Nestled in the heart of America, Overland Park stands out as a hidden gem with its unique blend of charm and community spirit. While OP may not be the official “City of Love,” here are 10 reasons why Overland Park is a city worth falling in love with:
- Picturesque Parks
It’s right there in our name! Overland Park boasts more than 80 parks and open spaces, featuring walking trails, and serene landscapes, making it a perfect retreat for those seeking some fresh air. If you’re looking for more adventure, embark on an exciting bike ride through our miles of hiking/biking trails.
- Family-Friendly
Safe neighborhoods and activities for all ages help make Overland Park ideal for raising a family. Travel + Leisure even named OP on its list of 10 Best Places to Live in the U.S. for Families.
- Welcoming Environment
In 2023, the City earned a perfect Municipal Equality Index score, accounting for City efforts including the designation of an LGBTQ+ liaison, providing services to LGBTQ+ youth, providing resources to LGBTQIA+ foster parents and foster children and diversity training requirements for the Overland Park Police Department and all other City employees. To see Overland Park’s full scorecard, visit hrc.org/mei.
- Connect with Nature + Animals
Head to the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens to surround yourself with more than 1,700 species of plants and a variety of landscapes, including meticulous gardens, wild hiking trails, open prairie and different educational opportunities around every bend in the path.
Make endless memories with friends, family and more than 250 animals and birds when Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead opens for the season on Monday, April 1. In the meantime, get an inside look at the world of Farmstead goats at opkansas.org.
- Community-Centric
From the Farmers’ Market to outdoor concerts, Overland Park hosts a variety of events for the whole family throughout the year. These gatherings foster a sense of unity and encourage residents to connect.
- Serious About Sustainability
The City of Overland Park plans, builds, protects and preserves a lasting quality of life through a variety of efforts and initiatives to ensure OP is a sustainable city. View OP’s sustainability initiatives at opkansas.org/sustainability. - Compelling Arts Scene
Overland Park recognizes the importance of public art in creating cultural value, community identity, and engaging public spaces. Tomahawk Ridge Community Center houses Art at the Center, a free gallery space featuring new exhibits throughout the year. Take a self-guided public art tour through OP using the City’s public art map! - Sports and Recreation
Whether you’re a sports fan or an outdoor enthusiast, Overland Park has something for everyone. As warmer weather approaches, serve up some friendly competition on our tennis, basketball, volleyball or pickleball courts, or swing into action at one of our top-notch golf courses. - Booming Business
Overland Park is a hub for businesses of all sizes! Did you know more than 30,000 jobs are located within a 1-mile radius of the intersection of College and Metcalf? The area is also a major destination for visitors with the Overland Park Convention Center, eight hotels and major adjacent retail centers nearby. - Engaged Community
The City takes every opportunity to hear directly from residents when framing OP’s future! Residents and visitors have an opportunity to share feedback on a draft update to the City’s comprehensive plan online. The City will also host live virtual meetings on Wednesday, February 21 from 6:30-7:30 p.m. and on Thursday, February 22 from noon-1 p.m. Provide feedback in-person at a public open house on February 28 from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. at Matt Ross Community Center.
Find even more reasons to fall in love with Overland Park at opkansas.org