Spring into Fun

Leawood’s Parks, Recreation & Arts has a full season of activities planned.

By Jill Dutton

Photos courtesy City of Leawood

As the sights and sounds of spring fill the air, Leawood’s Parks, Recreation & Arts department is ready to fill residents’ need to get outside and explore.

Offering a diverse array of programs and events to engage the community, the entire family will enjoy a lineup of everything from nature programs and S.T.E.A.M. workshops to pickleball and golf. Here’s a closer look at what’s happening in Leawood this spring and summer.

Children ages 1 to 11 enjoy the For Peeps Sake! Egg Hunt in the spring.

Parks and Event Venues

Leawood’s parks and event venues are gearing up to welcome families, nature enthusiasts, and event organizers. Gezer Park and Ironwoods Park remain community favorites for outdoor gatherings and recreational activities. This year, Gezer Park will host the new “Chill n’ Churn” program, where participants learn to make homemade ice cream while enjoying the scenic beauty of the park.

Ironwoods Park, known for its sprawling landscapes and state-of-the-art facilities, continues to be a hub for outdoor adventures. In addition to its playgrounds, walking trails, and shelters, the park is premiering an introductory kayaking class designed to help youngsters and beginners feel comfortable on the water.

DON’T MISS

Chill n’ Churn | Friday, June 27

Create your own ice cream from scratch with simple ingredients using the baggie method and a traditional churn. You’ll walk away with your own homemade ice cream! Ages 8 and up.

Youngsters 7 through 12 challenge themselves in the annual Ironwoods Challenge Course Scavenger Hunt.

Ironwoods Challenge Course

For those seeking adventure and team-building experiences, the Ironwoods Challenge Course offers a variety of programs tailored to youth, adults, and corporate groups. This spring, participants can enjoy a mix of high-ropes challenges, zip lining, and low-ropes activities that help promote teamwork, confidence, and fun in a natural setting.

DON’T MISS

Science in Motion

Four themed programs are filled with a variety of science experiments, team building, and climbing.

April 28: Gravity | May 5: Friction | May 12: Simple Tools | May 19: Health

Having fun at nature camp at Prairie Oak Nature Center.

Programs at Prairie Oak Nature Center

The Prairie Oak Nature Center is a trove of hands-on learning opportunities for nature lovers of all ages. Spring programs include guided nature hikes, birdwatching workshops, and wildlife-themed educational events. Families can explore the beauty of Leawood’s natural surroundings while learning about local flora and fauna from knowledgeable guides.

DON’T MISS

Earth Day at the Prairie Oak Nature Center | Friday, April 25

Get a free tree seedling, enjoy earthy crafts, and celebrate Earth Day! Stop by between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. for this free, all-ages event. No registration required.

Lifeguards are ready for action at the Leawood Aquatic Center.

Leawood Aquatic Center

As temperatures rise, the Leawood Aquatic Center will open for family fun and aquatic adventures. With water slides, lap lanes, and a zero-depth entry pool, the center is perfect for cooling off during hot days. Swim lessons and water fitness classes will also be offered to help residents make a splash this season.

DON’T MISS

Opening Day | Saturday, May 24

Youth and Adult Classes

Leawood offers an impressive range of youth and adult classes designed to foster creativity, learning, and skill-building. Youngsters can dive into creativity with various programs, and adults can explore fitness classes, arts workshops, and educational sessions tailored to their interests.

Beth Breitenstein, strategic communications director for the City of Leawood, shared her excitement about the department’s offerings:

“This spring and summer, Leawood Parks, Recreation & Arts is bringing an exciting lineup of activities for all ages, from hands-on nature programs to innovative S.T.E.A.M. workshops. Kids can dive into creativity and learn with our Snapology S.T.E.A.M. programs, featuring LEGO robotics, Minecraft building, and Pokémon-themed engineering.

“And just in time for summer fun, a brand-new Tomahawk playground is opening. Whether it’s science, sports, or outdoor exploration, Leawood has something for everyone to make this season unforgettable.”

Who’s ready for spring soccer?

Outdoor Recreation and Fitness

Leawood’s emphasis on outdoor recreation continues with programs that cater to all fitness levels. The city is introducing a new all-ages walking club to encourage residents to stay active while enjoying the beauty of local trails. Pickleball’s rising popularity makes Leawood’s workshops for beginning and intermediate players a must-try for anyone curious about the sport or looking to sharpen their skills.

Special Events and Arts Programs

Leawood’s dedication to the arts shines through its robust lineup of events and programs. This spring, residents can enjoy art exhibits, performances, and workshops that showcase local talent. Seasonal festivals and community events will also bring people together to celebrate the vibrancy of Leawood.

DON’T MISS

Leawood’s 4th of July Celebration in the Park | Friday, July 4

Celebrate the 4th at City Park. Enjoy fun and free summer activities for the whole family, and, of course, fireworks! Check www.leawood.org for more details as the event draws closer.

The Fourth of July Celebration offers plenty of summer fun for the whole family.

Looking Ahead

Leawood is gearing up for a summer of unforgettable experiences, with new offerings and improvements to its parks and facilities. One of the most anticipated additions is the opening of the brand-new Tomahawk playground, which promises to be a hit with kids and families.

Whether you’re looking to explore the outdoors, learn a new skill, or simply have fun, Leawood’s Parks, Recreation & Arts department has you covered. From the Prairie Oak Nature Center’s educational programs to the innovative Snapology S.T.E.A.M. workshops and the exciting new playground, this season is packed with opportunities to create lasting memories.

Grab your calendar and start planning your spring and summer adventures in Leawood. With activities for all ages and interests, there’s no better time to discover everything this community has to offer.

For More

Leawood’s Parks, Recreation & Arts Main office

4800 Town Center Drive, 1st Floor – West

Leawood, KS 66211

913-663-9151 (main)

913-663-9154 (registration)

www.leawood.org/204/Parks-Recreation-Arts

City Park | 10601 Lee Blvd.

Gezer Park | 3251 Mission Road

Ironhorse Golf Course | 15400 Mission Road | 913-685-4653

Ironwoods Park | 1471 Mission Road

Leawood Aquatic Center | 101601 Lee Blvd.

Prairie Oak Nature Center | 14701 Mission Road | 913-696-7770

Tomahawk Park | 3951 W. 119th St.

Practice your “boot scootin’ boogie” during one of the musical events put on by the Leawood Parks, Recreation & Arts department.