The Lifestyle

Apart from its ideal location, easy access to main roads, and superb amenities, the main draw of relocating to Westwood is the friendly, active community, which is comprised of diverse individuals with a vested interest in the quality of life for all residents. An example of this is the Westwood Foundation—governed by the Mayor, President of City Council, and five citizens—which oversees many scholarships, housing and leasing matters, and recreational development opportunities in the community, ensuring that Westwood citizens have a voice and fair access to community resources, thus helping residents to thrive.

Parks & Recreation

One of the huge draws of Westwood real estate is its picturesque location, nestled amidst wooded hills, windblown grasses and gentle streams. Westwood residents have countless ways to enjoy the outdoors, whether it be hiking, cycling, or dabbling in photography at local Westwood Park. The Johnson County Park and Recreation District offers an abundance of activities and facilities in and around Westwood. Nearby Antioch Park, Johnson County’s oldest park, has always been a local favorite. Now, with recent upgrades in facilities, as well as wetland and lake improvements, it’s an even better place to spend the day swimming, path-walking, or picnicking.

For a more holistic approach to recreation, visit Woodside Health and Tennis Club, Westwood’s premier wellness and recreation center. Whether you are looking to push your body to its limits, or open your mind to a state of deep relaxation, Woodside features top notch fitness equipment, swimming facilities, tennis courts, steam room, spa and sauna to help you achieve your mind and body goals.

Public Education

Westwood is part of the Shawnee Mission School District (SMSD), one of the most innovative and successful school districts in all of Johnson County. Students of SMSD are consistently recognized as Advanced Placement Scholars, National Merit Scholars, United States Presidential Scholars & International Baccalaureate Program.

Of particular interest to Westwood residents is the historic Westwood View Elementary School, still in operation today. This year Westwood was awarded the Governor's Achievement Award, recognizing Westwood for achieving a "Standard of Excellence" in both reading and mathematics, as well as being among the top five percent of schools in both reading and mathematics on the 2010 state assessments.

Shopping & Dining

The dining and shopping culture of Westwood and surrounding areas is hard to beat. Westwood enjoys being a part of a region steeped in local history and a persistent neighborhood vibe. Less than fifteen minutes from Westwood is Historic Downtown Overland Park, where premier shopping, fine dining, and a brush with rich history converge. Merriam Town Center, Northeast Johnson County’s newest shopping center, is also less than fifteen minutes away.

Sutera’s is a local favorite for authentic Italian cuisine, with consistently rave reviews. Of course, you are only minutes from Kansas City's Country Club Plaza! There you can enjoy the upscale retail shopping, fabulous restaurants like McCormick & Smicks, Capital Grill, Plaza III and many others. You can also hop on the I-35 for a quick thirteen-minute drive to the formidable shopping and dining of downtown Kansas City.

Employment

With a location just minutes away from the major cities and suburbs around the county, Westwood residents have relatively quick and easy work commutes, and many choose to find employment outside of town. Some of the largest areas of employment for Westwood residents include management, administrative work, healthcare, and education.