Creating a Truly Inclusive Destination
In a world where inclusivity is often a buzzword, a groundbreaking new project is striving to turn those words into reality. It’s not just about creating an entertainment park or a space—it's about creating an experience where everyone, regardless of ability, feels welcome, seen, and valued. At the heart of this development are James Arkell and Lamar Hunt Jr., and a deep collaboration between local, state, and federal partners, as well as a number of public and private entities, all working together to build something truly remarkable.
“We’re thrilled about this amazing project coming to our community. It’s another huge win for our City, and for the families who will benefit from the one-of-a-kind services and experiences that will soon be available right here in Olathe. We’re eager to see this area continue to grow into a true destination for visitors from across the region and the entire country,” says John Bacon, Olathe Mayor.
A Vision for Inclusivity and Innovation
The vision for this new hub, located at the intersection of 119th and Renner, is unlike any other in the country. Loretto Properties, owned by Lamar Hunt Jr. and son-in-law, James Arkell, and owners of the Kansas City Mavericks hockey team, is constructing a sports arena to accommodate a junior league team as well as a multi-sports arena for cheer and adaptive sports. Originally slated to be solely a youth sports complex, the plans have evolved into something far greater. Today, this sprawling, flat 64-acre site will house an amusement park, a medical facility, restaurants, a hotel, and a sports venue for all abilities, all built with one central idea in mind: accessibility for all.
“Everyone has a part to play in this project,” says Arkell. “Whether it’s nonprofits, local governments, medical institutions, or private companies, each partner brings something unique to the table. We wouldn’t be where we are in the process without all these groups joining forces. Our development partner Vantrust has been crucial to our progress and its rare to find a company that believes in charity as much as profitability. The most exciting part is seeing them all work together to turn this vision into something spectacular.”The inspiration behind this project began with the desire to create more opportunities for hockey in the Kansas City area, but what once began as an idea to bring more awareness to the sport of hockey grew to something much larger,’ says Arkell. “Once we obtained the 64-acre lot, we started to dream bigger. Using my own family’s experience with enjoying time together and traveling as a family, we decided to create a space that would be accessible for all. In honor of my son, Michael, who is disabled, we began the journey of creating an entertainment district that allows families of all sizes and abilities to enjoy time together easily.”
Ultra-Accessible Amusement for All
One of the most exciting aspects of this project is the amusement park, which promises to redefine what it means to be “accessible.” Drawing inspiration from Morgan’s Wonderland in San Antonio—the world’s first ultra-accessible theme park known for catering to people of all abilities—this new park in Olathe will offer rides designed for full accessibility, so that families, no matter what their needs, can enjoy a day together without limitations.
“Ultra-accessible means that all of the rides are designed to be wheelchair accessible,” explains Arkell. “The rides are engineered in a way that allows wheelchairs to be securely locked in, ensuring that people with mobility challenges can experience the thrill of the rides without feeling singled out. The park is designed for everyone in mind so that every person, disabled or not, can enjoy a day of fun.”
But it’s not just about the rides. This will be a place where families can come together to enjoy fun and memorable experiences. It’s about creating an environment where no one feels out of place, and everyone can just enjoy the park as a family. There will be restaurants, shops, and sports courts to enjoy as well, so there is something for everyone.
“We live in a world that often speaks of “lifestyle”, and of certainly desiring to experience the goodness, beauty, and truth that surrounds us each day. But what of those who are on the fringe due to some “special needs”, not able to fully participate in all that life has to legitimately offer,” says Lamar Hunt, Jr. “Michael’s Wonder World addresses this challenge in a fully comprehensive way with an invitation that says, “All are Welcome” and all of the accommodations are ultra- accessible and thus, all-inclusive, meaning no matter what a family is dealing with, everyone can participate fully in all that is offered at Michael’s Wonder World.”
A Space for Families to Thrive
In addition to the amusement park, the development will include a medical facility designed with families in mind. Inspired by a multi-assistance center in San Antonio, the facility will house a variety of services under one roof, including everything from hair and nail care to sedation dentistry and optometry. But perhaps most importantly, it will feature a network of community partners, offering services for families who have family members of all abilities.
“The goal is to create a 'one-stop shop' for families, where they can access medical and support services in a centralized location. With the help of local institutions like KU and Children’s Mercy, the medical facility will offer a range of services, including mental health support for both children and parents. This is a much-needed resource, as many families caring for children with special needs often experience burnout without the proper support,” explains Arkell.
For the families who need it, there will be a navigator or ambassador to help guide them through the available resources. “It’s not just about providing services, but also making sure families don’t feel overwhelmed by the process” says Arkell.
Tucker Trotter, CEO of Dimensional Innovations adds,"Getting to be part of such an important project—one that's really changing the patient experience—has been incredible. It's more than just creating something remarkable; it’s about touching lives, bringing creativity and care together in a way that gives people hope when they need it most. What James and the team have put together is genuinely a game changer for Kansas City. It captures what KC is all about: people and companies coming together for the greater good."
Building the Future Together
This project isn’t just about creating a fun destination—it’s about creating a lasting legacy of inclusivity and community. The idea is to make sure that families, no matter where they come from, have access to the resources and experiences they need to thrive.eWithout even being open the group has a rapidly filling calendar of events for the 20227 season including 28 dates already booked for e adaptive hockey, and plans for national championships and international games, it’s clear that the future of this development is bright.
Lamar Hunt Jr., one of the driving forces behind the project, has a personal connection to the idea of creating spaces for families. His dad, Lamar Hunt Sr., built Worlds of Fun, so this project is in their DNA.
A Travel Destination for Everyone
With its mix of sports facilities, medical services, restaurants, and entertainment, the new development is slated to become a major travel destination. A third-party study on this development expects that it will draw over a million unique visitors annually, providing a boost to local tourism and the economy in Olathe and Kansas City as a whole. On weekdays, the focus will be on youth sports, especially hockey, dance, gymnastics, and cheerleading. But on the weekends, the area will transform into a vibrant destination for families and tourists from all over the country coming to enjoy the amusement park and amenities that the development has to offer. It will also serve as a world class destination for youth sports tournaments with amenities for everyone.
The inclusion of a hotel, designed to meet the needs of families with varying abilities, will offer a seamless experience. Parents will be able to select amenities like larger pack-and-plays or bath chairs, ensuring that they have everything they need to care for their children without the added stress of packing and planning.
“This is big news for our community. The investment in our market is certainly a game-changer. This truly unique, ultra-accessible theme park and arena will be a draw for visitors across the entire country and is another big win for the Olathe Chamber of Commerce and the City of Olathe, “ says Tim McKee, the CEO of the Olathe Chamber of Commerce.
Looking to the Future
As the project moves toward its 2027 opening, the team behind it remains committed to building something that will truly benefit the community. With incredible partners, innovative ideas, and a shared vision for inclusivity, this development promises to be more than just a park—it will be a place where families, regardless of their needs, can come together, have fun, and enjoy all that life has to offer.
“This isn’t a park just for those with disabilities; this is a park for everyone. It’s a space where everyone can have a seat at the table, enjoy great food, shop, experience sports, and have fun—all in an environment designed to be as inclusive and accessible as possible,” says Arkell.
This project will be a game-changer for Kansas City and beyond, bringing together families, communities, and businesses in a way that makes everyone feel welcome and valued.
“How we deal with the most vulnerable in our society is a mark of true goodness, beauty, and yes, a joyful encounter. There is no greater good than selflessly serving others, especially the most vulnerable in our community,” says Hunt.
“On behalf of the Loretto Companies, we want to thank our community partners in these endeavors and all those who have graciously brought this amazing concept to the attention of the greater KC community. We cannot wait for you to “come and see” all that this offers for every family dealing with special needs.”
For more information on the theme park, visit michaelswonderworld.com