Looking for things to do in Wichita in 2023? You’re in luck! This vibrant city in Kansas has a range of exciting activities and attractions to offer visitors. From exploring Wichita’s rich history and culture to immersing yourself in nature at the city’s stunning parks and gardens, there is something for everyone in Wichita.
Foodies will love the city’s thriving food scene, while thrill-seekers can enjoy the many entertainment venues and activities around town. Festival-goers can attend exciting cultural celebrations and music festivals, while shoppers can indulge in retail therapy at Wichita’s malls and boutiques. Sports enthusiasts won’t be disappointed either, with the city’s many sports events and outdoor activities to choose from.
Key Takeaways
- Wichita offers a range of top activities and attractions for visitors in 2023.
- Visitors can explore Wichita’s rich history and culture through museums, art galleries, and cultural attractions.
- Wichita’s parks and gardens offer a range of outdoor activities and recreational opportunities.
- The city’s food scene has something for every taste bud to enjoy.
- Wichita’s entertainment venues offer thrilling experiences for visitors of all ages.
- Festivals and events in Wichita celebrate the city’s vibrant culture and music scene.
- Visitors can indulge in retail therapy at Wichita’s malls and boutiques.
- Sports enthusiasts can enjoy a range of recreational activities, including golf courses and sports events.
Explore Wichita’s Rich History and Culture
Wichita is a city steeped in rich history and culture, and visitors have a wide range of museums and cultural attractions to choose from.
| Museum | Description |
|---|---|
| Wichita-Sedgwick County Historical Museum | Located in a 1892 Victorian mansion, this museum showcases Wichita’s history with exhibits featuring local industrial and aviation achievements, as well as everyday life in Wichita over the years. |
| Museum of World Treasures | Discover the world’s history through the extensive collection of artifacts and interactive exhibits covering everything from dinosaurs to ancient civilizations to pop culture. |
| Botanica, The Wichita Gardens | Explore the 18-acre botanical paradise featuring themed gardens, a butterfly house, and a koi pond. The gardens regularly host special events and exhibits throughout the year. |
Those interested in the arts can visit the Wichita Art Museum, which displays over 7,000 works of art, including American art, Chinese ceramics, and European sculpture. The museum also has a beautiful scenic garden and features a variety of special exhibits throughout the year.
For music lovers, the Orpheum Theatre is a must-visit destination. This beautifully restored theater hosts a variety of concerts, plays, and performances throughout the year.
Exploring Wichita’s Old Town
The Old Town district is the perfect embodiment of Wichita’s rich history and culture. Visitors can experience the area’s revitalized brick buildings and architecture while visiting its restaurants, bars, and shops. Stop by the Old Town Warren Theatre, which has a mix of Hollywood blockbusters, indie films, and live sports events. The district is also home to the popular Cowtown Museum, which takes visitors back in time to the 1870s and 1880s, showcasing life in a historic Midwestern cattle town.
Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious about the past, Wichita’s museums, gardens, and cultural attractions offer a diverse range of experiences for all visitors.
Immerse Yourself in Nature at Wichita’s Parks and Gardens
Wichita boasts some of the most beautiful parks and gardens in the country, offering visitors a chance to escape into nature and enjoy a range of outdoor activities. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful spot to relax, a scenic place to take a walk, or an exciting adventure, Wichita’s parks and gardens have something for everyone.
| Park/Garden | Description | Activities |
|---|---|---|
| Botanica | A stunning botanical garden that features over 30 themed gardens and exhibits, including a butterfly garden, aquatic garden, and rose garden. | Walking tours, picnicking, butterfly house |
| Sedgwick County Park | One of Wichita’s largest and most popular parks, featuring a lake, playgrounds, picnic areas, and trails for hiking and biking. | Fishing, boating, hiking, biking, disc golf |
| Chisholm Creek Park | A beautiful park that stretches over 200 acres and features a lake, wetlands, and prairie grasses. | Hiking, biking, bird watching, fishing, kayaking |
| Koch Carousel Gardens | A historic garden that houses a beautiful carousel, as well as a variety of flowers and plants. | Carousel rides, picnicking, walking tours |
In addition to these parks and gardens, Wichita also has a number of outdoor recreational areas, including golf courses, sports fields, and nature trails. Whether you’re an avid golfer or just looking for a scenic place to take a walk, Wichita’s outdoor recreation areas are sure to impress.
So why not take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature? Experience the tranquility and adventure of Wichita’s parks and gardens for an unforgettable time.
Discover Wichita’s Thriving Food Scene
One of the best things about visiting Wichita in 2023 is the opportunity to indulge in the city’s vibrant food scene. From local cuisine to international flavors, Wichita has something for every taste bud.
Whether you’re in the mood for a fine dining experience or a casual meal, Wichita has it all. Some of the top restaurants in the city include:
| Restaurant | Cuisine |
|---|---|
| River City Brewing Co. | American |
| Gailey’s Breakfast Cafe | Breakfast and Brunch |
| Molino’s Cuisine | Mexican |
If you’re interested in trying local cuisine, be sure to check out Wichita’s famous BBQ joints. Some of the best BBQ restaurants in the city include:
- Bite Me BBQ
- Pig In Pig Out BBQ
- Hog Wild Pit BBQ
For dessert, don’t miss out on trying Wichita’s famous cinnamon rolls from The Donut Whole or the homemade pies from The Breadbasket.
Tip: If you’re looking for a unique dining experience, try heading to the Old Town District. The area features many local restaurants with outdoor patios and live music, perfect for a night out with friends.
Overall, Wichita’s food scene is not to be missed. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for a good meal, the city has plenty of options to satisfy your cravings.
Experience Thrills and Entertainment in Wichita
If you’re looking for excitement and entertainment, Wichita won’t disappoint. The city offers a variety of thrilling and family-friendly activities that are sure to make your stay unforgettable.
Amusement Parks
One of the top attractions in Wichita for families is the All Star Adventures amusement park. It features thrilling rides such as the roller coaster, bumper cars, and go-karts, as well as mini-golf and an arcade.
Theaters
For a night out, head to one of Wichita’s theaters. The Orpheum Theatre, a restored 1920s theater, hosts a diverse range of performances, from Broadway shows to concerts. The Crown Uptown Theatre is another historic venue, offering dinner theater experiences.
Other Entertainment Venues
If you’re in the mood for live music, check out the Cotillion Ballroom, which features a variety of acts, from up-and-coming bands to established artists. For a unique experience, visit the Museum of World Treasures, which houses a collection of artifacts from around the world, including dinosaur fossils and Egyptian mummies.
Family-Friendly Attractions
For a day of fun with the family, head to Exploration Place, a science museum with hands-on exhibits, a planetarium, and an indoor playground. The Sedgwick County Zoo is another great option, with over 3,000 animals to see.
No matter what type of entertainment you’re looking for, Wichita has something for everyone. With amusement parks, theaters, museums, and family-friendly attractions, you’re sure to find an activity that will make your trip to Wichita unforgettable.
Attend Festivals and Events in Wichita
If you’re looking for a fun and exciting way to experience the vibrant atmosphere of Wichita, attending one of the many festivals and events happening in the city is a must-do. From cultural celebrations to music festivals, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
One of the most popular events is the Wichita Riverfest, a nine-day celebration that takes place each year in June. The festival features live music, food vendors, and a variety of family-friendly activities. Another popular event is the Tallgrass Film Festival, which showcases independent films from around the world and draws film enthusiasts from across the country.
If you’re interested in cultural events, the Indian Center Powwow is a must-see. This annual event celebrates Native American culture with traditional dances, music, and food. Other cultural events throughout the year include the Asian Festival, the Greek Festival, and the Black Arts Festival.
Wichita Riverfest
| What: | Nine-day celebration featuring live music, food vendors, and family-friendly activities |
|---|---|
| When: | June 2-10, 2023 |
| Where: | Downtown Wichita |
Tallgrass Film Festival
| What: | Independent film festival |
|---|---|
| When: | October 18-22, 2023 |
| Where: | Various locations in Wichita |
Indian Center Powwow
| What: | Celebration of Native American culture featuring traditional dances, music, and food |
|---|---|
| When: | September 16-17, 2023 |
| Where: | Mid-America All-Indian Center |
These are just a few examples of the many festivals and events happening in Wichita throughout the year. Whether you’re a music lover, a foodie, or a culture enthusiast, there’s sure to be an event that will catch your interest. So mark your calendar and get ready to experience the excitement of Wichita’s festivals and events.
Shop Till You Drop in Wichita’s Retail Scene
When it comes to shopping, Wichita has plenty to offer. From malls to local boutiques, the city’s retail scene has something for everyone.
| Wichita Malls | Location |
|---|---|
| Towne East Square | 7700 E Kellogg Dr, Wichita, KS 67207 |
| Bradley Fair | 2000 N Rock Rd, Wichita, KS 67206 |
| NewMarket Square | 2441 N Maize Rd, Wichita, KS 67205 |
If you’re looking for unique finds and one-of-a-kind items, be sure to check out some of the local boutiques in Wichita. The Douglas Design District is a popular spot for boutique shopping, with its trendy shops and local art galleries.
“The shopping in Wichita is amazing! I always find something unique and special at the local boutiques.”
If you’re in the mood for some retail therapy, be sure to visit some of Wichita’s local markets. The Old Town Farmers’ Market is a great place to find fresh produce and handmade items, while the market at the Kansas Star Casino offers a variety of goods from local vendors.
- Explore local boutiques in the Douglas Design District
- Visit the Old Town Farmers’ Market for fresh produce and handmade items
- Browse through unique vendors at the market at the Kansas Star Casino
With so many shopping options available, Wichita is the perfect destination for those looking to indulge in some retail therapy.
Enjoy Sports and Recreation in Wichita
Wichita is dotted with sports and recreational activities that provide ample opportunities for visitors to engage in various fun-filled activities. From sports events to golf courses, parks, and other venues, Wichita has something for everyone who wants to unwind and enjoy their time.
Top Sports Events in Wichita
If you are a sports enthusiast, you can plan your visit during the Wichita Riverfest, a nine-day summer festival that features various sports events, such as jet ski races, a river run, and a volleyball tournament. Another exciting event is the annual Midwest Beerfest, where you can combine your love for sports with beer tasting.
Top Golf Courses in Wichita
Wichita is also home to some of the best golf courses in the country, such as the Crestview Country Club, which features two 18-hole courses that offer challenging and picturesque greens. Other notable golf courses include Reflection Ridge Golf Club and Tallgrass Country Club, both of which offer a stunning backdrop for golfers.
Top Outdoor Activities in Wichita
In addition to sports events and golf courses, Wichita has plenty of outdoor activities for visitors who want to explore nature. The Great Plains Nature Center is a beautiful place to hike, bird-watch, and learn about the local flora and fauna. Sedgwick County Park, on the other hand, is ideal for picnicking, fishing, and playing Frisbee golf.
Whatever your interests are, Wichita has something to offer. From sports events and golf courses to beautiful parks and hiking trails, visitors can have a blast while enjoying the great outdoors.
Conclusion
Wichita, KS is a vibrant city with a lot to offer its visitors. From its rich history and culture to its beautiful parks and gardens, there is something for everyone in Wichita. The city’s food scene is also thriving, with some of the best restaurants and local cuisines to indulge in. Visitors can enjoy thrilling entertainment, attend exciting festivals and events, and engage in various sports and recreational activities. Additionally, shopping enthusiasts can find their retail therapy at the city’s malls, boutiques, and local markets.
Whether you’re visiting Wichita for the first time or returning to explore more of the city, there is always something new to discover. We encourage you to explore all that Wichita has to offer and create memories that will last a lifetime. So, plan your visit today and experience the best of Wichita’s history, culture, nature, food scene, entertainment options, festivals, shopping, and sports activities.
FAQ
Q: What are some fun things to do in Wichita in 2023?
A: Wichita offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. From exploring the city’s rich history and culture to immersing yourself in nature at the parks and gardens, there is something for everyone in Wichita.
Q: What historical and cultural attractions can I explore in Wichita?
A: Wichita is home to various museums, art galleries, and cultural attractions. You can learn about the city’s rich history by visiting these institutions and experiencing the vibrant cultural scene of Wichita.
Q: What outdoor activities can I enjoy in Wichita?
A: Wichita boasts beautiful parks and gardens where you can indulge in various outdoor activities such as hiking, picnicking, and exploring botanical gardens. It’s the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in nature and enjoy the fresh air.
Q: Where can I find the best restaurants and dining experiences in Wichita?
A: Wichita’s food scene is thriving, offering a diverse range of restaurants and dining experiences. Whether you’re looking for local cuisines or international flavors, Wichita has something to satisfy every palate.
Q: What thrilling and family-friendly attractions are there in Wichita?
A: Wichita provides a wide range of thrilling and family-friendly activities and attractions. You can explore amusement parks, theaters, and other entertainment venues that offer memorable experiences for visitors of all ages.
Q: What festivals and events are happening in Wichita in 2023?
A: Wichita is known for its vibrant festival scene. In 2023, there will be cultural celebrations, music festivals, and other exciting events that you can attend to experience the lively atmosphere of the city.
Q: Where can I go shopping in Wichita?
A: Wichita offers various shopping opportunities, including malls, boutiques, and local markets. Whether you’re looking for popular brands or unique souvenirs, you’ll find it all in Wichita’s retail scene.
Q: What sports and recreational activities are available in Wichita?
A: Wichita caters to sports and recreation enthusiasts with its sports events, golf courses, and other venues. Whether you want to watch a game or engage in outdoor activities, there are plenty of options in Wichita.
Q: What are the top activities and attractions in Wichita in 2023?
A: Wichita offers a range of experiences for visitors to enjoy. From exploring the city’s history and culture to immersing yourself in nature, enjoying the food scene, attending festivals and events, shopping, and engaging in sports and recreation activities, there is something for everyone in Wichita.
