Fun Things to do in Wichita
Kansas
city guide
Wichita, Kansas, is a city rich in history and innovation. From its humble beginnings as a cowtown, which can still be explored today at the living Cowtown Museum, Wichita has evolved into the largest city in the state and proudly proclaims itself as the Air Capital of the World. This title is well-deserved, as more than half of the world's aircraft are manufactured here, thanks to the presence of major players in the aviation industry.
Despite its industrial prowess, Wichita offers visitors a diverse range of attractions that make it a worthwhile destination to explore for a few days. The city boasts a variety of museums showcasing its history, art, and culture, such as the Wichita Art Museum and the Museum of World Treasures. Nature lovers will appreciate the beautiful park spaces scattered throughout the city, including the lush Botanica Gardens and the serene Great Plains Nature Center.
For those looking to experience the vibrant side of Wichita, a visit to Oldtown is a must. This historic district is filled with charming brick-lined streets, unique shops, restaurants, and lively entertainment venues, making it a hub for nightlife and cultural experiences.
To fully immerse yourself in all that Wichita has to offer, consider participating in some of the best activities the city has to offer, such as:
1. Explore the historic Old Cowtown Museum to step back in time and experience life in a 19th-century cowtown.
2. Visit the Sedgwick County Zoo, one of the largest zoos in the United States, and home to over 3,000 animals from around the world.
3. Take a stroll through the scenic Wichita Botanica Gardens and enjoy the beauty of diverse plant collections and themed gardens.
4. Discover the rich aviation heritage of the city at the Kansas Aviation Museum, showcasing the evolution of flight through interactive exhibits and historic aircraft displays.
5. Enjoy a leisurely walk or bike ride along the Arkansas River Path, a picturesque trail that winds through the heart of the city and offers stunning views of the river and surrounding landscapes.
To stay updated on upcoming events, attractions, and local insights in Wichita, consider following these social media accounts:
- Facebook: @CityofWichita
- Instagram: @VisitWichita
- Twitter: @WichitaGov
For a comprehensive guide to the best things to do in Wichita, check out publications such as "Wichita Magazine" and "The Wichita Eagle" for recommendations, reviews, and insider tips on exploring
Best time to go
The best time to visit Wichita is during the fall as the weather around that time is pleasant and ideal for tourists. The summers in Wichita are too hot and winters are too cold. So, fall provides a middle ground and sees numerous tourists traveling to the city.
Fun city facts and activities
- Wichita began life as a cowtown (a time and style of life that can still be explored today thanks to the living Cowtown Museum) but has grown to be the largest city in the state of Kansas as well as the self-proclaimed Air Capital of the World. This claim is not made lightly with more than half of the worlds aircraft being built here thanks to the presence of some of the aviation worlds major players.
Whilst the rest of the state of Kansas should take precedent during a visit to the area, there is still plenty to warrant spending a couple of days in Wichita including some great museums and park spaces as well as the vibrant Oldtown area.
Neighborhoods to explore
- Crown Heights
Rockhurst
College Hill
Riverside
Restaurants
Food Specialties
- Just as the state of Kansas offers visitors more to see than fields of sunflowers, its largest city, Wichita, offers foodies more to eat than steak and barbecue.