Overland Park is a fast-growing suburb of Kansas City, known for its friendly neighborhoods and safe streets. But what really makes it stand out is the balance it offers between green parks, local culture, and family-friendly activities.
If you're thinking about living in Overland Park, KS, or you've just moved in, you'll quickly see there's more to the city than meets the eye. From scenic trails and public art to seasonal festivals and community events, there's always something happening.
Looking for the best spots to explore, but don't know where to start? In this guide, we highlight local favorites to help you enjoy everything Overland Park has to offer. Below are the best things to do in Overland Park.
Start with one of the most relaxing Overland Park attractions: the Arboretum and Botanical Gardens. Located at 8909 W. 179th Street, it offers over 300 acres of gardens, trails, and natural beauty.
You can take peaceful walks through forested paths or explore themed spaces like the Monet Garden and the Children's Discovery Garden. The arboretum also hosts yoga classes, photography workshops, and seasonal art installations.
To get the full experience, visit during different seasons. Spring brings fresh blooms, summer is ideal for picnics, and fall showcases vibrant foliage and festive events.
Located on 135th Street, the Museum at Prairiefire is hard to miss with its colorful architecture and glass design. This is one of the most unique places to visit in Overland Park, especially if you're interested in science, history, and culture. It's a short drive from most neighborhoods and offers plenty of parking.
Inside, you'll find rotating exhibits from the American Museum of Natural History, including dinosaurs, space science, and human evolution. The Discovery Room is great for kids, with interactive displays and hands-on learning.
The Museum at Prairiefire is an excellent spot for weekend outings or weekday escapes.
For a slower pace, head over to South Lake Park, located at 7601 W 86th Street. It's a local favorite that many new residents in Overland Park, KS, appreciate for its peaceful setting. The park features a scenic lake, paved trails, and shaded areas.
You can bring your dog, go for a run, or just relax by the water with a book. There is a fishing dock, open green spaces, and a playground for kids.
The park is clean, safe, and easy to access from several neighborhoods. It's also a great place to meet neighbors, enjoy birdwatching, or host a weekend picnic, making it one of the best spots for everyday use.
Perfect for families, Deanna Rose Children's Farmstead is more than just a petting zoo. Located at 13800 Switzer Road, it combines history, education, and fun. Getting there is simple and parking is free, especially on weekdays.
You'll find farm animals, pony rides, gardens, and a one-room schoolhouse that gives a glimpse into 1900s farm life. Kids can feed goats, fish in a pond, and ride in wagons. It's one of the top Overland Park attractions for young families.
Want to stay active? Try biking or walking the Indian Creek Trail. This long, paved trail stretches across Johnson County and connects multiple parks and neighborhoods. It's easy to access from several trailheads, especially near Corporate Woods and Roe Avenue.
You'll pass creeks, wooded areas, bridges, and even sculptures along the way. It's one of the top local favorites, especially in the spring and fall. The trail is also well-lit and safe for early morning or evening workouts.
Biking the Indian Creek trail is a great way to explore the city at your own pace. Use it to commute, clear your mind, or train for local 5K runs.
If you're a fan of performing arts, visit the White Theatre inside the Jewish Community Center. Located at 5801 W 115th Street, this venue hosts plays, musicals, and concerts throughout the year. Tickets are affordable, and parking is free.
You'll find community-led productions as well as professional shows. The theater is cozy yet well-equipped with modern sound and lighting systems. It's a welcoming space for anyone interested in local culture and performance.
In the heart of downtown Overland Park, Thompson Park blends green space with modern, family-friendly features. Located at 8045 Santa Fe Drive, the park includes a splash pad, an updated playground, walking paths, and even free public Wi-Fi.
It's a great spot for casual outings, whether you're planning a weekday playdate or a relaxing weekend picnic. Kids can cool off in the splash pad while parents enjoy shaded seating and open-air comfort.
The park also has a small performance stage, making it a hub for seasonal events and family-friendly entertainment. Many locals love it for birthday parties or as a go-to spot for unwinding without having to leave the downtown area.
During the summer, Santa Fe Commons transforms into a lively space for outdoor performances. Located at 8045 Santa Fe Drive, it features a stage where local bands, orchestras, and community groups put on free shows. Just bring a blanket, a lawn chair, and your favorite snacks.
From jazz nights to theater under the stars, there's always something happening here. You can even grab takeout from a nearby restaurant and enjoy dinner while you listen. Living in Overland Park, KS, gives you easy access to these cultural events that bring neighbors together.
Check the city's Parks and Recreation calendar for event schedules and weather updates. It's a family-friendly way to spend an evening without having to travel far from home.
On the Johnson County Community College campus sits one of the area's most inspiring spaces: the Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art. It's open to the public, free to enter, and has clearly marked parking right on campus.
Inside, you'll find rotating exhibits, modern sculptures, and striking installations by both local and national artists. The atmosphere is quiet and reflective, making it a great spot to slow down and take in something new.
Guided tours are available, and student-led events add something fresh throughout the year. Exploring cultural spaces like this helps you connect with the city's creative energy.
Whether it's the Fall Festival, summer concerts, or weekend markets, Overland Park is full of events where food trucks gather. You'll find everything from barbecue and tacos to vegan bowls and sweet treats.
As a new resident, trying local foods is an easy and delicious way to explore the area, and a fun way to support small businesses. Just follow the city's event pages or local social media groups to see where the trucks will be next, and you might find your new favorite spot on wheels.
With so much to explore, from trails and parks to museums and live music, living in Overland Park, KS offers something for everyone. Whether you're here for the schools, the nature, or the welcoming community, it's easy to feel at home.
If you're still planning your relocation, working with a professional moving company in Kansas can make things easier.
