5-Day Olathe Adventure: Culture, Dining, and Fun
Discover the beauty and charm of Olathe!
22 April 2023
Sophie Watts
US Travel Writer
Olathe, located in the heart of Kansas, is a vibrant city where tourists can experience a mix of outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, and world-class dining options. Visitors can explore the Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm Historic Site to learn about the region's past, or head to the Olathe Community Center for some recreational activities. With a variety of events and festivals taking place throughout the year, Olathe is a must-visit destination for any traveler looking to experience the authentic American Midwest charm.
Travel plan
Getting latest place information
- Check in at the Drury Inn & Suites Olathe, a comfortable and conveniently located hotel.
- Grab lunch at the Cuban cuisine establishment 'Café Cuba,' known for its authentic and delicious sandwiches.
- Have a relaxing afternoon exploring the scenic Powder Creek Nature Reserve, taking in some breathtaking views and fresh air.
- Head back into downtown Olathe for dinner at 'Smokin' Joe's Bar-B-Q,' a local classic that never disappoints.
- End the night with a sweet treat from 'Topsy's Popcorn' and get a bag of their famous caramel popcorn to munch on in your cozy hotel room.
- Start the day with breakfast at 'The Egg & I' restaurant, a charming spot full of local flavor.
- Head over to the Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm Historic Site to learn about Olathe's fascinating history, which includes stagecoach travel, the Kansas-Missouri border wars, and more.
- After checking out the historic site, get some fresh air at Lake Olathe, a gorgeous lake and park full of opportunities to swim, fish, and hike.
- For dinner, head over to the 'Grandma's Office Catering' restaurant, a cozy eatery serving up homemade dishes that will leave you feeling satisfied and happy.
- End the day at the 'Olathe Community Theater Association,' and catch a show that will leave you smiling from ear to ear.
- Start the day off with breakfast at the 'Panera Bread' bakery-cafe, and try some of their delicious pastries and coffee.
- Head over to the 'Great Mall of the Great Plains' for some retail therapy and shopping, with plenty of stores to browse and explore.
- After lunch at the food court, head back to the hotel to rest and relax for a bit.
- For dinner, explore the 'Johnny's Italian Steakhouse' restaurant, and taste some of the best Italian cuisine that Olathe has to offer.
- End the evening with some laughs at the 'Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club,' a perfect way to end a fun-filled day.
- Start off the day with breakfast at the 'Scramblers' restaurant, a cozy diner with homestyle cooking.
- Head over to the downtown area, and explore the 'Ernie Miller Nature Center,' a beautiful park with lots of outdoor activities.
- After lunch at the 'Garozzo's Ristorante' restaurant, head over to the 'Mahaffie Stagecoach & Farm Foundation' for more historical exploration and learning.
- Enjoy an afternoon of watching planes take off and land at the 'New Century Aircenter,' a fascinating stop for aviation fans.
- For dinner, visit the 'Famous Dave's' barbecue restaurant and enjoy some delicious meats and sides.
- End the day at the 'Main Event Entertainment' center, with plenty of arcade games, bowling, and other fun activities to engage in.
- Enjoy a final breakfast at 'IHOP' restaurant, a classic American breakfast joint.
- Spend the morning finishing up any last-minute shopping or exploring before departing Olathe.
- Return to the hotel to relax and pack up your things.
- On the way to the airport, stop at the 'Cupcake Island' bakery, and grab some sweet treats to enjoy on the flight back home.
Length of stay
Type of trip
How to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Olathe by plane is to fly into Kansas City International Airport (MCI) and then take a rental car or shuttle service to Olathe.
Car
The best way to get to Olathe by car is to take I-35 if you are coming from the north or south, or take I-435 if you are coming from the east or west.
Train
Unfortunately, there is no train station in Olathe. The nearest train station is in Kansas City, and from there you can take a rental car or shuttle service to Olathe.
Boat
Unfortunately, there are no waterways that lead to Olathe, so traveling by boat is not an option.
Bus
The best way to get to Olathe by bus is to take Greyhound or Megabus to Kansas City, and from there you can take a rental car or shuttle service to Olathe.