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15 Places in Wichita That’ll Make Your Kansas Trip Worthwhile

Field Station: Dinosaurs/Yelp

Wichita has something interesting for everyone. Once a trail cow town, Wichita is now a modern metropolis with a rich history. The city has breathtaking scenery, endless food options, and remarkable landmarks. Let’s check out the top 15 places you must explore in Wichita.

Botanica Gardens

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Wichita’s Botanica Gardens in Sim Park is a must-visit destination for every nature lover. It features 30 uniquely themed gardens—from the delicate Butterfly Garden to the classic Shakespeare Garden and Chinese landscapes, there’s something for everyone, including stunning seasonal displays.

Old Cowtown Museum

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You wouldn’t want to miss the Old Cowtown Museum of the Wild West. It’s an open-air museum that brings Kansas’ past to life with over 50 landmark buildings. You can interact with costumed guides and enjoy reenactments of famous events from 1865 to 1880.

The Keeper of the Plains

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The Keeper of the Plains is an important statue honoring Wichita’s locals and its indigenous heritage. Each night, for 15 minutes, flames surround the structure. The statue’s hands point skyward while its feet rest on a stone pillar, paying homage to the five elements of life.

Sedgwick County Zoo

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Animal lovers are in for a treat with this one! The Sedgwick County Zoo has over 3000 animals—one of the highest in the nation. Here, you’ll walk through some immersive habitats like the African Savannah or the Tropics and find the adorable penguin and elephant exhibits. 

Museum of World Treasures

Museum of World Treasures/Yelp

As the name suggests, the Museum of World Treasures has everything from around the world. The most exciting exhibits are the Egyptian mummies and dinosaur fossils. You’ll also get a glimpse of the global history in this museum and learn a lot about ancient civilizations from the interactive displays.

Frank Lloyd Wright’s Allen House

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This house was once home to Henry Allen (a newspaper publisher from Wichita who later became the governor of Kansas) and his wife. If you’re an interior fan, you’ll admire the appealing Wright-designed furniture. Take the 90-minute tour of this house, which was restored using Japanese-inspired elements.

Exploration Place

Exploration Place/Yelp

Once you’ve quenched your thirst for history, make your way to Exploration Place. This interactive museum features hundreds of engaging exhibits, including Kansas in Miniature and exciting flight simulators. Designed for both kids and adults, the Exploration Place serves as a stimulating hub of discovery. 

Wichita Art Museum

Wichita Art Museum/Yelp

With over 10,000 pieces of American art, the Wichita Art Museum is the state’s largest art museum. Get ready to display your art critique here. Along with a sculpture garden, the collections span centuries, featuring renowned artists like Edward Hopper and Mary Cassatt.

Kansas Aviation Museum

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Keeping up with the museums, this one is dedicated to Kanas’ rich aviation background. Set in an art-deco airport, the Kansas Aviation Museum showcases vintage aircraft and interactive exhibits. Don’t forget to check out the Control Tower for panoramic views of McConnell Air Force Base. 

Great Plains Nature Center

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For those who are fond of bird watching or nature hiking, the Great Plains Nature Center is perfect for a daylong adventure. At their indoor wildlife observatory, you can spot muskrats, ducks, and egrets. It’s a treat for enjoying nature up close and learning about local ecosystems.

Pizza Hut Museum

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Wichita is a town full of stories, even when it comes to pizza! What started in 1958 as a single restaurant run by two brothers is now what we call Pizza Hut. The city’s students are keeping their legacy alive by sharing the real story behind this beloved brand.

Mid-America All Indian Center

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Explore Native American lineage and culture at the Mid-America All-Indian Museum. Located near the Keeper of the Plains, this museum showcases a diverse collection of artifacts, artwork, and stories from indigenous tribes, putting a prime focus on the Plains Indians of Kansas.

Field Station: Dinosaurs

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Do you want to get a real-world dose of Jurrasic Park in Kansas? Visit Wichita’s adventure park, ‘Field Station: Dinosaurs’. It’s a popular destination, with over 40 life-sized animatronic dinosaurs roaming the park. That’s not all—you also have an 18-hole Jurrasic-themed golf course here!

Arkansas River Path

Kmerckx/Wikipedia

If you’re in the mood for a scenic walk or a bike ride, you’d want to do it along the Arkansas River Path. Stretching over ten miles, this path has mesmerizing river views, peaceful parks, and is close to the Exploration Place and the Keeper of the Plains.

Shop and Dine in Old Town District

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Wichita’s Old Town District is a site where old warehouses have been redesigned into unique boutiques, trendy restaurants, and lively entertainment spots. It’s a fun spot for a relaxing day out—Shop, dine, and enjoy the nightlife of the largest city in Kansas.

Written by Castillo Rancon

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