Wichita surprised me in the best way. I visited for a conference and left impressed by the city’s blend of Midwestern charm, lively arts and food scenes, and welcoming local spirit. If you’re planning a trip, this guide highlights hands-on experiences, local favorites, and a few spots even longtime residents recommend.
The Arkansas River runs through Wichita and creates a pleasant riverside backdrop for walking, biking, and riverfront events. The city balances outdoor recreation, a thriving arts community, and active preservation of Indigenous history and local wildlife.
I first visited Kansas in Kansas City, Kansas, the previous year, so I was eager to see more of the state when I booked a ticket to Wichita for a TBEX conference. One thing I appreciate about TBEX is how they include local experiences in their programming, which gave me a great introduction to Wichita’s personality.
Tour the Brewery Scene in Wichita
One of my first excursions was a mostly walking tour of several local craft breweries. Each stop had distinct character—friendly staff, creative beers, and a community-minded vibe. I noticed a spirit of collaboration across the scene; breweries partner with each other and with local restaurants on events and fundraisers instead of operating in isolation.
We visited four spots during my first tour, and even that small sampling made me want to return and explore more of the city’s brewing community.
Where to find the breweries
River City Brewing Company – Located in Old Town, this brewery features a large dining room, outdoor seating, and a second-level event space. My recommendation: try the Reuben.
150 N Mosley
Wichita, KS 67202
The Leprechaun’s Lab – A charming downtown pub with a wide beer selection. They experiment with playful flavors like jalapeño or cereal-inspired brews. There’s no kitchen, but you can bring takeout.
630 E. Douglas Ave, Ste 150
Wichita, KS 67202
Tor Brewing – Situated near INTRUST Bank Arena, Tor is a great pre-show hangout. It offers a large taproom and a solid food menu; the loaded French fries are a standout.
222 S Commerce St.
Wichita, KS 67202
Wichita Brewing Company – The Delano location spans multiple floors and includes a rooftop area. They operate a large pizza oven, so grab a wood-fired pie and relax for a while.
901 W. Douglas
Wichita, KS 67213
Wichita is for Animal Lovers
Wichita is home to two noteworthy animal destinations: Tanganyika Wildlife Park and Sedgwick County Zoo. Both offer memorable encounters but in very different ways.
Sedgwick County Zoo recently welcomed four baby elephants, which were a highlight during a conference event. The zoo also hosts seasonal programming and special events like the Wild Lights lantern festival, which turns the grounds into a colorful nighttime display during select months.
Tanganyika Wildlife Park offers a highly interactive experience. Visitors can walk among kangaroos, feed giraffes, engage with cockatoos, and even have lemurs climb on them. It’s an immersive option for anyone who enjoys close animal encounters and hands-on learning.
Blending Nature and Technology
My conference hotel was on the riverfront, making it easy to walk to many attractions. The Hyatt Regency Wichita places you within reach of riverside parks, public art, and family-friendly museums.
Keeper of the Plains at Sunset
The Keeper of the Plains is a 44-foot steel sculpture that marks the confluence of the Big and Little Arkansas Rivers. It’s especially striking at sunset when the nightly Ring of Fire ceremony lights the base to honor the area’s Indigenous communities.
Exploration Place Science Museum
Exploration Place sits along the river and offers interactive science exhibits, flight simulators, and a planetarium. It appeals to curious visitors of all ages and makes for a great indoor option during extreme weather.
The museum has expanded its outdoor play area, and the new playground—nearing completion—will be a fun space for families to enjoy once it opens.
Grow Plant Bar
Grow Plant Bar blends a café, greenhouse, and retail plant shop. You can sip a coffee or cocktail while browsing plants, and they often host workshops where you pot your own plants to take home. It’s a relaxing, light-filled space perfect for plant enthusiasts.
For a spa evening, Beau Monde Spa West offers massages, facials, an infrared sauna, and a salt room. It’s a great way to unwind after a day of exploring, and their boutique makes it easy to pick up a small souvenir.
Nearby, Warren West theater features a grand, classic cinema experience with many screens and an IMAX option—perfect for catching a film between activities.
Wichita is for the Locals
Downtown Wichita is full of public art and small surprises that make strolling the streets enjoyable. If you prefer intimate evenings, try Dockum, a speakeasy under the Ambassador Hotel. Its moody atmosphere and handcrafted cocktails make it an ideal spot for a date or a relaxed night out.
The Workroom is a local shop that features Wichita-made goods, home décor, and apparel. It’s a good place to find authentic souvenirs and the store even offers a champagne bar for a celebratory shopping experience.
I could have easily spent another week exploring Wichita. From breweries and wildlife parks to artful public spaces and cozy speakeasies, the city offers a surprising variety of experiences. If you’re curious about any of these places or want recommendations tailored to your interests, I’m happy to help you plan.
The more I discover in the Sunflower State, the more I want to keep exploring its hidden corners and local favorites.