45 Best Things to do in Wichita!

Wichita, often dubbed the “Air Capital of the World“, is renowned for its aviation heritage, bustling downtown, and diverse culinary scene. Whether you’re a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or simply seeking a relaxing getaway, Wichita has something to offer for every type of traveler. In this comprehensive guide, we showcase the best things to do in Wichita during your visit to Kansas.

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1. Historic Attractions

Keeper of the Plains

In downtown Wichita, where the Big and Little Arkansas rivers come together, there stands a 44 foot steel sculpture called the Keeper of the Plains. This area was made in 1974 by Native American artist Blackbear Bosin as a tribute to the history and traditions of the local Indigenous tribes. It stands on a 30 foot stone base and can be reached by two bow-shaped pedestrian bridges. Around the base, visitors find signs that share the history and traditions of the Plains Indians. A special event called the Ring of Fire happens most nights here, where fire drums light up around the statue for 15 minutes.

Old Cowtown Museum

The Old Cowtown Museum is an outdoor history museum that shows what life was like in the late 1800s, with over 50 building s spread across 23 acres near the Arkansas River. Open since 1952, the museum helps visitors explore how Wichita changed from a frontier town to a growing cattle and farming hub. Many buildings are original or rebuilt from the 1870s, including homes, a schoolhouse, shops, and a saloon, all set up with furniture and tools from the past.

Staff dress in clothes from that time and show old trades like blacksmithing and weaving, giving guests a look into daily life back then. The museum has more than 12,000 items, such as clothing, furniture, and tools, used by early settlers. People can walk through the town and see how children went to school, how people cooked, and how work was done without modern machines. Special events happen often, including Civil War reenactments and cowboy-themed programs.

Frank Lloyd Wright’s Allen House

In the College Hill neighborhood, the Allen House shows one of the final examples of Prairie-style architecture created by Frank Lloyd Wright. Built between 1915 and 1918 for Henry J. Allen and his wife Elsie, the house was designed to blend in with nature, which many experts consider a great example of 20th century design. The home features more than 30 pieces of original furniture designed by Wright, along with art glass and other family pieces, some donated by the Allens’ family. Inside, there are early examples of ideas, like a central vacuum system, wall-hung toilets, and an attached garage.

Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception

In downtown Wichita, the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, often called St. Mary’s Cathedral, plays a key role for local Catholics. The parish began in 1887, and the current cathedral was built between 1906 and 1912 using Bedford stone. Designed by Emmanuel Louis Masqueray, it has a large dome that rises 135 feet and measures 169 feet long and 100 feet wide. Inside, visitors can admire colorful stained glass art and a tall pipe organ that fills the space with music. A small area honors Father Emil Kapaun, a priest who served in the Korean War and whose remains are placed in cathedral.

Wichita-Sedgwick County Historical Museum

The Wichita-Sedgwick County Historical Museum, located in the old City Hall built in 1890, shares the history of Wichita and its people. Inside, there are exhibits showing how the area has changed over time, from early Native American life to the city’s role in farming, trade, and aviation. A life-size Victorian house display gives people a look at how families lived back in the late 1800s, and nearby there’s also a rare 1916 Jones Six car that was built right in Wichita. The museum features displays about everyday life in the past, and exhibits change include topics like local music, festivals, and local stories.

2. Outdoor Adventures

Sedgwick County Park

The Sedgwick County Park is a large outdoor space where visitors come to enjoy nature and simple activities. It has paved trails for walking, jogging, and biking, plus open fields and shaded spots for relaxing. The park includes several small lakes where fishing is allowed with a valid license, and some of the lakes are filled with fish during the year. Families often gather at the picnic areas, which have covered shelters and benches. The park also includes tennis and volleyball courts, making it a good spot for casual sports. Events like fun runs and seasonal festivals are also held throughout the year.

Kayaking in Arkansas River

Kayaking on the Arkansas River is a fun way to enjoy the outdoors and see Wichita from a unique view. The river flows right through downtown and is part of a National Water Trail, which means it’s a special place for paddling. One of the easiest ways to get started is by renting a kayak from Boats & Bikes, located near the Douglas bridge. They offer tandem kayaks, and you can rent by the hour. Wichita Park & Recreation also runs guided kayak tours during summer and early fall. One popular option is the sunset tour, which takes you to the Keeper of the Plains sculpture just as the sun goes down.

O J Watson Park

Covering over 119 acres, O J Watson Park has a 40 acres lake where visitors can fish with a Kansas license or rent pedal boats and kayaks during warmer months. The park has three playgrounds with different play surfaces and large picnic areas with shelters and grills, making it a favorite spot for families. One of its most loved attractions is the miniature train that takes riders on a short trip around the park. Kids also enjoy pony rides and the small golf course. Sports fans can use the sand volleyball courts, while others often gather for special events like Halloween activities and lantern festivals.

Golfing Courses

In Wichita, one of the popular public spots is Arthur B. Sim Golf Course, features 18 holes and is known for its easy layout and green fairways. MacDonald Golf Course is another public course with a long history. It opened in 1924 and offers wide fairways and a peaceful setting. Auburn Hills Golf Course sits on the city’s west side and offers a slightly tougher game, thanks to its design by Perry Dye. It has rolling hills and water features that make the game more interesting. Nearby airport, Tex Consolver Golf Course is the city’s longest public course and bring golfers looking for more space to play.

Biking Trails

Wichita has many biking trails that make it easy for people to ride through the city and enjoy the outdoors. One of the most used paths is the Arkansas River Bike Path, which runs about 14 miles along the river and connects parks, museums, and downtown spots. Another popular trail is the Prairie Sunset Trail, a rail-trail that stretches west from Wichita toward Garden Plain. It has a mix of gravel and crushed stone and passes through quiet areas with trees and open fields.

Another outdoor path worth checking out is the Redbud Trail, a rail-trail that heads east from downtown and continues to expand over time. It offers a peaceful ride through neighborhoods and green spaces. For mountain biking, Air Capital Memorial Park has short but fun loops with small hills and turns. It’s a good place for riders who want a bit more challenge in a small space.

Central Riverside Park

Covering over 50 acres, Central Riverside Park is a peaceful green space, offering a mix of nature, history, and family-friendly spots. One of the highlights is the Kansas Wildlife Exhibit, where visitors can see animals like beavers, foxes, and owls in natural-style enclosures. There are also picnic tables, benches, and gazebos with power outlets, so it’s a good place for small gatherings. There’s a bronze statue from the Spanish-American War and a cannon from the late 1700s. Another unique feature is the Solar Calendar, a group of standing stones that line up with the sun during seasonal changes.

Skydiving over Wichita

Skydiving near Wichita gives people a chance to see Kansas from high above while trying something exciting. One of the main places to go is Air Capital Drop Zone, located in Derby, offer tandem jumps for beginners, where you’re safely attached to an instructor during the whole jump. The staff has done thousands of jumps and helps guide you through each step, from training to landing. Then, you’ll ride up in a plane and jump from a bout 10,000 feet, with a freefall that lasts around 30 seconds. From above, you can see wide stretches of land, flowing rivers, and the Wichita’s skyline in the distance.

Oak Park

The Oak Park is a peaceful green space in Wichita, and it’s part of the city’s Wild Habitat Area, designed to protect native plants and animals. The park has open fields, wooded spots, and quiet walking paths that make it easy to explore or just relax in nature. One favorite feature is the lily pond, which is surrounded by trees and benches, giving visitors a calm place to sit. There are also natural springs and stone paths that add to the simple charm of the area. It’s known for its 18-hole disc golf course, which passes through both open areas and shaded woods, offering views of the Little Arkansas River.

3. Iconic Landmarks

Wichita Art Museum

Opened in 1935, Wichita Art Museum was started with a trust in 1915 by Louise Caldwell Murdock in memory of her husband and now holds over 10,000 works, including paintings, sculptures, and glass art. Visitors can see pieces by artists like Mary Cassatt, Winslow Homer, and Edward Hopper. One of the most eye-catching displays is a bright glass chandelier by Dale Chihuly in the main hall. Programs for kids, adults, and schools include talks, art making, and special events, especially on Friday evenings. Outside, the museum has a public art garden with sculptures, open daily for walks and events.

Museum of World Treasures

Opened in 2001, Museum of World Treasures is located within a restored 1914 warehouse, and showcasing displays that include dinosaur fossils, ancient coins, Egyptian mummies, and military items from different time periods. One of the highlights is Ivan the T. rex, a large fossil that stands near the entrance and grabs attention right away. There’s also a piece of the Berlin Wall, rare gems, signed documents, and even a real shrunken head. The museum offer guided tours for visitors through different times, from early life on Earth to modern events, helping people learn using hands-on activities.

Mid-America All-Indian Museum

The Mid-America All-Indian Museum fully focuses on American Indian culture, offering a close look at artwork, handmade items, and traditions from many tribes. Inside, people can view beadwork, pottery, and jewelry made by Native artists, along with a special gallery for Blackbear Bosin, who created the famous Keeper statue nearby. The Gallery of Nations shows flags from tribes across the U.S. and Canada, and some exhibits are hands-on, so kids can learn while touching and exploring. Visitors come for events like storytelling, workshops, and cultural programs that happen throughout the year.

Century II Performing Arts & Convention Center

Opened in 1969, Century II Performing Arts & Convention Center was created by architect John Hickman, who once worked alongside Frank Lloyd Wright. Inside, there are several spaces for events, including a concert hall that seats over 2,100 people, a smaller theater, and a convention hall. The center is home to local groups like the Wichita Symphony Orchestra, Music Theatre Wichita, and Wichita Grand Opera. It also hosts trade shows, meetings, and events throughout the year. It has over 200,000 square feet of space and 20 meeting rooms, making it one of the biggest venues in the city.

The Kansas African American Museum (TKAAM)

The Kansas African American Museum is a place to learn about Black history, art, and culture in Kansas, located inside a building that once served as the Calvary Baptist Church, an important church in Wichita’s Black community since the early 1900s. The church, built in 1917, was saved from being torn down and turned into a museum that now shares stories through exhibits and photos. Inside, visitors can see African masks, sculptures, and paintings by Black artists, along with displays that honor key African Americans from Kansas, including Hattie McDaniel, the first Black actor to win an Oscar.

Exploration Place

The Exploration Place is a hands-on science center opened in 2000, and has several exhibits such as Kansas in Miniature, Design Build Fly, and Health Inside Out, which help visitors learn about local history, aviation, and the human body in simple ways. One of the main attractions is the dome theater, the biggest in Kansas, showing nature and science films on a huge curved screen. Families enjoy science shows and special events held throughout the year, including summer camps for kids. Outside the center, there’s a large green space and an amphitheater for outdoor movies and major events.

Kansas Aviation Museum

The Kansas Aviation Museum is inside the old municipal airport terminal from the 1930s, known for its art-deco style and its connection to famous flyers like Amelia Earhart. There are sections that highlight important stories, including the roles of women and Black a viators in Kansas aviation history. The museum has flight simulators that let guests try flying, and kids enjoy hands-on exhibits. Inside, visitors can explore airplane cockpits, engines, and displays. Visitors can take tours to see huge air planes like the B-52 and KC-135 tanker on display outdoors, giving a real sense of their size and design.

B-29 Doc Hangar, Education & Visitors Center

The B-29 Doc Hangar, Education & Visitors Center is a hands-on place to explore aviation history, located at Eisenhower National Airport in a 42,000 square-foot hangar. Its main focus is “Doc,” one of just two B-29 Superfortress planes still flying today, originally used in World War II. Visitors can walk through the hangar to see the plane up close, watch volunteer crews work on it, and learn how these planes were built and flown. There are exhibits that explain the roles of engineering, math, and science in aircraft design, alongside it shares stories of the people who helped create and fly these B-29.

Kansas Star Casino

The Kansas Star Casino stands out as one of the top places around for games and fun. It’s filled with action, offering more than 1,200 slot machines and over 40 different table games like blackjack, roulette, and craps for guests to enjoy. There’s also a poker room for card game fans and a sportsbook by FanDuel where you can place bets and watch liv e games on big screens. If you get hungry, you can grab a bite at one of the on-site restaurants like the steakhouse, deli, or bar and grill. The venue has a large event center that hosts concerts, comedy acts, and seasonal shows throughout the year.

CrossWinds Casino

The CrossWinds Casino sits in Park City and gives visitors a simple way to enjoy gaming in a relaxed space. It covers about 30,000 square feet, offering nearly 800 slot machines, including over 160 with Red Spin bonuses that are easy for anyone to try. Inside, visitors can stop by Bottles & Bites for meals or drinks or head to The Doc bar to enjoy a cold beer or mixed drink while watching sports on big screens. The casino is owned and operated by the Wyandotte Nation of Oklahoma and provides parking. Players come here for short stays or to enjoy a few hours of entertainment after work or dinner.

4. Family-Friendly Activities

Sedgwick County Zoo

Opened in 1971, Sedgwick County Zoo is one of the top places to visit, stretching across 250 acres and having over 3,000 animals from mor e than 400 kinds of species. The zoo’s elephant exhibit is a major highlight, with a big pool where the elephants like to swim. There are boat and tram rides for those who want to explore the zoo in a fun way. Kids enjoy feeding giraffes, visiting the petting zoo, and playing in special areas made just for them. The zoo also offers daily animal talks, where zookeepers share fun facts and it became a popular spot for school field trips, family outings, and weekend visits.

Tanganyika Wildlife Park

Opened in 2008, Tanganyika Wildlife Park covers about 25 acres and offers a more hands-on way to learn about animals, where people can pet, feed, or get close to some of the animals. The park is different from a regular zoo because people can feed, touch, and learn about animals in a hands-on way. Visitors can feed giraffes, pet kangaroos, and even touch a rhino’s nose. One of the most special things to do is swim with penguins, which is only offered in a few places in the country. Visitors can choose from different ticket options, and most people get both animal feedings and special encounters.

Wichita Children’s Theatre & Dance Center

Started in 1973, Wichita Children’s Theatre & Dance Center is a place where kids and teens can learn about acting, dancing, and performing in a fun space. The center offers classes in acting, ballet, tap, jazz, and musical theatre for children as young as three years old. The center also runs a touring program that brings live performances to schools and other places across Kansas. In summer, they offer camps where kids can learn new skills and make friends while working on short plays or dances. The trained teachers and performers guide students in a way that builds confidence and teamwork.

Starlite Drive-In

Since 1953, Starlite Drive-In is a long-running outdoor movie theater in Wichita, giving people a fun way to watch movies under the night sky. It has two large screens, and each one shows two movies back-to-back, so you get to see a double feature with just one ticket. The main screen can hold up to 750 cars, and the second screen fits about 550, so there’s plenty of space. Once inside, you stay with the screen you chose, so it’s best to look up the movie schedule before arriving. Movie’s audio is sent through your car’s FM radio, or you can bring your own radio and sit outside on lawn or blankets.

Rock River Rapids Aquatic Park

The Rock River Rapids is a fun water park in Derby and it’s a popular spot for families during the summer months. The park has a lazy river, a lap pool, and a zero-depth pool for small kids, along with several big slides and splash areas that people of all ages can enjoy. One of the favorite spots is the large water bucket that tips over and splashes water everywhere, which kids really love. There’s a snack stand that sells food and drinks, and while outside food isn’t allowed inside. The park runs special events, including swim lessons, family nights, and even a dog swim day at the end of summer season.

Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park

The Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park is an indoor place where kids and adults can enjoy active fun in Wichita. The park has large trampoline areas where people can jump, flip, or play games like dodgeball. There’s also a ropes course high above the ground, where guests wear a harness and move through different obstacles. A favorite attraction at the park is the Sky Rider, where visitors can glide and soar above the floor on a ride that feels a lot like a zipline. For those who like to climb, there are walls with different levels of difficulty, and a warrior course that tests balance and strength.

Kansas International Dragway

In Maize, Kansas International Dragway is a drag racing track, opened in 1963 and has been part of the local racing scene for over 60 years. The track is known for hosting NHRA-sanctioned events and is one of the few places in Kansas where fans can watch quarter-mile drag races. The dragway holds regular races, including bracket races, grudge nights, and special events like the Summer Nationals and Fight the Fuzz, which involves local law enforcement. There’s also a focus on youth programs, like the NHRA Youth & Education Services (YES) program, which helps kids learn about racing and safety.

INTRUST Bank Arena

The INTRUST Bank Arena is a major indoor venue in Wichita, hosting large events since opening in 2010. With over 15,000 seats, it’s used for concerts, sports, and family shows, making it one of the biggest places for live entertainment in Kansas. The arena is home to the Wichita Thunder hockey team and has also hosted NCAA basketball games, UFC matches, rodeos, and shows like Disney on Ice. Big-name music artists such as Garth Brooks, Carrie Underwood, and Metallica have performed here over the years. People choose INTRUST Bank Arena for date nights, family outings, and group events.

5. Natural Attractions

Botanica, The Wichita Gardens

Opened in 1987, Botanica, The Wichita Gardens covers about 20 acres with more than 30 themed gardens. Visitors can walk through the rose garden, butterfly house, sensory garden, and Downing Children’s Garden, which has fun features like a treehouse and musical maze. There’s a model train display that kids enjoy, along with a large fountain and a Chinese friendship garden. The Koch Carousel Gardens has a restored carousel from the old Joyland amusement park. Families can enjoy events like the Tulip Festival, and Illuminations, which is a winter light show with more than two million lights.

Great Plains Nature Center

The Great Plains Nature Center is a place where people can learn about nature and enjoy the outdoors. It is part of Chisholm Creek Park and stretches across roughly 240 acres of wetlands, open prairie and wooded areas. Inside, there’s a Koch Habitat Hall showcasing hands-on displays that teach about the animals, plants, and weather of the Great Plains. There’s also a 2,200 gallon aquarium and the Bob Gress Wildlife Observatory where visitors can sit and look out at nature. One of the biggest events is Walk With Wildlife, held every June, where people can see live animals and learn from experts.

Pawnee Prairie Park

The Pawnee Prairie Park covers than 400 acres of open space, woods, and trails, offering a perfect spot for outdoor activities close to the city. The park sits near Eisenhower National Airport and right by Tex Consolver Golf Course, which makes it simple to reach. The park has paths for walking, biking, and horseback riding, each marked with signs so visitors can stay on the right trail. Horseback riders have their own parking lot with special water stations for their animals. The walking and biking trails has a concrete path that connects with the Prairie Sunset Trail, giving people more room to explore.

Sedgwick County Afton Lake Park

Opened in 1945, Lake Afton Park is a large outdoor space managed by Sedgwick County that covers 720 acres, including a 258 acres lake used for fishing, boating, swimming, and water skiing. Visitors often bring their own boats or rent small ones nearby. The park has plenty of open areas for camping, picnicking, and group activities, with shelters, grills, restrooms, and parking available across the park. The nearby Lake Afton Public Observatory, hosts events where people can learn about stars and space. Campers stay overnight and take part in seasonal programs or just enjoy a night under the sky.

6. Day Trips & Excursions

Cosmosphere

A day trip from Wichita and drive for an hour to reach the Cosmosphere in Hutchinson. It’s a large space museum with more than 13,000 items, like real spacecraft, astronaut gear, and parts from both U.S. and Russian space programs. One of the first things visitors see is the SR-71 Blackbird hanging in the lobby. The Hall of Space Museum shows how space travel began and how it grew during the space race. People can see the Apollo 13 Command Module and a full-size rocket. The museum also has a planetarium, a dome theater with science films, and a live science show called Dr. Goddard’s Lab.

Kansas State Fairgrounds

Planning a day trip to Kansas State Fairgrounds takes roughly an hour drive from Wichita, and it’s best known for hosting the Kansas State Fair every September, which brings in people from all over the state. During the fair, visitors can enjoy farm animals, food stands, rides, games, and live shows. There are also contests for baking, crafts, and gardening, along with displays of tractors and farm tools. Outside of fair season, the grounds are used for other events like car shows, flea markets, and livestock sales. Some buildings in the fair host special events, so it’s good to check the schedule before going.

Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve

From Wichita, a day trip to Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve takes around 1.5 hours drive, to enjoy nature and learn about Kansas history. Located near Strong City, and is part of the Flint Hills, one of the last places where tallgrass prairie still grows. Visitors can walk on trails that go through wide grasslands, and it’s also home to a herd of bison, and you might see them grazing in the distance. The visitor center has maps, trail recommendation s, and displays that explain the land’s history and wildlife. The preserve also has an old ranch house and barn that show what life was like for early settlers.

Strataca, Kansas Underground Salt Museum

Taking a day trip to Strataca, Kansas Underground Salt Museum takes around an hour drive from Wichita. Once arrived, you’ll go 650 feet underground into a working salt mine. Visitors can ride the Salt Mine Express train and take a guided tram ride called the Dark Ride to see old mining areas left just as they were decades ago. Another highlight is the Salt Safari tour, where smaller groups get to travel farther into the underground mine and explore parts that aren’t part of the regular path. The museum has displays of old tools, movie props, and even a section with real costumes from movies.

El Dorado Lake State Park

Start a day trip from Wichita and drive just 30 minutes to reach El Dorado Lake State Park, offering a wide mix of outdoor activities for visitors. The park has over 8,000 acres of water and nearly 100 miles of shoreline, making it a great place for fishing, boating, and swimming, with calm areas perfect for beginners using kayaks or paddleboards. More than 15 miles of trails passing through grasslands and along the lake, open to hikers, bikers, and horseback riders. The park has picnic tables, shelters, and restrooms spread throughout the park, making it simple to plan a meal outdoors or group outing.

Cheney Reservoir

From Wichita, a day trip to Cheney Reservoir is just about a 45 minutes drive west and offers a calm outdoor escape with space for boating, fishing, hiking, and picnicking. It’s part of Cheney State Park, which covers over 1,900 acres and is known for its wide-open lake and strong winds that bring in people for sailing and windsurfing. The lake has several boat ramps and plenty of shoreline, making it easy for visitors to launch a boat or fish for walleye, crappie, and catfish. Picnic tables and shelters are placed throughout the park, and there are also spots to swim or take a nature walk along the shores.

Tulsa, OK

Planning a day trip to Tulsa in Oklahoma, takes about 2.5 hours drive from Wichita and is a nice way to explore big city in a single day. One of the first stops people enjoy is the Gathering Place, a large riverfront park with walking paths, gardens, and playgrounds. Nearby, the Philbrook Museum of Art offers both indoor exhibits and outdoor gardens, housed in a historic villa. Music lovers can learn about the life and work of folk singer Woody Guthrie at a center dedicated to his story and songs. Families with kids must stop by the Tulsa Zoo and Oklahoma Aquarium, both are worth a visit in this trip.

How to Reach Wichita

Wichita is easy to reach by air, road, or bus, making it a simple place to visit from many parts of the country. The city’s main airport, Wichita Dwight D. Wichita’s main airport, Eisenhower National Airport (ICT), sits only a few miles from downtown and is the city’s main entry point for travelers. It offers daily flights from major cities such as Dallas, Chicago, Atlanta, New York City, Columbus, and Phoenix. Once you land, it’s just a short drive to the city center, and travelers can rent a car or take a taxi, shuttle, or rideshare.

If you’re arriving by road, Wichita is well connected by highways, including I-35, part of the Kansas Turnpike, and U.S. Routes 54 and 400, which makes driving in from nearby cities like Oklahoma City or Kansas City easy. Bus services such as Greyhound also operate in Wichita, with a station near downtown that links the city to other places in the region. Whether you’re flying, driving, or riding the bus, getting to Wichita is straightforward and doesn’t take much planning.

Local Transportation

Getting around Wichita is simple, with several easy ways to travel across the city. Wichita Transit runs public buses on 18 routes that connect neighborhoods to downtown and other key areas. The main transit center is downtown at 214 South Topeka, and buses run Monday through Saturday. Riders pay a small fare, and passes are available for those who ride often. For short trips downtown, the Q-Line is a free shuttle that stops at shops, restaurants, and museums.

Visitors can also rent bikes through Bike Share ICT, which has stations across the city. Renting a bike is simple — you download the app, pick a bike, take your ride, and bring it back when you’re finished. Electric scooters are another option downtown, and riders can find and unlock them using a phone app. For longer trips or more comfort, taxis, rideshare services like Uber, and rental cars are available. Wichita’s roads are easy to follow, and traffic is usually light, so driving is not stressful.

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FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions)

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