Top Rated Attracties in Wichita

The Sedgwick County Zoo is one of the largest zoos in the state. A major tourist attraction, this zoo is home to more than 3000 animals of about 400 different species. Along with areas to view the animals, the site includes a children's play area, boat rides, and trams. Between Penguin Cove, the Tiger Trek and the Downing Gorilla Forest, there's enough to see that you'll want to spend a whole day here.

Featuring several lakes where you can fish, Sedgwick County State Park is a must-visit for fishing aficionados. Even if fishing isn't your thing, there's plenty to do for the whole family. Hike or bike along a trail, taking in the sights of wildlife. If you're into sports, head to the softball field or basketball court for a game. In the winter, the sledding hill is tons of fun!

Opened in 1987, these gardens were a collaboration between the Wichita Area Garden Council and the City of Wichita. They include an aquatic collection, a butterfly garden, a butterfly house, a greenhouse for tropical plants, a rock garden, a rose garden, a sensory garden, a Shakespearean garden, and more. They opened a children's garden in 2011 that features several themed areas for kids.

Learn about local plants and wildlife at the Great Plains Nature Center. Inside, exhibits like Kansas Wildlife and Prairies of the World are educational for both kids and adults. Outside, trails provide the perfect opportunity to view some of the flora and fauna you learned about inside. Remember your trip here with something from the gift shop - it offers a variety of books, toys, and other fun memorabilia.

Feel like you've traveled back in time at this museum, where costumed actors recreate the lifestyle of a cattle town from the 1870s. This sprawling museum is designed as a working town complete with residential houses, an industrial area, a farm and various other elements that comprised a town back in the day. Well-thought-out re-enactments of scenes from daily life make this an interesting attraction for kids as well as adults. The Hunter Area, Drovers Camp, DeVore Farm and the Industrial Area are some of the prominent living exhibits of the museum. In addition to this, the Empire Hall showcases an extensive collection of historical artifacts. The gift shop on site has unique souvenirs and tours are available.

A visit to Tanganyika Wildlife Park fulfills the dual goals of an educational and fun-filled outing for the entire family. One can view common, rare and endangered species such as clouded leopards, Purple-capped Lories, Nigerian Dwarf Goats, domestic ferrets, Southern Three-Banded Armadillos and Huachuca Mountain Kingsnakes. Keep an eye out for special events like Pumpkins at the Park, Safari Splashdown and Twilight Hours. This park conducts safari classes and other educational activities for students and scouts. It also runs the Species Survival Fund for wildlife conservation. One can host birthday parties and weddings at this much-loved family park.