Explore Arboretum & Farmstead in Overland Park
Overland Park
Tips on renting in Overland Park
Getting Around
What to Pack
Must-Try Activities
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Overland Park, Kansas, offers a sophisticated blend of adventure and relaxation for families seeking memorable experiences. Start your morning at the Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead, where little ones can feed baby goats, ride ponies, and immerse themselves in a charming turn-of-the-century farmstead. With nearly 200 animals, a one-room schoolhouse, and a picturesque fishing pond, the farmstead’s interactive exhibits make history come alive for visitors of all ages.
For families who love the outdoors, the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens spans 300 acres of lush landscapes. Stroll through beautifully themed gardens, hike along scenic trails, and let your children’s imaginations run wild in the Children’s Garden, complete with a whimsical story tree and a delightful frog pond. Seasonal events such as the Luminary Walk add a touch of enchantment to any visit.
The Museum at Prairiefire is a must for families with curious minds. This 42,000-square-foot destination captivates with its towering Tyrannosaurus rex, hands-on exhibits, and an engaging Discovery Room where kids can dig for dinosaur bones. The museum’s dazzling architecture, featuring NASA-developed Dichroic Glass, shimmers in ever-changing hues, ensuring each visit feels truly special. Overland Park invites families to discover luxury, learning, and leisure in one unforgettable getaway.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to see what Overland Park has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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To visit the Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead in Overland Park, plan your day to arrive between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., from April 1 to October 31. Take advantage of free admission after 2 p.m. on Mondays through Thursdays, excluding holidays. Purchase tickets online to skip the lines and enjoy over 250 animals, a Kanza Indian encampment, and a stroll through Main Street to the fishing pond, all for a $5 admission fee per person aged three and older.
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For swimming beaches with sand volleyball courts and concession areas in the Overland Park vicinity, look to the adjacent Johnson County parks. Shawnee Mission Park Beach, just outside Overland Park, offers a large lake front beach swim area, a sand volleyball court, and a large shaded concession area with restroom facilities. This beach, named the best in Kansas by Money Magazine, provides a perfect blend of recreational activities and amenities, open from May to early August with varied hours.
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Dogs are warmly welcomed on several hiking trails in Overland Park, Kansas. You can explore the 17-mile Indian Creek Bike and Hike Trail, ideal for a leisurely stroll or energetic run with your pet. The Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens also allows dogs on its mulch paths and the International Sculpture Trail, though they must be kept on a leash. For off-leash adventures, head to Thomas S. Stoll Park’s seven-acre dog park, perfect for letting your dog run and play year-round.
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For a scenic hike in Overland Park, consider the Indian Creek Trail, a 10-mile paved path that winds through parks, neighborhoods, and recreation facilities, offering a flat and wheelchair-accessible route with historical signs and archival photographs along the way. The Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens is another must-visit, featuring nearly six miles of trails amidst beautiful plants and flowers. For a shorter, yet equally charming hike, the Coffee Creek Streamway Park Trail offers about 3 miles of scenic hiking paths following the path of Coffee Creek.
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