Exploring Johnson County: Don't miss these must-see attractions
Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, there’s lots to do in Johnson County, Kansas. The most-populated county in Kansas and the second-most populated county in the Kansas City area, Johnson County is home to a variety of parks, farmsteads, museums, memorials and other attractions.
In the cities of Overland Park, Olathe, Lenexa, Shawnee and everywhere in between, you’ll find yourself at the intersection of nature, history, leisure and – most importantly – fun for the whole family. Sept. 27 is World Tourism Day, and this tourist’s guide to Johnson County offers a glimpse at some of the attractions the county has to offer.
Johnson County Square
Located next to the Johnson County Administration Building in Downtown Olathe, the Johnson County Square is both a green space and a gathering spot. Enjoy lunch at one of the tables, take a stroll along the walkway and take a photo with the JoCo blocks. You can also see the new permanent heart from the Parade of Hearts, "Expand Your Circle," which symbolizes unity and inclusivity.
Shawnee Mission Park
One of 17 parks managed by Johnson County Park and Recreation District, Shawnee Mission Park is one of the largest parks in the region at more than 1,600 acres. The park features a 120-acre lake with a swimming beach and marina, as well as hiking trails and a disc golf course. You can learn more about JCPRD parks in this guide to county parks.
Johnson County Library
Looking for a good book? Johnson County Library has 14 branches across the county – from Gardner to De Soto to Lenexa City Center. There’s great news, too: The Library went fine-free in 2023. Library branches host events such as author talks and storytimes, and the Central Resource Library features a MakerSpace. Learn more at jocolibrary.org.
Johnson County Museum
If history is your thing, you could easily spend several hours at the Johnson County Museum – located in the Johnson County Arts and Heritage Center in Overland Park. The museum provides an in-depth look at the history of the county. One highlight is the 1950s all-electric house, which visitors can walk through. The Lanesfield Historic Site, a historic schoolhouse in Edgerton, is an additional relic of the past.
Ernie Miller Park & Nature Center
JCPRD’s Ernie Miller Nature Center in Olathe is both a park and a nature center – the perfect place to learn about and experience nature. The nature center features educational exhibits, a 500-gallon aquarium with native stream fish, and a wildlife viewing room. In the park itself, you can explore tallgrass prairies, upland meadows and nature trails.
Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead
Deanna Rose Children's Farmstead offers visitors a hands-on experience with farm life in the Midwest. The 12-acre facility is a fun outing for the entire family, with 250-plus animals such as goats, chickens, cows, prairie dogs, bison and more. Kids can enjoy activities like fishing, mining and feeding animals – most notably, bottlefeeding the baby goats.
Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm
Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm is the only working stagecoach stop left along the Santa Fe Trail. James B. and Lucinda Mahaffie purchased the farm site in Olathe in 1857, and it now welcomes visitors of all ages. At the farmstead, your family can explore a working 1860s farm and experience what life was once like for the Mahaffie family and their neighbors.
Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens
One of the premier botanical gardens in the Kansas City metro, the Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens is the perfect place for nature lovers. The arboretum, situated in south Overland Park, spans more than 300 acres of diverse plant collections and gardens. Say hello to Monet in the beautiful Monet Gardens, and take your kids to the Train Garden to see a real railroad caboose.
Sar-Ko-Par Park and Legler Barn Museum
There’s no shortage of amenities at Lenexa’s Sar-Ko-Par Park, a 50-acre park featuring a pond, walking trails, skate park, roller hockey rink and more. During the winter, you won’t want to miss Sar-Ko-Aglow, which sees the park lit up for the holidays. You can also visit the Legler Barn Museum, a free museum within the park that explores the history of Lenexa.
9/11 Memorial
Overland Park’s 9/11 Memorial is a way to reflect on the events of September 11 here in the Kansas City metro. The memorial includes a steel beam from ground zero, weeping wall fountain, educational panels and more. Additional memorials in the county include a Korean War Veterans Memorial in Overland Park and a Gold Star Families Memorial Monument in Olathe.
Farmers Markets in Johnson County
If you’re seeking fresh produce and local products during your visit, be sure to stop by a farmers market. There are farmers markets in numerous cities throughout the county, including Overland Park, Lenexa, Olathe, Merriam, Shawnee and K-State Research and Extension’s Sunset Community Garden. You can learn more in our guide to JoCo farmers markets.