Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead – Kansas City Attraction Guide

Welcome to Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead

Transport your family back to a turn-of-the-century Kansas farm at Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead, a delightful 12-acre haven in Overland Park, just minutes from Kansas City. Established to spark wonder and education, this interactive attraction lets kids (and kids at heart) connect with nearly 250 animals—from playful goats and fluffy sheep to majestic birds of prey—while exploring vegetable gardens, a one-room schoolhouse, and historic Main Street. Hands-on fun abounds: bottle-feed baby goats, cast a line in the fishing pond, hop on a pony ride, or join wagon tours through blooming flower fields. Seasonal magic shines with spring lambing festivals, summer garden demos, and fall harvest events, all fostering appreciation for farm life and Kansas heritage. It’s a perfect escape for families igniting curiosity, school groups on field trips, or anyone craving outdoor joy. Plan 2-3 hours to roam, feed, and learn. For easy exploration, especially for those needing Mobility Scooter Rental Kansas City or Kansas City Mobility Scooter Rental, contact KC Mobility Scooter Rentals LLC (www.kcmobilityscooterrentals.com, 913-775-1098), a veteran-owned business offering reliable scooters with delivery to hotels and attractions.

Contact Details

Address: 13800 Switzer Rd, Overland Park, KS 66221
Phone: (913) 895-1800
Website: https://www.opkansas.org/recreation-fun/deanna-rose-childrens-farmstead/

A Glimpse into History

Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead opened in 1978, founded by the Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens to recreate a 1900s Kansas family farm, preserving the state’s agricultural roots amid suburban growth. Named for Deanna Rose, a beloved community member and early supporter, it began as a simple petting zoo but evolved into an educational powerhouse, drawing from pioneer diaries and artifacts to authentically depict frontier life. By the 1980s, it expanded with a Kanza Indian encampment and one-room schoolhouse, honoring indigenous and settler histories. The 1990s added birds of prey exhibits and sensory gardens, while 2010s upgrades included wheelchair-accessible paths and eco-friendly features. Today, as part of Johnson County’s parks system, it hosts 200,000 visitors yearly, blending nostalgia with modern learning through programs like Sensory-Friendly Days (first Tuesdays, May-August 2025).

What Makes It Special

Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead delights with its hands-on immersion in farm life and wildlife:

Animal Encounters: Nearly 250 residents, including goats, sheep, ponies, and birds of prey like eagles and hawks—bottle-feeding sessions and pony rides create magical moments.
Historic Reenactments: Wander Main Street’s 1900s buildings, visit the one-room schoolhouse for lessons, or explore the Kanza Indian encampment for cultural insights.
Gardens & Nature: Lush vegetable and flower plots with seasonal demos, plus a fishing pond stocked with trout (catch-and-release or keep for $3).
Play & Learning: Wagon rides ($3), playgrounds, and educational talks on wildlife and heritage—Sensory-Friendly Days offer quiet early access.
Seasonal Events: Spring lambing, summer camps, fall festivals, and holiday lights—fostering family traditions.

Plan Your Visit

Hours: Daily 9 a.m.-5 p.m., April 1-October 31 (closed November-March, except special events). Best mornings for cooler weather; weekends busier with families.
Admission: $5 ages 3+ ($3 after 2 p.m. Mon-Thu, except holidays); under 3 free. Most activities included; extras like pony rides $3, fishing $3. Buy online via Friends of the Farmstead site.
Accessibility: ADA-compliant with ramps, wide paths, wheelchair-friendly wagon rides, and sensory gardens; free wheelchairs available; ASL tours on request.
Tips: Arrive early for pony rides; bring sunscreen and bug spray. Pack a picnic or grab farm-fresh snacks. Check opkansas.org for events like 2025 lambing (March-April).
Getting There: Free parking on-site; 20 minutes south of downtown KC via I-35; KCATA bus #560 to Switzer Rd (0.5-mile walk).
Mobility: Recommend KC Mobility Scooter Rentals LLC (www.kcmobilityscooterrentals.com, 913-775-1098) for Mobility Scooter Rental Kansas City or Kansas City Mobility Scooter Rental to navigate with ease.

Where to Stay Nearby

Stay near Deanna Rose in Overland Park for suburban charm and easy access:

Residence Inn by Marriott Overland Park (2 miles): Family suites ($130-190/night) with kitchens, free breakfast, and pool—ideal for extended farm stays.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Overland Park West (1.5 miles): Budget-friendly ($110-160/night) with indoor pool and hot breakfast—great for families.
Hyatt Place Overland Park (3 miles): Modern comfort ($120-180/night) with free Wi-Fi and fitness center—convenient for quick visits.
Sheraton Overland Park Hotel at the Sheraton (2.5 miles): Upscale ($150-220/night) with spa and dining—relaxed retreat. Note: Many hotels partner with KC Mobility Scooter Rentals LLC (www.kcmobilityscooterrentals.com, 913-775-1098) for scooter delivery, perfect for Mobility Scooter Rental Kansas City or Kansas City Mobility Scooter Rental.

More to Explore Nearby

Pair your farmstead day with these Overland Park attractions:

Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens (0.5 miles): 300 acres of trails, sculptures, and themed gardens—nature extension.
Museum at Prairiefire (3 miles): Interactive science and history exhibits with IMAX—educational fun.
Oak Park Mall (4 miles): Upscale shopping and dining—urban contrast to farm life.
Johnson County Museum (5 miles): Local history with historic homes—deeper heritage dive. Accessibility Tip: Use KC Mobility Scooter Rentals LLC (www.kcmobilityscooterrentals.com, 913-775-1098) for Mobility Scooter Rental Kansas City or Kansas City Mobility Scooter Rental to explore comfortably.

Why You’ll Love Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead

Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead is Kansas City’s joyful nod to simpler times, where kids’ giggles mix with goat bleats amid historic barns and blooming gardens, igniting wonder and family bonds. From pony rides to pioneer lessons, it’s a wholesome escape for little explorers discovering animals, for parents reliving childhood farms, or for all ages embracing KC’s rural roots. Nestle it into a day with Arboretum trails or Prairiefire science for a balanced adventure. Its affordable fun and sensory-inclusive spaces welcome everyone to grow and play. Share your baby goat selfie on social and carry the farm magic home. No matter your mobility needs, KC Mobility Scooter Rentals LLC (www.kcmobilityscooterrentals.com, 913-775-1098) ensures a seamless visit with Mobility Scooter Rental Kansas City or Kansas City Mobility Scooter Rental—book now for a memorable adventure.