In the center of our Historic Park Square you will find a picturesque fountain and an enchanting Victorian Gazebo.  The Gazebo has seen many romantic weddings since its early beginnings.  The original Gazebo was actually a Bandstand, and it was built in 1867.  The current Gazebo was designed by architect, George Washburn, and completed in 1913.  On the north and south sides of the Gazebo proudly stand two gas street lanterns.  The lanterns are reproductions of the original Wellsbach gas street lanterns marking the era of Paola's pride when natural gas was discovered in 1882.  Paola was the first town west of the Mississippi to be completely illuminated with gas lighting.

     Paola's Downtown Square is flanked with antique stores, gifts and specialty stores, florists, a special event center for weddings, meetings and parties, great restaurants, and professional offices.  We are very fortunate to have a thriving downtown as well as Baptiste Drive where you also will find retail stores, restaurants, professional services and our local hospital.