Are you visiting the KC and Overland Park areas this summertime? If so, there are so many beautiful, interesting, and fun things to do and see in the area. As long as you’re here from out of town pursuing fertility diagnosis or treatment, we encourage you to get out of your hotel room or AirBnB rental and check out some of our favorite things to do.

Summertime Relaxation & Adventures in KC

Our team of fertility specialists, nurses, embryologists, and staff work hard. Still, we also make it a point to get out of the office and take advantage of everything this area offers during the summer season.

Here are some of our favorites:

1. Head to one of the best farmer’s markets in the nation

That’s right! The Overland Park farmer’s market has provided fresh produce and many other locally farmed, made, produced, and procured goods for more than 40 years. We are proud to claim that the OP Farmer’s Market was ranked #1 in the nation in 2022 – but that came as no surprise to OP market regulars.

You can visit the Farmer’s Market any Saturday, from 7:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., in and around the Farmer’s Market Pavillion, located at 7050 Marty Street. Check out the Vendors List ahead of time to plan your purchases. Farmer’s Markets are one of the best ways to keep fresh, seasonal, nutritious produce in your fridge and discover fruits and veggies you wouldn’t have known about otherwise.

2. The Arboretum and Botanical Gardens

Our Arboretum and Botanical Gardens span over 300 beautifully cultivated acres, containing more than 17,000 different plant species. We recommend checking in at the LongHouse Visitor Center, where you can learn more about the gardens and obtain a map of the various landscapes, features, and hiking trails.

You’re bound to feel nourished and more relaxed by the time you make your way back home. The Arboretum and Botanical Gardens are open seven days a week, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. We also encourage patients to visit the Events page as they host a range of special and seasonally-themed events throughout the year.

3. Take a bike, walk, or Segway tour

There are several well-respected companies offering bicycle or Segway tours throughout Overland Park. Some of the most popular are:

• KC Bike & Segway Tours
• Urban Hikes KC
• RideKCBike (for those who feel independent and would rather strike out on their own on an electric assist or classic pedal bike).

Check-in with your fertility specialist to make sure, but 99% of the time walking, hiking, and biking are all considered safe forms of exercise during fertility treatments.

4. Enjoy free live music at the Prairiefire Summer Music Series

Prairiefire is located in the Entertainment District. Every Thursday night, from the end of May through the end of August, they feature some of KC’s favorite bands – for free! So, hit one of the great restaurants along the way, grab some food and a mocktail, and then enjoy the live music.

5. Cool off at Lake Olathe Park

It gets hot around here during the summer months, so we pack a picnic and head to Lake Olathe Park whenever possible. Lake Olathe Park features a 170-acre lake surrounded by a 258-acre community park. The Swim Beach features locker rooms, outdoor showers, vending machines, and a floating obstacle course – called The Aqua Park (the Aqua Park requires a $10/hour fee).

You can also rent canoes, kayaks, paddle boards or pedal boats at the Marina. Coolers with food and non-alcoholic beverages – beach chairs and umbrellas are also welcome. The Lake is open to the public from 6:00 a.m. to 10 p.m. However, the Spraypark and Aqua Park have different hours, so check the website ahead of time so you don’t miss out.

6. Treat yourself to a movie under the stars

The KC area has a handful of different options if you’re interested in a Cinema Under the Stars experience. These include:

• WeekEnder
• Backyard Movie Series
• Off the Wall Film Series (this year’s theme is  “Feline Throughline” theme brings a lineup of films featuring cats in non-starring (but important and endearing!) roles.
• Movies in the Park

All of the above require bringing your own chair, blanket, and otherwise comfy setup. If you’ve traveled from further away and don’t have that kind of equipment, head to the Boulevard Drive-In, where you can watch movies from the comfort of your own car – complete with an old-school snack bar with all your favorite movie munchies.

Looking For Something Different? Ask RRC For Recommendations

Do you have a particular interest, hobby, or place you’d like to visit? The Reproductive Resource Center team is happy to help our patients in any way we can, including providing personalized recommendations for things to do in the area. Contact us with questions or interests, and we’ll point you in the right direction.