Shawnee KS

Shawnee, KS – A hidden gem in the heart of the Midwest, Shawnee blends small-town charm with modern conveniences. With lush parks, family-friendly neighborhoods, and a warm, welcoming community, it's perfect for visitors looking to slow down and savor the simple pleasures. Whether you're enjoying a summer festival, exploring scenic trails, or diving into the town’s rich history, Shawnee offers a little something for everyone.

• Population: ~67,000
• Weather: Four distinct seasons; hot summers (80-90°F), cold winters (20-40°F), beautiful spring and fall transitions.
• Places To Visit: Shawnee Town 1929 Museum, Mill Creek Streamway Trail, Wonderscope Children’s Museum, Erfurt Park, Theatre in the Park.
• Top Activities: Biking scenic trails, attending summer concerts, exploring historic sites, fishing at Shawnee Mission Park, enjoying local farmers markets.
• Famous Food: Kansas City-style BBQ at Blind Box BBQ, comfort food at Pegah’s Family Restaurant, handmade treats from Aunt Jean’s, and classic Midwest breakfasts at Teresa’s Drive-In.

Shawnee, Kansas is part of the Greater Kansas City metropolitan area and benefits from a strong local economy. Key industries in Shawnee include healthcare, manufacturing, education, and logistics. Below are some of the top jobs in demand in the city.

Top 5 Jobs in Shawnee, KS

Shawnee, Kansas, may not have the glitz of a big city, but it offers a variety of laid-back and fun spots for students to unwind. Whether you love nature, crave some good food, or just want to explore, Shawnee has something to offer.

Shawnee Mission Park – With sprawling green spaces, a serene lake, and tons of trails, this park is perfect for a day outdoors. You can hike, bike, or even rent a paddle boat. It's an ideal place to relax and get some fresh air.

Old Shawnee Pizza & Craft Beer – Looking for a chill place to grab a bite with friends? This spot offers delicious pizza and a great selection of craft beers. The casual setting is great for unwinding, enjoying good food, and catching up with friends.

Powerplay Entertainment Center – Game enthusiasts will love Powerplay. With arcade games, laser tag, and bumper cars, it's a fun-filled venue for students who want to let off some steam and experience some excitement.

Antioch Park – Perfect for a peaceful escape, this park is Shawnee’s hidden gem. With walking trails, picnic areas, and pretty gardens, it's a lovely spot for a relaxing afternoon with friends or solo time with a good book.

Shawnee Town 1929 – Dive into history at this living museum, where you can explore what life was like in Shawnee during the 1920s. With seasonal events and interactive exhibits, it's both fun and educational.

Aztec Shawnee Theater – For a unique movie night, catch a film at this historic theater. It’s a cozy spot with character, offering a nostalgic movie experience that's hard to find elsewhere.

Whether you’re in the mood for adventure, relaxation, or a taste of nostalgia, Shawnee has various spots to help you escape from academic stress and enjoy some downtime.

Shawnee, Kansas, part of the thriving Kansas City metropolitan area, is close to several outstanding institutions offering quality education. Whether students are seeking affordable public colleges or prestigious private universities, the region offers a wide range of academic opportunities in fields such as healthcare, business, education, and the arts.

Top Public Colleges & Universities in Shawnee

Johnson County Community College (JCCC) – Located just minutes from Shawnee, JCCC is one of the top community colleges in the Midwest. It offers affordable tuition and a wide selection of associate degrees and certificate programs. It’s well known for nursing, liberal arts, and business programs.

University of Kansas (KU) – Edwards Campus – Situated nearby in Overland Park, the Edwards Campus of KU serves working adults and transfer students. It provides undergraduate and graduate programs in fields like information technology, business, and education from a highly respected research university.

Kansas State University Olathe – Just a short drive from Shawnee, this campus focuses on graduate-level education, research, and industry collaboration, especially in food science, biosciences, and engineering. It supports economic growth and career advancement in the region.

Penn Valley Community College (Metropolitan Community College) – Located in Kansas City, MO, this public college serves a diverse student body and is accessible to Shawnee residents. It offers top-notch technical programs, health sciences, and transfer degrees at a low cost.

Washburn University – Located about an hour west in Topeka, Washburn is a public university known for its strong programs in nursing, law, and business. It offers a personalized learning experience with small class sizes and affordable tuition.

Top Private Colleges & Universities in Shawnee

Benedictine College – Located in Atchison, about an hour from Shawnee, this Catholic liberal arts college is known for its excellent programs in theology, business, and education. It emphasizes values-based learning and a close-knit campus environment.

MidAmerica Nazarene University – Situated nearby in Olathe, this Christian university offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in nursing, education, counseling, and business. It combines academic excellence with faith-based values and supportive faculty.

Baker University – Headquartered in Baldwin City, KS, with satellite campuses close to Shawnee, Baker is the oldest university in Kansas. It is acclaimed for its education programs, business degrees, and customized adult learning paths for working professionals.

Avila University – Located in Kansas City, MO, Avila is a Catholic university offering strong programs in education, psychology, healthcare, and performing arts. The school is recognized for its student-centered approach and commitment to service and leadership.

Rockhurst University – This Jesuit university in Kansas City, MO, is known for its strong liberal arts foundation and rigorous academics in health sciences, business, and leadership. Rockhurst emphasizes ethical development and social responsibility.

Shawnee, KS is home to several excellent high schools focused on academic achievement, student development, and college readiness. Whether you're looking for a public or private institution, Shawnee offers a variety of top-performing options to meet your educational needs.

Top Public High Schools in Shawnee, KS

• Mill Valley High School – Part of the De Soto School District, this school is known for its strong academics, award-winning journalism program, and competitive athletics.
• Shawnee Mission Northwest High School – Offers a diverse range of advanced placement courses and a highly ranked performing arts department.
• De Soto High School – Located near Shawnee, it serves many local students and is recognized for its focus on student success and high graduation rates.
• Bonner Springs High School – Located just outside Shawnee and known for its inclusive environment and strong support services.
• Olathe Northwest High School – Though technically in Olathe, many Shawnee residents attend this school, which is noted for its e-Communication and aerospace engineering programs.

Top Private High Schools in Shawnee, KS

• St. James Academy – A private Catholic high school known for its values-based education, rigorous academics, and strong sense of community.
• Maranatha Christian Academy – Offers a Christ-centered curriculum that combines academics, arts, and athletics within a nurturing environment.
• Bishop Miege High School – Located nearby in Roeland Park, this private school has a long-standing tradition of academic excellence and strong college placement rates.
• Kansas City Christian School – A well-rounded private option offering college-prep courses, spiritual growth, and leadership opportunities.
• Heritage Christian Academy – A smaller, faith-based school focused on individualized instruction and character development.

Shawnee, Kansas, is a charming suburban city located in the Kansas City metropolitan area. While Shawnee itself does not host any major league professional sports teams, it enjoys close proximity to Kansas City, which is home to several renowned franchises. Fans in Shawnee passionately support these teams and often travel just a short distance to attend games and team events.

🏈 Football – Kansas City Chiefs (NFL)

• Kansas City Chiefs – The Chiefs are one of the NFL’s most exciting teams and have a loyal fanbase across Kansas and Missouri. They have won three Super Bowls (1970, 2020, and 2023), led by superstar quarterback Patrick Mahomes and legendary head coach Andy Reid. Known for their loud fans at Arrowhead Stadium, the Chiefs bring pride to the entire region.

⚾ Baseball – Kansas City Royals (MLB)

• Kansas City Royals – The Royals have captured two World Series titles (1985 and 2015). The team is known for its grit and exciting playoff runs, especially during the mid-2010s. They play at Kauffman Stadium, one of the most picturesque ballparks in America, located just a short drive from Shawnee.

⚽ Soccer – Sporting Kansas City (MLS)

• Sporting Kansas City – One of Major League Soccer's most respected clubs, Sporting KC has won two MLS Cups (2000, 2013) and has a passionate local following. Their home matches at Children’s Mercy Park in nearby Kansas City, Kansas, attract fans from across the metro area, including Shawnee.

🏀 Basketball – Kansas City does not currently have an NBA team

• While there is no NBA franchise in the Kansas City area today, the city once hosted the Kansas City Kings before the team moved to Sacramento in 1985. Basketball fans in Shawnee often support regional teams or enjoy college basketball, especially the nearby University of Kansas Jayhawks, a powerhouse in NCAA men's basketball.

🏒 Hockey – Kansas City Mavericks (ECHL)

• Kansas City Mavericks – Although not part of the NHL, the Mavericks are a popular minor league hockey team based in nearby Independence, Missouri. They play in the ECHL and offer an exciting and family-friendly game experience for hockey fans in Shawnee and beyond.

While Shawnee may not have its own professional sports teams, its close ties with the Kansas City metro area give fans easy access to top-tier professional sports action in football, baseball, soccer, and more. Residents take pride in their regional teams and are an active part of the sports culture in the heartland of America.

Shawnee, Kansas is a charming city with a rich history and plenty of unique highlights. Located in the heart of Johnson County, this Midwest gem offers both small-town charm and big-city convenience. Here are 10 fun facts about Shawnee that you might not know:

1. Historic Trails Cross Here – Shawnee sits at the crossroads of three famous trails: the Santa Fe, California, and Oregon Trails.
2. Named After a Tribe – The city is named after the Shawnee Native American tribe that once lived in the region.
3. Family-Friendly Town – Shawnee has been ranked as one of the top 20 best cities to live in the U.S. for families by Money Magazine.
4. Natural Beauty – The Shawnee Mission Park is one of the largest parks in the region, covering over 1,600 acres with trails, a lake, and playgrounds.
5. Duck Races and Parades – Every June, Shawnee holds Old Shawnee Days, a celebration that includes a parade, live music, and the crowd-favorite rubber duck race.
6. Touch of Hollywood – Several movies and commercials have used Shawnee’s scenic spots as filming locations thanks to its classic American vibe.
7. Home-Grown Beer – Shawnee is home to local breweries like Transport Brewery and Servaes Brewing Co., both offering unique craft beer flavors and live events.
8. Aviation Past – In the 1920s, Shawnee was part of a Transcontinental Air Mail route, and the city still shows pride in its aviation history.
9. Community Spirit – From farmer's markets to food truck nights, Shawnee regularly hosts community events that draw huge crowds and bring neighbors together.
10. Haunted History – Locals say the Sauer Castle, just outside Shawnee’s border, is one of Kansas’s most haunted places, complete with ghost stories and mysterious sightings.