By: Justin Wieners
I have loved the charm of Downtown Overland Park (sometimes called “Old Overland Park” or “DTOP”) since we moved into the neighborhood 10+ years ago. There are dozens of locally-owned businesses, shops, and restaurants within just a few blocks – and right in the middle sits the “best farmer’s market in Kansas.” (I’m not sure if this is a self-proclaimed title, but I wouldn’t argue.)
Now our family owns two businesses in the area (the bookstore and my design studio, which is just around the corner) and our kids go to school down the street. What I’m saying is: I’ve had plenty of time to research today’s topic: The Perfect Day in Overland Park.
What I’m saying is: I’ve had plenty of time to research today’s topic: The Perfect Day in Overland Park.
I have spent many nights watching the Royals at The Peanut while eating the best wings in KC. And I’ve spent many lunch breaks popping in to my favorite spots along 80th Street and Santa Fe.
So if you’re in town, particularly on a Saturday, here’s where you should go:
Morning
O.P. Farmer’s Market - Grab some fresh produce, farm-to-table food, and a fresh bouquet of flowers at the beautiful new Clock Tower Landing (Opening June 2026). The farmer’s market has been a staple since 1991, and though it has been hosted down the street for a few years during construction, the brand new pavilion is sure to level-up what was already our family’s favorite weekend activity. Fave vendors: Luca Bagel, Zero Zero Pasta, Yoli Tortilleria, and Happy Tummy Empanadas.
Homer’s Coffee House - Homer’s is an Overland Park O.G. In been in business for over 25 years, they have delicious homemade baked goods, and their team of good humans will remember that you like the corner piece of the cinnamon roll coffee cake. (This may seem oddly specific, but there are Other Local Spots that can’t be bothered to recognize me even when I visit twice in the same day.)
Red Kitchen - Alejandra makes the best breakfast burrito you’ve ever had. I am not exaggerating. They open up the garage doors when it’s warm and you can eat your crispy, yummy burrito on the sidewalk and watch the passers-by.
Lunch
Hummus and Pita - My favorite lunch spot in town. This place has delicious gyros, falafel, and their signature app, “The Real Baba.” It’s right next to Thompson Park so, on a nice day, they will slide your order through the window and you can eat outside at the picnic tables.
Tiki Taco - I know I said Hummus and Pita is my favorite, but I still eat Tiki Taco at least once a week. Preferably with a friend so we can get a pitcher of margs – it is a very high-quality margarita. Tiki Taco also has, as the kids would say, “immaculate vibes.” The interior design is cool as h*ck… my dad-brain can’t even comprehend how much they spent on tilework. Try the Thai Fried Chicken Taco.
Thompson Park - Bring the fam to the park for a quick loop in the sun or to play at the playground. In the summer, the Thompson Park stage hosts events like neighborhood concerts, family movie night, and the annual O.P. car show.
Flying Cow Gelato - This is the perfect day so we’re getting ice cream. Plus, every summer we partner with Flying Cow on our very own Book It! program, so if you read 5 books you could get your ice cream for free 😉
Afternoon Shopping
Monstera’s Books - Our family-owned bookstore features books, plants, records, gifts, stationery, merch, and more. We also have a fun kids section with legos and magna-tiles to keep little ones busy while you browse.
Crafted Fair Trade - A fun shop with handcrafted clothing, jewelry, home décor, and other goods by artisans and farmers in more than 40 countries.
Storyteller Provisions - Very cool vintage shop with a curated mix of clothing, secondhand pieces, and thoughtfully sourced finds.
Annie Austen - Affordable, tarnish resistant, size-inclusive jewelry made in Kansas City. Everything in the store is under $30!
Dinner
Strang Hall - A large food hall with several different food options: tacos, sushi, burgers, pizza, pasta, something for everyone. You can play games, let the kids roam, and enjoy the huge outdoor patio. Named after the founder of Overland Park, railroad magnate William Strang.
Vintage 78 - One of the largest selections of wine-by-the-glass in the Midwest, serving flights as well as charcuterie and artisan cheese.
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I hope you enjoyed the tour! We’re proud to be a part of such a vibrant community of lovely people and lovely businesses. Tell them Monstera’s sent you! You won’t get a discount or anything, but maybe it will make them smile 😀
More Overland Park favorites:
- Take the kids to an art activity at Hue Creative Studio
- Delicious brunch at AR’s Breakfast and Brunch
- Shop for gifts at The General Store
- Grab a slice as big as your face at Buffalo State Pizza
- Shop interesting olive oils at The Tasteful Olive
- Get gourmet popcorn and ice cream at Popculture
- Good old fashioned pie at The Upper Crust
- Pottery classes at Driftwood Ceramics
- Browse sweet treats at Kate Smith Soiree
- Thai food and tropical cocktails at Lulu’s Thai Noodle Shop
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Justin is co-owner and "marketing guy" at Monstera's. Follow his work on Instagram at @justinwieners and @hotdogdesignstudio. You can usually find him dropping off packages, pricing old books, or chatting behind the counter with neighbors on Saturdays.
