Tucked away in the heart of Jackson County, Lee’s Summit is far more than just a Kansas City suburb. It’s a community with its own vibrant heartbeat, a place where a charming, historic downtown meets sprawling parks and a seriously tasty food scene.
Think of it as Missouri’s best-kept secret, a city that blends small-town friendliness with big-city amenities.
Get ready to discover a destination that will completely change how you see the Midwest. We’ve scoured the city to bring you the absolute best things to do in Lee’s Summit.
This list is your insider’s guide to experiencing the city like a true local. From lakeside adventures to downtown delights, your adventure starts right now.
1. Explore Downtown Lee’s Summit – Best Overall
If you only have time for one thing, make it Downtown. This isn’t your average main street. It’s a dynamic hub where history and modern energy collide. You can spend a whole afternoon just poking around the unique, independently-owned shops.
You’ll find everything from trendy clothing boutiques and quirky gift stores to artisanal home goods.
When you need a break, the array of eateries is astounding. Whether you’re craving a juicy burger, a fresh salad, or a perfectly crafted cup of coffee, the local restaurants have you covered.
The community often hosts events here, from seasonal festivals to live music, making the streets come alive. Exploring downtown is, without a doubt, the top thing to do in Lee’s Summit to feel the city’s pulse.
2. Spend a Day at Lake Jacomo – Best for Outdoor Adventure
This is where Lee’s Summit gets its natural beauty cred. Lake Jacomo is a massive 970-acre reservoir that serves as the city’s outdoor playground. You don’t just look at this lake; you get out on it.
The Missouri Department of Conservation manages a marina here where you can rent boats, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards for a day on the water.
Prefer to keep your feet on dry land? The park surrounding the lake is crisscrossed with miles of trails perfect for hiking, biking, and even horseback riding.
It’s a fantastic spot for birdwatching or trying to catch your dinner, as the lake is stocked with bass, catfish, and crappie. Your Lee’s Summit travel plans aren’t complete without some time at this incredible natural resource.
3. Discover the Free Trails at Legacy Park – Best for Families
Legacy Park is the city’s crown jewel for family fun. This place is huge, clocking in at over 800 acres, and it’s packed with possibilities.
The park features an amazing, state-of-the-art playground that will have kids burning off energy for hours. There are also multiple ponds, perfect for a lazy afternoon of fishing.
The paved trails are ideal for a safe family bike ride or a leisurely stroll with a stroller. You’ll often see folks flying kites on the open green spaces or having a family reunion at one of the many sheltered picnic areas.
It’s the perfect, no-cost answer to the question of what to do in Lee’s Summit with kids. This park is a total home run for a day out.
4. Catch a Show at the Lee’s Summit Summit Theatre – Best for a Cultural Night Out
For a dose of culture, look no further than the local theatre scene. The Summit Theatre Group is the heart of performing arts in the city.
This talented community group puts on a variety of productions throughout the year, from beloved musicals and classic plays to modern comedies.
The atmosphere is intimate and the talent is genuinely impressive. It’s a wonderful way to spend an evening, supporting local artists and being thoroughly entertained.
Checking their calendar and booking tickets is one of the best Lee’s Summit activities for a unique and memorable night out. You’ll be amazed at the quality of the performance right in your own backyard.
5. Get Caffeinated at a Local Coffee Shop – Best for a Morning Boost
Lee’s Summit has a thriving coffee culture that goes way beyond the big chains. The local coffee shops are community gathering spots, each with its own unique vibe.
Stepping into one of these places is an experience. You’re greeted by the rich aroma of freshly roasted beans and the friendly chatter of neighbors catching up.
These shops are passionate about their craft, offering everything from a perfect pour-over to creative seasonal lattes.
Many also feature cozy corners to work, live acoustic music on the weekends, and shelves stocked with pastries from local bakeries. Starting your day here is a quintessential local thing to do in Lee’s Summit.
6. Bike the Lee’s Summit Grand Prix Trail – Best for Cyclists
Calling all cycling enthusiasts! The Lee’s Summit Grand Prix is not just a race; it’s a network of trails that connects the city. This paved trail system is a dream for bikers, runners, and walkers of all skill levels.
It winds through beautiful neighborhoods, past parks, and alongside creeks, offering a safe and scenic route to explore.
You can hop on the trail for a quick 30-minute ride or plan a longer excursion that takes you across much of the city.
It’s a fantastic way to see the town from a different perspective and get some exercise at the same time. For active visitors, this is a top-tier pick for things to do in Lee’s Summit.
7. Enjoy a Meal in the Raintree Lake Area – Best for a Scenic Dinner
The Raintree Lake area offers a uniquely picturesque setting for a meal or an evening stroll.
This planned community is built around a serene, 40-acre lake, and the surrounding commercial area is filled with excellent dining options. Imagine enjoying a fantastic dinner on a patio overlooking the water as the sun sets.
The atmosphere here is consistently relaxed and upscale. It’s a popular spot for a date night or a special celebration. After you eat, you can take a walk across the charming bridges or simply enjoy the tranquil view.
Finding fun things to do in Lee’s Summit often leads to this beautiful and tasty destination.
8. Visit the Missouri Town 1855 – Best for a History Lesson
Step back in time at Missouri Town 1855, a living history museum located in nearby Fleming Park. This is not a static exhibit; it’s a fully functioning 19th-century village.
You’ll walk among more than 30 authentic buildings, including log cabins, a schoolhouse, and a general store, all carefully relocated from across the state.
Costumed interpreters are there, doing the daily chores of the period, from blacksmithing and cooking over an open hearth to tending to the heritage breed animals.
It’s an immersive and fascinating experience for all ages. Adding this to your list of Lee’s Summit activities provides a deep and engaging look at the region’s past.
9. Play a Round of Golf – Best for Sports Lovers
Lee’s Summit is a golfer’s paradise. The city and its surroundings are dotted with several pristine public golf courses that cater to players of every level.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro looking to challenge your skills or a beginner wanting to learn the game, you’ll find a course that fits the bill.
The well-maintained fairways, challenging water hazards, and beautifully landscaped greens make for a perfect day outside. Many courses also feature driving ranges and professional instructors.
A relaxing day on the links is one of the most popular things to do in Lee’s Summit for good reason.
10. Hunt for Treasures at the Antique Stores – Best for a Rainy Day
For those who love the thrill of the hunt, Lee’s Summit’s antique and vintage shops are a treasure trove. The downtown area and its outskirts are home to several multi-dealer malls and cozy boutiques filled with curated finds.
You could spend hours sifting through stacks of vintage records, admiring mid-century modern furniture, or looking for that perfect piece of jewelry.
Each store has its own personality, and you never know what unique item you might discover. It’s a wonderful way to connect with the past and find a one-of-a-kind souvenir.
This is a must for your Lee’s Summit travel itinerary if you love unique shopping experiences.
11. Cool Off at the Summit Waves – Best for Summer Fun
When the Missouri summer heat kicks in, everyone heads to Summit Waves. This isn’t your average community pool; it’s a full-blown aquatic park that promises a splashing good time for the whole family.
The park features a wave pool, multiple water slides, a lazy river, and a dedicated children’s play area with smaller slides and spray features.
It’s the perfect place to cool down, let loose, and make some summer memories. You can rent a cabana for the day, bring a picnic, or grab a snack from the concession stand.
For family fun, this is one of the top things to do in Lee’s Summit during the warm months.
12. Walk the Paths at Longview Lake – Best for Panoramic Views
Just a short drive from Lee’s Summit, Longview Lake offers another stunning outdoor escape. This massive 930-acre lake and its surrounding parkland are a favorite for sailing, fishing, and hiking.
The Longview Lake Beach is a popular spot for sunbathing and swimming during the summer season.
The real showstopper is the Longview Lake Memorial Grove, a beautiful, peaceful area with walking paths and plaques.
The views across the water are breathtaking, especially at sunset. It’s a fantastic spot for photography or a peaceful, reflective walk. Don’t miss this gorgeous nearby gem.
Conclusion
As you can see, Lee’s Summit is bursting with character and charm. It’s a city that invites you to slow down, explore its neighborhoods, and enjoy the simple pleasures of good food, beautiful nature, and friendly faces.
So what are you waiting for? The trails are waiting to be walked, the shops are waiting to be explored, and the memories are waiting to be made.
Grab your calendar, pick your favorites from this list, and start planning your trip to discover the very best of Lee’s Summit, Missouri, for yourself.