Are you looking for a weekend with your family that’s packed with things all ages will love? Baseball games, exotic animal encounters, STEM fun for all ages? Then hop in the car and head southwest three hours to Wichita, the heart of the country!
What to Do in Wichita
Exploration Place
Mom Tip: Bring your swimsuits and towels for the Water Cascades and spray grounds at Adventure Playscape.
Botanica
Botanica is definitely a kid favorite. The Downing Children’s Garden is perfect for climbing in the creek and treehouse, watering plants, playing house, exploring nature and chasing a centipede. As you explore the rest of the gardens, you’ll find outdoor games like ping pong and oversize checkers, a indoor carousel (purchase tokens at the machine near the entrance), a sensory garden, miniature train exhibit and so much more.
Splash Aqua Park
Located just off I-235, Splash Aqua Park is a series of inflatable runways, slides, bouncers and jumping pillows all connected and floating in a large lake. There is a beach area with umbrellas and chairs, for those who don’t want to get wet. All you need is your swimsuit, towel and your energy!
Mom Tip: Be sure to fill out the waiver online ahead of time!
Wind Surge Baseball Game
The Wichita Wind Surge, Wichita’s minor league baseball team, plays at Riverfront Stadium on the Arkansas River. There is family-friendly entertainment between each inning, and the cameras are always showing pictures of the stands, so keep an eye out for your face on the big screen! There’s a play area for kids, fireworks on Friday night, and not a bad seat in the house!
Mural Spotting
Check out the murals downtown, especially in the Douglas Design District. These bright paintings burst with Wichita pride and positive messages, bringing life to older buildings.
Keeper of the Plains
After dinner, we enjoyed a walk along the Arkansas River and explored the Keeper of the Plains Plaza. This plaza features exhibits about the Plains Indians’ way of life, and is home to one of the most iconic images of Wichita – the Keeper of the Plains. This 44-foot steel sculpture is most impressive to see at night, during the 15-minute “Ring of Fire” lit every evening at 9:00 (spring and summer, weather permitting). Park in the Exploration Place parking lot by 8:45 p.m. and have your camera ready!
Tanganyika Wildlife Park
If you have a full day to fill, visit Tanganyika Wildlife Park. Located just outside of Wichita, this is the only wildlife park in the country with 10 interactive encounters where you can feed and touch exotic animals. We loved every minute!
Mom Tip: Outside food and drink is allowed in the park, so pack up the wagon and stay awhile!
Where to Stay in Wichita
Ambassador Hotel Autograph Collection is in the heart of downtown Wichita! Minutes from all of our attractions, as well as many restaurants and Old Town. Our kids remarked that this was “the nicest hotel we’ve ever stayed in!”
The Drury Plaza Hotel Broadview Wichita is also located downtown along the river and features large rooms, great for families. The complimentary breakfast is a bonus and features many options for all tastes an pickiness levels.
Where to Eat in Wichita
Public at the Brickyard – a local favorite with unique decor. Great salads, sandwiches and kid options beyond chicken fingers.
Ziggy’s Pizza – locally owned and family operated in three Wichita locations. Ziggy’s
serves pizza, sandwiches and more. The location in Clifton Square is in an adorable shopping and dining area, with a quaint outdoor eating space.
Papa’s Ice Cream and Treats – also located in Clifton Square, Papa’s is great for a dessert. Don’t miss their extreme shakes!
Station 8 BBQ – this restaurant opens at 11 a.m. and closes at 2 p.mm or before if they sell out of their BBQ. It is located in an old fire house, full of nostalgia. Arrive at 11, or risk missing out on their ribs and brisket. Indoor and outdoor seating available, as well as carryout.
Doo-Dah Diner – this place is a must for breakfast in Wichita! Call ahead seating is available at 316-265-7011. They also have takeout and delivery options.
The Arcade – a collection of retro arcade games with a menu featuring hot dogs and pizza. Unlimited game play is $12 for adults, $10 for kids 10 and under.
