Welcome to the heart of the Midwest, where the spirit of the Plains elevates the urban experience! Whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, or an adventure-seeker, the list of things to do in Wichita, Kansas is brimming with opportunities to explore and enjoy. As the largest city in Kansas, Wichita combines the charm of a small town with the amenities of a bustling metropolis. From stunning art museums and lush gardens to thrilling water parks and historical reenactments, Wichita offers a vibrant array of attractions that are sure to capture your interest. So buckle up and get ready to discover a city where the buffalo once roamed, now a playground for curious travelers like you!
1. Exploration Place
- Address: 300 N McLean Blvd, Wichita, KS 67203
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are smaller.
- Local Advice: Check their schedule for special exhibits and IMAX showings to make the most of your visit.
Explore the realms of science in a fun and interactive environment at Exploration Place. Situated picturesquely on the banks of the Arkansas River, this science museum boasts not just eye-catching architecture but also a wealth of exhibits that will captivate both the young and the young at heart. From hands-on displays that explain flight mechanics to mind-bending puzzles that challenge your brain, there’s something here to spark curiosity in everyone. Don’t miss the Kansas in Miniature display, a detailed and whimsical look at 1950s Kansas, complete with working models of trains, planes, and automobiles.
2. Old Cowtown Museum
- Address: 1865 W Museum Blvd, Wichita, KS 67203
- Best Time to Visit: Early summer or during special event weekends for a full experience with live reenactments.
- Local Advice: Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be walking on lots of unpaved, dusty paths.
Step back in time with a visit to the Old Cowtown Museum, where the 19th century comes alive just a few steps from modern downtown Wichita. This living history museum offers a unique glimpse into the daily life of a Midwestern town during the pioneering days of the late 1800s. With over 54 historic buildings, from a blacksmith shop to a residential street, actors in period attire demonstrate day-to-day activities of the era. Be sure to catch a wild west show or a historical reenactment for an entertaining history lesson!
3. Wichita Art Museum
- Address: 1400 W Museum Blvd, Wichita, KS 67203
- Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings for a quieter experience.
- Local Advice: First Saturday of the month is free—perfect for art lovers on a budget!
Wichita Art Museum stands as the largest art museum in the state, housing a comprehensive collection that celebrates American art. From preeminent painters of the past like Mary Cassatt and Winslow Homer to the innovations of modern sculptors, the museum offers a diverse array of visual treats. The Art Garden surrounding the museum is equally impressive, featuring sculptures set against meticulously landscaped backgrounds that provide a serene escape from the city’s hustle.
4. Sedgwick County Zoo
- Address: 5555 W Zoo Blvd, Wichita, KS 67212
- Best Time to Visit: Morning hours to see the animals at their most active.
- Local Advice: Bring a stroller for little ones; the zoo spans over 250 acres!
The Sedgwick County Zoo is a must-visit for animal lovers and families. Home to over 3,000 animals, the zoo is lauded for its expansive habitats and commitment to conservation. The immersive exhibits, such as the African Savannah and the Tiger Trek, allow visitors to view majestic beasts in settings that mimic their natural environments. Special experiences like feeding the giraffes or riding the boat tour provide delightful interactions with wildlife that are both educational and thrilling.
5. Botanica, The Wichita Gardens
- Address: 701 Amidon St, Wichita, KS 67203
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring when the tulips bloom, though any season has its charm.
- Local Advice: Don’t miss the butterfly house where you can mingle with fluttering beauties.
Botanica, The Wichita Gardens is a lush oasis in the heart of the city, featuring over 18 acres of stunning garden landscapes. Each garden is designed with a different theme, offering visitors a picturesque stroll through varied sceneries from traditional rose gardens to the more exotic Chinese Garden of Friendship. Seasonal events like the illuminating ‘Illuminations’ during the winter holidays transform the gardens into a magical wonderland, making it a perfect year-round attraction.
6. Keeper of the Plains Statue
- Address: 650 N Seneca St, Wichita, KS 67203
- Best Time to Visit: Sunset, when the ‘Ring of Fire’ around the statue is lit.
- Local Advice: The area around the statue provides excellent paths for walking and cycling, so plan some extra time to explore.
The Keeper of the Plains statue, standing at the confluence of the Big and Little Arkansas rivers, is a striking landmark that pays homage to the Native American heritage of the region. Designed by Blackbear Bosin, a Kiowa-Comanche artist, this 44-foot tall steel sculpture has become an iconic symbol of Wichita. The surrounding plaza, with its display of tribal flags and informational plaques, provides a deep insight into the local tribes’ history and culture. The nightly lighting of the fires around the statue at sunset creates a breathtaking sight, symbolizing the eternal spirit of the Native people.
7. Wichita-Sedgwick County Historical Museum
- Address: 204 S Main St, Wichita, KS 67202
- Best Time to Visit: Afternoon for a quiet, contemplative experience.
- Local Advice: Look out for special community events here, such as vintage car shows or historical lectures, which add an extra layer of enjoyment to your visit.
Housed in the original Wichita City Hall, a stunning example of Romanesque Revival architecture, the Wichita-Sedgwick County Historical Museum dives deep into the local history from its early days as a trading post to its current status as an urban center. The museum’s exhibits cover various aspects of daily life, local industries, and the evolution of the region. With four floors of artifacts and interactive displays, history buffs can easily spend hours here delving into the stories that shaped Wichita.
8. The Great Plains Nature Center
- Address: 6232 E 29th St N, Wichita, KS 67220
- Best Time to Visit: Early mornings or late afternoons for wildlife watching.
- Local Advice: Participate in one of the guided nature walks for a chance to spot some local wildlife and learn about the native plants and animals from knowledgeable staff.
The Great Plains Nature Center offers a comprehensive look at the natural environment of the Great Plains region. With its combination of indoor exhibits, including a 2,200-gallon aquarium, and extensive outdoor walking trails, it’s an ideal spot for nature lovers and families. The center aims to provide educational experiences that foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of the natural world, encouraging conservation efforts. Its observatory deck, overlooking the wetlands, is a perfect spot to relax and bird-watch.
9. Strataca – Kansas Underground Salt Museum
- Address: 3650 E Avenue G, Hutchinson, KS 67501
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round, as the underground environment maintains a constant cool temperature.
- Local Advice: Wear comfortable shoes and bring a light jacket; it gets chilly underground.
Strataca offers a unique adventure that takes you 650 feet underground into one of the world’s largest salt mines. This museum not only educates visitors about the history of salt mining in the region but also provides a thrilling experience with its underground train ride and the dark ride, where you can explore untouched parts of the mine. For those feeling particularly adventurous, the ‘Salt Safari’ tour takes you even deeper into the caverns, exploring areas less traveled. The naturally preserved environment also houses a collection of movie costumes and props, stored in the mine for preservation.
10. Delano District
- Address: The Delano District, located around Douglas and McLean Blvd, Wichita, KS
- Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon to evening for shopping, dinner, and drinks.
- Local Advice: Check out the local calendar for frequent festivals and outdoor markets, which are a blast to attend.
The Delano District, once a wild cowtown with a reputation for its rowdy saloons and general stores, has transformed into one of Wichita’s most vibrant neighborhoods. Packed with unique shops, delightful restaurants, and lively bars, Delano offers an eclectic mix of old charm and new energy. Walk along the historic streets where famous lawmen and outlaws once roamed, now lined with art galleries and boutiques. Be sure to visit during one of the many community events, such as the St. Patrick’s Day Parade or the Fall Fair, to see Delano at its most festive.
11. Rock River Rapids
- Address: 1900 E James St, Derby, KS 67037
- Best Time to Visit: Summer months for a refreshing break from the heat.
- Local Advice: Arrive early to beat the crowds and secure a good spot in the shade or near your favorite water slide.
Rock River Rapids is a seasonal water park that provides a splash-tastic escape from the summer heat for families and thrill-seekers alike. With multiple water slides ranging from mild to wild, a lazy river for those preferring a slower pace, and a dedicated kiddie pool area, it caters to all ages and adrenaline levels. The park also offers swimming lessons and water aerobics classes, making it a hub of aquatic activity. Don’t forget to try the funnel cake from the concession stand—locals swear it’s a must!
12. Wichita Symphony Orchestra
- Address: 225 W Douglas Ave, Wichita, KS 67202
- Best Time to Visit: Fall through spring when the symphony season is in full swing.
- Local Advice: Consider attending a pre-concert talk to enhance your experience with insights into the music and composers.
The Wichita Symphony Orchestra offers an enriching cultural experience with performances that span classical to contemporary. Located in the Century II Performing Arts & Convention Center, the symphony showcases the talents of local and internationally renowned artists. Whether you’re a classical music aficionado or a newcomer, the orchestra’s passionate performances and the majestic sound of the full ensemble are sure to captivate. Check their schedule for special events like “Symphony in the Park” for a delightful outdoor concert experience.
13. Ulrich Museum of Art
- Address: 1845 Fairmount St, Wichita, KS 67260
- Best Time to Visit: Anytime, but especially during new exhibit openings or public events.
- Local Advice: Don’t miss the Martin H. Bush Outdoor Sculpture Collection, featuring over 80 works scattered across the Wichita State University campus.
Located on the Wichita State University campus, the Ulrich Museum of Art is a treasure trove of modern and contemporary art. With a robust calendar of exhibitions, workshops, and educational programs, the museum serves as a cultural hub for the community. The collection includes works by Andy Warhol and Joan Mitchell, among others, with a particularly strong emphasis on Kansas artists. The museum’s dynamic approach to integrating art with community interaction makes every visit a fresh and thought-provoking experience.
14. Kansas Aviation Museum
- Address: 3350 S George Washington Blvd, Wichita, KS 67210
- Best Time to Visit: Mid-week to avoid school groups and have more interactive opportunities with the exhibits.
- Local Advice: Check out the cockpit of an actual Boeing 727 on your visit—you can sit in the pilot’s seat!
Housed in the original Wichita Municipal Airport terminal, the Kansas Aviation Museum chronicles the city’s remarkable aviation heritage. The museum boasts a collection of aircraft and artifacts that span the history of aviation, highlighting Wichita’s role as the “Air Capital of the World.” Exhibits include everything from early wood-and-fabric airplanes to jet-age fighters, offering a comprehensive look at the evolution of flight. Aviation enthusiasts can delve into archives and research libraries, making it a haven for those keen to learn more about the aeronautical legends.
15. Great Plains Transportation Museum
- Address: 700 E Douglas Ave, Wichita, KS 67202
- Best Time to Visit: Weekends for full access to all exhibits and model train operations.
- Local Advice: The museum occasionally offers caboose rides during special events—check their calendar before your visit.
The Great Plains Transportation Museum showcases the history of railroading in Kansas and the Great Plains region. With a collection of historic railroad equipment and memorabilia, the museum offers a nostalgic look at the rail industry’s impact on the development of the Midwest. Visitors can explore restored locomotives and rolling stock, including a Santa Fe steam engine and several cabooses. Interactive displays and model railroads add to the fun, making it a hit with families and train buffs alike.
16. The Wichita Gardens
- Address: 701 Amidon St, Wichita, KS 67203
- Best Time to Visit: Spring for the blooming flowers or fall for the autumn colors.
- Local Advice: Join a guided tour to learn about the planting techniques and botanical names of the species featured in the gardens.
The Wichita Gardens offer a peaceful retreat with beautifully themed landscapes ranging from a Shakespearean garden to a Japanese koi pond. Each garden is meticulously designed to showcase different botanical aesthetics and gardening styles from around the world. Seasonal displays and special events, such as outdoor concerts and garden shows, add to the gardens’ allure. It’s a perfect place for a leisurely walk, a family picnic, or even a romantic outing.
17. Exploration Place
- Address: 300 N McLean Blvd, Wichita, KS 67203
- Best Time to Visit: Weekdays to avoid the weekend family crowds.
- Local Advice: Don’t miss the ‘Design Build Fly’ exhibit, where you can create and test your own airplane models.
Exploration Place is Wichita’s premier science center, dedicated to providing interactive science learning experiences. The exhibits range from a real-life tornado simulation to a hands-on construction zone and a flight simulation lab, ensuring that every visitor finds something to spark their curiosity. The stunning, Frank Gehry-designed building is located right on the Arkansas River, providing picturesque views and a perfect backdrop for a day of educational fun.
18. Old Cowtown Museum
- Address: 1865 Museum Blvd, Wichita, KS 67203
- Best Time to Visit: Visit during a weekend for live reenactments and a full experience of the historical activities.
- Local Advice: Make sure to try the freshly made sarsaparilla in the saloon; it’s a favorite among visitors.
Step back in time at the Old Cowtown Museum, a living history museum that recreates Wichita in the 1860s. With over 54 historic buildings, costumed interpreters, and hands-on activities, Cowtown gives visitors a glimpse into the daily lives of the early settlers. From blacksmith demonstrations to horse-drawn carriage rides, it offers a comprehensive and immersive historical experience. The museum also hosts special events throughout the year, including old-fashioned baseball games and Victorian dances.
Conclusion
After exploring the top 20 things to do in Wichita, Kansas, it’s clear that this city is more than just a pin on the map—it’s a dynamic hub of culture, history, and fun! Whether you spent your time marveling at the intricate artworks at the Wichita Art Museum, stepping back in time at the Old Cowtown Museum, or cooling off at Rock River Rapids, Wichita offers a uniquely enriching experience that invites visitors to delve deeper. So as you wind down your visit, remember that Wichita isn’t just a destination; it’s an experience packed with memories waiting to be made. Don’t just take our word for it—come back and see what new adventures await in the ever-evolving landscape of Wichita, Kansas!