Leawood KS

Leawood – A charming blend of small-town warmth and upscale living, Leawood, KS offers the perfect mix of community spirit, green spaces, and modern comforts. Nestled just south of Kansas City, this family-friendly suburb is known for its tree-lined streets, top-rated schools, and vibrant local dining. Whether you're exploring scenic parks, shopping at boutique centers, or enjoying a relaxing evening at a local café, Leawood welcomes visitors and residents alike with quiet elegance and Midwestern hospitality.

• Population: ~34,000
• Weather: Four distinct seasons; warm summers (70–90°F) and chilly winters (20–40°F), with colorful springs and crisp autumns.
• Places To Visit: Town Center Plaza, Ironwoods Park, Leawood City Park, AMC Town Center 20, and I-Lan Park.
• Top Activities: Biking local trails, attending outdoor concerts, shopping and dining in Town Center, enjoying family events at the park, and exploring art installations.
• Famous Food: Farm-to-table fare at Rye, classic American comfort food at North Italia, gourmet donuts at LaMar’s Donuts, and elegant sushi rolls at Blue Sushi Sake Grill.

Leawood, Kansas, is a thriving suburban community located in the Kansas City metropolitan area. Known for its excellent quality of life, strong local economy, and desirable residential neighborhoods, Leawood also offers a range of rewarding career opportunities. Popular industries include healthcare, finance, technology, and education. Below are some of the top jobs that are in high demand in this vibrant city.

Leawood, KS might be known for its calm suburban charm, but it has its fair share of cool places where students can chill, relax, and just have fun. Whether you're meeting up with friends after school or looking to unwind on the weekend, this cozy city has more to offer than meets the eye.

Park Place – This vibrant outdoor shopping area is the perfect mix of retail stores, restaurants, and spots to just sit back and enjoy the atmosphere. Grab a smoothie, take a stroll, or stop by for live events during the warmer months. It’s a favorite for a reason.

Ironwoods Park – Need to clear your head or just be around nature? Ironwoods Park is your go-to. With walking trails, picnic spots, and even a fun challenge course, it’s a peaceful escape with room to explore. Great for spontaneous photo sessions or quiet conversations, too.

Red Door Woodfired Grill – This is a local fave for tasty eats in a casual, student-friendly setting. Whether you're catching up with friends or grabbing dinner after a study session, the cozy atmosphere and great burgers make it a solid go-to.

AMC Town Center 20 – Just around the corner in Overland Park, this theater is where you go when you want to kick back with the latest blockbuster. Comfy seats, big screens, and late-night showings—perfect for chill movie nights.

The Roasterie Café – Ready for a caffeine boost? This local coffee shop is perfect for both solo study sessions and social hangouts. It’s comfy, stylish, and their coffee is seriously good.

Topgolf Overland Park – A quick drive from Leawood, but completely worth it. Even if you've never swung a golf club, Topgolf is next-level fun. Think music, food, and a little friendly competition—all in one place. Great for groups when you're looking to switch things up.

Leawood City Park – If sunshine and space are calling your name, this park delivers. It’s ideal for a pickup game of volleyball or just relaxing by the creek with friends. There's even a skate park if you're feeling adventurous.

Whether you're into active adventures or laid-back lounges, Leawood has a little bit of everything for students who want to enjoy their downtime. You don’t need big city noise to have a good time—just good friends and the right hangout spot.

Leawood, KS, is a vibrant city nestled in Johnson County, just a short drive from Kansas City. While Leawood itself is a thriving residential and business community, its location places it within easy reach of some of the most respected colleges and universities in the Kansas City metropolitan area. Whether you are seeking top-notch public education or the personalized touch of a private institution, this region offers a diverse array of options for every student.

Top Public Colleges & Universities near Leawood, KS

University of Kansas (Edwards Campus) – Located nearby in Overland Park, the KU Edwards Campus offers a range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. Known for its research-driven curriculum, KU is highly regarded for its business, education, and STEM courses.

Johnson County Community College (JCCC) – One of the largest and most respected community colleges in the Midwest, JCCC is less than 10 miles from Leawood. It offers associate degrees and professional certifications in arts, sciences, health care, and technology.

University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC) – With a beautiful urban campus just a short drive from Leawood, UMKC is known for its distinguished programs in health sciences, business, and performing arts.

Kansas State University Olathe – Close to Leawood, this campus is perfect for students interested in advanced degrees and research in biosciences, veterinary medicine, and food science, with strong industry connections.

Metropolitan Community College (MCC) – Serving the KC metro area, MCC offers affordable degrees and career training in various fields, making higher education accessible and practical for Leawood residents.

Top Private Colleges & Universities near Leawood, KS

Rockhurst University – Located in Kansas City, Rockhurst is a Jesuit university renowned for its business, health sciences, and liberal arts programs. Its small class sizes and emphasis on leadership make it a top choice for local students.

Avila University – This Catholic university offers numerous undergraduate and graduate programs, particularly in education, nursing, psychology, and business. Avila is praised for its supportive community and beautiful campus.

Baker University (Overland Park Campus) – With a campus near Leawood, Baker University is the oldest university in Kansas, offering respected degrees for working adults and traditional students alike, especially in business and education.

MidAmerica Nazarene University – In nearby Olathe, this private Christian university is known for its teacher education, nursing, and business programs, combining academic rigor with strong spiritual and community values.

Kansas City Art Institute – For students passionate about the arts, KCAI in Kansas City offers highly regarded programs in visual arts, animation, and design, fostering creativity and innovation in a supportive environment.

Leawood and its neighboring areas are home to a wealth of educational opportunities, whether you’re a high school graduate, a working professional, or someone returning to school. With supportive communities, flexible options, and a focus on excellence, these public and private institutions are ideal choices for anyone seeking to further their education in the heart of the Midwest.

Leawood, KS, a charming and family-friendly suburb just outside Kansas City, is home to some of the state’s best high schools. Whether you're searching for top-tier public education or elite private instruction, Leawood offers excellent options that focus on academic achievement, character development, and college preparation. Here's a look at the top 5 public and private high schools in and around Leawood, Kansas.

Top Public High Schools in Leawood, KS

• Blue Valley North High School – One of the highest-rated public schools in the state, Blue Valley North is known for its rigorous academics, Advanced Placement (AP) offerings, and high college readiness scores. Students thrive in a competitive, yet supportive environment.
• Blue Valley High School – A staple of academic excellence in the Kansas City metro area, Blue Valley High consistently earns top marks for test scores, teacher quality, and extracurricular activities. It’s a great place for students seeking balance between academics and athletics.
• Blue Valley Southwest High School – Innovative programs and a strong sense of community define this high-achieving school. BV Southwest places a big emphasis on student engagement through clubs, athletics, and arts programs alongside academics.
• Blue Valley Northwest High School – Known for its high graduation rates and college preparatory programs, this school features a dedicated faculty that focuses on individual student success. It’s also noted for its award-winning fine arts and debate teams.
• Shawnee Mission East High School – Located near Leawood in Prairie Village, this public school has a reputation for academic rigor, excellent International Baccalaureate (IB) programs, and a vibrant school culture built around student involvement.

Top Private High Schools in Leawood, KS

• Notre Dame de Sion High School – Just a short drive from Leawood, this all-girls Catholic school focuses on empowering young women through academic excellence, leadership opportunities, and community service.
• Barstow School – With a commitment to innovation and global learning, Barstow offers a challenging curriculum that includes STEAM programs, arts, and international study opportunities. Small class sizes mean more one-on-one attention for students.
• Rockhurst High School – A prestigious all-boys Jesuit school that emphasizes leadership, service, and strong moral values. Rockhurst is known for its exceptional college placement and athletic success.
• Hyman Brand Hebrew Academy – An inclusive community school offering a dual curriculum of general and Judaic studies, this K–12 institution supports strong character development, academic excellence, and cultural enrichment in a supportive environment.
• Whitefield Academy – A private Christian school that blends classical education with a biblical worldview. The school prides itself on small class sizes, spiritual growth, and academic depth across all subjects.

Choosing the right high school is a big decision for any family. In Leawood, KS, there are plenty of options that support academic excellence and personal growth—helping students reach their highest potential. No matter which path you choose, the opportunities in and around Leawood are among the best in the region.

Leawood, Kansas is a beautiful suburban city in the Kansas City metropolitan area. While Leawood itself doesn’t host any professional sports teams, residents are lucky to be just a short drive away from some of the most passionate and exciting sports franchises in nearby Kansas City, Missouri. Whether you're a die-hard football fan or enjoy the thrill of fast-paced soccer matches, you're sure to find a team to cheer for right in the region.

Football – Kansas City Chiefs (NFL)

• Kansas City Chiefs – Just a stone’s throw from Leawood, the Chiefs are one of the NFL’s most iconic teams. They’ve won three Super Bowls (1970, 2020, and 2023) and are led by superstar quarterback Patrick Mahomes and head coach Andy Reid. Arrowhead Stadium, their home turf, is known for its record-breaking noise and electric atmosphere. Chiefs fans are among the most loyal in pro sports.

Baseball – Kansas City Royals (MLB)

• Kansas City Royals – The Royals have a proud history in Major League Baseball, having won two World Series championships in 1985 and 2015. With passionate fans and a beautiful, fan-friendly ballpark at Kauffman Stadium, catching a Royals game is a summer tradition for many Leawood residents. Historic Royals include stars like George Brett, Bo Jackson, and Salvador Perez.

Soccer – Sporting Kansas City (MLS)

• Sporting Kansas City – For soccer fans in Leawood, Sporting KC is the go-to team. Competing in Major League Soccer, the team has won two MLS Cups (2000, 2013) and continues to be one of the most respected clubs in the league. They play at Children’s Mercy Park in nearby Kansas City, Kansas, offering a high-energy environment and a true family-friendly experience. Players like Graham Zusi and Daniel Sallói make the crowd come alive on match day.

Hockey – Kansas City Mavericks (ECHL)

• Kansas City Mavericks – While Kansas City doesn’t have an NHL team, the Mavericks—based in nearby Independence, Missouri—are a professional hockey team that competes in the ECHL, a premier developmental league. The Mavericks offer an action-packed, exciting hockey experience for fans in Leawood and beyond. Their games are affordable, family-friendly, and filled with the kind of heart and grit only minor league hockey can provide.

Women’s Sports – Kansas City Current (NWSL)

• Kansas City Current – Representing women’s professional soccer in the region, the Kansas City Current compete in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). Formed in 2021, they're already making waves and building a devoted fan base. In fact, they're set to open the first stadium in the U.S. built specifically for a women’s pro team in 2024. Players like Debinha and Lo’eau LaBonta bring flair and fierce competition to the pitch.

Although Leawood may not have its own pro sports teams, its residents live in one of the most sports-loving regions in the U.S. With easy access to world-class stadiums and passionate teams, being a sports fan in Leawood means you're never far from the action. Whether it's football Sundays, baseball nights, or summer soccer chants, there's a team for everyone to root for nearby!

Leawood, Kansas might be smaller in size compared to big cities, but it’s bursting with charm, history, and luxury living. From its serene parks to its local treasures, this Kansas City suburb has a lot more to offer than meets the eye. Here are 10 fun facts about Leawood, KS that you might not know:

1. It Was Once a Dairy Farm – Leawood was developed on land that used to be a dairy farm in the 1940s. What was once rural prairie has transformed into a beautiful, well-planned suburban gem.
2. The City's Named After a Real Person – Leawood gets its name from Oscar G. Lee, a civil engineer who played a key role in developing the area after World War II.
3. The Parks Are Award-Winning – With over 1,000 acres of parks and green space, Leawood boasts 7 recreational parks, making it a paradise for joggers, bikers, and nature lovers.
4. Home to a Record-Setting Sculpture – The “Walking Woman” sculpture in Tomahawk Creek Park is believed to be the tallest walking woman statue in the world, standing at 28 feet tall!
5. Education Matters Here – Leawood falls under the Blue Valley School District, consistently ranked as one of the best school districts in Kansas.
6. Locals Love Their Library – The Leawood Pioneer Library is not just a place to read—it's a community hub offering kids’ workshops, book clubs, and tech classes.
7. It’s a Foodie Favorite – The city has a growing dining scene, including the famous Hereford House, which has been serving up legendary steaks since 1957.
8. Shopping Galore – From Town Center Plaza to boutique shops, Leawood is the place to indulge in premium shopping without the big-city crowds.
9. High-Tech & High-Style – Leawood’s residents enjoy some of the highest quality of life in the country, with a mix of modern design, smart homes, and walkable communities like Park Place.
10. It’s One of the Safest Cities – Leawood consistently ranks as one of the safest cities in Kansas, making it an ideal place to live, raise a family, or just relax and enjoy the good life.