Your Guide to Sunflower Summer in Overland Park
This summer, family adventures don't have to come with a big price tag.
Sunflower Summer gives Kansas families complimentary admission to hundreds of attractions across the state, including four popular destinations right here in Overland Park.
The program runs Thursday, July 9, through Sunday, August 2, with admission available at 230+ Kansas attractions.
Kansas students enrolled in pre K through 12th grade can participate, including public, private and homeschooled students. One accompanying adult also receives complimentary admission at each attraction.
This program is operated through Kansas Tourism. If you have questions, please see the frequently-asked questions here.
Here are four places participating in Sunflower Summer in Overland Park:
Museum at Prairiefire
Spark a little curiosity at the Museum at Prairiefire, where science, natural history, art and technology come together under one colorful roof.
Families can explore regional fossils, learn about creatures that lived millions of years ago and step into interactive experiences designed for busy minds and hands.
The Great Hall introduces visitors to Kansas City’s prehistoric past, while the Discovery Room offers hands on activities for younger guests. Families may also encounter augmented reality, virtual reality and special exhibitions during their visit.
The museum is also home to the first phase of the College Baseball Hall of Fame, including memorabilia connected to college baseball greats and the Home Run Dugout batting experience.
Make a day of it: After exploring the museum, enjoy lunch, dessert or a little shopping in Prairiefire.
Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens
Trade screen time for sunshine at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens.
This 300-acre destination features gardens, walking trails, sculptures, ponds and natural areas that make it easy to spend several hours outdoors.
Young explorers can search for whimsical details throughout the gardens, watch the model trains and spot butterflies, birds and other wildlife along the trails.
Pack water, wear comfortable shoes and give the kids plenty of time to lead the way!
Make a day of it: Stop for lunch in southern Overland Park, then cool down with a frozen treat from Cafe Celeste after your garden adventure.
Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead
Meet more than 250 animals and experience a little slice of farm life at Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead.
Families can visit goats, cows, horses, chickens and other farm animals while exploring gardens, historic buildings and interactive play areas.
The Farmstead blends outdoor play with lessons about agriculture, animals and life on a turn of the century farm.
Some optional activities, food and animal feed may require an additional purchase, so plan ahead if your kids have their hearts set on a favorite experience.
Make a day of it: Pair your visit with a stop at Scheels down the street or grab a family friendly meal around Corbin Park.
Johnson County Museum & KidScape
Step into local history at the Johnson County Museum.
Its signature exhibits share the stories, communities and major changes that shaped Johnson County through the years.
A highlight for many families is KidScape, an immersive play experience where children can explore a child sized community.
Visitors can also walk through the museum’s 1950s All Electric House and discover how everyday life has changed across generations.
The museum is typically open Monday through Saturday, making it a dependable indoor option on especially hot or rainy summer days.
Make a day of it: Head a few minutes north to Downtown Overland Park for lunch, local shopping or a visit to the Overland Park Farmers Market on Wednesdays & Saturdays.
Tips for Using the Sunflower Summer App
A little planning can help your family get the most out of the program.
Download the app and complete your account before arriving. Each eligible student needs to be listed with the correct age, grade, school district and county. A qualifying student must be present when tickets are redeemed.
Only one adult admission is covered during each visit. Additional adults will need to purchase regular admission. Student tickets may be transferred through the app to another trusted Kansas adult, such as a grandparent, family member or daycare provider.
Do not activate tickets too early. Attraction staff must verify the live countdown timer inside the app, so wait until you reach the admissions desk and follow their instructions.
Families without smartphone access may request a paper voucher at staffed participating attractions. Paper vouchers are intended for limited circumstances, and families experiencing app problems should use the support feature inside the app first.
Hours, programs and available experiences can change. Check each attraction’s website and review its listing inside the app before leaving home. The Sunflower Summer season may also be adjusted if program funding is used earlier or remains available after August 2.
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