Let’s be real, when you think of a fantastic winter getaway, your mind probably doesn’t jump straight to Kansas first. But that’s the secret everyone else is missing out on.
Overland Park has this incredible knack for turning the chilly season into its own brand of warm, welcoming fun. Forget boring months stuck inside—this city is buzzing.
You’re about to discover a winter playground that perfectly blends cozy indoor discoveries with sparkling outdoor charm.
We’ve mapped out the 14 absolute best places to visit in Overland Park this winter, from high-tech adventures and world-class art to foodie havens and peaceful nature walks. Get ready to fill your calendar with experiences that are anything but ordinary. Let’s dive in.
1. Crack the Code at BRKTHROUGH’s Immersive Game Rooms
If your group is tired of the same old movie night, you need to book a session at BRKTHROUGH. This place is a total game-changer for things to do in Overland Park when it’s cold. Imagine stepping into a real-life video game where you’re the main character.
You and your team of 2-4 friends will tackle over 40 unique rooms, each packed with physical and mental puzzles that use some seriously cool technology. You’ll be climbing, thinking, and laughing as you try to beat the clock.
The best part? You don’t need to be a pro gamer to have a blast. Figuring it out as you go is all part of the fun. It’s the ultimate way to bond, burn energy, and create some hilarious inside jokes.
With sessions starting at $29.99 per person, it’s an investment in an unforgettable two-hour adventure you’ll be talking about for weeks. Make your reservation online to secure your spot in this 22,000-square-foot playground of puzzles.
2. Find Artistic Inspiration at The Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art
For a dose of culture that won’t cost you a dime, make your way to the Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art. Housed on the campus of Johnson County Community College, this museum is a stunning work of art in itself, designed by the architect behind Seoul’s 1988 Olympic Village.
Inside, you’ll find a vibrant and internationally acclaimed collection spread across 11 galleries. We’re talking bold paintings, striking sculptures, and innovative textiles from both established names and fresh new voices.
A winter visit here is like a warm jolt of creativity for your soul. You can wander freely, discover a new favorite artist, and let the colorful, thought-provoking works spark your imagination.
Best of all, admission is completely free, making it one of the most rewarding and affordable stops on your Overland Park winter tour. It’s a quiet escape that proves you don’t need to spend money to have a rich experience.
3. Laugh Out Loud at The New Theatre & Restaurant
Here’s a question: when was the last time you enjoyed a fantastic meal and a Broadway-quality show without having to drive across town? At The New Theatre & Restaurant, you get the whole package in one fabulous night out.
Voted the best dinner theatre in the country, this place knows how to put on a show. You’ll sit down to a delicious five-star American meal before the curtain rises on a professional musical or comedy, often starring faces you’ve seen on TV and film.
The energy in the room is contagious, making it a perfect choice for a special date night or a festive gathering with friends.
Tickets range from $47.75 to $73.75, and considering it includes both dinner and the performance, it’s a stellar value for a top-tier evening of entertainment. Booking your tickets online ahead of time is a must, as their popular shows fill up fast, especially during the winter season.
4. Glide Under the Stars at Chicken N Pickle’s Outdoor Rink
Embrace the crisp winter air with a classic seasonal activity: ice skating. Chicken N Pickle transforms into a winter wonderland with its open-air ice rink, offering one of the most charming places to visit in Overland Park for winter fun.
There’s something magical about lacing up your skates and gliding under the twinkling lights. Whether you’re a graceful pro or spend most of your time holding onto the wall, it’s all about the experience.
Skate rentals are just $4, and a pass to get on the ice is $11. For an extra dose of fun, try to visit on a Friday night when they have a DJ spinning tunes right on the ice.
After you’ve worked up an appetite, you can duck inside to their warm, industrial-chic space for some hearty food or to try your hand at indoor pickleball. It’s the perfect mix of outdoor adventure and indoor comfort.
5. Journey Through Time at the Johnson County Museum & Kidscape
Take a nostalgic trip without ever leaving the city at the Johnson County Museum. This is way more than a stuffy history exhibit. The star attraction is the 1950s All-Electric House, a perfectly preserved time capsule that shows off a futuristic, post-war vision of suburban life.
It’s fascinating to see how people dreamed of the future decades ago. But the fun doesn’t stop there. Connected to the museum is Kidscape, an incredible educational playground where kids can truly play through history.
They can serve up burgers in a 1950s diner, play teacher in a one-room schoolhouse, or tend to animals in a farmhouse setting.
With admission at $6 for adults, $5 for seniors, and $4 for kids, it’s an affordable, engaging, and warmly indoor spot that the whole family will enjoy. Keep an eye on their calendar for special free admission days throughout the year.
6. Play a Thousand Games at Cardboard Corner Cafe
Got a competitive crew? Cardboard Corner Cafe is your new favorite hangout. This isn’t just a cafe with a few board games; it’s a paradise for gamers with a library of over 1,000 board games that are completely free to play while you’re there.
The vibe is cozy and welcoming, perfect for a winter afternoon. You can grab a table, order some delicious comfort food (their specialty waffles are a must-try), and dive into a world of strategy, laughter, and friendly rivalry.
Whether you’re into quick fifteen-minute games or epic three-hour campaigns, there’s something for every mood and group. It’s the ideal way to unplug, connect face-to-face, and discover a new favorite game without spending a fortune.
This spot proves that some of the best winter memories are made around a table with good friends and great food.
7. Become the Player at ACTIVATE
Ready to feel like you’ve jumped inside your favorite arcade game? ACTIVATE is where it happens. This immersive entertainment center turns you and your friends into the players on the screen.
You’ll wear an electronic wristband as you move through dynamic game rooms, each with interactive technology that reacts to your every move.
You’ll be jumping, climbing, solving problems, and racing against the clock to rack up points. It’s a heart-pounding, laughter-filled workout for your body and brain. Perfect for a group outing or an active date idea, sessions start at $22.99 per person.
You’ll leave feeling energized and accomplished, with plenty of fun stories to tell. It’s a brilliant solution for burning off energy and beating the winter blues, making it a top contender for active winter attractions in Overland Park.
8. Stand Before a Titan at the Museum at Prairiefire
Prepare to be amazed before you even walk through the doors. The Museum at Prairiefire building is a spectacle, covered in dazzling, colorful glass designed with NASA technology. Inside, the wonders continue.
You’ll come face-to-face with the first complete T. rex skeleton ever assembled, a sight that will leave both kids and adults in awe. Then, head to the hands-on Discovery Room where you can dig for fossils and explore other interactive exhibits.
General admission is a very reasonable $5, and it’s free for veterans and active-duty military. It’s a compact, engaging museum that packs a big punch, making it a perfect educational and exciting stop during your winter exploration of Overland Park.
9. Unleash Your Inner Chef at The Culinary Center of Kansas City
Is there anything cozier than learning to cook something delicious on a cold day? The Culinary Center of Kansas City, located in a charmingly renovated historic building, is your gateway to becoming a kitchen hero.
They offer over 600 hands-on cooking classes each year, covering everything from perfecting knife skills and baking artisan bread to crafting homemade pasta. Many classes are designed for kids and families, too.
Under the guidance of expert instructors, you’ll learn new techniques, laugh with fellow food lovers, and best of all, enjoy the delicious meal you create together.
Classes typically range from $50 to $100, and they make for a uniquely fun and satisfying gift or a special treat for yourself. Booking your culinary adventure online is the first step to a tasty, warm, and memorable winter day.
10. Score Big at Dave & Buster’s
When you’re craving classic, no-fuss fun, Dave & Buster’s delivers every time. This massive entertainment hub is one of the region’s largest arcades, packed with a huge mix of games.
You can challenge your friends to classic Skee-Ball, dive into the latest virtual reality experiences, or try your luck at the newest video games. It’s loud, bright, and exactly the kind of energetic escape you need sometimes.
You play using a reloadable Power Card, and when you need a break, there’s a full-service restaurant right there to refuel. It’s the ultimate all-ages spot for a group that just wants to play games, share some fries, and have a reliably good time without any complicated planning.
11. Savor Plant-Based Perfection at Mud Pie Vegan Bakery
Finding amazing food that fits your lifestyle is a joy, and Mud Pie Vegan Bakery is an absolute treasure. This 100% vegan bakery and coffeehouse in Overland Park crafts treats so good, they’ll win over even the most devoted meat-eaters.
From flaky, savory pastries and sandwiches on house-made focaccia to decadent sweet baked goods, everything is plant-based. They also offer gluten-free options and feature a full coffee bar with their own dairy-free milks.
Stepping into this cozy spot for a late breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up is a delicious reminder that vegan food is anything but boring. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone seeking fantastic, compassionate food during their winter trip.
12. Explore the Icy Trails of the Indian Creek Hike & Bike Trail
Don’t underestimate the stark beauty of a winter landscape. Overland Park’s portion of the Indian Creek Hike & Bike Trail offers a peaceful, paved path that winds for 10 miles through serene woods and open green spaces.
Bundle up in your warmest gear, grab a thermos of hot cocoa, and take a brisk walk or a refreshing jog. The trail is often quiet in the winter, giving you space to breathe in the crisp air and enjoy the quiet beauty of the season.
It’s a completely free way to connect with nature, get some exercise, and clear your head. Spotting wildlife against the winter backdrop or listening to the crunch of frost under your feet can be a surprisingly magical part of your day.
13. Discover a World of Flavors at Strang Hall
When your group can’t decide what to eat, the answer is Strang Hall. This chef-driven food hall in the heart of downtown Overland Park is a vibrant culinary destination perfect for a winter outing.
Inside a modern, open space, you’ll find five unique kitchens serving up everything from gourmet burgers and Asian street food to artisanal pizzas and more. Everyone in your party can grab exactly what they’re craving and meet back at a communal table.
The atmosphere is lively and warm, making it a great spot to socialize and try a little bit of everything. It’s a tasty and efficient way to experience the local food scene in one stop.
14. Find a Sweet & Healthy Boost at Robeks
After all your adventures, you might be looking for a refreshing, healthy recharge. Robeks is the perfect pit stop. This juice and smoothie bar is founded on the mission of packing your vitamins into one delicious serving.
You can choose from an array of vibrant acai bowls, energizing smoothies, avocado toast, and even wheatgrass shots. Each item can be customized with boosts like protein or probiotics.
It’s the ideal place to grab a nutrient-packed breakfast before a day of exploration or a bright, healthy snack to keep you going. It proves that eating well on the go can be easy and absolutely delicious.
Conclusion
Your unforgettable winter adventure in Overland Park is clearly waiting for you.
From the high-tech thrills of BRKTHROUGH and ACTIVATE to the cultural gems like the Nerman Museum and the simple joy of a skate at Chicken N Pickle, this city is packed with personality and warmth. Don’t just dream about a fun winter getaway—make it happen.
Start planning your trip today. Visit the official Overland Park tourism website to check hours, book tickets for shows and classes, and map out your perfect itinerary. The best winter memories are just a visit away. What are you waiting for?