Things to Do in Lee's Summit: Off The Beaten Path And Beyond the Surface

Lee's Summit, Missouri, is a captivating city that offers a wide range of exciting activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. From its vibrant downtown area to its stunning parks and nature areas, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this hidden gem of the Midwest. Whether you're a foodie, an outdoor enthusiast, or a history buff, Lee's Summit has it all. In this article, we will explore the top things to do in Lee's Summit, highlighting its unique features and must-visit destinations.

Downtown Lee's Summit: Where History Meets Art

One of the best places to start your journey in Lee's Summit is Downtown Lee's Summit Main Street. This historic district is home to charming architecture, unique shops, and a vibrant art scene. Take a stroll down the main street and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture. Admire the beautiful public art installations, such as Silica Rose, Sun to Moon Rotation, Raptor, Great Neighborhood Mural, and Wired.

After exploring the art scene, head to the Downtown Lee's Summit Farmers Market to experience the local flavors. This bustling market offers a wide variety of fresh vegetables, fruits, produce, flowers, baked goodies, meat, clothing, jewelry, and more. Don't miss the chance to indulge in the local cuisine and support the community.

Sunset Trails Stables: A Horseback Adventure

If you're looking for a unique outdoor experience, look no further than Sunset Trails Stables. This horseback riding facility offers a range of activities for both beginners and experienced riders. Take a guided trail ride and explore the picturesque landscapes surrounding Lee's Summit. Celebrate a special occasion or team building event with their mobile petting zoo & pony rides. Let your kids join the camp and learn about horsemanship in a safe and fun environment.

For nature lovers, Sunset Trail is a must-visit destination. This scenic trail offers breathtaking views of the suburban Kansas City area. Whether you're hiking or horseback riding, you'll be immersed in the beauty of nature. Sunset Trails Stables provides year-round trail riding options to suit your needs, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all.

Legacy Park: Where Recreation Meets Relaxation

For those seeking both indoor and outdoor activities, Legacy Park is the perfect destination. Spanning over 700 acres, this community park offers a wide range of recreational facilities and amenities. Get your heart pumping at the gymnasium or cardio aerobics rooms, or enjoy a leisurely walk on the raised walking tracks. With a 22-acre lake, you can also rent kayaks, canoes, and bicycles for a relaxing day on the water.

If you're visiting with family, Legacy Park has something for everyone. Kids will love the extravagant indoor pool with water slides and spray toys. The park also features numerous playgrounds and picnic areas, perfect for a fun-filled day with loved ones. Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, Legacy Park has it all.

King’s Church: A Family Favorite

No visit to Lee's Summit is complete without attending King’s Church as a family. There is something for every age group. Services are on Sundays at 9 & 10:45 am and everyone is welcome. Come grab a donut or just hang out and have a coffee. You will leave this nondenominational church feeling refreshed and recentered. 

Bryan C. Pottberg Park: A Serene Retreat

Bryan C. Pottberg Park is a hidden gem in Lee's Summit that offers a serene retreat for nature lovers. This park is dedicated to the memory of Bryan C. Pottberg, a firefighter who lost his life during a rescue training exercise. Take a walk through the park and admire the memorial statue in his honor. With its playgrounds, paved trails, greenery, and picnic areas, Bryan C. Pottberg Park is the perfect place for a peaceful afternoon stroll with your loved ones.

Winterset Nature Area: A Paradise for Outdoor Enthusiasts

Nature enthusiasts will find paradise at Winterset Nature Area. This beautiful 10.2-acre park is home to a variety of wildlife and native flowers. Explore the woodchip trail that winds through wildflowers, trees, waterfalls, and wooden bridges. Spot Missouri's native flowers like Rose turtlehead, Yellow coneflower, Cardinal flower, and Purple beardtongue. With its hiking and running trails, Winterset Nature Area offers endless opportunities for outdoor activities and exploration.

Lee's Summit History Museum: Unveiling the Past

Step back in time and uncover the history of Lee's Summit at the Lee's Summit History Museum. This local museum showcases the city's rich heritage through exhibits featuring artifacts, photographs, paintings, maps, and more. Take a self-guided tour and learn about the fascinating stories of Lee's Summit's past. Don't forget to visit the museum's gift shop, where you can find unique souvenirs to commemorate your visit.

Charles David Hartman Memorial Park: A Natural Wonder

For a truly immersive nature experience, visit Charles David Hartman Memorial Park. This park is renowned for its limestone bluffs, cliffs, boulders, and a majestic waterfall. Follow the trail that winds along the stream and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. The park's northern portion offers a serene escape with its forested groves and grasslands. Whether you're hiking or simply enjoying the scenery, Charles David Hartman Memorial Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers.

Diametric Brewing Company: Cheers to Craft Beer

For beer enthusiasts, a visit to Diametric Brewing Company is a must. This relatively new brewery has quickly gained a reputation for its exquisite craft beers. From traditional styles to fruit-flavored creations, their beer selection is sure to impress. Enjoy a refreshing pint of craft beer and soak in the laid-back atmosphere. Diametric Brewing Company is also a great place to meet the locals and immerse yourself in the vibrant community of Lee's Summit.

Summitwoods Crossing Shopping Center: Retail Therapy at Its Best

If you're in the mood for some retail therapy, look no further than Summitwoods Crossing Shopping Center. This lively open-air shopping center is a shopper's paradise, offering a wide range of stores and dining options. From mainstream brands like Best Buy and Target to specialty shops and local boutiques, you'll find everything you need and more. Take a leisurely stroll through the center and discover hidden gems along the way.

Summit Fair Shopping Mall: Shop in Style

For a world-class shopping experience, head to Summit Fair Shopping Mall. With over 500,000 square feet of retail space, this mall offers an extensive selection of stores and dining options. Whether you're searching for high-end fashion or unique finds, Summit Fair has it all. After a day of shopping, pamper yourself at the mall's spa or enjoy a delicious meal at one of the many restaurants. Summit Fair Shopping Mall is the perfect place to indulge in a day of luxury and style.

Blue Springs Lake Campground: Nature's Playground

For outdoor enthusiasts, a visit to Blue Springs Lake Campground is a must. This expansive campground and reservoir offer a wide range of outdoor activities and recreational opportunities. Whether you're camping, fishing, boating, or simply enjoying a picnic by the lake, Blue Springs Lake has it all. With its stunning natural landscapes and abundance of wildlife, this campground is a true nature lover's paradise.

Rock Island Trailhead Hartman Park: A Path Through History

For history and outdoor enthusiasts alike, Rock Island Trailhead Hartman Park is a must-visit destination. This former rail line offers a scenic foot and bicycle path that stretches from Lee's Summit to Kansas City. Take a leisurely stroll or bike ride along the trail and immerse yourself in the history of the area. As you pass by suburbs and parkland, you'll uncover the stories of the past and enjoy the beauty of the present.

Miller J. Fields Park: Family Fun in the Outdoors

For a fun-filled afternoon with the family, head to Miller J. Fields Park. This family-friendly park offers a range of activities and amenities for all ages. Kids will love the water splash park, playgrounds, and sports facilities. Take a hike on one of the well-maintained trails or simply relax on one of the park's benches. Miller J. Fields Park is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy quality time with loved ones.

Fringe Beerworks: Raise a Glass to Craft Beer

If you're a craft beer enthusiast, a visit to Fringe Beerworks is a must. This local brewery offers a diverse selection of finely crafted beers. From traditional styles to unique flavors, their beer menu has something for everyone. Sit back, relax, and enjoy a pint of their exquisite craft beer. Fringe Beerworks is also a great place to meet locals and immerse yourself in the vibrant beer culture of Lee's Summit.

Third Street Social: A Culinary Delight

For a taste of American classics with a modern twist, dine at Third Street Social. This top-rated restaurant in Lee's Summit offers a menu filled with mouthwatering dishes. From meatloaf to burgers, steaks to fish n' chips, their menu has something to satisfy every craving. Don't forget to try their delicious sides, such as mac & cheese and mashed potatoes. With its warm and inviting atmosphere, Third Street Social is the perfect place to enjoy a memorable dining experience.

Lowenstein Park: A Tranquil Oasis

Located near Summitwoods Crossing Shopping Center, Lowenstein Park is a tranquil oasis in the heart of Lee's Summit. This 18-acre park offers well-maintained green spaces, picnic shelters, playgrounds, and a walking trail. Take a break from shopping and enjoy a leisurely walk or simply relax on one of the park's benches. Don't miss the Children's Memorial Butterfly Garden, where you can admire dozens of butterfly species. Lowenstein Park is the perfect place to recharge and reconnect with nature.

Longview Lake: Nature's Playground

For endless outdoor activities and relaxation, visit Longview Lake. This expansive lake and park offer a range of recreational opportunities for visitors of all ages. Explore the four-mile nature trail or take a refreshing swim in the lake. Rent a boat or enjoy a picnic by the water's edge. Longview Lake also features a family picnic area, fishing docks, a horse park, and a public campground. Whether you're seeking adventure or tranquility, this place has it all.

B&B Theatres Lee's Summit New Longview 7: Movie Magic

Take a break from exploring and catch the latest Hollywood flick at B&B Theatres Lee's Summit New Longview 7. This local theater offers an intimate atmosphere and state-of-the-art surround sound system, ensuring an immersive movie-watching experience. From blockbuster hits to independent films, their diverse movie selection is sure to please all movie lovers. B&B Theatres also hosts musical concerts and stage plays, adding to the entertainment options in Lee's Summit.

James A. Reed Memorial Wildlife Area: A Hunter's Paradise

For outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy hunting, James A. Reed Memorial Wildlife Area is a must-visit destination. This expansive wildlife area offers a variety of hunting opportunities, including deer, rabbits, squirrels, and doves. Explore the lakes, grasslands, and forests as you engage in your favorite hunting activities. James A. Reed Memorial Wildlife Area also features a picnic area and a shooting range, providing additional recreational options for visitors of all ages.

Missouri Town Living History Museum: Stepping into the Past

Experience life in the 19th century at the Missouri Town Living History Museum. This unique museum allows visitors to step back in time and witness the daily life of early settlers in the area. Explore over 25 historic buildings, each filled with period furnishings and tools. Learn about the local lifestyle and traditions through heirloom crops and heritage breed livestock. Missouri Town Living History Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the past and is a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

Summit Waves: Splash into Fun

For a day of aquatic fun, head to Summit Waves. This water park and entertainment complex offers a wide range of attractions for the whole family. Float along the Action River, a 904-foot lazy river, or challenge yourself in the six-lane lap pool. Kids will love the water slides, playground, and zero-depth pool. Summit Waves ensures a safe and enjoyable experience with lifeguards and well-maintained facilities. Don't miss out on the occasional events and special evenings held at the park.

Summit Lanes: Roll a Strike

Gather your friends and family for a friendly game of bowling at Summit Lanes. This family-owned bowling center has been a local favorite for over half a century. Challenge each other to a friendly competition and aim for a strike. Celebrate birthdays or special occasions in their party function room. If you work up an appetite, grab a bite at the snack bar and refuel for more bowling fun.

Potter's Haven Art Workshop: Unleash Your Creativity

Unleash your creativity at Potter's Haven Art Workshop. This art studio offers a unique experience where you can choose a ceramic item to paint and customize. After glazing your masterpiece, it will be fired in their kiln and ready for pick up. Whether you're looking for a fun family activity or a creative outing with friends, Potter's Haven Art Workshop provides a welcoming environment for artists of all ages. They also offer a party function room for special occasions.

Heavenly Olive Oils & Vinegars: Elevate Your Culinary Creations

Spice up your kitchen with the finest olive oils and vinegars from Heavenly Olive Oils & Vinegars. This specialty store offers a wide selection of high-quality oils and vinegars to elevate your culinary creations. Choose from over 50 flavors and experiment with different combinations for cooking and salad dressings. Heavenly Olive Oils & Vinegars also offers a range of gourmet foods, including spreads, salsas, handmade chocolate, and more. Indulge in the flavors of Lee's Summit and take home a taste of the city

Final Thoughts: Discover the Allure of Lee's Summit

Lee's Summit, Missouri, is a city full of fun and unique experiences waiting to be discovered.  Its vibrant downtown area, stunning parks and attractions, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're exploring the city's history, indulging in local cuisine, or immersing yourself in nature, Lee's Summit has it all. So pack your bags, put on your walking shoes, and embark on an unforgettable journey through the captivating city of Lee's Summit.