Wichita, Kansas: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Wichita is the biggest city in Kansas and a top spot for visitors. It's full of attractions, museums, outdoor fun, and great food. You'll find everything from the famous Keeper of the Plains sculpture to top museums by the Arkansas River. This guide will show you the best things to do in Wichita, Kansas. It's the perfect way to enjoy the "Heart of the Country."

Key Takeaways

• Wichita is the largest and most visited city in Kansas, offering over 50 museums and attractions.
• The Keeper of the Plains sculpture, standing at 44 feet tall, is a iconic landmark in Wichita.
• Wichita is home to over 1,200 locally owned restaurants, catering to a diverse range of culinary tastes.
• The city offers over 8,000 hotel rooms, providing ample accommodations for visitors.
• Wichita is known as the "Air Capital of the World" due to its rich aviation history and industry.

Are you ready to uncover the hidden gems that make Wichita, Kansas, a must-visit destination? Let's dive in and explore the best things to do in this vibrant Midwest city!

Explore the Heart of the Country

Keeper of the Plains and Keepers on Parade

A 44-foot-tall steel sculpture, the Keeper of the Plains, stands at the Big and Little Arkansas Rivers' meeting point in Wichita. Artist Blackbear Bosin, a Native American, created it. This sculpture led to the making of Keepers on Parade, smaller versions found all over the city.

These 10-foot-tall sculptures celebrate Wichita's Native American history and culture. Over 60 of them are spread across the city.

Museums and Attractions Along the Arkansas River

The Arkansas River runs through Wichita's heart, offering museums and attractions along its banks. Botanica Wichita is a botanical garden with over 4,000 native plants and top exhibits. Exploration Place is a science center with exhibits on aviation, geography, and science.

Other museums include the Mid-America All-Indian Museum, Old Cowtown Museum, Wichita Art Museum, and Wichita Baseball Museum. They offer a deep look into Wichita's history, culture, and art.

"The Keeper of the Plains is a powerful symbol of the Native American heritage and a testament to the rich history of Wichita."

Savor the Culinary Delights

Wichita has over 1,200 Wichita restaurants owned by locals. These spots offer a wide range of Wichita dining experiences. The Doo-Dah Diner is a favorite, loved by actor Harrison Ford for its comfort food and fun vibe. Chicken N Pickle is another hit, blending great food with entertainment for both indoor and outdoor fun.

Wichita also has many top local cuisine spots. You can find amazing steakhouses, BBQ, seafood, and farm-to-table places. These spots show off Wichita's culinary skills, offering something for every taste. They're perfect for both celebrity-frequented restaurants and food lovers.

Wichita's Wichita restaurants and its food scene are a treat for anyone. They offer a unique chance to enjoy the best of Wichita dining and Wichita food.

Old Town Wichita: Brick Streets and Historic Charm

Step into the heart of downtown Wichita, and you'll find yourself in the world of Old Town. This historic district spans 20 blocks, filled with the city's rich past. It's where old 19th-century buildings now host shopping, dining, and entertainment spots.

Walking on the brick streets, you'll see a mix of old and new. You'll find unique boutiques, artisan shops, and local restaurants. There are also live music spots and bars for endless fun.

Shopping, Dining, and Entertainment

Afternoon shopping in Old Town Wichita is a treat. You can check out vintage clothes, art, and local crafts. When you're hungry, there's a lot to choose from, from cozy cafes to fancy restaurants.

At night, the district buzzes with life. Enjoy live shows at historic theaters or craft cocktails at bars. Whether you want music, comedy, or a quiet walk, Old Town Wichita has it all.

"Exploring the historic charm of Old Town Wichita is like taking a step back in time. The brick-lined streets and repurposed buildings create a truly unique and captivating experience."

Wichita, Kansas: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Wichita is the biggest city in Kansas and has lots to offer. It has museums, historic areas, and many fun activities for everyone. There's something for all interests.

For aviation fans, the Kansas Aviation Museum and the B-29 Doc Hangar are must-sees. The museum tells the story of Wichita's role in aviation history. The hangar is home to the famous B-29 Superfortress.

Those who love nature will enjoy Botanica, a beautiful garden spot. It has lovely gardens, events, and peaceful areas. The Great Plains Nature Center is great for learning about local wildlife and ecosystems.

Wichita is also great for fun and games. Check out The Wave for concerts and shows, Dockum Speakeasy for a cool bar, and The Arcade for games.

Shopping in Wichita is amazing too. Places like New Market Square, Revolutsia, and Bradley Fair offer unique items from local shops.

Wichita has something for everyone. Whether you're into aviation, nature, or just want to have fun, you'll find great attractions and activities here.

Museum of World Treasures: A Global Experience

In the heart of Old Town Wichita, the Museum of World Treasures awaits. It's a place where you can explore the world's history and culture. The museum has artifacts from different cultures, times, and places. It's a window into human history and civilization.

The museum is famous for its dinosaur fossils. They take you back to the time before humans. You'll also find artifacts from Africa, Asia, Europe, and ancient Egypt. These items let you dive into the traditions and stories of these regions.

The museum also has a big collection of military artifacts from the U.S. This shows the nation's history in a deep way. With its mix of culture, history, and military, it's a special place for anyone interested in the world's wonders.

The Museum of World Treasures in Wichita is a top spot for anyone wanting to learn more about the world. It has engaging displays and programs. It's perfect for locals and travelers looking to broaden their knowledge.

If you love history, culture, or just want to learn more about the world, this museum is for you. The Museum of World Treasures in Wichita offers a global experience that will inspire and educate you.

Great Plains Transportation Museum: Train History Unveiled

For train lovers and history fans, the Great Plains Transportation Museum in Wichita, Kansas, is a must-see. It shows off the area's rich train history. The museum is in a historic building, taking you back to the golden days of rail travel.

Relive the Golden Era of Rail Travel

When you enter the Great Plains Transportation Museum, you'll see a great collection of old trains and railcars. These well-kept pieces let you feel the past come alive. You'll hear the sounds and see the sights of the railway's best days.

Check out the interactive exhibits to see how Wichita helped shape the American railroad. Be amazed by the detailed design of the trains. Picture the busy times when trains filled the station platforms.

• Discover the evolution of rail transportation through the museum's extensive collection of vintage railcars and locomotives.
• Learn about the technological advancements that transformed the railway industry and the impact it had on the growth of Wichita and the surrounding region.
• Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and stories that capture the excitement and romance of the golden age of rail travel.

If you love trains or just want to know more about transportation history, this museum is for you. It's a place where you can learn and have fun. Step back in time and see how the railway changed the country's heart.

"The Great Plains Transportation Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the rich history of rail travel in the Midwest. The exhibits and artifacts transport you back to a time when the railway was the backbone of the nation's transportation system."

Kansas Aviation Museum: Soaring into Aviation History

Wichita is known as the "Air Capital of the World." It celebrates its aviation history at the Kansas Aviation Museum. This museum is on the old Wichita Air Terminal site. It tells the story of Wichita's key role in aviation development.

At the museum, you can see a wide range of historic aircraft. These planes show how aviation technology has changed over time. You'll see everything from early biplanes to modern jets. Wichita's big names like Beechcraft, Cessna, Lear Jet, and Textron made big strides in aviation.

The museum has interactive displays and exhibits that tell Wichita's aviation story. It shows how the city became a center for aircraft manufacturing and innovation. You'll learn about the growth of the aviation industry in Wichita, where 35% of the world's general aviation aircraft are made.

If you love aviation or just want to learn about flight history, this museum is for you. It's a place of inspiration. Here, you'll hear about pioneers who shaped Wichita's aviation industry and the growth of aviation worldwide.

Step into the world of the Kansas Aviation Museum. Here, history and innovation meet in a display of Wichita's aerospace heritage. It's a place where the past, present, and future of flight come together.

B-29 Doc Hangar: The Legendary Superfortress

Wichita, Kansas, is proud to showcase the Boeing B-29 Superfortress, known as "Doc." This iconic World War II aircraft played a key role in the Pacific Theater. Volunteers have worked hard to restore it, and now it's on display at the B-29 Doc Hangar.

At the B-29 Doc Hangar, you can go back in time and see the B-29 Superfortress up close. This huge bomber was known for its high-altitude bombing and long missions. You'll learn about its history, its war role, and how it was restored.

The B-29 Doc is one of only two flying B-29 Superfortress planes left. Visiting the hangar is a special chance for those who love aviation and history. You'll be amazed by its size and the skill that brought it back to life.

Don't miss seeing the B-29 Superfortress at the B-29 Doc Hangar in Wichita, Kansas. This piece of military history and aircraft restoration shows the hard work and passion of volunteers who restored the B-29 Doc.

Botanica: A Horticultural Haven

In the heart of Wichita, Kansas, Botanica is a 20-acre botanical garden. It shows off a wide variety of plants and flowers. With over 4,000 plant species, it's a peaceful escape from the city. Visitors can dive into the natural beauty of the area.

Gardens, Events, and Natural Beauty

Botanica Wichita has a beautiful Chinese garden with a peaceful Koi pond. There's also a vibrant butterfly garden, whimsical fountains, and streams. You can check out the bee house, see the carousel, and enjoy events like yoga and tai chi classes.

Even if you're not into gardening, Botanica is a peaceful place to connect with nature. It's filled with stunning flowers. This place is a top spot for anyone wanting to see the Wichita attractions and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

Botanica also has many events all year round. These events cover a lot of interests, from workshops to cultural festivals. It's always something new at this botanical gardens in Wichita, Kansas.

"Botanica Wichita is a true oasis of tranquility, where the beauty of nature takes center stage. It's the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle and connect with the natural world."

If you love nature, art, music, or just want a peaceful spot, Botanica Wichita is a must-see. It offers a unique and memorable experience. Dive into the Wichita, Kansas attractions and see the beauty of this horticultural haven.

Cultural Immersion: African American and Native American Museums

Wichita's culture shines at the Kansas African American Museum and the Mid-America All-Indian Museum. These places let visitors dive deep into the histories and art of African American and Native American communities.

The Kansas African American Museum is in a historic church. It tells the stories of famous African Americans linked to Kansas, like actress Hattie McDaniel and football stars Gayle Sayers and Barry Sanders. The museum uses exhibits and interactive displays to show the deep roots of African American culture in the area.

The Mid-America All-Indian Museum is by the beautiful Arkansas River. It brings visitors into the world of Native American cultures and traditions. With art, artifacts, and programs, the museum helps people understand and value these important legacies.

Wichita's museums take you on a journey into American diversity. You'll be inspired and moved by the stories of African American leaders and the art of Indigenous peoples. These museums are dedicated to keeping Wichita's cultural heritage alive and celebrated.

"Wichita's cultural museums offer a transformative journey into the heart of American diversity, inspiring, enlightening, and profoundly moving visitors."

Conclusion

Wichita, Kansas, is a city that mixes history, culture, and attractions for an unforgettable trip. It has the Keeper of the Plains and museums along the Arkansas River. Plus, there's the charming Old Town and the city's proud aviation history.

If you want to explore Wichita's travel guide, tourism, or just have a great vacation, you'll find something for everyone. The city has a great food scene, museums, and cultural spots. Wichita shows the Midwest's heart and soul, giving visitors a unique experience.

Think about making Wichita, Kansas, your next travel spot. This city is full of history, culture, and things to see. It promises to make a big impact and become a top spot in the country to visit.