Wichita's Wide Range of Attractions
Wichita's Unique Charm Is a Tourist's Paradise
Wichita, nestled in the vast plains of Kansas, emerges as a city bursting with attractions speaking volumes of its rich history and culture. This hidden gem in the Midwest is a treasure trove of experiences, from awe-inspiring landmarks to interactive museums, offering adventures for every type of traveler. Wichita stands as a city where every visit offers a new discovery. Whether seeking a quiet retreat into nature or an exhilarating cultural experience, Wichita promises a memorable journey.
Historical Wonders and Modern Marvels
The journey through Wichita’s attractions often begins at the iconic Keeper of the Plains. Standing tall at the confluence of the Big and Little Arkansas rivers, this majestic sculpture is not merely an art piece but a symbolic guardian of the city’s deep Native American roots. As dusk falls, the Ring of Fire lighting around the sculpture creates a mesmerizing spectacle, marrying ancient traditions with modern aesthetics.
For families, the Exploration Place stands out as a beacon of science and fun. This interactive science museum offers hands-on exhibits igniting the curiosity of both the young and young at heart. From life-sized dinosaur models to flight simulators, the museum encapsulates the spirit of discovery defining Wichita.
Wichita's Tours and Events – The Pulse of the City
Wichita’s spirit comes alive through its diverse tours and events, each offering unique insights into the city’s soul. These experiences range from historical walks through time-honored streets to immersive festivals celebrating the city’s contemporary vibrancy.
The city’s parks and natural reserves provide a respite for outdoor lovers. Activities like hiking, biking, and bird watching in areas like the Great Plains Nature Center offer a serene escape from the urban hustle, showcasing Wichita’s natural beauty.
Explore Best Attractions - Tours - Events in Wichita
The list of things to do and see is almost limitless in and around Wichita. As with our Motto, we only list the best, therefore, some places may not appear on this page. However, if you know of some location which you feel should be included on this page we would enjoy hearing from.
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Festivals and Celebrations
Events like the Wichita River Festival exemplify the city’s communal spirit. This annual extravaganza draws crowds with its array of concerts, food fairs, and river activities, turning the city’s core into a hub of joy and celebration. Similarly, the Tallgrass Film Festival, renowned for showcasing independent cinema, transforms Wichita into a gathering place for filmmakers and movie enthusiasts.
For history buffs, the Old Cowtown Museum offers a unique peek into Wichita’s past. This living history museum recreates the 19th-century life, offering in-depth tours transporting visitors back in time, providing an authentic taste of the Old West.
Wichita's Future – A Destination on the Rise
As Wichita strides into the future, it continues to reinvent itself, blending its rich heritage with new, exciting developments. The city’s evolving landscape of attractions and events showcases its commitment to growth and innovation, promising new experiences for visitors and residents alike.
The Future of Entertainment and Leisure in Wichita
Plans like the Riverfront Legacy Master Plan are set to transform Wichita’s downtown area. Envisioning a vibrant mix of entertainment venues, green spaces, and public art, these developments will redefine the city’s skyline, adding new dimensions to its array of attractions.
Wichita's Tours and Events
Wichita’s tours offer an immersive journey into the city’s heart, revealing layers of history and contemporary charm. For history enthusiasts, the Old Cowtown Museum presents a living history experience. Here, the 19th-century Kansas comes to life with historical reenactments, authentic buildings, and interactive displays, providing a tangible connection to Wichita’s pioneering days.
Aviation forms the backbone of Wichita’s identity, and the city pays homage to this legacy through its comprehensive aviation tours. The Kansas Aviation Museum, located in a historic airport terminal, offers a unique look at Wichita’s role in aviation history. Additionally, the city’s various aircraft factories open their doors to enthusiasts, offering a rare glimpse into the world of aircraft manufacturing.
Vibrant Events Reflecting Wichita's Community Spirit
For those who prefer the freedom to explore at their own pace, Wichita offers various self-guided tour options. Walking trails, bike paths, and scenic drives are available, allowing visitors to discover the city’s beauty on their own terms.
Wichita & Surrounding Area Attractions Tours
This list will constantly be update over the time to come. The following items of interest are not listed in order of importance.
1. Sedgwick County Zoo: Home to over 3,000 animals, it’s one of the most popular family attractions in Kansas.
2. Exploration Place: A science museum featuring hands-on exhibits, a planetarium, and live science shows.
3. Botanica, The Wichita Gardens: Offers 18 acres of stunning gardens showcasing both native and exotic plant species.
4. Old Cowtown Museum: A living history museum transporting visitors back to the 19th century with its historical buildings and reenactments.
5. Wichita Art Museum: The largest art museum in Kansas, featuring American art collections, including works by Mary Cassatt and Winslow Homer.
6. Keeper of the Plains: A striking 44-foot tall steel sculpture standing at the confluence of the Big and Little Arkansas rivers.
7. Great Plains Nature Center: Offers a chance to explore the natural flora and fauna of the Great Plains through exhibits and walking trails.
8. The Kansas Aviation Museum: Located in the terminal building of the former municipal airport, it celebrates Kansas’s aviation heritage.
9. Wichita-Sedgwick County Historical Museum: Tells the story of Wichita and Sedgwick County through historical artifacts and exhibits.
10. Rock River Rapids: A family-friendly water park offering slides, a lazy river, and pools for all ages during the summer months.
11. Tanganyika Wildlife Park: An interactive zoo where visitors can feed and interact with exotic animals in a close-up setting.
12. Museum of World Treasures: Houses a vast collection ranging from dinosaur fossils to historical documents and artifacts from around the globe.
13. Wichita Toy Train Club and Museum: Showcases model train displays and offers interactive exhibits for train enthusiasts of all ages.
14. All Star Adventures: Features mini-golf, go-karts, bumper boats, and arcade games, making it a fun day out for the whole family.
15. The Ulrich Museum of Art at Wichita State University: Focuses on modern and contemporary art, offering both permanent and rotating exhibitions.
16. Mid-America All-Indian Center: Displays the heritage and art of the Native American cultures of the Great Plains region.
17. The Wichita Trolley: Offers guided tours around the city’s major attractions and historical sites, perfect for first-time visitors.
18. The Art Park: A unique outdoor venue combining art, nature, and community with walking trails and sculptures.
19. Kansas Firefighters Museum: Dedicated to preserving the history of firefighting in Kansas, including vintage fire trucks and equipment.
20. Frank Lloyd Wright’s Allen House: Offers tours of this beautifully preserved example of Wright’s prairie-style architecture.
21. O.J. Watson Park: A family-friendly park featuring pedal boats, mini-golf, a miniature train ride, and fishing ponds.
22. McConnell Air Force Base: While access may be restricted, the base occasionally offers air shows and public events showcasing military aircraft.
23. Crown Uptown Theatre: A historic venue hosting a variety of performances, from Broadway-style plays to musical concerts.
24. Wichita Railroaders Museum: Focuses on the history of railroading in Wichita, with exhibits on the impact of trains on the city’s development.
25. The Coleman Factory Outlet and Museum: Features a collection of vintage camping gear and products from the Coleman Company, founded in Wichita.
26. Pawnee Prairie Park: Provides miles of trails for horseback riding, hiking, and biking in a beautiful natural setting.
27. Revolution Lounge: A unique venue offering a mix of live music, performances, and artistic events, catering to a diverse audience.
28. Douglas Design District: An area known for its local shops, boutiques, art galleries, and vibrant street murals, reflecting Wichita’s creative community.
29. Wichita Asian Festival: An annual event celebrating Asian cultures with performances, food, and art from various Asian countries.
30. Eberly Farm: Hosts outdoor events and gatherings, offering a picturesque country setting on the outskirts of Wichita.
31. The Arcade: A retro arcade featuring classic video games, pinball machines, and a nostalgic atmosphere for all ages.
32. Old Town Architectural Salvage: Filled with treasures from the past, this store offers unique finds for home decor and restoration projects.
33. Sculpture WalkAbout: A public art initiative in downtown Wichita, displaying sculptures from artists around the world.
34. Wichita Sports Forum: A multi-sport complex offering basketball, volleyball, soccer, and trampoline park facilities for family fun and athletic training.
35. Old Mill Tasty Shop: A historic diner serving traditional American fare and old-fashioned soda fountain treats, a local favorite for generations.
36. Wichita Symphony Orchestra: Offers a variety of musical performances, from classical to contemporary, in a magnificent concert setting.
37. Kansas Wildlife Exhibit: Located in Central Riverside Park, this exhibit features over 25 species of native Kansas wildlife in naturalistic settings.
38. The Original Pizza Hut Museum: Situated on the Wichita State University campus, it celebrates the history of the world’s first Pizza Hut.
39. Old Town Wichita: A historic district known for its brick-lined streets, unique shops, restaurants, and vibrant nightlife.
40. Wichita Children’s Theatre & Dance Center: Provides entertaining and educational performances and workshops for children and families.
41. Wichita Public Library: Offers a wealth of knowledge with special events, an extensive collection, and resources for all ages.
42. Naftzger Park: A recently renovated urban park hosting live music, events, and is a serene spot in the heart of downtown Wichita.
43. Great Plains Transportation Museum: Showcases the history of rail transportation in the Great Plains, with locomotives and rail cars on display.
44. Chapin Dog Park: A spacious off-leash dog park featuring areas for both large and small dogs, walking paths, and water stations.
45. Wichita Ice Center: Offers public skating, figure skating, and hockey programs for ice sports enthusiasts of all skill levels.
46. Riverside Park: Offers scenic views of the Little Arkansas River, with outdoor sculptures, a zoo, and botanical gardens.
47. The Lux: A mixed-use development in a historic building, offering live-work spaces, galleries, and events highlighting urban living and arts.
48. Wichita Flea Market: A monthly event where vendors sell antiques, collectibles, and crafts, attracting bargain hunters and collectors.
49. Wichita Jazz Festival: An annual event celebrating jazz music with performances by local, national, and international artists.
50. Bradley Fair: An outdoor shopping center with upscale shops, restaurants, and seasonal events, including summer concerts by the lake.
51. Nomar International Market: A marketplace offering a variety of international foods, goods, and cultural experiences.
52. Orpheum Theatre: A beautifully restored historic theater hosting concerts, films, and theatrical performances.
53. Wichita Scottish Festival: An annual celebration of Scottish heritage with traditional games, music, dancing, and food.
54. Clifton Square: A charming village of historic buildings turned into a unique shopping and dining area.
55. Midwest Beerfest: An annual event featuring craft beer tasting from local and national breweries, along with food and entertainment.
56. The Workroom: A unique marketplace showcasing local art, handmade goods, and Wichita-themed merchandise, fostering local creativity and shopping.
57. Delano District: A historic neighborhood known for its eclectic shops, restaurants, and vibrant community events.
58. Wichita Art Chatter: Monthly events where local artists and art enthusiasts gather for presentations and discussions in a casual setting.
59. CityArts: A community arts center offering classes, workshops, and galleries to promote arts education and appreciation in Wichita.
60. Sedgwick Park: A large recreational area with playgrounds, sports facilities, and picnic areas, ideal for family outings.
61. Linwood Park: A serene community park offering a playground, sports facilities, and ample space for picnics and family gatherings.
62. Wichita Toy Train Museum: Celebrates the history and joy of toy trains with extensive displays, interactive exhibits, and special events.
63. Blue Moon Gallery: An art gallery featuring contemporary works by local and regional artists, with regular exhibitions and artist talks.
64. Wichita Greek Festival: An annual celebration of Greek culture, cuisine, and traditional dance, bringing a taste of Greece to Wichita.
65. Sunflower Espresso Wichita: A local coffee truck bringing gourmet coffee and pastries to various locations around the city.
66. Old Town Farmers’ Market: A weekend market offering fresh produce, artisan foods, and local crafts in the heart of Wichita’s Old Town.
67. Wichita Thunder Hockey Games: Catch the excitement of professional ice hockey with Wichita’s own ECHL team at the INTRUST Bank Arena.
68. Wichita Symphony Youth Orchestras: Provides talented young musicians the opportunity to perform in an orchestral setting, with several concerts throughout the year.
69. West Side Fall Festival: A family-friendly event celebrating autumn with carnival games, food vendors, and entertainment.
70. Botanical Wichita: Hosts workshops and events centered around plant care, sustainability, and creating botanical crafts.
71. Rhatigan Student Center: Wichita State University’s hub for student life, offering dining, entertainment, and various student services.
72. Gallery Alley: An outdoor public art space featuring rotating mural installations, sculptures, and community events.
73. The Burrow: A local venue hosting live music, art shows, and community gatherings, focusing on promoting local talent.
74. Aero Plains Brewing: A craft brewery with a taproom offering a selection of beers brewed on-site, along with tours and community events.
75. Wichita Grand Opera: Presents professional opera productions, bringing classic and contemporary opera to audiences in Wichita.
76. Wichita Community Theatre: Offers a variety of theatrical productions, from classic plays to modern dramas, highlighting local talent.
77. Kansas Sports Hall of Fame: Celebrates the state’s sports heroes and achievements with memorabilia, exhibits, and interactive displays.
78. Eastborough Park: Provides a tranquil escape with walking paths, a picturesque pond, and well-maintained gardens.
79. Wichita Brewing Company & Pizzeria: Not only brews its own craft beer but also serves up artisan pizzas in a casual, friendly setting.
80. The Anchor: A beloved local restaurant and bar known for its extensive craft beer selection and hearty, delicious fare.
81. Music Theatre Wichita: Produces high-quality musical theater productions, featuring both local talent and Broadway stars.
82. Wichita River Festival: A week-long celebration with parades, concerts, food, and fireworks along the Arkansas River.
83. Hillside Nursery: Offers gardening workshops, a wide selection of plants, and landscaping services to beautify your home or garden.
84. Wichita Asian Association: Promotes cultural understanding and hosts events celebrating Asian heritage and traditions.
85. Wichita Artisan Market: An outdoor market showcasing handmade goods, artisan products, and local food items, promoting Wichita’s craft community.
86. Wichita Public Market: A vibrant marketplace offering local produce, gourmet foods, and unique gifts, fostering a community of local vendors and shoppers.
87. Hyde Park: A charming neighborhood park hosting outdoor concerts, movie nights, and community events throughout the year.
88. The Loony Bin Comedy Club: Features live stand-up comedy performances by local and national comedians in a lively atmosphere.
89. Tallgrass Film Festival: An annual event showcasing independent films from around the world, along with filmmaker panels and workshops.
90. Wichita Thunder Hockey Games: Catch the excitement of professional ice hockey with Wichita’s own ECHL team at the INTRUST Bank Arena.
91. Starlite Drive-In: Offers a nostalgic movie-going experience with the latest films under the stars in a classic drive-in setting.
92. Nifty Nut House: A Wichita institution, this store offers an enormous variety of nuts, candies, and confections to delight all ages.
93. Mark Arts: A visual arts center featuring art classes, workshops, and exhibitions in a beautiful, modern facility.
94. Wichita-Sedgwick Co. Historical Museum Annex: Expands the museum’s display of local history with rotating exhibits and special collections.
95. River City Brewing Co.: Wichita’s first brewpub, offering handcrafted beers and a hearty menu in a historic downtown building.
96. Vagabond Cafe: A cozy, eclectic coffee shop known for its live music, poetry readings, and art displays, fostering a creative community vibe.
97. Wichita Ice Rink: A year-round indoor ice skating facility offering public skate sessions, lessons, and hockey leagues for all skill levels.
98. Shocker Sports Grill & Lanes: Located on Wichita State University’s campus, it provides bowling, dining, and entertainment in a spirited environment.
99. Joyland Amusement Park Restoration Project: An ongoing effort to restore and preserve the iconic Joyland Amusement Park for future generations.
100. Hopping Gnome Brewing Company Events: Hosts unique events such as yoga in the brewery, paint nights, and craft beer tastings.
Events Reflecting Wichita's Community Spirit
Wichita’s event calendar is a testament to its dynamic community spirit. The annual Wichita River Festival is a highlight, drawing visitors from far and wide. This event transforms the city into a vibrant carnival with concerts, parades, and fireworks. It’s a celebration of Wichita’s love for community, music, and the outdoors.
Festivals and Cultural Events
The Tallgrass Film Festival, another key event, showcases Wichita’s artistic side. This internationally recognized festival brings independent films and filmmakers to the city, fostering a love for cinema and providing a platform for creative expression.
Sports and Outdoor Activities
Sports enthusiasts find their haven in Wichita. The city hosts thrilling sporting events, including college basketball and minor league baseball games, embodying the competitive spirit of the Midwest. The Wichita Wind Surge games, in particular, are a local favorite, offering a perfect blend of sport and family entertainment.