Overland Park, Kan., located near the two main metros in the Kansas City area, has a meetings-friendly infrastructure all its own, in addition to off-time diversions such as two shopping hot spots.
“Overland Park is widely known in the region for offering a diverse array of locally owned boutique shops, all the way to upscale stores typically only found in major cities,” says Liron BenDor, spokeswoman for the Overland Park CVB. “Much of our shopping is concentrated together, making it conveniently simple to organize outings for groups, maximize their downtime and immerse them in the local community.”
Located four miles from the Overland Park Convention Center and Overland Park’s 36 hotels, the first popular area for groups to check out is historic downtown Overland Park, where BenDor says they’ll find a convergence of shops, art galleries, restaurants and cafes lining the charming streets.
Among the shops attendees will find here is the Tasteful Olive, where visitors are encouraged to sample over 60 fresh olive oils and vinegars from around the world and browse many other gourmet products; and the General Store & Co.
“It puts a modern spin on an old-fashioned general store,” BenDor says. “It features a curated mix of home interior items, bath and apothecary goods, books, art, toys, specialty snacks, interior design services and more.”
Meanwhile, Oak Park Mall is a shopper’s haven that attendees traveling with children enjoy exploring. Here, stores satisfy kids of all ages, from Nordstrom, LEGO and Microsoft, to H&M, Coach and the Disney Store.
“American Girl at Oak Park Mall is one of only 16 stores in the entire country and one of Overland Park’s most popular stores and attractions,” BenDor says, adding that there are also group-friendly dining options immediately surrounding the mall, including Houlihan’s, Cheddars and Noodles & Company.
