In 2020, the Niche ranking site named Overland Park one of the nation's best places to raise a family. WalletHub also chose it as one of the happiest cities in America. These awards don't come as a shock to those familiar with the city. In 1905, William B. Strang Jr. founded Overland Park with a vision for a vibrant community with active members and plenty of recreation. Today, the city more than lives up to Strang's expectations. It has over 70 public parks, including Indian Creek Trail, with biking and hiking trails. Overland Park also has a well-regarded K-12 education system, mostly within Blue Valley School District. Over 195,000 people call this shining example of a city home.

As Niche noted, Overland Park is an excellent place for families with children. One reason is the Deanna Rose Children's Farmstead. At the farm, kids of all ages interact with farm animals and enjoy top-notch play areas. Families can also explore nature at the Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens. Here, you can walk trails through beautiful forests and flower gardens. Some trails are even pet-friendly. Besides natural attractions suited for children, Overland Park is home to the enormous American Girl Kansas City store. The store often hosts fun activities and special events.

Overland Park has plenty of fun for grown people, too. History buffs will feel at home amidst the city's many museums. The Johnson County Museum houses award-winning hands-on exhibits all about local history. Then there is the Museum at Prairiefire, which features natural history artifacts, such as fossils. The city also has its share of historic landmarks, including the Overland Park 9/11 Memorial and the Korean War Veterans Memorial. Local art and culture enthusiasts can enjoy the diverse collections at the Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art and the Johnson County Arts and Heritage Center.

Aside from museums and memorials, Overland Park has a bustling shopping scene. Every Saturday, the Overland Park Farmers Market takes over the downtown area. At this open-air street market, local vendors sell fresh farm-to-table produce and homemade wares. The city also has a classic, sprawling indoor shopping mall, the Oak Park Mall, on 95th street. Antique lovers can have fun exploring Petersons Antiques, which has two floors full of repaired and restored pieces.

Overland Park could never earn its spot as one of the "happiest cities in America" without some good eats. The city has its own branch of Kansas City's famous Jack Stack Barbecue. Other barbecue joints that smoke meats in the region's signature style include Q39 South and Brobeck's Barbeque. Overland Park isn't all about barbecue, though. It also boasts fine French dining at Cafe Provence and upscale dishes from Bristol Seafood Grill.

Most people who live in Overland Park agree that it's an excellent place to live. It has good food, fun activities, and the benefit of being close to Kansas City. With LawnStarter's help, your home's landscaping can live up to that high Overland Park standard.

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