Spring Break is the perfect time to shake off the winter blues, and embrace the fresh air and blooming landscapes. While many people think of beaches or big cities for their getaway, Overland Park, Kansas, is an underrated destination packed with outdoor adventures, a bustling restaurant scene, and family-friendly fun.
Outdoor Adventures
As the sun peeks its head out, Overland Park's sprawling green spaces come to life. Here are some must-visit spots for fresh air and scenic views:
Got a kid who loves trains and the outdoors? The Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens is just the place for you! Let the kids climb in a real railroad caboose and see a full-size railroad crossing gate. Model trains run through miniature mountains, streams, and a model of Downtown Overland Park. When you’re done with the train garden, there’s plenty more to do in the 300-acres of gardens and grounds. Visit the frog pond, climb the top of a spiraling walkway, explore a shrinking tunnel, and study fossil and animal footprints.
Indian Creek Hike Bike Trail
Take the road less traveled and traverse The Indian Creek Bike and Hike Trail! It stretches across 17 miles of Kansas and Missouri. The trail is approximately 10 feet wide with mile markers every half mile. It is generally level and paved, but there are some steep grades for short sections. This trail system provides miles of open and green space connecting the city’s parks, neighborhoods, schools, recreation facilities, and more. Bikes and leashed dogs are welcome, too!
Dining Destinations
Spring Break isn't complete without indulging in some delicious eats. Keep reading to find out where to bring the whole family for a day of fun and food!
To keep the kids entertained for hours, head to Chicken N Pickle. This entertainment complex, located in Priairiefire, will welcome spring breakers with pickleball, bocce ball, shuffleboard courts, and outdoor games. And come hungry! The Lil’ Peeps menu features classic options like cheeseburgers and chicken strips all for $7.49. Meanwhile, parents can unwind with a drink from the full-service bar while keeping an eye on their little ones having a blast.
Looking for an exciting place that combines the thrill of sports with endless entertainment? AdventHealth Sports Park at Bluhawk just opened its doors, and it's one you won't want to miss. Alongside the impressive sporting facilities, the venue has an arcade, a 715-foot aerial zipline, a sports simulator, and an immersive virtual simulator. Once you work up an appetite, head to the Grab-n-Go Café & Bar or onsite Bar & Grill to grab a bite. Fun fact: There's also a Chick-Fil-A on the second floor!
With a variety of street food options from pizza, burgers, tacos, sweet treats and more, SERV is a one stop spot for the whole family. This lively indoor-outdoor venue offers something for everyone, making it an ideal hangout for families, friends, and groups. While kids enjoy the open-air space and delicious eats, adults can kick back with a craft cocktail or local beer at the bar, catch a game on the big screens, or jump into the action on the pickleball courts.
It doesn’t matter what the weather throws at you during spring break – Topgolf's outdoor bays are always 75 degrees. This three-tiered golfing range has a rooftop terrace with fire pits, live musical performances, and a full-service restaurant and is perfect for those older kiddos. Whether you’re an aspiring golf pro or picking up a club for the first time, Topgolf is fun for everybody.
Indoor Fun for the Whole Family
Beyond the outdoors and food, Overland Park is packed full of fun attractions designed for a week of non-stop family fun.
The next best thing to skydiving? iFly, Overland Park’s indoor skydiving experience. Instructors will give you and your kids one-on-one training then suit you up for your flight into the two-story vertical wind tunnel. iFly welcome fliers from ages 3 to 103 to feel the thrill and adrenaline rush of skydiving without the feeling of “falling” from the sky.
One of Overland Park’s best places to play has to be KidScape. This indoor play area combines a museum of Johnson County history with a hands-on children’s play space. Kids can experience various exhibits like a diner, train station, city market, school, and doctor’s office to learn about the history of these jobs. With $4 admission for kids, this indoor play spot is affordable and fun for toddlers through elementary!
Does your kid love dinosaurs, insects, space, or on-hands on learning? Visit the Museum at Prairiefire to see the giant t-rex skeleton in the lobby and then head upstairs to the Discovery Room. This room is geared towards ages 3-12 and features a dinosaur excavation site, space room, reading nook, and animals to observe. If you’re lucky, you may even get to hold one! Plus, the exterior of the museum is the perfect backdrop for a selfie or family picture!
Spring Break in Overland Park offers the perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable family fun. So, skip the crowded beaches and big cities this year – Overland Park is ready to welcome you with open arms and endless ways to make lasting memories.
