Welcome to the Kansas City area! Moving to a new city is an adventure, and one of the best ways to get acquainted with your new surroundings is to go out and explore. Just south of Downtown Kansas City, you’ll find Overland Park. It’s just one of many suburbs full to the brim of exciting and vibrant attractions guaranteed to fill your day with everything this wonderful city has to offer.
We’ve picked the top three things to do in Overland Park that we think every newcomer will love in their new community.
1. Immerse Yourself in Nature’s Beauty at the Overland Park Arboretum
The Overland Park Arboretum is your little natural escape from the hustle and bustle of Downtown Kansas City. Imagine strolling through 300 acres of beautiful parkland and botanic gardens, where around every corner is a new botanical wonder.
In this beautifully crafted sanctuary, you can wander through a serene Japanese Garden, breathe in the blossoms of the Rose Garden, or totally lose yourself in the expansive Native Prairie.
It’s a playground for animals and plant lovers and a paradise for anyone who needs some peace and tranquility. After a few hours in this relaxing haven, you’ll forget you’re actually right in the middle of a city.
2. Taste the World Without Leaving Overland Park at Strang Hall
If you love food, then you’re going to adore Strang Hall. Nestled in the historic center of Overland Park is a chef-driven collective of six restaurants that specialize in reinventing international cuisine.
This vibrant culinary hub is a mosaic of diverse eateries, each offering a reinvented taste of your favorite international foods. From the Fénix taqueria to the unique fusion of Thai and Lao cuisine at Anousone, you’ll find a unique taste experience all under one roof. At Strang Hall, you’ll also find the Solstice seasonal food bar, the Strang Bar and Cafe, and a craft pizza and sandwich experience at Norcini. Not only are you getting great food, but you’re also supporting local businesses in your new neighborhood.
For anyone looking for a true culinary adventure, Strang Hall has you covered for delicious things to do in Overland Park.
3. Reconnect with the Past at Deanna Rose Farmstead
If you’ve ever wondered what life was like for early 20th-century Kansas farmers, then the Deanna Rose Farmstead is definitely a must-see.
Transport yourself to a bygone era and experience Overland Park’s agricultural heritage come to life. This living museum has beautifully preserved the essence of farm life with an authentic farmhouse, barn, and classic silos. Visitors can interact with exhibits that show traditional farming techniques and participate in seasonal festivities like harvest festivals and hayrides.
It’s a perfect attraction for kids (and grown-up kids too!), history lovers, and anyone who is curious about the history that helped to shape Overland Park.
4. Catch a Show at Prairie Fire
Prairie Fire is one of Overland Park’s most active event venues, hosting concerts, festivals, and seasonal markets throughout the year. It’s a good first stop for newcomers looking to meet people and get a feel for the local calendar of events before settling into a routine.
5. Explore Downtown Overland Park’s Farmers Market
Held seasonally in the historic downtown district, the Overland Park Farmers Market is a good way to meet local vendors and get familiar with the neighborhood on foot. It pairs well with a stop at Strang Hall if you’re making a day of it.
A New City Journey Starts with a Stress-Free Move
There you have it! There’s no shortage of lively, unique, and enjoyable things to do in Overland Park and the Kansas City area. Give yourself permission to step away from those cardboard boxes for a bit. It’s time to uncover the charm of your new neighborhood—one that locals and newcomers are more than happy to call home.
Speaking of locals, Mike Hammer Moving is as much a part of the Kansas City area as Strang Hall, the Arboretum, and Deanna Rose Farmstead. With over four decades devoted to relocating households across Kansas City and beyond, we understand how important a stress-free move is when setting up a new place.
So go ahead—experience all of these great things to do in Overland Park while we expertly handle every detail of your move.
