Don’t Overlook What’s Close to Home in the Midwest

Some of the most overlooked Midwest travel experiences are closer than you think.

Zipline in Bonner Springs at Zip KC

Midwest Living recently published a reminder that feels especially relevant for anyone living in or considering Overland Park: some of the most rewarding travel and lifestyle experiences are closer than we think. Their feature on spending time on the Kansas side of the Kansas City metro highlights what often gets overlooked when people only look to the coasts or major tourist hubs.

For those relocating or planting roots in Overland Park, this perspective matters. Life here is not just about one city. It is about access.

Living in Overland Park means having world-class food, sports, and outdoor adventure just minutes away.

Here you can have it all, without feeling overwhelmed or spending a ton of money.

The Kansas side of the KC metro delivers variety in a way that surprises people. You can catch a soccer match at Children’s Mercy Park, experience high-speed thrills at Kansas Speedway, or explore food traditions that have shaped the region for generations. This is a place where everyday life and weekend-worthy experiences overlap, making it easier to enjoy more without planning far ahead.

What Midwest Living captures well is the balance the Midwest offers. You can build a career, find community, and still have room for adventure. Overland Park sits right in the middle of it all, offering a high quality of life with easy access to experiences that make the region memorable.

If you are looking for inspiration, or considering a move to the Midwest, the message is simple: do not overlook what is already here.

Worth Trying on the Kansas Side of the KC Metro

Drive like a pro or catch a race at Kansas Speedway
Zipline through the trees in Bonner Springs
Follow the Kansas City Taco Trail for some of the metro’s most celebrated flavors
Attend a Sporting KC match at Children’s Mercy Park
Spend a day outdoors at Shawnee Mission Park