Goals to Set. Places to Go. Experiences to Try.
A new year is the perfect time to dream a little bigger, try something new, and set intentions for the life you want to live. Whether your goals for 2026 focus on feeling healthier, learning new skills, giving back, or chasing a little adrenaline, Overland Park makes it easy to turn resolutions into reality. In fact, WalletHub recently ranked Overland Park #13 Best City for Keeping New Year’s Resolutions, and once you see what’s here, it’s easy to understand why.
No matter what kind of goal-setter you are, this 2026 bucket list will help you map out meaningful, doable ways to grow, explore, and thrive. All right here in Overland Park.
The Social Circle Builder
For anyone looking to make new friends or strengthen connections in 2026
Making friends as an adult can feel harder than it should, but Overland Park offers plenty of spaces where connection happens naturally. Whether you’re new to the area or simply ready to expand your circle, shared experiences are often the easiest way to start. From social hangouts to group activities and community events, these spots make it easier to show up, spark conversation, and turn familiar faces into real friendships. If building community is one of your goals this year, keep an eye out for future All in OP programming focused on helping people connect, gather, and feel at home here.
Places to meet up and spend time together:
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Local restaurants for any occasion
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SERV for those that want to get a little competitive
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Topgolf to practice your swing and social skills
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Local coffee shops and breweries like Parisi Coffee, Brew Haha, or Discourse Brewery and Taproom
Group activities to try with friends:
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Trivia nights or themed events at Craft Putt, Discourse, or Brew Lab
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Recreational sports leagues like the golf leagues at Berry’s Golf and Groove
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Community festivals and pop-ups
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Fitness classes or workshops
The Feel-Good Focus
For those making their health a priority in 2026
For some, the new year is about slowing down, tuning in, and choosing routines that support both body and mind. Overland Park makes it easier to build habits that feel sustainable instead of overwhelming. Whether your goal is strength, flexibility, stress relief, or simply carving out more time for yourself, there is no shortage of places designed to meet you where you are. Wellness here is not about perfection. It is about consistency, care, and finding spaces that make you want to come back again.
Get moving at local gyms and studios:
- Body Fit Training (Science backed weight training, coaches, programming, technology)
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Lifetime Fitness Overland Park (expansive workout floor, classes, pools, spa amenities)
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Evexia (expert personal training, structured coaching, and accountability)
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Hotworx Overland Park (infrared sauna workouts, 24/7 access)
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YogaSix Overland Park (hot yoga, sculpt, and flow classes)
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The Exercise Coach (stronger muscles, stronger health, stronger self with just two, 20-minute workouts a week)
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Club Pilates Overland Park (reformer-based Pilates for all levels)
Treat yourself to intentional recovery and self-care:
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Pause Wellness Studio (float therapy, cold plunge, infrared sauna)
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Sunlighten Day Spa (body treatments, massages, wax/tints/lifts)
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The Only Facial (facials customized to unique skin types)
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Polished Nail Boutique or Luxe Nail Spa (a little pampering goes a long way)
Wellness goals don’t have to be extreme. In OP, they’re about consistency, balance, and finding routines you actually enjoy.
The Thrill Chaser
For anyone craving excitement, challenge, and a little adrenaline
Some goals are less about rest and more about momentum. If 2026 is your year to try something bold, push past comfort zones, or simply have more fun, Overland Park has you covered. These experiences are perfect for blowing off steam, celebrating milestones, or reminding yourself that growth often comes with a rush of excitement. Whether you are competing with friends or facing a personal fear, these moments tend to become the stories you tell long after the year ends. For those of you ready to step outside of your comfort zone, Overland Park has plenty of heart-pumping experiences to add to your 2026 bucket list.
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iFLY Indoor Skydiving (experience the thrill of flight)
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Andretti Indoor Karting & Games (high-speed karting, arcade games, laser tag)
- Urban Air Adventure Park (indoor trampoline park, epic attractions)
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Topgolf (competitive fun with friends or coworkers)
- SERV (pickleball, yard games, and competitive social fun)
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BRKTHROUGH (challenge rooms that test speed, agility, and teamwork)
- Escapology (high adrenaline escape game)
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Activate (the game where you become the player)
These experiences are perfect reminders that growth often happens when you try something new, especially when it gets your heart racing.
The Lifelong Learner
For the curious, the ambitious, and the always-evolving
Learning does not stop after school. For many, a new year brings goals around growth, creativity, and staying mentally engaged. Overland Park offers opportunities to learn in ways that feel approachable and relevant, whether that means advancing your career, picking up a new hobby, or simply reading more books you actually enjoy. These spaces make learning feel less like a chore and more like an investment in yourself. If 2026 is about personal growth, professional development, or rediscovering your curiosity, Overland Park offers countless ways to keep learning at every stage of life.
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Johnson County Library (get a library card and access books, digital tools, classes, and events)
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Johnson County Community College (JCCC) (professional development, certifications, continuing education, and workshops)
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Overland Park Chamber of Commerce (networking events, leadership programs, and business education)
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Creative studios and workshops like Hawaii Fluid Art or Painting With a Twist (hands-on learning through art)
- Adult Maker Programs at Johnson County Arts & Heritage Center (sewing, jewelry, stained glass art, printmaking)
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Monstera’s Books (independent bookstore perfect for discovering your next favorite read)
If learning is already on your 2026 goals list, you might be surprised how naturally it connects to career growth. The same curiosity that leads you to workshops, certifications, library resources, and community programs is often what opens the door to new opportunities professionally. If you are feeling ready to take the next step, aim higher, or pivot into something new, start with everything above and think about how it can support where you want to go next. Learning does not just expand your mind in Overland Park. It can expand your career, too.
Bonus goal for the Career Climber:
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Explore local employers and growing companies with career opportunities right here in Overland Park and across the region
The Difference Maker
For those leading with purpose and compassion
Some resolutions come from a deeper place. Goals centered on impact, service, and connection often leave the biggest impression long after the year is over. Overland Park offers countless ways to show up for others while also strengthening your own sense of belonging. Whether you volunteer your time, support local organizations, or intentionally shop small, these choices help shape the community we all share.
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Volunteer with local nonprofits like Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead, Hillcrest Transitional Housing, or Harvesters
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Support small, locally owned businesses — from restaurants and coffee shops to boutiques and service providers
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Attend community events or city programs to stay connected and engaged
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Mentor, donate, or advocate through organizations that align with causes you care about
Sometimes the most fulfilling goals aren’t about what you gain but what you give.
The Moment Collector
Making memories and enjoying the moment
Not every goal needs a spreadsheet or a deadline. Some of the best intentions are about living fully and appreciating what is already around you. Overland Park offers countless opportunities to slow down, show up, and create memories with the people you care about. These goals are about saying yes to moments that make life feel fuller and more fun.
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Explore local events and festivals throughout the year. Subscribe to our email to have these events set straight to your inbox each week!
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Try a new restaurant or coffee shop each month. Check out the Overland Park Chamber Member Directory to find which businesses are joining the community!
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Visit Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens in every season
- Spend a weekend morning wandering Downtown Overland Park Farmers’ Market
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Plan friend dates, family outings, or solo adventures around the city
- Take a sunset walk or picnic at Thompson Park or along the Indian Creek Trail
Overland Park is full of small moments that turn into lasting memories when you say yes.
Ready to Build Your 2026 Bucket List?
No two goal-setters are the same and that’s the best part. If you’re not sure where to start, or want recommendations tailored to your goals, send us your 2026 intentions and we’ll help match you with Overland Park experiences, businesses, and opportunities that fit your vision.
Here’s to a new year full of progress, purpose, and possibility. All in Overland Park.
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