Welcome to Olathe
Pronounced O-Lay’-tha, Olathe is the 4th largest city in the state with a population of approximately 143,000. Money Magazine ranked it #11 on its list of the “100 Best Cities to Live” in the United States in 2008. The city has a total area of 60 square miles and two public lakes: Lake Olathe and Cedar Lake. It is bordered by the cities of Lenexa to the north, Overland Park to the east, De Soto to the northwest, and Gardner to the southwest.
Fun Facts About Olathe
The football huddle, used routinely by teams everywhere, originated in Olathe at the Kansas School for the Deaf. Students and Coach Paul Hubbard created the huddle to present the defense by reading the lips or hand sign language of the offensive team prior to snapping the football.
Olathe served as a stop on the Oregon, California, and Santa Fe Trails. Catering to travelers was the main source of income for local stores and businesses. The Mahaffie House, a popular resupply point for wagons headed westward, is today a registered historical site maintained by the City of Olathe.
Ensor Park and Museum
The Ensor Park and Museum highlights the home of Marshall Ensor, an Olathe teacher and pioneer in amateur radio. This 1892 farmhouse displays antique furniture, utensils, clothing, quilts, and ham radio equipment.
Kansas City Automotive Museum
Learn auto history at the Kansas City Automotive Museum. The Kansas City area is home to major automotive and motorcycle manufacturing, racing, and a vibrant collector community. The museum features more than 30 cars in a 10,000 square foot display space. The museum highlights significant Kansas City automotive history such as 1965 Le Mans winner Masten Gregory (the "Kansas City Flash"), the Ford Winchester Plant, and Greenlease Cadillac.
Old Olathe Naval Air Museum
War memorabilia is displayed at Old Olathe Naval Air Museum. This museum features exhibits of Naval/aviation-related memorabilia and educational activities at the training station. Olathe Veterans Memorial Park is a beautiful four-acre park that has memorials and statues to the fallen members of the armed forces and those who serve now and will serve.
Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm
As the only working stagecoach stop left on the Santa Fe Trail, Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm offers unique experiences and opportunities that engage visitors of all ages in discovering 1860s farming, life on the Kansas frontier, and stagecoach travel. The staff wears period costumes, and stagecoach rides and farm animals make the site a favorite among children. Visitors can participate in Civil War reenactments, Wild West Days, and other activities and events.
The Museum of Deaf History, Arts, and Culture
The Museum of Deaf History, Arts, and Culture is the only museum in the United States that is dedicated to deaf culture in America and includes artifacts that chronicle deaf accomplishments. Discover what it means to be deaf in America, explore deaf culture, and learn about the history and accomplishments of deaf citizens. Interactive modules teach American Sign Language and provide a fast-paced quiz game that tests what you have learned.
There is always something going on in Olathe. It’s the perfect place to explore 1860’s history, and miles of trails, visit a winery, or take in the art and sculptures located downtown. Whether you prefer older established neighborhoods or modern subdivisions, there is something for everyone in this fast-growing community.
