Beyond the City of Fountains: 4 Towns Near Kansas City Worth Exploring

Life downtown can be too busy, too loud, and frankly, too expensive for many people. While the heart of Kansas City offers an abundance of restaurants, entertainment, sports, and cultural hotspots to enjoy, there is another way to experience all that the Kansas City metro area has to offer without committing to life in the busiest part of the city.  

Several towns within driving distance of the city include their own parks, shopping districts, restaurants, and unique areas for individuals to explore on their own schedules. They have their own unique cultures, special local events, and neighborhoods that are both quiet and welcoming. For many people, living in the suburbs and visiting downtown is the best compromise if they want a peaceful home but the energy of downtown when they're ready for a night out.  

When considering the various towns near Kansas City, MO, there are a few different factors that can help individuals decide which community to call home. These four towns within a reasonable driving distance of downtown Kansas City offer a unique feel and leave individuals with plenty of options for customizing their lifestyle without living so far away that downtown feels unreachable.  

Why Live Near Kansas City Instead of Downtown? 

Choosing a town outside of Kansas City proper can offer renters a bit more breathing room while still maintaining accessibility to their work, entertainment, and weekend plans. These communities often offer more peace, more room for bicycles and scooters, more parks and trails, and more shopping and dining options closer to where residents live. 

There are also more choices to be made in the Greater Kansas City area. The region includes communities with historical downtown areas, newer developments for families and commuters, outdoor areas for recreation, and other attractions for various types of renters. Each of these towns offers different amenities and features for renters to consider as they select the location that best suits their lifestyle.

Best Towns Near Kansas City, MO 

People disagree about what communities are technically suburbs of Kansas City, as the metropolitan area sprawls over two states and 14 counties. There are roughly 25 to 30 cities and towns that are often considered Kansas City suburbs and more than 240 distinct neighborhoods across the region. We’ve chosen four to highlight as the best options for local renters to consider. 

Lenexa, Kansas: About 16 Miles From Downtown 

Lenexa includes both suburban conveniences as well as plenty of ways for residents to get outdoors and into the city. Lenexa is home to an extensive number of parks and trails for residents to enjoy. 

In addition to the parks and trails in Lenexa, residents have access to the Lenexa City Center, which includes various restaurants, services for residents, events, and the Lenexa Public Market. Lenexa is also approximately 16 miles from downtown Kansas City, making it an ideal location for renters who want to be close to the metro area but who also want a community that exists for itself and has plenty of things to do without heading into the big city. 

Overland Park, Kansas: About 12 Miles From Downtown 

Located approximately 12 miles from downtown Kansas City and southwest of the city, Overland Park is one of the closest communities to the city center for renters who commute into Kansas City each day but desire to live in a more suburban community. 

Residents also have plenty of recreation nearby. Overland Park has parks, trails, multiple community centers, pools, the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens, and a farmers market to enjoy. There are also plenty of shopping and dining options in Overland Park, as well. 

Parkville, Missouri: About 10 Miles From Downtown 

For renters who want something different from the small-town characteristics of Overland Park, Parkville, Missouri is an option that is located approximately 10 miles from downtown Kansas City. Parkville is situated in a historic district with scenery of the Missouri River. 

Downtown Parkville contains a variety of shops, boutiques, and restaurants for visitors and locals alike. The town also has multiple parks and trails along the Missouri River for those who would like to get outside and enjoy the fresh air. Parkville might be a good spot for those who would like to live in a quieter community if they still want to be close to downtown for work or entertainment. 

Lee's Summit, Missouri: About 19 Miles From Downtown 

Lee's Summit is located southeast of Kansas City, approximately 19 miles from the city's downtown area. Although Lee's Summit is farther from the heart of downtown compared with some of the other communities on this list, it has its share of attractions of its own. For those who would like to spend some time outside, there are two lakes within driving distance of town: Longview Lake and Lake Jacomo. It can be a good fit for renters who do not need to be downtown every day but would like to have Kansas City within a reasonable drive.

Which Kansas City-Area Town Fits You? 

There are many unique features of each of these towns. Parkville offers historic homes and attractions, as well as river scenery. Overland Park offers shopping and recreational areas for residents to enjoy. Lee's Summit offers access to several lakes, making it a good option for outdoorsy types.  

Lenexa offers both metro access and features such as parks, trails, dining, shopping, and amenities for residents. This community offers benefits to renters who would like to live near Kansas City but not live directly in the city center. 

Live Your Best Life in Lenexa, KS 

Lenexa, KS is a great place to consider for renters who would like the benefits of living near Kansas City but not living directly in the city. The Retreat at Woodridge is the kind of community that invites you to imagine how life might be if you lived here.  

Our pet-friendly 1- and 2-bedroom homes have everything you need, from spacious walk-in closets to a walk-out patio or balcony for a little fresh air. Out on our grounds, you'll find a sparkling pool for cooling off in the summer, BBQ/picnic areas, a sand volleyball court, and even a fenced dog park. We also have a 24-hour fitness center and a therapeutic sauna steam room.  

Contact our team to schedule a tour of The Retreat at Woodridge and find out how living near Kansas City offers a convenient lifestyle in a comfortable home.