Historic Sites in Olathe

"Union Station is dramatically lit up at night|Courtesy of Visit KC. A jewel in the crown of the Downtown skyline, the historical Union Station is a cultural center in one of Kansas City’s most beloved buildings. You’ll discover the KC Rail Experience, a planetarium, Science City and a museum with rotating exhibits."

"Union Station was built in 1914 and accommodated thousands of passengers. It included a waiting room designed to hold up to 10,000 people. The station closed in the 1980s, underwent major renovations, and reopened in 1999 with shops, restaurants, and other services."

"This Raytown park has 4 miles of trails, a water garden, small waterfall, a cave, nature center, and historic ruins. The park is a park of the Santa Fe, Oregon, and California Trails. The houses and buildings that once stood in the park are long gone, but the chimneys and some walls are still standing."

"Cave Springs Park is a well-known destination forKC-area adventurers, but perhaps you not be familiar with the 1-mile loop trail that winds through the park. Keep your eyes peeled for cave networks (befitting the name, after all) and old remains of long-crumbling structures."

"The Cave Spring Trails are located in William M. Klein Park, a 39-acre historic nature park near Raytown, MO. The park features a cave, waterfall, fire pits, campgrounds, historic ruins, and even a nature center with exhibits."

"This state historic site was the home and studio of Thomas Hart Benton, Missouri artist. You can learn more about this historic family in Kansas City, as well as see his paintings and artwork if you visit!"

"This wonderful historic stop is mostly outdoors, though there is a small museum display indoors, as well as the option of touring the actual Mahaffie house where they fed travelers passing through the area along the Santa Fe Trail. My kids enjoyed the 1860s farm immensely, playing old school games, petting animals, and taking a stagecoach ride. My son even helped stoke the fire for the blacksmith demonstration."

"The house overlooks the Kansas River, with scenic views throughout!. There are different exhibits that you can explore, as well as programs & special events, like Saturdays by the Stove."

"The Vaile Mansion is a stunning structure, dating back to the 19th century. It was built in 1881 for Colonel Harvey Vaile and his wife, Sophia. The original construction spread over on a space of 630 acres and had a vineyard, an apple orchard, a wine processing plant and a huge wine cellar."

"Opened June 10, 2017, Johnson County Arts & Heritage Center is the new location of the Johnson County Museum, known for its 1950s All Electric Home. Created by Kansas City Power & Light to demonstrate state-of-the-art technology, the ranch house features wood paneling and wall-to-wall carpeting, remote controlled curtains and a painting that slides over the television. A turquoise 1955 Chevrolet Bel-Aire sits nearby, as does a historic neon sign from the White Haven Motor Lodge."

"Excellent Chinese take-out in south Kansas City with many vegetarian options. Try: Tofu with Black Beans & Garlic Sauce (one of our favorites). 13003 State Line Rd, Kansas City, MO 64145, 816-943-6100"

"Sushi Haru is a cozy locally owned Japanese grill with fresh sushi, delicious drinks, and a beyond friendly staff!. The owners at Sushi Haru take pride in their inviting atmosphere, meticulously selected ingredients, and excellent cuisine. After running errands or shopping at the neighboring shopping center, stop in to enjoy a specialty roll or a bento box."