Find Your Adventure: Things to Do in Overland Park
Overland Park is a city in Kansas known for its welcoming community, thriving economy, and high quality of life. With a population of over 197,000 people, it is the second-largest city in the state and is located in the heart of the Kansas City metropolitan area.
Overland Park boasts diverse neighborhoods, including historic homes, modern developments, and expansive parks and green spaces.
Overland Park has a vibrant arts and culture scene, with several museums, galleries, and performing arts venues.
The Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art, located on the campus of Johnson County Community College, is one of the premier contemporary art museums in the region, featuring an impressive collection of works by both emerging and established artists.
The Museum at Prairiefire is another popular destination, offering exhibits on natural history, science, and culture.
One of the city’s biggest draws is its strong economy, anchored by several major corporations and businesses, including Sprint Corporation, Black & Veatch, and YRC Worldwide.
Overland Park is also home to the Overland Park Convention Center, which hosts various events and conferences annually. In addition, the city’s central location also makes it an ideal destination for businesses and visitors.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to love in Overland Park, with over 85 parks and open spaces to explore. The Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens is a 300-acre oasis with hiking trails, wildlife habitats, and stunning gardens.
Other popular parks include the Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead, which offers a petting zoo and interactive exhibits, and the Indian Creek Greenway, a scenic trail that spans over 10 miles. Overland Park is a dynamic and growing city that offers something for everyone.
Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead
Nestled in the heart of Overland Park, Kansas, Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead is a delightful family attraction that promises to transport visitors back to the days of frontier farm living and westward expansion.
This sprawling facility features various attractions and activities designed to entertain and educate visitors of all ages. From the moment you enter the gates, you’ll be greeted by friendly farm animals and the sounds of nature, inviting you to leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind and step into a more straightforward way of life.
As you explore the Farmstead, you’ll be treated to a veritable feast for the senses. From the vibrant colors and sweet fragrances of the show gardens to the gentle rustle of leaves on the nature trail, there’s something here to delight everyone.
If you’re an animal lover, you’ll be thrilled to get up close and personal with over 250 species, including goats, horses, cows, pigs, and more. And for those who love birds of prey, the Farmstead’s raptor exhibit will surely be a highlight, featuring stunning birds like hawks, owls, and eagles.
But perhaps one of the unique attractions at the Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead is the Kanza Native American display. Here, visitors can learn about the rich history and culture of the Kanza tribe, who called Kansas home long before it became a state.
With interactive exhibits and hands-on activities, this exhibit offers a fascinating glimpse into the past and a chance to connect with the land and the people who have lived there for centuries.
Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens
Nestled on a sprawling 300-acre site in Overland Park, Kansas, the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens is an idyllic oasis where nature thrives, and visitors can enjoy a variety of landscapes and ecosystems.
The arboretum boasts a vast collection of over 1,700 plant species. Visitors will surely be captivated by the stunning beauty of the meticulously manicured gardens and the beautiful wild hiking trails.
The botanical gardens at the arboretum are a sight to behold, with an abundance of colorful wildflowers and trees that transform the landscape with fiery hues of sumac and persimmon throughout the year.
The gardens offer year-round attractions and unexpected pleasures, with unique features that will appeal to visitors of all ages. The arboretum is an excellent place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of nature.
The Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens is a beautiful destination for learning and discovery. Visitors can participate in various educational programs and events that provide insights into the ecology and biology of the natural world.
From guided tours to specialized workshops and classes, the arboretum offers something for everyone eager to learn about the rich diversity of plant species and ecosystems that make up this beautiful region.
Johnson County Museum
Nestled in the heart of Overland Park, Kansas, the Johnson County Museum is a must-visit destination for those interested in exploring the history of suburban life in Johnson County.
The museum aims to preserve the county’s unique history through exhibits, collections, and programs. Focusing on the 20th century, the museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s past.
One of the museum’s highlights is the 1950s All-Electric House, a fully furnished and operational house built in 1953. The house was created by a local electric company and showcased the latest technological advancements of the era.
The house represents the suburban lifestyle and the American dream many aspired to during that time. Visitors can explore the place and learn about the history of suburban living, including the challenges different groups face in achieving this lifestyle.
The Johnson County Museum’s signature exhibition, Becoming Johnson County, is a fascinating exploration of the region’s history from prehistoric times to the present. The exhibition features interactive displays, artifacts, and multimedia presentations that tell the story of the people, places, and events that have shaped Johnson County over the years.
From the early pioneers to the present-day residents, the exhibition offers a comprehensive look at the region’s past and present, making it a must-visit destination for history buffs and curious visitors alike.
Museum at Prairiefire
The Museum at Prairiefire is a world-class museum in Overland Park, Kansas. This 42,000-square-foot facility features a breathtaking architectural style that has won numerous awards and is sure to impress visitors.
The museum houses various exhibitions and artifacts from national and regional collections, including displays created by the American Museum of Natural History.
One of the museum’s most impressive displays is the towering Tyrannosaurus rex, which dominates the main hall and provides visitors with a glimpse into Kansas’ ancient past.
In addition, visitors can explore displays of colossal sea creatures and soaring reptiles and engage in animal encounters, dinosaur digs, and even missions to space through a virtual reality experience. General admission tickets grant access to the museum’s halls, exhibitions, and discovery room.
The Museum at Prairiefire is dedicated to providing meaningful learning and engagement opportunities for visitors of all ages. In addition to its impressive exhibitions, the museum offers regular events, interactive activities, and programs for adults and children.
From Science Happy Hour and Cinema & Science to The Little Explorers Club, there is something for everyone at this incredible museum. Whether you are interested in science, culture, art, or natural history, the Museum at Prairiefire is a must-see destination in Overland Park.
Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art
The Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art in Overland Park, Kansas, is a true gem of the region’s cultural scene. Its minimalist, Kansas limestone-clad building is a work of art designed by renowned architect Kyu Sung Woo.
Inside, the museum features 11 spacious galleries that showcase a diverse range of contemporary artworks, from paintings and sculptures to ceramics, photography, and works on paper. The museum is also home to the Hudson Auditorium, which can seat up to 200 visitors for lectures, performances, and other events.
The Nerman Museum’s permanent collection is a testament to the generosity of its donors, including Marti and Tony Oppenheimer and the Oppenheimer Brothers Foundation. This impressive collection is supplemented by works acquired by Johnson County Community College’s annual acquisition fund.
Visitors to the museum can enjoy artworks from renowned artists such as Andy Warhol, Chuck Close, and Cindy Sherman, among others. In addition to its permanent collection, the museum hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions throughout the year, featuring the works of both emerging and established artists.
The Nerman Museum is an essential cultural destination for the region and a hub of learning and education. The museum’s dynamic and diverse educational programming includes lectures, workshops, classes, and various outreach programs that serve local schools and communities.
The museum’s commitment to accessibility is reflected in its free admission policy, which ensures that everyone can experience the power and beauty of contemporary art. So whether you’re a seasoned art lover or simply curious about the latest artistic trends, visiting the Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art is an unforgettable experience.