20 Best Things to Do in Lee’s Summit, MO

Lee’s Summit in Jackson County, Missouri, is often overlooked as another typical suburban community by those unfamiliar with it.

However, this small city in the southeastern outskirt of Kansas City has turned itself into a vibrant cultural city over the years.

Today, Lee’s Summit is a growing city with a population of about 97,000 people.

It is teeming with thriving businesses from all levels.

The city has been regarded as the best shopping and leisure destination in the whole Kansas City area.

You may choose from a wide array of restaurants, cafes, shopping centers, breweries, parks, and entertainment establishments that keeps you busy all day.

Furthermore, Lee’s Summit has several natural attractions and outdoor activities perfect for the family.

Its downtown is the best place to experience the city has to offer.

If you’re planning to create new travel memories either by yourself or your loved ones, Lee’s Summit is your go-to destination.

To discover why this small city in Missouri is worth your visit, here are the 2o best things to do in Lee’s Summit, Missouri:

Stroll Around the Historical Downtown Lee’s Summit District

Lee’s Summit has one of the most colorful and vibrant neighborhoods in the country.

So you need to check out the Downtown Lee’s Summit District to get mesmerized with tons of activities, stores, restaurants, and fun.

The National Register of Historic Places recognized this place in Lee’s Summit because of its rich and very prosperous history.

It is located in the city’s main streets and is accessed via train from downtown Amtrak Station.

You can spend your whole afternoon there to buy, eat, and rub elbows with the locals.

The place’s main mission is to promote, develop, and preserve Lee’s Summit’s city center by promoting a diverse combination of small businesses, family-oriented events, great food, entertainment, and inclusive public spaces.

Treat Your Palette With Fine Wine at the Stonehaus Farms Winery

The Stonehaus Farms Winery in Lee’s Summit started as a family-owned business in 1996.

It has a vineyard and a winery where they manufacture their signature red and white wines that locals patronize during special occasions, such as birthdays and weddings.

The winery itself is a must-visit place for its romantic view of the vineyard.

Also, the winery offers a group tour at the vineyard and winery to learn how they process their grapes into fine wines.

If you’re seeking a memorable or romantic experience in Lee’s Summit, this is your go-to place.

The winery is at 24607 NE Colbern Rd, Lee’s Summit.

They serve wines from Wednesday to Sunday from 12 noon to 6 pm.

Chill at the Diametric Brewing Company

Lee’s Summit’s Diametric Brewing Company is a relatively new brewery founded in the middle of 2018.

However, its fine beer craftsmanship has been renowned by many because of its exquisitely delicious craft beer.

Plus, it has a collection of fine bottles of wines and other alcoholic beverages as good as their craft beer.

They uniquely offer fruit-flavored beer ranging from apple, cranberry, maple, passionfruit, blueberry, and avocado.

If you are feeling mundane, refresh yourself with a mug of Diametric Brewing Company’s craft beer.

This place is where most locals catch up with each other, so it’s also your perfect chance to meet some of them.

The Diametric Brewing Company is at 949 NE Columbus, Lee’s Summit, to chill at this place.

They start serving beer from 4 pm to 10 pm.

Visit the Bryan C. Pottberg Park

The Bryan C. Pottberg Park is unique from other parks in Lee’s Summit because of its inspiring story.

The Lee’s Summit city government developed a park to pay tribute to their son, Bryan C. Pottberg, a 25-year-old firefighter who lost his life during a rescue training exercise.

There, you will be greeted by a memorial statue of Pottberg.

The entire park spans across 25-acre land filled with a playground, swings, paved trails, greenery, benches, and picnic tables.

The park is a perfect place for an afternoon stroll with your loved ones or travel buddies.

The Bryan C. Pottberg Park opens to the public from 6 am to 10 pm.

To reach this park in Lee’s Summit, it is at 5200 NE Campground Rd.

Explore the City’s History at the Lee’s Summit History Museum

This museum, established in 1991, boasts a local history exhibit that tells you Lee’s Summit’s story.

It’s a highly recommended place to visit in Lee’s Summit for its unique historical city tour.

You’ll see artifacts, wares, old photographs, paintings, maps, keepsakes, and old garments from Lee’s Summit’s old times in this museum.

Touring around Lee’s Summit’s Museum usually lasts an hour or two, but it’s filled with a lot of fun and interaction.

Plus, it has a gift shop that offers unique souvenirs.

The Lee’s Summit’s Museum is at 220 SW Main St.

The museum opens every Thursday to Saturday from 10 am to 2 pm.

Roam Around the Charles David Hartman Memorial Park

Lee’s Summit’s locals love to visit this place that’s been compared to the Missouri Ozarks.

In the park, you’ll get mesmerized by the 50-feet tall limestone bluffs carved into cliffs, boulders, and a majestic waterfall.

A trail that follows the stream will be your guide in exploring the entire park.

The park’s northern portion gives you a calming excursion through its forested groves and grasslands.

The Charles David Hartman Memorial Park stretches 17 miles long, including heading to Rock Island Rail Trail outside of Lee’s Summit.

Locals love to hike here because of its calming scenery with nature.

To hike at the park, it is at 700 SW Pryor Rd, Lee’s Summit.

The park is open from 5 am to 11 pm daily.

Score Great Discounts at the Summitwoods Crossing Shopping Center

Lee’s Summit is home to numerous shopping centers, some of them just a few meters away from each other.

The US 50 Highway is what that only separates Summitwoods Crossing and Summit Fair.

The Summitwoods Crossing is a lively open-air shopping center and dining destination in Lee’s Summit.

The shopping center offers everything you want and need.

Mainstream brands like Best Buy, Bath & Body Works, Lowes, TJ Maxx, Target, Ulta Beauty, On the Border, and Bloom Nails & Spa are found in this shopping center.

To visit this shopping center, it’s at 1700 NW Chipman Rd, Lee’s Summit.

The shopping center is open from 10 am to 9 pm.

Shop for Great Finds at the Summit Fair Shopping Mall

Lee’s Summit has several shopping centers aside from its downtown area.

One of them is the Summit Fair Shopping Mall.

Touted as a world-class shopping center, the Summit Fair occupies a huge space of about 500,000 square feet.

If part of your itinerary is to shop for great finds that aren’t found in your hometown, Summit Fair is your place to go.

Aside from specialty shops, it also has mainstream brands such as Dick’s Sporting Goods, DSW, JCPenney, and Macy’s.

After your shopping spree, unwind at the mall’s spa or massage parlors;

There are also more than a dozen restaurants, cafes, and bars that you can choose from.

To get to Summit Fair shopping mall, it is at 840 NW Blue Pkwy, Lee’s Summit.

This mall in Lee’s Summit opens from 10 am to 9 pm daily.

Breathe Fresh Air at the Blue Springs Lake Campground

The Blue Springs Lake covers about 720 acres of protected land and reservoir, which offers you limitless outdoor activities and relaxation together with nature.

If you’re looking for a place in Lee’s Summit to enjoy dozens of outdoor recreational activities with your loved ones, the Blue Springs Lake is your go-to place.

It has several amenities, such as campgrounds, fire pit, barbeque pit, benches, picnic tables, boat rentals, and many more.

The place is also one of the ideal destinations in the city to engage in water and land sports.

It’s more than just a typical campground, but a perfect outdoor destination you shouldn’t miss visiting in Lee’s Summit.

To visit the Blue Springs Lake Campground, it is at 5400 NE Campground Rd, Lee’s Summit.

The campgrounds are open from 9 am to 9 pm daily.

Spend Your Afternoon at Miller J. Fields Park

To cap off your Lee’s Summit travel adventure, head to the Miller J. Fields Park for an afternoon relaxation.

The park was named after Lee’s Summit’s city employee Miller J. Fields, who contributes to the community’s development.

This family-friendly park is teeming with activities and fun without removing its tranquil vibes.

It’s considered one of the city’s best tourist spots because of its water splash park packed with locals and visitors every summer.

Plus, there are several playgrounds, sports facilities, and a zipline that you’ll find in the park.

Lastly, it has several well-maintained trails.

An afternoon hike or just simply sitting down at its bench will relax your mind and body.

To reach the park, it’s at 1301 SE 3rd Terrace, Lee’s Summit.

The Miller J. Fields Park opens from 5 am to 11 pm daily.

Cool Down at the Fringe Beerworks

Several breweries and wineries are found in Lee’s Summit.

One of the trendiest of these breweries is Fringe Beerworks.

Founded in 2016, the company is a small-scale brewery that operates in the downtown area.

It’s very popular because of its proximity to Lee’s Summit’s best tourist spots.

However, its craft beer speaks for itself.

They offer different types of craft beer, including their seasonal beer, which you should try out.

Plus, the brewery’s bar itself has a laid-back and cozy atmosphere that complements what they offer.

On special days, they hold various activities which add fun to their place.

To visit the brewery, it is at 224 SE Douglas St, Lee’s Summit.

They serve beer from 12 noon to 10 pm daily.

Eat Delicious Food at Third Street Social

In Lee’s Summit, the Third Street Social is popularly known as one of the top American-style restaurants that serve brunch, snacks, and dinner.

The restaurant owner aims to provide the locals with what the big city loves to eat.

They serve all-time American classics like meatloaf, burgers, steaks, fish n’ chips, pasta, pizza, etc.

In addition, they serve mouthwatering sides like the classic mac & cheese, mashed potatoes, coleslaw, cheesy grits.

Ultimately, the restaurant is one of the most favorite hangout places in the city.

To dine at this famous Lee’s Summit restaurant, it is at 123 SE Third Street.

The Third Street Social starts to serve food from 11 am to 10 pm.

Contemplate at the Lowenstein Park

The Lowenstein Park is just a stone’s throw away from the Summitwoods Crossing Shopping Center.

It covers a total of 18 acres of open space, perfect for relaxing morning or afternoon walks.

Or perhaps, take a rest at the park after a whole day shopping at Summitwoods Crossing.

It’s a must-visit place in the city like most of its parks since it has well-maintained greeneries, picnic shelters, tables, and a playground.

Plus, it has a walking trail that stretches a mile with a scenic waterfall backdrop and rolling hills.

Lastly, Lowenstein Park is where you’ll find the Children’s Memorial Butterfly Garden that houses dozens of butterfly species.

To visit Lowenstein Park, it is at 25 NW Lowenstein Dr, Lee’s Summit.

The Lowenstein Park opens from 5 am to 11 pm daily.

Watch the Latest Movies at the B&B Theatres Lee’s Summit New Longview 7

If you want to take your Lee’s Summit travel adventure with a little detour, head to the B&B Theatres Lee’s Summit New Longview 7 and watch movies.

The theater is a local favorite to watch movies, so you might want to consider visiting this theater to experience how locals watch the latest Hollywood flicks.

It has an intimate atmosphere and a state-of-the-art surround sound system for an immersive movie-watching experience.

The theater doesn’t just feature movies but also hosts musical concerts and stage plays.

To watch movies at this theater, it is at 3241 SW Fascination Dr, Lee’s Summit.

Try Various Activities at James A. Reed Memorial Wildlife Area

Does the word "hunting" make your heart race with excitement?

You may go hunting for various animals, including deer, rabbits, squirrels, doves, and more, at the James A. Reed Memorial Wildlife Area.

This vast, 2,603-acre (1054-hectare) park features lakes, grass, crop fields, shrub plantings, forests, a picnic area, and a shooting range.

It is open year-round and is appropriate for people of all ages.

You may go out on the water, ride horses, or sit back and watch the birds.

There is also a lake designed for children's recreation.

In addition, there is a designated route for those with mobility issues.

Take advantage of the marvelous paths and trails and get some exercise.

Fishing is fantastic in the area's many lakes since they are home to many species like rainbow trout, bluegill, and bullheads.

Step Back in Time at Missouri Town 1855

Want to learn more about the history of Missouri in the nineteenth century?

Visit Missouri Town 1855.

Bringing you back to that period is the goal of the impressive displays at this outdoor museum.

Missouri Town 1855 is a 30-acre (12-hectare) living history museum with spectacular exhibits showcasing authentic buildings, machinery, and furnishings from 1820 to 1860.

Additionally, you may see period-appropriate garden and field produce and uncommon varieties of farm animals.

The guides themselves often wear the part, adding to the immersion.

Splash at Summit Waves

Everyone in your group will have a wonderful time at this magnificent water park and entertainment complex.

The Action River stretches for 904 feet (276 meters) and is a popular tourist destination.

You may choose to relax in one of the lazy rivers or challenge yourself in the six-lane lap pool, which is a fantastic alternative.

Put the youngsters to use at the water slides, playground, or zero-depth pool.

The park ensures it's always in immaculate condition, and the abundance of lifeguards ensures the safety of parkgoers.

Have some great refreshments in between.

This venue also plays home to occasional events such as family evenings and teen nights.

Have a Blast at Summit Lanes

Summit Lanes has been in business for around 50 years.

In that time, it has undergone extensive renovations, becoming a state-of-the-art premium bowling center with a wide variety of activities that are especially welcoming to families.

Bowlers of all ages will have a blast at the several tournaments.

Very well taken care of; recent renovations include the installation of synthetic lanes, a scoring computer system, and automated bumpers.

Even the seats, which illuminate in the dark, are a novelty.

If you're feeling peckish, there's also an onsite cafeteria.

Try Your Hands at Pottery at Potter's Haven Art Studio

Are you looking for a relaxing activity in Lee's Summit?

Potter's Haven Art Workshop is a paint-your-own pottery studio.

Here, you may give your imagination physical expression through stunning ceramic creations.

Additionally, there are many possibilities for the younger painters that they may paint on the spot and take home with them.

Put your artistic skills to good use, as you are given an excess of time and paint to complete some gorgeous presents for your loved ones.

Moreover, you may drop in whenever you engage in this calming pastime.

They also provide a space where you can have a party for any occasion, including birthdays, anniversaries, and kid-friendly events.

Final Thoughts

Now that you’re done reading the 15 best things to do in Lee’s Summit, you might probably think twice that it’s not your typical suburban city.

For sure, you’ve read several posts and watched videos about this city, but there is so much to it than meets the eye.

To discover all the great things there, you should start packing your bag, wear your walk boots and bring that spirit of adventure with you!

This small city charm is waiting for you to give you a memorable travel adventure.