Playground

Locals know this Olathe spot is worth the trip, especially if you’ve got kids who need to burn off energy and adults who want something to do other than just watch. The fishing pond is the real draw — bring a rod if you’ve got one, or just walk the loop around it a few times while the little ones play. There’s a picnic shelter with tables, so it actually makes sense for a family lunch or a low-key birthday gathering without much planning. Don’t forget there’s a water fountain on-site, which sounds minor until it’s July in Kansas and you forgot water bottles.