As summer's warmth gently fades and the crisp chill of fall sets in, there's no better place to savor the season than in the Kansas City metro area. From leaves painting a beautiful landscape to the inviting aroma of pumpkin spice and cozy bonfires, fall in KC is nothing short of enchanting. Whether you're a local looking to rediscover the magic of your city or a visitor eager to experience some spooky fun, KC Destinations members have compiled a can’t-miss list of the best of fall in the region. From picturesque parks and charming festivals to delectable seasonal treats and scary haunted houses, get ready to fall head over heels for all things autumn in Kansas City.
Fall Festivals & Events
Olathe, Kansas
Fall in Olathe is a time of vibrant colors, crisp air and unforgettable experiences. The Olathe Arts Festival, happening September 27-28 at the Johnson County Square in Downtown Olathe, is a must-visit event that brings together exceptional art from across the region, live entertainment and family-friendly activities. The festival is a celebration of creativity and the arts, offering something for everyone to enjoy.
Learn more about this event online: https://www.olatheks.gov/government/parks-recreation/special-events/olathe-arts-festival
Leavenworth, Kansas Leavenworth chases away the autumn chill with a host of seasonal festivals, including a family-friendly affair hosted by Lamborn Farm each year. Mark your calendar for Saturday, September 28, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. and get ready to pick your pumpkin fresh from the patch, try your hand at the corn maze and let the kiddos loose on the mini-train that chugs around the event!
Learn more about all the fall fun that Leavenworth has to offer - VisitLeavenworthKS.com
Liberty, Missouri
Head to historic downtown Liberty for the 3rd annual Pumpkin Festival at the Historic Downtown Liberty Farmers Market on Saturday, October 5, 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. This is a free, family friendly event and it’s going to be bigger and better than ever!! You won’t want to miss browsing all the market vendors, picking out pumpkins, meet and greets with The Pumpkin Queen and KC Wolf, a puppet show with StoneLion Puppet Theatre, TONS of fall themed activities and games and SO MUCH MORE!!
Learn more about this event on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/3775829326006531
Lenexa, Kansas
Fall is festival season in Lenexa! Head to the Chili Challenge for a taste of those favorite fall flavors. Coming up on October 11-12 in Old Town Lenexa, this food-filled festival heats up on Friday night (6 p.m. – 10 p.m.) with live music and a fireworks show while teams host private parties.
On Saturday (10 a.m. – 4 p.m.), get your free samples of chili, hot wings and salsa, while supplies last, and stroll through 200+ team booths. Fun for the whole family including the Kids Kornbread Contest Saturday morning.
Learn more about this event online: https://bit.ly/3AJbwea
Gardner, Kansas
Get ready for a spooktacular time at Boo Bash in Gardner, Kansas on Thursday, October 24! This family event takes place at Celebration Park, 32501 W. 159th Street, and all ages are welcome. Join in for an evening of trail spooks, music, giveaways, and lots and lots of candy. Admission can be purchased in advance at Gardner City Hall for a discounted price. Don’t miss out on this frightfully fun celebration!
Learn more about this event online: https://www.gardnerkansas.gov/government/departments-and-divisions/parks-and-recreation/activities-special-events/special-events
Fall Experiences
Merriam, Kansas
Experience the beauty of Merriam’s parks and trails with the Fall in Love with Parks giveaway! Solve clues to identify and visit 10 parks. Find the yard sign in each park, scan the QR code, then submit your details to enter the drawing. You can enter up to 10 times, one entry per park. Enjoy fresh air, outdoor fun and a chance to win a $100 Visa gift card now through November 15.
Learn more online: www.merriam.org/fallinlovewithparks.
Kansas City, Kansas
Fall in Kansas City is not complete without a trip to Cider Hill Family Orchard in Kansas City, KS! Family-owned and operated, Cider Hill offers all you need for a quintessential autumn day, with U-Pick apple trees, apple slushes, hay rides, pumpkins and plenty of space to run and play. Enjoy the fresh air and smell of fresh kettle corn and Cider Hill’s famous cider donuts!
Clay County, Missouri
Fall in Clay County is nothing short of magical! With the crisp air and vibrant foliage, it's the perfect time to explore all the seasonal fun our area has to offer. Dive into the ultimate fall experience with not one, but TWO fantastic pumpkin patches: The Fun Farm and Carolyn’s Pumpkin Patch. Whether you're carving pumpkins or enjoying hayrides, these spots are perfect for making memories with the family.
Learn more about all the fall fun that Clay County has to offer - https://www.visitclaymo.com/p/whats-new/fall
Fall Thrills
Kansas City, Missouri
In the fall, Kansas City is the home for haunted houses, earning the moniker of “The Haunted House Capital of the World” and making it one of the best places to visit during Halloween season. Head to the historic West Bottoms to experience the popular Edge of Hell, The Beast and Macabre Cinema. Or spend a day at Worlds of Fun. After dark, the KC amusement park turns into one of the scariest destinations in town for Halloween Haunt (pictured below).
Plan your haunted visit online here: https://www.visitkc.com/visitors/things-do/haunted-houses
Bonner Springs, Kansas
Exiled has been a fixture in the Kansas City haunted scene for years. Everything changed in 2024 when Exiled partnered with Darren Lynn Bousman to re-imagine the haunted trail for the upcoming season. This year, the best haunted experience in KC isn’t in a house! Visit Exiled: Crooked Rose Woods for the ultimate thrill and scare of your life.
Tickets must be purchased in advance and there are three levels to choose from with this immersive experience: torment, anguish and annihilation. Get tickets now: https://www.exiledkc.com/
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