Roeland Park KansasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Roeland Park, Kansas.
1. Buena Vista Art Studio
CREATIVE EXPRESSION HUB
Buena Vista Art Studio is a popular creative space in Roeland Park where visitors can explore their artistic talents. The studio offers various classes and workshops for all skill levels, making art accessible to everyone in the community. It serves as a cultural cornerstone that highlights Roeland Park's commitment to supporting the arts.
2. Roeland Park Sports Dome
INDOOR ATHLETIC FACILITY
Roeland Park Sports Dome is a modern indoor athletic facility that provides year-round opportunities for sports and recreation. The dome features multiple courts and fields for various activities including basketball, volleyball, soccer, and more. It serves as a community gathering place for athletes of all ages and abilities.
3. Cedar Roe Library
KNOWLEDGE AND COMMUNITY CENTER
Cedar Roe Library is a vital community resource offering much more than just books. The library features modern computer equipment, printing services, and spacious meeting areas for public use. It regularly hosts community events and educational programs for residents of all ages.
4. Roeland Park Community Garden
URBAN GREEN SPACE
Roeland Park Community Garden provides residents with a shared space to grow their own produce and flowers. The garden fosters community connections while promoting sustainable living practices and environmental education. It offers a peaceful green retreat within the urban landscape of Roeland Park.
5. George R. Schlegel Gallery
LOCAL ART SHOWCASE
The George R. Schlegel Gallery showcases the works of local artists in a dedicated community art space. The gallery hosts rotating exhibitions that highlight diverse artistic talents and mediums from across the region. It represents Roeland Park's commitment to public art and cultural enrichment.
6. Washita Station Historic Site
STRANG LINE HISTORY
Washita Station was once an important stop on the Strang Line, a historic interurban railway completed in 1906. This historic site commemorates entrepreneur William Strang's contribution to the area's development and transportation infrastructure. Visitors can learn about the railway's significant role in connecting Roeland Park to the broader Kansas City region.
7. Country Club Plaza
UPSCALE SHOPPING DISTRICT
Country Club Plaza is an elegant outdoor shopping district just minutes from Roeland Park featuring Spanish-inspired architecture. The Plaza offers upscale shopping, diverse dining options, and beautiful fountains throughout the 15-block district. Especially stunning during the holiday season when illuminated with thousands of lights, it remains one of the region's premier shopping and entertainment destinations year-round.
8. Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
WORLD-CLASS ART COLLECTION
The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art houses an exceptional collection of artwork spanning 5,000 years of human creativity. Its iconic Shuttlecocks sculpture installation and extensive Asian art collection are internationally renowned attractions. The museum offers free admission and its surrounding sculpture park provides a perfect setting for art appreciation in a beautiful outdoor environment.
9. National WWI Museum and Memorial
HISTORICAL TRIBUTE MONUMENT
The National WWI Museum and Memorial stands as America's official museum dedicated to preserving the history and experiences of the First World War. The impressive Liberty Memorial tower offers panoramic views of Kansas City from its observation deck. The museum houses one of the world's most comprehensive collections of WWI artifacts, interactive exhibits, and educational resources.
10. Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que
LEGENDARY GAS STATION BBQ
Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que, originally called Oklahoma Joe's, operates from a converted gas station and serves some of the most acclaimed barbecue in America. Their signature Z-Man sandwich and ribs have earned national recognition from food critics and celebrities alike. The original gas station location creates a unique dining atmosphere that complements the outstanding Kansas City-style barbecue.
11. Johnson County Museum
REGIONAL HISTORY SHOWCASE
The Johnson County Museum chronicles the rich history and development of the region through engaging exhibits and artifacts. The museum features a 1950s All-Electric House, showcasing mid-century modern living and technology. Interactive displays bring local history to life for visitors of all ages, making it an educational destination close to Roeland Park.
12. Powell Gardens
BOTANICAL PARADISE NEARBY
Powell Gardens encompasses 970 acres of breathtaking botanical landscapes within a short drive from Roeland Park. The gardens feature distinct themed areas including a perennial garden, rock and waterfall garden, and an edible landscape. Seasonal festivals and educational programs make this a year-round destination for nature lovers and photographers.
13. Kansas City Zoo
WILDLIFE CONSERVATION CENTER
The Kansas City Zoo houses over 1,700 animals across a sprawling 202-acre park that recreates diverse global habitats. Visitors can explore the African plains, Australia, and the tropical rainforest through immersive exhibits designed for animal welfare. The zoo's conservation efforts and educational programs highlight its commitment to wildlife preservation and environmental stewardship.
14. Union Station
HISTORIC TRANSPORTATION HUB
Union Station is a magnificent Beaux-Arts style railroad station that has been transformed into a cultural destination featuring museums, theaters, and restaurants. The restored Grand Hall with its 95-foot ceiling and massive chandeliers showcases the building's architectural grandeur. Science City, the station's interactive science center, makes this historic landmark especially appealing to families visiting the Kansas City area.
15. Shawnee Mission Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
Shawnee Mission Park spans 1,600 acres, making it the largest park in Johnson County and a popular outdoor destination near Roeland Park. The park features a 120-acre lake for fishing and boating, plus miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails through diverse natural habitats. Additional amenities include picnic areas, an off-leash dog area, an archery range, and seasonal beach access for swimming.