You’re in the right place if you want to find fun things to do in Wichita, Kansas, which is also known as the Sunflower State.

Kansas is landlocked; the Arkansas River is the only river that flows through it. It is known for its wide plains and natural beauty.

Wichita is the biggest city in Kansas. It’s affectionately known as the “Air Capital of the World” because it’s where many important events in aviation history began.

The food chains Pizza Hut and White Castle were both started in Wichita.

You are in for a real treat if you plan to go to Wichita soon.

There are lots of beautiful nature areas, amazing museums, a lively art scene, and lots of culture in Wichita.

It’s easy to see why Wichita is a travel hub for the Midwest: there are so many interesting things to do and see.

Check out these cool things you can do when you go to the Sunflower State.

 

1. The Alley Indoor Entertainment

4. Ulrich Museum of Art

You should definitely go to the Ulrich Museum of Art in Kansas. It is on the campus of Wichita State University.

The museum has been around since 1974 and is one of the most popular tourist spots in the state. Its main goals are to make the displays easy for everyone to understand and to keep and share only the best items.

The museum has a large collection of more than 6,000 works of art, which is worth mentioning.

It’s no surprise that the Ulrich Museum of Art is one of the best places to visit in Wichita. Its collections include art from both the 20th and 21st centuries, as well as current and contemporary pieces.

The museum’s collections cover a wide range of interesting topics, such as automatism, grief, historical pictures, and more.

The museum also has paintings, sculptures, collages, montages, and a lot of other types of art.

Last but not least, the museum’s outdoor sculptures make this already amazing place even better.

The Ulrich Museum of Art is one of the few free things to do in Wichita, which is a big plus.

Address: Wichita State University, 1845 Fairmount St, Wichita, KS 67260, United States

 

5 The Allen House

The Allen House was built in 1915 by Frank Lloyd Wright and was the home of a Kansas governor.

The house was Wright’s last country home. It was named for Governor Henry Allen.

The Allen House is a real work of art. It combines a focus on landscaping on the outside with a love of making the inside move well.

Plan a trip to The Allen House if you’re looking for something architectural to do in Wichita.

Wright’s style of building was a beautiful mix of earth tones, clean lines, and perfect integration of inside and outside elements.

If you want to see The Allen House, you should look at the property’s event calendar. It lists established times for tours.

Important to note is that you have to sign up for a tour, and every tour is led by an experienced docent.

People who want to see one of the coolest places in Wichita should definitely take the Allen House walk.

Address: 255 N Roosevelt St, Wichita, KS 67208, United States

 

6. Sedgwick County Zoo

The Sedgwick County Zoo has won many awards and is one of the best places for families to do things in Wichita.

The zoo has a lot to see with more than 3,000 animals from 400 different kinds.

Additionally, the animals come from a wide range of physical areas. The zoo animals have ancestors from Asia, Africa, North America, and the Tropics, among other places.

People who go to the zoo will see many amazing animals, such as elephants, cats, otters, and many more.

Everything about the amazing wildlife is shown in beautiful recreations of their native habitats.

The zoo offers more than just animal viewing. It also has STEAM activities, wildlife encounters, and special “learning adventures.”

The Sedgwick County Zoo also has some fun things to do, like a safari ride, an engaging stingray cove, feeding the giraffes, and boat rides, to name a few.

The Sedgwick County Zoo is one of the most famous places to visit in Wichita because it has so many things to do all in one place.

Address: 5555 W Zoo Blvd, Wichita, KS 67212, United States

 

7. Botanica, The Wichita Gardens

The Wichita community garden has been doing well since it started in the late 1980s.

Botanica, The Wichita Gardens began with just four small gardens, but it has grown to cover almost 18 acres now.

Botanica is one of the most beautiful places to visit in all of Wichita.

Botanica is known for its beautiful gardens and teaching programs that teach people about gardening, how to use nature in their daily lives, and how important it is for communities to grow.

Visitors to general garden tours can enjoy seasonal gardens, a magical carousel ride, and even a walk of beehives that includes a honey tasting. These tours last about 90 minutes.

Botanica Gardens has interesting educational programs like lectures at lunchtime, a walking program, and a “Washed Ashore” tour that focuses on the big sculptures of sea creatures that are spread out in the gardens.

Botanica, The Wichita Gardens is the place to go in Kansas if you’re not sure what to do.

Address: 701 Amidon St, Wichita, KS 67203, United States

 

8. Museum of World Treasures

In the middle of Wichita, Kansas, you can find the Museum of World Treasures, a museum of world history.

The Museum of World Treasures is very interesting. It is famous for its amazing collection of fossils, Egyptian mummies, presidential signatures, a real piece of the Berlin Wall, and other unique items.

This famous, all-around museum has displays about American history, natural history, world cultures, the military, and a lot more.

The museum has a small fee to enter, making it one of the few inexpensive things to do in Wichita.

There are a lot of amazing things to see at the Museum of World Treasures. It has three floors full of them.

Also, the museum is a great place to learn because it has so many interesting and unique displays about people, countries, and places from around the world.

Anyone who wants to see one of the most interesting places in Kansas should go to the Museum of World Treasures.

Address: 835 E 1st St N, Wichita, KS 67202, United States

9. Great Plains Nature Center

Visit the Great Plains Nature Center in Wichita, Kansas, if you want to learn about the plants and animals that live in the area.

Great Plains Nature Center is always a nice place to spend time, whether it’s today, tomorrow, or next week. There are services inside and outside, so any day is a good day to go.

There are many beautiful displays inside the building tour, such as those in Habitat Hall, which has displays about prairies, lakes, and forests.

There is also a wildlife observatory, a lecture hall, and a display of a honeybee hive inside.

There are two beautiful parks on the outside of the nature center, among other interesting features.

More than 200 acres of land in Chisholm Creek Park are home to a variety of wildlife habitats. The park also has two-and-a-half miles of paved hiking tracks.

Another lovely place to visit is the Kansas Wildlife Center, which is in Riverside Park.

Lastly, don’t miss the Owl’s Nest Gift Shop at the center. It has unique guides, gifts, and other items.

Address: 6232 East 29th St N UNIT 2200, Wichita, KS 67220, United States

 

10. Exploration Place

In Wichita, Kansas, there is a science museum called Exploration Place.

Exploration Place, which is right next to the Arkansas River, is one of the many fun things to do with kids in the Sunflower State.

The building is an epic structure called the Omnisphere, and views that look out over the river make up almost 75% of the structure.

The museum opened in 1994 and has been a place where scientists find new things ever since.

Exploration Place has a lot of great things, like live science shows, a dome theater, and a great science store.

Besides these unique features, the museum is full of amazing displays that show, among other things, the science behind dogs, arctic research, “Thomas the Train,” dinosaurs, anatomy, health sciences, and the atmosphere.

The best part is that most of the shows are interactive, so you and your kids can learn by doing.

Kids can also have fun at the outdoor adventure park.

Address: 300 N McLean Blvd, Wichita, KS 67203, United States

11. Wichita Art Museum

One of many cool vacation spots in Wichita, Kansas, the Wichita Art Museum is a must-see.

With more than 7,000 works of art ranging from historical to contemporary, there’s so much to see at the museum.

Except for Monday, the museum is open for visits today or this weekend.

Founded in 1935, the Wichita Art Museum has evolved immensely over the years but today it contains one of the most esteemed art collections in the Midwest.

Some of the amazing works on display at the museum include works by famous artists in a variety of mediums such as paintings, sculptures, and glass to name a few.

Other fun museum features include the epic museum store, an excellent cafe, an outdoor art garden, and a living room-type setting for lounging.

Finally, a hands-on area for children makes the museum suitable for all visitors.

If you’re looking for area entertainment for adults and children alike, the Wichita Art Museum is your spot.

Address: 1400 Museum Blvd, Wichita, KS 67203, United States

 

12. Wichita Symphony Orchestra

The Wichita Symphony Orchestra is one of the top tourist attractions in all of Wichita.

If you’re looking for entertainment that will leave an indelible memory, be sure to plan a visit here.

Whether you’re a longstanding symphony fan or interested in a new experience, the Wichita Symphony Orchestra is a great choice.

Founded in 1944, the orchestra has a rich history in performing arts.

Everyone from local artists to global sensations has graced the stage here.

If you have an upcoming trip planned for Wichita, check out the orchestra’s events page.

There you can check out upcoming performances, ticket purchases, and special events.

As of the date of this publication, upcoming artists include Kristen Chenoweth, Berlioz’s Symphonie Fantastique, and a Mozart Requiem to name a few.

Each year the symphony also hosts holiday specials worth checking out.

One of many cool things to do when visiting Kansas, the Wichita Symphony Orchestra is highly recommended.

Address: 225 W Douglas Ave #207, Wichita, KS 67202, United States

13. Old Cowtown Museum

If you’re wondering what to do with the history buffs in your group, be sure to plan a visit to the Old Cowtown Museum.

Situated centrally in Wichita, Kansas and adjacent to the Arkansas River, the museum is in a prime locale.

With many unique things to see in one place, it’s no wonder the Old Cowtown Museum is such a popular visitor destination.

Historical, educational, and all-around fun, the museum is home to a city loop that’s frozen in time, specifically frozen in the late 1800s.

The museum is home to more than 10,000 amazing artifacts that retrace the history of Kansas.

In essence, the museum reveals the evolution of Kansas from the frontier land to a manufacturing town and everything in between.

Some of the unique historical artifacts you’ll see during a tour of Old Cowtown Museum include textiles, furnishings, and artwork spanning 1865 to1880.

One of the coolest places to visit to learn about Kansas history, Old Cowtown Museum is a top itinerary choice.

Address: 1865 Museum Blvd, Wichita, KS 67203, United States

 

14. Mid-America All-Indian Center

One of a few very important yet fun things to do in Wichita is checking out the Mid-America All-Indian Center.

Concerned with preserving and sharing the unique history of Native Americans both nationally and specifically in the Midwest, the museum is a must-see.

With more than 3,000 pieces in the collection, there is so much to see in one place.

The exhibits at the museum run the gamut from American Indian life to Native American culture and an in-depth look at American Indian artist Bosin to Native American prints.

The Mid-America All-Indian Center shares not only interesting artifacts, but also shares engaging films, interactive displays, and local art that encapsulates the Native American experience.

An outdoor exhibit displays a full-size tipi, a native medicinal garden, and an outdoor classroom.

Finally, with a stop in the awesome gift shop, you can pick up American Indian cookbooks, Native American crafts, and Wichita memorabilia among other souvenirs.

Address: 650 N Seneca St, Wichita, KS 67203, United States

15. Kansas Aviation Museum

If you’re looking for fun for the whole family, be sure to visit the Kansas Aviation Museum.

Housed in the former Wichita Municipal Airport, the museum’s setting is perfect for its subject.

One of a few free things to do for children under three, the museum is an affordable place to take the whole family.

The pristinely kept museum is rife with artifacts concerning the state’s aviation history.

Within the halls of the beautiful museum, you’ll come face to face with the Aviation Hall of Fame, an engine room, a historic airport terminal, a World War II exhibit, an airline exhibit, and so much more.

Other museum exhibits include a Cessna presentation, a military showcase, and a tour of a control tower.

Outdoor exhibits showcase incredible aircraft like a B-47 and a Learjet to name a few.

Lastly, a visit to Amelia’s Landing Gift Shop has fun aviation-themed gifts, books, apparel, and other cool souvenirs.

Address: 3350 George Washington Blvd, Wichita, KS 67210, United States

 

16. Kansas Firefighters Museum

One of the top 10 firefighters’ museums in the country, the Kansas Firefighters Museum is a must-do.

Housing the state’s largest collection of fire memorabilia, there is so much to learn from the museum.

With trucks, hats, uniforms from every era, photos, and so much more on display, you’ll feel like you know exactly what it’s like to be a firefighter by the time you leave the museum.

Moreover, the museum is home to one of the few remaining first-ever fire dispatch systems.

The museum allows you to step back in time and explore a working 1930s fire engine.

The museum also has fun hands-on activities for children.

Your little ones can step into a real firefighter’s boots, pull a fire alarm, and even hear first-hand stories from real local firefighters.

With a commitment to preserving firefighter history, imparting fire safety, and honoring those who have fallen in the line of duty, the museum is a well-rounded experience.

Address: 1300 S Broadway St, Wichita, KS 67211, United States

 

17. Old Town

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Wichita, Old Town is one of the top spots to visit.

Old Town is a bustling city center that is set amid 19th-century warehouses.

The industrial setting perfectly juxtaposes the colorful and lively culture that now resides in Old Town.

Old Town is primarily toured on foot and is rife with excellent restaurants, fabulous shopping, bars, and live music venues.

An excellent setting for a day on the town or an exciting date night, Old Town is a must-see when you’re visiting Wichita.

Besides the eateries, boutiques, and performance venues, Old Town is home to museums, first-class accommodations, and an events calendar rife with fun things to do all week long.

A visit to Old Town is packed with all the cool things you imagine doing on a trip to the city.

Come for the food, stay for the shopping, and linger for the nightlife.

Either way, Old Town should definitely top your itinerary when you’re in Wichita.

Address: Wichita, KS, United States

 

18. Wichita Toy Train Club & Museum

If you’re looking for fun activities for both children and adults, be sure to pay a visit to Wichita Toy Train Club & Museum.

Best of all, the museum is one of a few free things to do for children under five.

If you’re traveling with train enthusiasts, this is definitely the spot for them.

The Wichita Toy Train Club & Museum is a family-friendly setting packed with model trains and incredibly detailed layouts.

Of note, the museum is operated by collectors and operators who have an affinity and knowledge base for trains like none other.

Many of the displays feature Lionel, MTH, Atlas, Williams, Weaver, and Marx trains.

Some of the museum’s featured attractions include layouts of a carnival, a downtown area, a mountain setting, and many other intricate arrangements.

Other astounding exhibits showcase multi-level features, a popular O Gauge layout, and a European layout.

Each exhibit is more incredible than the last, which is why you should plan a visit to the Wichita Toy Train Club & Museum when you’re in town.

Address: 130 S Laura St Ave, Wichita, KS 67211, United States

 

19. The Keeper of the Plains

The Keeper of the Plains is one of the most famous Wichita attractions.

The Keeper of the Plains is a steel sculpture at the city center looking over, keeping if you will, the plains.

Soaring 44 feet into the sky, The Keeper of the Plains was sculpted by artist Blackbear Bosin, a local Kiowa-Comanche artist.

Situated at the point where the Arkansas and Little Arkansas Rivers meet, the sculpture was erected in 1974 to celebrate the U.S. Bicentennial.

One of the main attractions in downtown Wichita, The Keeper of the Plains is a figure built to symbolize Native American brotherhood and faces east.

The Keeper of the Plains weighs a whopping five tons and sits upon a 30-foot pedestal giving him an even greater vantage point to oversee the plains.

Enigmatic of the Native American influence on local culture and one of the best sights to see, The Keeper of the Plains is a must-see.

Address: 339 Veterans Pkwy, Wichita, KS 67203, United States

 

20. Great Plains Transportation Museum

The Great Plains Transportation Museum is a train museum that’s a fun place to visit this weekend or any day of the week for that matter.

Preserving and sharing the railroad history of the Great Plains, the museum conveys a unique facet of local history.

On display at the museum, you’ll see a vast variety of railroad equipment as well as a historic locomotive that you can board and explore.

One of many cool things to see in Wichita, the Great Plains Transportation Museum is also home to the two largest Santa Fe locomotives.

These two trains are representative of the last Santa Fe trains of their kind built in their respective eras.

Best of all, the museum offers scheduled train rides aboard these amazing locomotives.

Other exhibits showcase railroad prints, signs, tools, and many other significant artifacts.

Finally, a train-themed gift shop is a perfect way to end your visit to the museum.

Address: 700 E Douglas Ave, Wichita, KS 67202, United States

 

21. Arkansas River Trail

One of the best things to do in Wichita is the Arkansas River Trail, a 17-mile-long rail trail.

If you’re looking for fun activities that get you outdoors in the Great Plains, make sure to visit the Arkansas River Trail.

Of note, the trail runs along both sides of the Arkansas River through a picturesque stretch of Central Arkansas.

Along the trail, you’ll have the opportunity to walk, run, skate, or bike ride as you bask in incredible views of local settings.

Along the route, you’ll pass Big Dam Bridge, downtown Little Rock, and North Little Rock.

For your convenience, the trail has a smattering of bike fix-it stations, a bird-watching perch, and it’s pet friendly.

Furthermore, the trail is handicap accessible and has public restrooms.

Finally, the Arkansas River Trail is perfect for exercise, fun, and sightseeing.

Address: Wichita, KS, United States

 

22. Doo-Dah Diner

Founded in 2012 by Wichita natives, the Doo-Dah Diner is one of the best Wichita attractions.

In fact, it’s known to locals as the greatest diner in Wichita and other towns near to “Air Capital of the World.”

The diner was designed, menu and all, to mirror the laid-back and chill vibe of the town.

A casual eatery for breakfast and lunch, the Doo-Dah Diner serves the most delicious meals with the freshest ingredients.

Named for yet another Wichita nickname, the Doo-Dah Diner invests in fresh, quality ingredients to bring you some of the best food you’ll eat in Kansas.

The owner of the Doo-Dah Diner who doubles as the head chef is a trained chef with decades of culinary experience.

He brings his experience, his world travels, and his love for Kansas into every dish he serves.

The diner itself is enigmatic of a 50s-era diner with red leather banquettes, black and white checkered flooring, and good old-fashioned food.

If you’re looking for someplace to enjoy a local breakfast or lunch, the Doo-Dah Diner is your spot.

Address: 206 E Kellogg St, Wichita, KS 67202, United States

 

23. River City Brewing Company

Set in a turn-of-the-century building, the River City Brewing Company is one of many cool things to do in Wichita.

Located in the heart of Old Town, the brewery was established in 1993 and has been a hotspot ever since.

Hand-crafted ales, palate-pleasing libations, craft beers, and seasonal selections have been a mainstay that draws visitors back over and over again.

With 16 beers on tap at a time, there’s always something new to try and always something for every palate.

With beers near to perfection, the River City Brewing Company is a great place to visit with beer lovers.

In addition to the delectable beers, the brewery also serves fresh food that’s worth the visit in and of itself.

Homemade pizzas, fresh sandwiches, and incredible appetizers all pair well with the yummy beers and laid-back atmosphere.

If you’re looking for an adult-only spot or a great date night locale, be sure to visit the River City Brewing Company.

Address: 150 N Mosley St, Wichita, KS 67202, United States

 

24. Shocker Sports Grill & Lanes

If you’re looking for fun spots for the whole family be sure to check out Shocker Sports Grill & Lanes.

Not only is this the best place to strike out in bowling, but there are billiards, a bar, and a grill.

Situated on the campus of Wichita State University, the grill and lanes are open to the public and set amid an incredibly beautiful campus.

One of the coolest places to visit with loads of fun to be had, Shocker Sports Grill & Lanes is a must-do.

The basement of the University’s Student Center, where you’ll find Shocker Sports Grill & Lanes, is a unique, collegiate place to visit.

The environment is fun, the setting is cool, and the memories will surely last a lifetime.

If you haven’t already done so, add Shocker Sports Grill & Lanes to your list of things to see in Kansas.

Address: 1845 N, Fairmount St #56, Wichita, KS 67260, United States

 

25. Jumpy Jump Land

You could take your kids to Jumpy Jump Land if you’re not sure what to do with them in the “Air Capital of the World.”

Jumpy Jump Land is one of the coolest indoor gyms for kids because it was made just for them to move around.

You can book a private party here or just come here to play whenever you want. There are lots of jumping things for kids to do here.

Kids can get some exercise at Jumpy Jump Land, which has bounce houses, trampolines, and other fun things for kids to do.

The bright scenery of primary colors in Jumpy Jump Land is meant to spark a child’s imagination.

Children of all ages can enjoy Jumpy Jump Land, which lets them be kids.

Kids can come play with their peers and friends, or they can make new friends.

Parents can take it easy while their kids play.

You can bring a small snack with you during open play times, which is helpful.

That sounds great, so what’s not to love?

Address: 1611 W Ledgerwood Rd, Andover, KS 67002, United States

 

26. The Arcade

You should check out The Arcade if you’re in Wichita and want to find fun things to do in bad weather or the heat.

The Arcade is one of the most popular places to visit in Wichita. It’s fun for players of all ages.

The video is full of almost 100 classic video games that will take you back to your childhood. You’ll also enjoy playing some of your old favorites with your kids.

Retro games like Donkey Kong, Pac-Man, Asteroids, Contra, and Gorf are just a few of the ones you’ll be able to play.

This place is really fun because it has a lot of games from the 1980s and 1990s, as well as pinball machines.

A small fee lets you into The Arcade, and then you can play as many games as you want for as long as you want. This is one of the best things about the arcade.

Address: 139 N Mead, Wichita, KS 67202, United States

 

Start Planning Your Trip To Wichita

With so many cool things to do in Wichita, narrowing down an itinerary may seem daunting.

But with so much stuff to do throughout this great city, you’ll certainly have no problem finding places to go and activities to enjoy during your trip to Kansas.

Which of the above attractions are you most excited to check out when you’re in Wichita?