October in Overland Park has a way of turning even ordinary weekends into little celebrations of autumn. The leaves crackle underfoot, the sky gets that perfect clear-blue crispness, and everything feels just a touch more magical. Here are some of the best things to do this October whether you’re aiming for relaxed, festive, or somewhere in between.
🍎 Pick Apples, Ride Hayrides & Corn Mazes
Nothing says fall like reaching up into a tree branch and pulling down a crisp, juicy apple. A few orchards near OP make for perfect day trips:
- Cider Hill Family Orchard (Kansas City, KS) is a longtime favorite. With over 1,500 apple trees, hayrides, cider slushies, and pumpkin patches, it’s got everything you want in an orchard outing.
- Gieringer’s Family Farm in Edgerton, KS is another gem. They host u-pick apples, pumpkins, and family-friendly fall activities.
- Louisburg Cider Mill is a charming option if you’re up for a bit more of a drive. They have cider, donuts, and a cozy farm feel.
- Johnson Farms Plants and Pumpkins is closer and great for pairing pumpkin and apple picking (weather permitting) with seasonal farm fun.
- Pumpkin Hollow at Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead is open through October, offering hayrides, pumpkin picking, a giant slide, spider web maze, pedal cars, and more.
🍂 Trails, Trees & Cozy Walks
October is prime leaf-peeping season. One of the best times to hit the Indian Creek Trail is now with bright leaves, soft sunlight, and cooler temps making it perfect for walking, biking, or just putting on your favorite sweater and pressing pause.
If you want more nature + calm, explore the changing season at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens. Try pairing it with a farmers’ market morning for the perfect day! The combo of fresh air and long walks just feels right in October.
👻 Trick or Treat & Downtown Spookiness
Mark your calendar:
- Trick or Treat in Downtown OP is happening on October 25, 2025. Participants can wander through shops, get candy, and enjoy October energy in Downtown Overland Park.
- The Night of the Living Farm (Oct 17-18 & 24-25) at Deanna Rose offers both spooky and not-too-spooky fun as dusk sets in.
These are the kinds of nights where the best memories tend to stick.
🧡 How to Build Your Weekend in October
Here’s a sample weekend flow:
- Saturday morning: Head to Cider Hill or Gieringer’s for apple picking, cider donuts, and a hayride.
- Afternoon: Return home, drop off your haul, then take a stroll on Indian Creek or through the Arboretum.
- Early evening: Hit Pumpkin Hollow or Night of the Living Farm for autumn fun with the family.
- October 25: Dress up, stroll Downtown OP for trick-or-treating, then maybe end at one of your favorite restaurants with warm drinks.
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