12 Fun Family-Friendly Things to Do in Wichita with Kids
Wichita is a prominent city in Kansas, namely its southeastern corner.
The state capital boasts a “small-town atmosphere” while being the state’s largest city, with an average commute time of only 18 minutes.
Wichita’s pioneering position in the aviation and manufacturing industries, including producing famous aircraft and promoting inter-business cooperation, has earned the city the nickname “Air Capital of the World.”
As a bonus, younger readers may appreciate learning that Pizza Hut and White Castle also had their starts in this city.
So, if you’re looking for a destination to take the kids to, Wichita is a fantastic option due to the abundance of fun things to do.
We’ve put together the must-sees for your next family holiday.
Are you excited? That’s what we’re thinking, too.
Take your kids on an adventure to experience the world and all the beautiful things it has to offer.
- Sedgwick County Zoo
Since 1971, when the Sedgwick County Zoo initially welcomed visitors to its 247 acres, more than 3,000 animals from over 400 species have called it home.
The zoo has been lauded globally for its conservation work and success in reproducing endangered species.
Why We Recommend This Kid-Friendly Activity
The Sedgwick County Zoo is the go-to destination for families in Wichita who haven’t yet chosen what to do with their kids.
The continents on which the featured animals are found have inspired themed exhibitions, so visitors may expect to experience an array of exotic environments.
A giant walk-through aviary allows visitors of all ages to get up and personal with the zoo’s stunning assortment of birds.
Recommended Ages
Everyone of any age would enjoy a visit to the Sedgwick County Zoo. Children under the age of 2 are welcomed free of charge.
- Botanica: The Wichita Gardens
This garden has been available to the public since May 1987; the 18-acre Botanica Wichita Gardens is home to more than 4,000 plant types.
Why We Recommend This Kid-Friendly Activity
The Botanica Gardens are always a great place for families to spend a day in Wichita.
Springtime flowers include about 50,000 tulip bulbs, 120,000 daffodil bulbs, azaleas, roses, and peonies.
Over five thousand chrysanthemums will complement the fall foliage, creating a beautiful sight for you and your loved ones to enjoy together.
As a bonus, the gardens are decked out in winter with 12,000 pansies, berried hollies, and red-twig dogwood.
Recommended Ages
Families with young children, preschoolers, and elementary schoolers might enjoy a visit to Botanica: The Wichita Gardens.
- The Keeper of the Plains
At the Arkansas and Little, Arkansas Rivers meeting stands the Keeper of the Plains, a 44-foot-tall, 5-ton Cor-Ten steel sculpture depicting an Indian Chief.
The “Ring of Fire” around the statue, which Blackbear Bosin and Tom Washburn constructed in 1974, is lit each night to provide tourists with a breathtaking view of the river.
Why We Recommend This Kid-Friendly Activity
Want to know what to do with your kids in Wichita, yet don’t want to break the bank?
Every night, visitors to Wichita can’t miss the free, stunning spectacle put on by the Ring of Fire encircling the Keeper of the Plains.
From either side of the rivers, you can reach the statue through pedestrian suspension bridges, making it easy for the whole family to see Witchia’s incredible landmark.
Recommended Ages
Everyone should pay a visit to the Keeper of the Plains.
- Exploration Place
Located in the center of downtown Wichita, along the beautiful Arkansas River, Exploration Place first opened its doors to the public on April 1, 2000.
It’s no surprise that Exploration Place is one of the most visited attractions in Wichita with kids, as it is packed with exciting and engaging interactive exhibits, events, and activities.
Why We Recommend This Kid-Friendly Activity
Take your little princes and princesses to “Where Kids Rule,” a three-story play castle, or check out the “Explore Kansas” exhibit to learn about the state of Kansas and its fascinating land, water, and weather.
Take advantage of your time in Kansas by visiting the state’s largest dome theater and planetarium, where you can enjoy the cosmos on a 60-foot screen with booming surround sound.
Recommended Ages
All children, regardless of age, are welcome at Exploration Place.
- Museum of World Treasures.
You can get to the Museum of World Treasures from Wichita’s downtown area in a short car ride.
The nonprofit organization was formed in 2001 by Dr. John and Lorna Kardatske. Since then, it has served as a destination of discovery and intrigue for people around the region.
Why We Recommend This Kid-Friendly Activity
The weekend is here. Do you have any plans?
Among the best things to do in Wichita with kids is a visit to the Museum of World Treasures.
Take a few hours to explore the museum and wonder at the mummies, fossils, and other artifacts from bygone eras.
This is no run-of-the-mill museum; it features three stories worth of displays covering a wide range of topics, including natural history, American military history, ancient Greece, Egypt, Rome, and more.
Recommended Ages
Youngsters above the age of three will enjoy a visit to the Museum of World Treasures.
- Nifty Nut House
The Nifty House opened its doors in 1937, and since then, it has been known for its wide variety of high-quality nuts, gum, chocolate, and sweets.
St. Francis, Wichita, is home to a family company that has been in the family for three generations.
Why We Recommend This Kid-Friendly Activity
Stop by the Nifty Nut House and stock up on snacks like Pecan Patties, Spanish Peanuts, and Mixed Fruit if you’re seeking things to do with your kids in the area.
Does anyone like trail mix in the household?
The Nifty Nut House is perfect for them if you say yes.
Seeing all the candies, licorices, and gummies in one place is sure to put a smile on your child’s face.
Recommended Ages
Everyone of any age will enjoy a visit to Nifty Nut House.
- Old Cowtown Museum
The Old Cowtown Museum spans 23 acres and attempts to recreate Wichita and Sedgwick Country as they were between 1865 and 1880.
The American Alliance of Museums recognizes this institution as meeting the highest standards for museum excellence and has recognized its commitment to providing visitors with an exceptional experience.
Why We Recommend This Kid-Friendly Activity
The Old Cowtown Museum is a favorite of tourists and locals alike, and it is often cited as one of the best things to do in Wichita with kids.
Escape to 1865 and live as a local in the city.
Your loved ones can dine at the saloon and have frosty sarsaparilla while watching the blacksmith at work and chatting with the locals.
The atmosphere will transport children to a Western movie set, but parents should warn their children to be on the lookout for shooting at any time.
Recommended Ages,
The Old Cowtown Museum in Wichita, Kansas, is an excellent choice for tourists of any age.
Four-year-olds and under are admitted free of charge.
- Field Station: Dinosaurs
Field Station: Dinosaurs is a one-of-a-kind theme park near Derby, Kansas, featuring over 40 life-sized, moving, and lifelike dinosaurs.
The park’s strolling pathways, mini-golf course, observation tower, and other amenities create a stimulating and educational setting for youngsters.
Why We Recommend This Kid-Friendly Activity.
Do your children have a fascination with dinosaurs?
If you agree, then you should check out this venue.
Trying to find child-friendly activities in Wichita?
Take the kids to the Raptor Maze and show them all the different dinosaurs they may find.
The Paleo Playground and Kansas Underground: Buried Treasures are two more places where children may spend hours having fun and learning about the Sunflower State.
Recommended Ages
It is suggested that children between the ages of three and seventeen visit the Field Station to learn about dinosaurs.
- Tanganyika Wildlife Park
Having opened to the public on August 2, 2008, Tanganyika Wildlife Park is home to more than 400 animals and over 40 exhibits with ten interactive stations that have resulted in 37 successful breeding initiatives.
Why We Recommend This Kid-Friendly Activity
This park is a popular destination in Wichita, Kansas, especially among families looking for things to do with children.
The Midwest’s most interactive wildlife park is located far from any zoo.
Meet a variety of friendly creatures, such as Hoppy the king vulture and Dexter the owl monkey, up close and personal.
Recommended Ages
There is no minimum age requirement for visitors to Tanganyika Wildlife Park.
- CityArts
It doesn’t matter how old you are; you’re always welcome at Tanganyika Wildlife Park. Wichita’s CityArts has been there since 1955, and its three stories and four galleries are stocked with all sorts of artworks.
Why We Recommend This Kid-Friendly Activity
Excited about a day of low-cost kid-friendly activities?
Take your children to Wichita’s CityArts studio to introduce them to the beauty of art in all its forms.
Besides the building’s free admission, it also offers exciting and reasonably priced art lessons.
As a family activity, it’s a fun way for kids to express their imagination and get closer to Mom and Dad.
Recommended Ages
Any kid above the age of six would enjoy a visit to CityArt.
- Wichita-Sedgwick County Historical Museum
The structure housing the Wichita-Sedgwick County Historical Museum was the city’s first City Hall from 1892 and served as an exhibit.
The iconic building was constructed in 1890 and now has three floors of exhibits in addition to a gift store and administrative offices on the ground floor.
Why We Recommend This Kid-Friendly Activity
The Wichita-Sedgwick County Historical Museum is a great place to take kids who want to learn about the city’s rich history while having a good time.
Stunning architecture and a unique clock tower are among the first things visitors see before entering the museum.
On the inside, you’ll find rows upon rows of exciting displays staffed by helpful people.
They frequently provide activities and programs geared toward children.
They might even let you enter the clock tower and ring the bell by pulling the cord.
Recommended Ages
Children older than six will get the most from a trip to the Wichita-Sedgwick County Historical Museum.
- Kansas Aviation Museum
The Kansas Aviation Museum, which has been there since April 1, 1991, is located on the site of the former Wichita airport.
There are more than 40 airplanes on show inside and outside on the tarmac, and the museum also features many historical artifacts.
Why We Recommend, This Kid-Friendly Activity
Isn’t it fitting to check out one of the city’s aviation museums while in the “Air Capital of the World?”
The Wichita Aviation Museum is a popular destination for families seeking a memorable day in the city.
Your children can enjoy themselves at the museum in the Lattner Hangar and the Boeing Science, Math, and History Learning Center.
A wide variety of STEAM-based activities, educational children’s films, books, and more will be available.
Recommended Ages
Children above three would enjoy visiting the Kansas Aviation Museum.
