Council voted to officially designate the land as park space. In September, it was named Millwood Park—a nod to Millwood Avenue, which dead ends into the heart of the park. The name was one of several considered by the community, but ultimately chosen because it reflected the area’s identity and geography.
Previously known by the placeholder name “Poem Park,” Millwood Park today is a testament to what neighborhood advocacy can accomplish. With more than 50 mature trees already rooted in the soil and new plantings added by the Park and Recreation Department, it offers a peaceful, leafy space just across from the Arkansas River.
The exact origin of Millwood Avenue’s name in Wichita isn’t documented. Millwood may have been inspired by natural features like trees or it could have meant to create a charming image during Wichita’s development.
To learn more about Wichita’s parks, click on Wichita City Parks.