Are you new to living through four distinct seasons? My family was when we moved to the area, and after an adjustment period, we have had so many fun adventures throughout the year! Below are some tips we’ve learned about truly experiencing four-season living, along with ideas for having fun year-round in Lee’s Summit!
Feel free to use the reference guide below to jump to the parts that fit your needs and interests most closely.
Table of Contents
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Tips for Four-Season Living
Clothing for All Seasons: Layering is key during transitional months, so stock your wardrobe with everything from heavy winter gear to lightweight summer outfits. We find it helpful to have a rotating system if closet space is limited—when the sweaters come out, the shorts are put in storage.
Seasonal Home Maintenance: Regularly check your heating and cooling systems, roof, and gutters. Prepare for potential weather-related emergencies, especially during severe winter storms or summer thunderstorms.
Vehicle Preparation: Regular vehicle maintenance is essential in both extremes of heat and cold. Keep your car equipped for snow and ice during the winter and be mindful of road conditions during spring rains and summer storms. Follow local news channels or the LS police department social media to keep up-to-date about unsafe road conditions.
Utility Management: You can expect utility costs to fluctuate throughout the year, with higher heating bills in winter and cooling bills in summer. Consider budgeting tools or energy-saving measures to help manage expenses year-round.
While living in Lee’s Summit can bring seasonal challenges, these weather changes offer a variety of new activities and outdoor opportunities. From hiking through the cool autumn woods to sledding down a snowy hill, residents can experience the full beauty of each season with proper preparation.
Four-Season Outdoor FUN!
There are many outdoor activities Lee’s Summit residents can enjoy throughout the different seasons, from winter snow sports to summer lake adventures. Here’s are just a few ways to enjoy the great outdoors year-round!
Winter can be cold, and Lee’s Summit has no shortage of cold-weather activities.
- Sled at Legacy Park, a favorite for sledding on snowy days. With hills big, small, and everything in-between it’s perfect for both kids and adults.
- Ice Skate at Summit Ice, an outdoor ice skating rink open from November to February. Located at Frank White Jr. Park, this popular spot hosts special events throughout the winter season.
- Take a peaceful winter hike at Carl Chinnery Nature Trail at Unity Village which offers year-round trails.
- Walk or Drive a Holiday Lights Tour – Numerous neighborhoods and parks in the Lee’s Summit area create holiday light displays during December for your viewing pleasure. Don’t want to leave the warmth? You can enjoy these from the warmth and comfort of your car!
Spring in Lee’s Summit brings milder weather and blooming landscapes.
- Bike the Rock Island Rail Trail, a 13.5 mile scenic cycling path where residents can enjoy the fresh spring air and wildflowers.
- Fish at Lake Jacomo, a nearby favorite spot for spring fishing—offering bass, crappie, and catfish.
- Visit Powell Gardens – located just outside Lee’s Summit, this botanical garden is particularly stunning in the spring with its blooming flowers.
- Hike the trails at Winterset Park Nature Area to be surrounded by blooming trees and fresh greenery.
Summer in Lee’s Summit offers a range of outdoor water activities and exciting events.
- Swim and Boat at Longview Lake—make memories at this popular summer spot, which offers swimming, paddleboarding, and boating.
- Camp at Fleming Park, which offers campsites and access to Lake Jacomo and Blue Springs Lake for weekend getaways.
- Celebrate Fourth of July at Legacy Park featuring live music and food trucks – the Legacy Blast fireworks show is a major summer event in Lee’s Summit.
- Golf at Shamrock Hills Golf Club, a popular local golf course.
Fall is a beautiful time to be outdoors, with cooler temperatures and colorful foliage.
- Hike at James A. Reed Memorial Wildlife Area to experience the stunning fall foliage up close.
- Visit the Pumpkin Patch at Faulkner’s Ranch; pumpkin picking, hayrides, and more. This is a favorite spot among many Lee’s Summit residents for family friendly fall activities!
- Enjoy Fall Festivals at Powell Gardens; this local botanical garden celebrates the cooler weather with their Harvest Festival, with fun activities such as apple picking, corn mazes, and autumn displays.
- Take Scenic Drives – Enjoy the changing leaves without ever leaving your car! Take a scenic drive around Jackson & Cass Counties with routes that pass through parks and open spaces for the best views.
Additional Resources
No matter the season, Lee’s Summit offers a wide variety of outdoor activities. From ice skating in the winter to hiking and fishing in the spring and fall, there’s always something to enjoy in this vibrant, four-season city. Whether new to this weather or not, residents can explore the outdoors and embrace seasonal fun throughout the year.
For more information and activity suggestions, visit:
Lee’s Summit FUN! Facebook Group
Lee’s Summit Parks & Recreation: Visit Here
Missouri Department of Conservation: Visit Here
