guides

Indoor Playgrounds in Johnson County

Guide to free and low-cost indoor playgrounds in Olathe-Overland Park-Shawnee and surrounding areas

By Melissa Basgall, Editor and Publisher August 26, 2024

Looking for fun and engaging indoor playgrounds in Johnson County, Kansas, but on a budget? Whether you're seeking a place for your little ones to burn off some energy or a unique experience for family fun, this list has you covered. From community centers to specialized play areas, there's something for every family! Prices range from free up to $8 per person, with most being under $5!

Please note that hours of operation and costs are subject to change. It’s always a good idea to check with the facility directly before planning your visit to ensure the information is current.

Matt Ross Community Center

  • Address: 8101 Marty St, Overland Park, KS 66204
  • Hours: The explorer room is open to the public, for free, during normal community center hours. It closes a half hour before the community center.
  • Cost: Free
  • Details: The Explorer Room is a three-story playground full of adventure and excitement for children, ages two to 10. The room has slides, tunnels, platforms to climb, and obstacles to climb through. It’s perfect for any child to run, climb, and burn off energy. Parents are required to supervise their children at all times.

 Rainbow of the Heartland

  • Address: 5000 Merriam Dr, Shawnee, KS 66203
  • Hours: Monday-Friday, 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
  • Cost: 7.50 per child cash/check or $8.00 per child credit card
  • 5 Play Punchcard: $35
  • 10 Play Punchcard: $65
  • Details: A playground equipment store with an indoor showroom that allows kids to test out playsets, trampolines, and basketball goals.

Merriam Community Center Indoor Playground

  • Address: 6040 Slater St, Merriam, KS 66202
  • Hours: Tuesdays 9:30–11:30 a.m.  
  • Cost:$2/child. Punch cards available: $10 for 10 visits
  • Details: Ride and slide with us during Preschool Indoor Playground! Drive, pull, or push your favorite Little Tykes vehicles. Parents must supervise their children during playground time.

Gym For Me at Lenexa Rec Center

  • Address: 13420 Oak St, Lenexa, KS 66215
  • Hours: 9-11am on Monday and Wednesday
  • Cost: $3
  • Details: Run, ride and play while making new friends. The Lenexa Rec Center and the Lenexa Old Town Activity Center open their gyms for kids ages 5 and under. A variety of play items including push toys, riding toys, balls and inflatables available.

KidScape at Johnson County Museum

  • Address: 8788 Metcalf Ave, Overland Park, KS 66212
  • Hours: Monday-Saturday, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
  • Cost:  $6 for adults, $5 for seniors (ages 60 plus), veterans, and students (18 plus with Student ID), $4 for children (ages1-17), under 1 is free
  • Details: An immersive, interactive play area where kids can explore different historical periods and roles through imaginative play.

Foundry Church Lenexa

  • Address: 8835 Lackman Rd, Lenexa, KS 66219
  • Hours: Tuesday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM; Saturday, 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM; Sunday, 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM; Closed on Mondays.
  • Cost: Free.
  • Details: A community space offering a café and play area where parents can relax while kids play. Please check their calendar for gym and kids playroom availability.

New Century Fieldhouse Indoor Play Park

  • Address: 551 New Century Pkwy, New Century, KS 66031
  • Hours: Resume on September 9th, 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM. Closed on Nov. 11, Nov. 25 - 28, and Dec. 23 - 31.
  • Cost: $4 per child or $30 10 visit punch card
  • Details: Indoor play park designed for walkers to age 5. Hop, skip, and jump through obstacles, bounce, roll or kick balls, build with blocks, run and have a BLAST with friends. young children, offering various play equipment.

Scheels

  • Address: 6503 W 135th St STE 88, Overland Park, KS 66223
  • Hours: Store hours as available
  • Cost: Free, $1 for ferris wheel and other games
  • Details: Enjoy an indoor play structure, and also visit the ferris wheel for $1 rides, the arcade with $1 games, and the giant aquarium.

Kaw Prairie Community Church

  • Address: 9421 Meadow View Dr, Lenexa, KS 66227
  • Hours: Temporarily Closed
  • Cost: 
  • Details: This church offers an indoor play area as part of its family ministry. The space is designed for children to play safely while parents connect over coffee. The facility includes a variety of toys and climbing structures appropriate for young children.

Not Indoors, but still a great, affordable option: 

Backyard Specialist

  • Address: 14405 College Blvd, Lenexa, KS 66215
  • Hours: Available Tuesday and Thursday from 10 - 5.
  • Cost:$2 Cash or $4 Credit per kid (ages 18 months & up)
  • Details: Backyard Specialists is the premier outdoor play spot in Olathe, and surrounding areas when you are looking for great outdoor fun! Plan a play date for your children and their friends at our amazing outdoor showroom.


From engaging indoor spaces to unique outdoor options, Johnson County offers a variety of playgrounds that cater to different needs and interests. Remember to double-check hours and costs before heading out, and enjoy your time exploring these fun spots with your family!

Did we miss one? Let us know at melissabasgall@macaronikid.com and we'll get it added if it meets the criteria!

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