Wichita, Kansas, is one of those hidden gems that you might not have heard much about, but once you visit, it’ll make you fall in love with its charm. There’s something for everyone here – whether you’re into outdoor adventures, art, history, or simply want to explore local spots.
The city blends modern attractions with a rich history, making it a perfect spot for a weekend getaway. So, if you’re ever in Wichita, don’t miss these 15 amazing things to do that will make your visit unforgettable!
Exploring the Wichita Sedgwick County Zoo
Address: 5555 Zoo Blvd, Wichita, KS
| Type | Zoo, Family Attraction |
| Time to Spend | 3 to 4 hours |
History and Significance: The Sedgwick County Zoo opened in 1939 and has grown into one of the top attractions in the state. It plays a vital role in wildlife conservation and education.
What to Expect: Over 3,000 animals, including exotic species like giraffes, lions, and rhinos, interactive exhibits, and educational programs for all ages.
Visitor Information: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. General admission prices are reasonable, and the zoo provides accessibility for all guests.
If you’re an animal lover, the Sedgwick County Zoo is a must-visit. With over 3,000 animals from 400 species, there’s so much to see! The African exhibit is a favorite, where you can get up close to giraffes and lions. The zoo is very interactive, so it’s fun for kids and adults alike. They also have great educational programs. Plan to spend a few hours here, but you could easily make it a half-day adventure!
Visit the Keeper of the Plains
Address: 650 N Seneca St, Wichita, KS
| Type | Landmark, Outdoor Sculpture |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Created by Native American artist Blackbear Bosin, this 44-foot-tall statue represents the spiritual connection between humans and the land.
What to Expect: A stunning sculpture set at the confluence of two rivers. The Plaza lights up at night with fire pots, creating a captivating atmosphere.
Visitor Information: It’s free to visit and open year-round. The Plaza is open 24 hours, though the fire pots are lit from dusk until 10:00 PM.
The Keeper of the Plains is one of Wichita’s most iconic landmarks. Standing tall at 44 feet, this statue is more than just art; it’s a symbol of the city’s rich Native American heritage. The surrounding area is beautiful too, with fire pots lighting up at night, creating a magical vibe. Whether you’re there for a quick photo op or to just sit and take in the view, it’s a peaceful spot you’ll love to visit.
Take a Stroll Through Old Town
Address: 100 N Mosley St, Wichita, KS
| Type | Historic District, Shopping, Dining |
| Time to Spend | 2 to 3 hours |
History and Significance: Old Town is a former industrial area that was transformed in the 1990s into a lively cultural hub, maintaining much of its historic charm.
What to Expect: Cobblestone streets, local boutiques, art galleries, and a variety of dining spots. The district offers a mix of old-world charm and modern conveniences.
Visitor Information: Most businesses open daily from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM. It’s easy to explore by foot, and parking is available in nearby lots.
Old Town Wichita is perfect for those who enjoy a mix of history and modern culture. You can wander down the cobblestone streets, popping into boutique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes. The area is rich in history, with old buildings now home to local businesses. You could spend an afternoon just exploring this charming district. Plus, there are plenty of dining options for when you get hungry after all that sightseeing!
Wichita Art Museum
Address: 1400 W Museum Blvd, Wichita, KS
| Type | Art Museum |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Established in 1935, the Wichita Art Museum is Kansas’ largest art museum, with an extensive collection of American art dating from the 18th century.
What to Expect: Over 7,000 works of American art, ranging from classical to modern. You’ll find paintings, sculptures, and photography that showcase artistic diversity.
Visitor Information: Open Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Admission is affordable, with free days for students and children.
For art enthusiasts, the Wichita Art Museum is a hidden treasure. With a stunning collection of over 7,000 American art pieces, this museum is both peaceful and inspiring. You’ll find works ranging from classic pieces to contemporary art. What’s great is that the museum is pretty laid-back, so you can explore at your own pace. It’s a great spot to spend a couple of hours, especially if you’re looking to soak in some culture and creativity.
Botanica Wichita
Address: 701 Amidon St, Wichita, KS
| Type | Botanical Garden, Nature Attraction |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Founded in 1987, Botanica is dedicated to promoting conservation and providing visitors with educational experiences through a wide variety of themed gardens.
What to Expect: Beautifully manicured gardens, including a butterfly garden, rose garden, and sensory garden. It’s a peaceful retreat from the urban hustle.
Visitor Information: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Entrance fees are affordable, and seasonal events like the Illuminations light display are popular with visitors.
Botanica is a 17-acre paradise in the heart of the city. It’s a perfect place for nature lovers to enjoy a peaceful walk among themed gardens. The butterfly garden is especially stunning, filled with colorful flowers and fluttering butterflies. There’s also a children’s garden with cool interactive features that make it a family-friendly spot. If you need a break from the city’s hustle and bustle, Botanica is the perfect place to relax and connect with nature.
Exploring the Great Plains Nature Center
Address: 6232 E 29th St N, Wichita, KS
| Type | Nature Center, Hiking |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Opened in 1993, the Great Plains Nature Center preserves the natural landscape of the Great Plains, promoting wildlife conservation and environmental education.
What to Expect: Over 240 acres of trails, wetlands, and wildlife viewing areas. Ideal for birdwatching, hiking, and learning about the local ecosystem.
Visitor Information: Open Monday through Saturday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It’s free to visit, making it a budget-friendly outdoor adventure for families.
If you’re into hiking or wildlife watching, you can’t miss the Great Plains Nature Center. This spot has miles of trails through wetlands and prairies, so you’ll get a great taste of Kansas’ natural beauty. There’s even a wildlife viewing area where you can spot various birds and animals. The center is perfect for an afternoon of outdoor exploration, and it’s close to Chisholm Creek Park if you want to extend your visit with more trails and nature.
Visit the Kansas Aviation Museum
Address: 3350 S George Washington Blvd, Wichita, KS
| Type | Aviation Museum, History |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: The museum is located in the former Wichita airport terminal, showcasing the city’s deep connection to aviation history, especially the role of companies like Boeing.
What to Expect: Vintage aircraft, hands-on exhibits, and a look into the aviation pioneers of the early 20th century.
Visitor Information: Open Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Admission is affordable, and special events are hosted throughout the year.
Wichita is known for its aviation history, and the Kansas Aviation Museum brings that history to life. From vintage aircraft to exhibits about the pioneers of flight, this museum offers a fascinating look at the city’s contributions to aviation. It’s hands-on and interactive, so it’s perfect for anyone curious about aviation. Whether you’re an aviation buff or just looking for something unique, you’ll find it here. Plan to spend a couple of hours to explore the exhibits and aircraft up close.
Sedgwick County Park
Address: 6501 W 21st St N, Wichita, KS
| Type | Park, Outdoor Activities |
| Time to Spend | 2 to 3 hours |
History and Significance: Sedgwick County Park has been a community space for over 100 years. Its beautiful landscapes and trails make it an iconic part of Wichita’s recreational offerings.
What to Expect: Plenty of green space, a beautiful lake, fishing spots, and playgrounds. There’s also a dog park if you’re bringing a furry friend.
Visitor Information: Open daily, 24 hours. Free entry. Facilities like restrooms and picnic areas are available throughout the park for convenience.
Sedgwick County Park is a massive 1,000-acre space with something for everyone. Whether you like picnicking by the lake, fishing, or just walking around, this park is ideal for outdoor fun. There are also playgrounds for kids and trails if you want to explore on foot or bike. It’s a great spot to take a break from the city, enjoy some fresh air, and get active. You can easily spend a couple of hours here enjoying all the green space.
The Museum of World Treasures
Address: 835 E 1st St N, Wichita, KS
| Type | Museum, History |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: This museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts from ancient civilizations, including Egypt and the dinosaurs. It celebrates global culture and history.
What to Expect: Rare treasures, from dinosaur fossils to ancient Egyptian relics. It’s a fascinating exploration of world history and culture.
Visitor Information: Open Monday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Reasonably priced admission, and it’s a perfect spot for history lovers.
The Museum of World Treasures is one of the most unique places to visit in Wichita. Here, you can see everything from dinosaur fossils to ancient Egyptian artifacts and even historical items like Abraham Lincoln’s top hat. It’s a place full of surprises, with new exhibits and treasures around every corner. Whether you’re a history buff or just curious about the world, this museum will definitely captivate you. Plan for a couple of hours to fully dive into the history it offers.
Take a Scenic Cruise on the Arkansas River
Address: 100 N Waco Ave, Wichita, KS
| Type | Boat Cruise, Scenic Tour |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: The Arkansas River played a key role in the development of Wichita as an industrial and transportation hub in the 19th century.
What to Expect: A relaxing boat ride offering beautiful views of the city skyline, bridges, and the Keeper of the Plains statue. It’s perfect for a laid-back afternoon.
Visitor Information: Seasonal, with cruises typically running from May through September. Cruises last about an hour and tickets are affordable.
For a relaxing break from the city, hop on a boat cruise along the Arkansas River. You’ll get a new perspective on Wichita’s beautiful skyline and scenic surroundings. It’s a calm, peaceful experience, perfect for those who just want to sit back, relax, and enjoy the view. The boat tours offer a unique and leisurely way to see the city, especially in the evening when the riverfront lights up. A cruise usually lasts about an hour, making it a perfect addition to your day.
Check Out Exploration Place
Address: 300 N McLean Blvd, Wichita, KS
| Type | Science Museum, Family Attraction |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Opened in 2000, Exploration Place is a top destination for hands-on learning. It’s dedicated to science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education.
What to Expect: Interactive exhibits on space, technology, and physics. Kids will love experimenting with hands-on exhibits, while adults can enjoy learning new facts.
Visitor Information: Open Tuesday through Sunday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Affordable entry and discounts for members and children.
Exploration Place is a must for families, especially those with young children. This hands-on science museum is packed with interactive exhibits on space, physics, and technology. You can explore a real-life space capsule, try out fun science experiments, and even play in the water exhibits. It’s a place where learning meets fun, so it’s not just educational but super entertaining too. Expect to spend around two hours here, but you’ll leave with a ton of cool knowledge!
The Keeper of the Plains Plaza
Address: 650 N Seneca St, Wichita, KS
| Type | Landmark, Cultural Spot |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: The Keeper of the Plains statue was erected in 1974 to honor the area’s Native American heritage. It symbolizes strength and spirituality.
What to Expect: A peaceful space with stunning views of the river and city. At night, the Plaza comes alive with fire pots and light displays.
Visitor Information: Open 24 hours, with fire pots lighting up at dusk. Free to visit, and it’s a beautiful spot to relax and enjoy the scenery.
The Keeper of the Plains Plaza is where you’ll find the massive Keeper of the Plains statue, standing tall at the confluence of two rivers. The surrounding plaza is the perfect place to hang out, offering beautiful views of the statue and the river. During certain times of the year, there are cultural events, making it even more special. It’s a calm and reflective spot, so you can enjoy a peaceful moment while taking in the art and surroundings.
Enjoy a Night Out at Intrust Bank Arena
Address: 500 E Waterman St, Wichita, KS
| Type | Entertainment Venue, Sports, Concerts |
| Time to Spend | 3 to 4 hours |
History and Significance: Opened in 2010, Intrust Bank Arena has quickly become the premier venue for concerts, sports, and entertainment in Wichita.
What to Expect: Top-tier live performances, from concerts to sporting events like hockey and basketball. It’s a lively venue with great acoustics and comfortable seating.
Visitor Information: Event times vary, typically evenings. Check the schedule online. Tickets are affordable, depending on the event.
Intrust Bank Arena is the city’s go-to spot for live entertainment. Whether it’s a concert, a sporting event, or a traveling show, this place has it all. The venue is modern and comfortable, offering great acoustics and a fun atmosphere. If you’re looking to enjoy some high-energy entertainment during your visit, check the schedule and catch a show. It’s the perfect place for a night out in Wichita, and you’ll definitely have a great time.
The Wichita Symphony Orchestra
Address: 225 W Douglas Ave, Wichita, KS
| Type | Performing Arts, Music |
| Time to Spend | 2 to 3 hours |
History and Significance: The Wichita Symphony Orchestra was founded in 1944 and has since become an essential part of the city’s cultural landscape.
What to Expect: Stunning live performances featuring classical and contemporary music. You’ll be treated to symphonic masterpieces played by talented musicians.
Visitor Information: Concerts typically last 2-3 hours, held on weekends. Tickets vary based on the show. The symphony is open year-round for performances.
If you love music, the Wichita Symphony Orchestra offers a fantastic live performance experience. Whether it’s classical or contemporary music, the orchestra puts on stunning shows. The venue itself is beautiful, creating the perfect atmosphere for a night of music. It’s a great way to enjoy a cultural evening in Wichita, and tickets are usually affordable. Plan for around two to three hours of enjoyment, and be prepared to be wowed by the talent on stage.
Take a Ride on the Wichita Trolley
Address: Various pick-up locations, Wichita, KS
| Type | Tour, Transportation |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: The Wichita Trolley offers a fun and educational way to explore the city’s history and key attractions. It’s a local favorite for tourists.
What to Expect: A relaxing ride around the city, with stops at places like Old Town, the Keeper of the Plains, and more. It’s an easy way to learn about Wichita.
Visitor Information: Trolley runs seasonally, typically April through October. Check for schedules online. Tickets are affordable, making it a fun way to get around.
If you want to see the best parts of Wichita without the hassle of driving, hop on the Wichita Trolley! It’s a fun and easy way to get around and explore the city’s highlights. The trolley stops at popular spots, including Old Town, the Keeper of the Plains, and more. It’s an affordable and relaxing way to enjoy the sights and sounds of the city. You can spend about an hour or two riding around and learning some cool local history.
For those who love exploring vibrant cities with rich history and exciting attractions, Wichita is just one of many fantastic destinations to consider. If you’re planning a trip and looking for other great cities to explore, don’t miss Louisville with its unique cultural vibe and thriving food scene.
Des Moines offers a mix of urban attractions and beautiful parks perfect for a weekend getaway. Indianapolis boasts exciting events and sporting culture, while Chicago is a must-visit for its iconic skyline, deep-dish pizza, and world-class museums.
And if you’re in the mood for some sunny adventures, Los Angeles will captivate you with its beaches, entertainment, and endless things to do. Each of these cities brings something special to the table, making them perfect additions to any travel itinerary!