According to legend, the name Lenexa is actually a play on Na-Nex-Se, the widowed wife of Chief Blackhoof who was one of the signers of the 1894 treaty that ceded 1.6 million acres of land from the Shawnee Indian reservation to the U.S. government. The location was a critical part of Lenexa's success, as it was connected to the Santa Fe Trail, opening the town to commerce.
The town has seen a massive boom in its population over the past decade. In 1950, there were less than 1,000 people living in the area, but the town continues to grow by 5,000-10,000 people every ten years, contributing to the existing community and adding to the overall family feel. Whether you're coming to Lenexa to visit relatives or enjoy some classic Kansas barbeque, you're sure to feel a warm welcome from everyone in the area.
When to Visit Lenexa, KS
The best time of year to visit Lenexa is during the fall. The region is known for having “Indian summers” during the months of September and October, when you can expect warm days followed by cool nights. This is the perfect climate for having a football tailgate and then curling up by the bonfire when the sun goes down. If you're a vegetarian, or just have an appreciation for produce, consider attending the Spinach Festival in September.
If you can't visit in the fall, then the next best time to see Lenexa is the summer. While temperatures are typically in the 90s, there are plenty of summer activities and nature hikes to try. June is also when Lenexa hosts “The Great Lenexa Barbeque Battle,” which serves as the Kansas State Championship cookoff. You will be able to smell the ribs and the pulled pork all over the town. Remember to bring some extra napkins!
Summer is also the busiest season for travelling, so you may find that hotel prices fluctuate during this time. If you're trying to book during an event or festival, there may be limited availability, so try to book at least two months in advance.
Many locals will tout the benefits of traveling to Lenexa in the spring. It's true that April showers bring May flowers, and you can enjoy vast open fields of wildflowers and tall grass all over the countryside. You might even see a group of Monarch butterflies resting on a log or traveling across the fields.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Lenexa, KS:
Lenexa by Star Rating
Below we've posted 3 graphs demonstrating mean nightly cost patterns by star rating class in Lenexa, KS. You can use these charts to calculate the cheapest months to make a reservation in Lenexa during the year.
Luxury Hotel Options in Lenexa, KS
4 Star Average Prices: $115.75
If you're willing to travel to Lenexa from Kansas City, there are a few luxury hotel options that will keep you pampered and content. The Hotel Sorella Country Club Plaza is less than 10 miles from Lenexa and boasts excellent service and a great vibe. This is a business hotel with a contemporary feel, which is often used as a wedding venue or party location. The 24-hour front desk and concierge services can help you book tickets and plan your time in Kansas, and you can tap into the staff's expert advice to learn all of the best restaurants and bars in the surrounding area. Or, if you don't feel like leaving, dine at the hotel's restaurant and curl up by the fireplace in the lobby.
The Raphael Hotel, Autograph Collection is another popular wedding venue and hotel option in the greater Kansas City area. Along with booking a Queen or King room, you can order a spa package to enjoy a deep tissue massage or facial after a busy day out. This hotel also boasts a nightclub and regularly brings in local performers from jazz musicians to guitarists. Relax on the terrace with a drink while you soak in the local scene and think about how much you love visiting Kansas.
Affordable Hotel Options in Lenexa, KS
3 Star Average Prices: $116.27
The Crowne Plaza Kansas City - Overland Park hotel is less than a mile from the Lenexa city center and less than five miles from the Overland Park Convention Center. It has an indoor pool which is great for kids and for swimming throughout the year, and it also boasts a large jacuzzi for warming up after a brisk fall day. Business travelers will appreciate the free WiFi, business center, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. There are also dry cleaning services and a convenience store in case you forgot something and don't want to go out to get it.
The Quality Inn & Suites Lenexa Kansas City is another affordable option for travelers visiting the area. This accommodation is reportedly the best value for your money, and it is known for its service and its great location. Each of its 67 rooms come with air-conditioning, LCD televisions, and refrigerators so you can rest in comfort. Before you leave, enjoy free breakfast in the lobby — including waffles and fresh fruit.
2 Star Average Prices: $84.65
Best Discounts in Lenexa, KS
If you know where to look, then it's easy to find additional discounts when you're traveling to Lenexa. If you're in the military or traveling for government work, then the Super 8 Lenexa Overland Park Area offers 5 percent off of your stay, or an upgrade from a Queen to a King for the price of the Queen. Not only is this hotel located less than a mile from the Lenexa city center, but it's also a short walk to Oak Park Mall. Children under 17 can stay for free when they are occupying their parent or guardian's room, and pets are allowed for a $10 fee per night.
Another discount option is the Suburban Extended Stay Hotel, which offers a 5-10 percent discount to both AAA and AARP members. This discount is valid as long as you can provide proof of membership through your ID card when you check-in. True to its name, this hotel has washer and dryer facilities on site, so you can clean your clothes without having to worry about laundry when you return home. Each room come with refrigerators and kitchenettes, which eliminates the need to eat out every night. Before you leave, pick up some complimentary coffee in the lobby to start your day.
Best Value Options in Lenexa, KS
If you're looking for value during your stay, you can't beat the La Quinta Inn Kansas City Lenexa. There's complimentary breakfast for visitors and fitness facilities on site. During the warmer months, slip into the outdoor pool for a swim, or go for a walk in the surrounding area to see the city center or shopping mall. In fact, the location is one of the top reasons to stay at the La Quinta, other than the service and the amenities. The multilingual staff will make sure you feel at home; they will answer all of your questions and respond to all your needs.
The Holiday Inn & Suites Overland Park West is also known for its value and is a popular choice for visitors to the area. This hotel is known for its cleanliness and its location; it is near restaurants and the interstate. Each of the 191 rooms has air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and cable available on an LCD TV. There's also a restaurant and bar located on-site so guests can grab a bite to eat or a drink without having to go far.
Top Day Trips from Lenexa, KS
If you have a little extra time during your stay in Lenexa, consider hitting the road to take advantage of some of the top day trips and experiences in the area. Start with Excelsior Springs, MO, which is about 50 miles away from the heart of Lenexa. This town has been home to natural springs since the 1800s, and it is a huge draw for visitors in the area. Stop by the Hall of Waters & Cultural Museum or visit a day spa for a full soak and body treatment. You will leave for home feeling refreshed and relaxed.
If you're a big sports fan, or looking to tap into your alumni roots, then take a trip to Lawrence, Kansas, which is just 30 miles from Lenexa. This town is home to the University of Kansas, which creates a tight-knit college feel throughout the city. The best time to visit is during basketball season, as the Jayhawks are notorious for going far in the NCAA March Madness tournament. If sports aren't your thing, there are plenty of shops to stroll through and open greens that are for a picnic lunch.
Whether you're traveling for business, pleasure, or a family visit, you're sure to find somewhere enjoyable to stay in Lenexa, Kansas. With so many options, you can find something that meets your budget but provides enough comfort to make you want to return.
FAQs about hotels in Lenexa
How much does a cheap hotel in Lenexa cost per night?
In the last year, a 2 star hotel in Lenexa can be as cheap as $84.65 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
How much does a 3 star hotel in Lenexa cost per night?
In the last year, the average 3 star hotel in Lenexa has been $116.27 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
How much does a high-end hotel in Lenexa cost?
In the last year, the average 4 star hotel in Lenexa has been $115.75 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
Verified reviews of the city: Lenexa, KS
Below are reviews of the city of Lenexa, KS from an actual visitor's perspective.
"Very Good Waffle House!"
Score
4.0 / 5
The Waffle House I ate at was very good!
Eyvette F., from 01-Oct-2024
"Restaurants!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Restaurants!
Eyvette F., from 25-Sep-2024
"Very Nice"
Score
5.0 / 5
Very nice
Elaina P., from 23-Sep-2024
"Safe"
Score
4.0 / 5
Felt safe
Kenneth G., from 27-Aug-2024
"Close to Restaurants"
Score
4.0 / 5
Close to a variety of restaurants.
Brad C., from 09-Aug-2024
"Nice CLEAN City"
Score
4.0 / 5
The cleanliness of the city is wonderful. The people are friendly. Nice city overall.
Gary B., from 19-Mar-2024
"Clean Fun Area"
Score
4.0 / 5
Clean and fun area!
Melissa C., from 03-Mar-2024
"Great Location "
Score
5.0 / 5
Easy to get to family functions and shopping areas.
James O., from 24-Nov-2023
"Good Location!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Good location!
Janet H., from 20-Oct-2023
"Elegant Walk-In Shower"
Score
4.0 / 5
I liked the walk-in shower. It was elegant.
Joseph G., from 07-Oct-2023
"Great Location!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Great location!
Paul K., from 28-Mar-2023
"Clean Hotel"
Score
5.0 / 5
Hotel is better than the competition and cleaner.
Victor R., from 26-Feb-2023
"Clean Hotel"
Score
4.0 / 5
Hotel is better than the competition and it is cleaner.
Victor R., from 24-Feb-2023
"Great Location"
Score
5.0 / 5
There is lots to do in Kansas City. The Hyatt Place is right there where you want to be.
Michael W., from 07-Feb-2023
"Nice Hotel Close to Conference Center"
Score
4.0 / 5
Conference Center close by. Hotel is a nice facility.
Ann M., from 27-Jan-2023
"Lots of Shops & Restaurants!"
Score
5.0 / 5
It is fairly easy to get around in and has a lot of shopping & restaurants to choose from.
Carrie R., from 24-Nov-2022
"Great Location"
Score
5.0 / 5
Close to everything.
Chad B., from 20-Nov-2022
"Oak Park Mall"
Score
5.0 / 5
We like Oak Park Mall.
Carrie R., from 26-Sep-2022
"Good Central Location"
Score
4.0 / 5
Centrally located with having to drive to Desoto, Nelson and Atkins Museum of Art and the area around northeastern Kansas City.
Larry M., from 01-Aug-2022
"Fine Stay"
Score
4.0 / 5
Hotel was fine.
Sallie H., from 26-Apr-2022
"Beautiful City"
Score
5.0 / 5
Beautiful city ,nice place to live, lots of places to go, restaurants and business
David S., from 16-Apr-2022
"Very nice area. Great food."
Score
4.0 / 5
Very nice area in KC. Great food.
Robert L., from 09-Apr-2022
"Convenient Location & Quiet"
Score
4.0 / 5
Easy to find, convenient store across the street from the hotel, how quiet it was.
Theresa A., from 24-Mar-2022
"Joe's BBQ is excellent!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Joe's BBQ is excellent the pulled pork pork melts in your mouth and a full rack of ribs will feed two people.
Ron R., from 11-Feb-2022
"Lots of stores and restaurants close by."
Score
4.0 / 5
Lots of stores and restaurants close by.
Thomas S., from 22-Nov-2021
"Pleasant!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Hotel reservation was made through a helpful agent.Very convenient to both Oak Park mall and IKEA.
Steven G., from 20-Oct-2021
"Beautiful City"
Score
5.0 / 5
Beautiful city.
Cathy B., from 15-Oct-2021
"Nice city"
Score
5.0 / 5
Nice city
Carlton H., from 15-Dec-2019
The average traveler rating of the city of Lenexa, KS shown above is
4.5 out of 5 based on 28 reviews