Shawnee’s roots go back to the Native American people who lived on this land just south of the Kansas River in the early 19th century. For a time in the 1850’s, when the town was known as Gum Springs, it was home to the Kansas territory’s first legislature and capital, and it was the first county seat. Looted by William Quantrill during the Civil War, Shawnee was rebuilt by sturdy immigrant farmers in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Throughout the City, you will see statues and monuments honoring Shawnee’s history; Pioneer Crossing, the Chief Bluejacket Statute, and the Veteran’s Tribute to name a few. No city in Kansas’ Johnson County has a richer history or a more promising future.
The City has an unrivaled sense of community, that is contributed to by its largest events including the Shawnee St. Patrick’s Parade and Duck Race, the Scarecrow Festival, Tour De Shawnee, and the largest and most popular of all: Old Shawnee Days!
Shawnee also offers lots to do in its many city and county parks, including highlights like Shawnee Mission Park (which boasts a lake, dog park, horse-riding trails, and more), the historic Shawnee Town 1929 beautiful West Flanders Park, and more. You can also find any type of eats and drinks you could imagine! From craft breweries located in its intimate downtown to so many options in its newer areas of town, there is lots to explore in Shawnee!
Best of all, Shawnee is located within the KC metropolitan area and is just a short drive from other destinations like Kansas City, KS, Lenexa, Overland Park, and downtown Kansas City, Missouri.
