Thompson Park

This is my favorite park for my kids ages- 1.5 and almost 3. It's not too big, there is a water park and lots of shade. It has turf underneath instead of wood chips so that my youngest doesn't eat wood chips.

This beautiful wooded park located near downtown Overland Park is the location for seasonal events including music in the park on Sundays, concerts in the park every third Friday, movies in the park, and the Overland Park Fall Festival. Features include a beautiful gazebo located near the center of the park, an event stage, a nice sculpture, a drinking fountain, walkways, restrooms, and the Strang Carriage House and Historic Center.The Strang Carriage House has historical artifacts and photos. It is staffed by the Overland Park HIstorical Society. I found the staffer to be helpful and knowledgeable. I learned a lot about my city's history, and have a newfound appreciation for the contributions of William B. Strang, Jr.

The perfect little park for the perfect little neighborhood. This lush little park gives way to the walkable Downtown OP shops, but stands alone by having music on Sunday summer nights, the occasional movie night, and by hosting the big OP Fall Festival the last weekend of September. What I love about it is how tucked away it feels despite the fact that thousands of cars are angrily weaving down Metcalf just a stone's throw from the park. There are houses on one end, a church, senior apartments, and the popular Santa Fe drag yet you can feel secluded anywhere here. You've also got Snack Shack slinging burgers and shakes with a walk up window right by the park. [Brief aside: Snack Shack, open during the Sunday night concerts and take my money!]If you've been to Lawrence and seen the South Park garden and gazebo, this will put you in mind of that.