Wichita

Day Trips

Begin your day with a stroll through Old Town, where historic brick buildings house quaint cafes and boutique shops. Stop by a local coffee shop for a freshly brewed cup and a pastry to fuel your morning. Enjoy the vibrant street art and the lively atmosphere as the city wakes up.

Visit the Museum of World Treasures to immerse yourself in fascinating exhibits ranging from ancient artifacts to pop culture memorabilia. Grab lunch at one of Old Town’s trendy restaurants offering everything from classic American fare to international cuisine. Spend some time wandering through the unique shops and galleries to pick up one-of-a-kind souvenirs.

Dine at a riverside restaurant along the Arkansas River, enjoying scenic views and delicious food. After dinner, catch a live music performance or a theater show at one of Old Town’s popular venues. End the evening with a relaxing walk along the riverwalk, soaking in the city lights and peaceful ambiance.

Start your day at the Wichita Art Museum exploring its impressive collection of American art with a focus on regional artists. Take your time to appreciate the blend of contemporary and classic pieces in a serene setting. Enjoy a light breakfast at the museum café while reflecting on the inspiring artworks.

Head over to the Kansas Aviation Museum to learn about Wichita’s rich aviation history, known as the Air Capital of the World. Explore vintage aircraft and interactive exhibits that tell the story of innovation in flight. For lunch, visit a nearby eatery offering hearty Midwestern specialties to keep your energy up for the afternoon.

Visit the Old Cowtown Museum for an evening ghost tour or special event if available, experiencing the historic frontier town atmosphere after dark. Alternatively, enjoy a quiet dinner at a local steakhouse, savoring regional flavors and friendly hospitality. Conclude the evening with a stroll through the illuminated grounds of the museum or nearby parks.

Kick off the day at Sedgwick County Zoo, one of the largest zoos in the country, home to thousands of animals from all over the globe. Engage with interactive exhibits and enjoy watching feeding times and animal demonstrations. Grab a snack from the zoo’s café to keep the family energized.

Spend the afternoon at Botanica Wichita, a stunning botanical garden featuring themed gardens, water features, and seasonal blooms. Take part in a guided garden tour or a hands-on workshop if available, ideal for children and adults alike. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the garden’s shaded areas surrounded by colorful flowers and greenery.

Head to a family-friendly restaurant in the city for dinner, offering a variety of kid-approved dishes and relaxed atmosphere. Afterward, catch a family movie at a local cinema or visit a nearby arcade for some playful competition. Wind down with ice cream or dessert from a popular local parlor before heading back to your accommodations.

Start early with a bike ride or jog along the Arkansas River Bicycle Path, enjoying the fresh air and scenic riverside views. Stop at outdoor fitness stations or take photos of the wildlife and natural beauty along the trail. Visit a local café afterward for a nutritious breakfast and coffee.

Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the Arkansas River firsthand, paddling through gentle currents surrounded by lush greenery. Alternatively, join a guided river tour to learn about the local ecosystem and history. For lunch, relax at a park picnic area with a packed meal or grab food from a nearby food truck.

Dine at a restaurant with a patio overlooking the river, savoring seasonal dishes made with local ingredients. Experience the sunset from a riverfront bench or take a leisurely evening stroll to watch the city lights reflect on the water. Finish your day with a craft cocktail or locally brewed beer at a nearby bar known for its welcoming ambiance.

Visit Exploration Place, a hands-on science museum perfect for curious minds of all ages. Dive into interactive exhibits covering technology, engineering, and natural sciences. Start with a planetarium show to marvel at the stars and learn about the cosmos.

Have lunch at the museum café before participating in a science workshop or demonstration offered throughout the day. Explore the outdoor science park featuring water play areas and kinetic sculptures. Take time to visit special exhibits that highlight Wichita’s role in aviation and industry innovation.

Enjoy dinner downtown at a modern American restaurant known for inventive dishes and a stylish setting. Attend a local lecture or science-themed event if available, connecting with community experts and enthusiasts. End your night with a peaceful walk through a nearby park, reflecting on the day’s discoveries.

Join a guided walking tour of Wichita’s historic districts, learning about the city’s founding and architectural gems. Visit landmarks such as the Wichita-Sedgwick County Historical Museum and other heritage sites. Enjoy breakfast at a vintage café that has preserved its original charm and recipes.

Explore local markets and artisan shops, sampling regional specialties like Kansas beef jerky or handcrafted chocolates. Have lunch at a farm-to-table restaurant emphasizing local produce and sustainable practices. Spend time visiting nearby artisan studios or a craft brewery for tastings and tours.

Dine at an upscale bistro featuring a blend of traditional and contemporary Kansas cuisine. Attend a performance at the Century II Performing Arts & Convention Center, such as a play, concert, or ballet. Cap off the evening with a nightcap at a speakeasy-style bar known for its creative cocktails and cozy atmosphere.

Start your day with a visit to the Intrust Bank Arena to explore if there are any morning sports events or open sessions. Enjoy breakfast at a nearby diner popular among local athletes and sports fans. Take a walk or jog around the surrounding park areas to warm up for the day’s activities.

Attend a Wichita Wind Surge baseball game at Riverfront Stadium or participate in a recreational league game if visiting with a group. Grab classic stadium snacks and soak in the lively atmosphere with enthusiastic fans. Alternatively, visit a local golf course for a round of golf or driving range practice.

After the game or sports activity, enjoy dinner at a sports bar featuring big-screen TVs and a menu full of comfort food. Meet locals and fellow visitors to share stories and celebrate the day’s plays. End the evening with a casual walk through downtown illuminated by colorful lights and street performances.

Explore the Wichita Farmers Market to discover fresh produce, handmade crafts, and artisanal goods from local vendors. Enjoy breakfast from food stalls offering freshly baked pastries and regional specialties. Chat with artisans and learn about their creative processes and community impact.

Visit the Lawrence-Dumont Stadium area where craft fairs and pop-up markets often take place, browsing unique jewelry, textiles, and artworks. Stop for lunch at a food truck festival or nearby café known for using local ingredients. Attend a craft workshop or demonstration to try your hand at pottery or painting.

Dine at a neighborhood restaurant that sources ingredients from local farms and artisans. Attend an art gallery opening or a live craft demonstration event if available. Relax with a locally brewed coffee or tea at a cozy café while reflecting on your creative day.

Begin your day at the Great Plains Nature Center, exploring interactive exhibits about Kansas wildlife and ecosystems. Walk the trails surrounding the center to spot native birds and small mammals in their natural habitats. Enjoy a peaceful breakfast picnic in the designated outdoor areas filled with fresh morning air.

Join a guided nature hike or birdwatching tour to deepen your understanding of the local flora and fauna. Pack a simple lunch to enjoy on the trail or return to the visitor center’s picnic spots. Visit nearby Chisholm Creek Park for additional walking paths and scenic views of wetlands and prairies.

Have dinner at a nearby farm-to-table restaurant that celebrates nature-inspired cuisine. Attend an evening ranger talk or stargazing event at the center if scheduled. End your day with a quiet walk under the stars, appreciating the tranquility of Wichita’s natural surroundings.

Spend the morning browsing independent bookstores and art shops in downtown Wichita, soaking up the creative buzz of the city center. Stop for coffee and a light breakfast at a popular downtown café known for its artisan blends. Visit a local gallery showcasing emerging Kansas artists and their latest exhibits.

Enjoy lunch at a downtown bistro that offers a seasonal menu inspired by international flavors. Spend the afternoon visiting the Wichita-Sedgwick County Historical Museum to gain insight into the city’s past. Prepare for the evening by securing tickets to a play or musical performance at a historic downtown theatre.

Experience a lively dinner before the show at a chef-driven restaurant that blends classic and modern Kansas cuisine. Attend a performance at the Crown Uptown Theatre or the Wichita Orpheum Theatre, immersing yourself in local arts and culture. Conclude the night with dessert and drinks at a stylish lounge known for its creative atmosphere.