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!
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.
At the meeting point of the Big and Little Arkansas rivers is a weathered steel statue by American Indian sculptor, Blackbear Bosin. The Keeper of the Plains was installed in 1974 to celebrate the nation's bicentennial. Standing tall at 44 feet (13.41 meters), it is set on a huge headland and is considered a sacred site by the Native American tribes. Encircling it is a plaza with many displays, describing the lives of local American Indians who dwelt here. There are walking bridges to access the area. Fire drums on bluffs at the foot of the sculpture light almost every night, giving a dramatic effect to its surroundings.
The mission at Exploration Place is to make learning about science fun and interesting for kids and adults alike. Exhibits are creative and interactive, like the Big Mouth, where you can walk up to a huge, anatomically correct replica of the human mouth and learn about teeth, gums and good oral hygiene. There's plenty of rental space available here for meetings or a special event. Kids love birthday parties here!
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.
The Wichita Art Museum is one of the largest art museums in all of Kansas. Opened in 1935, it has a sterling collection of American art. The art collection of approximately 7,000 works spanning over three centuries includes sculptures, paintings, and decorative arts. It boasts works by illustrious artists like Mary Cassat, Winslow Homer, and many more. The museum has a unique area known as The Living Room where visitors can try their hand at creating their art. The museum also features a cafe and a store where gift items made by local artists are available.
Located on the city outskirts, The Prairie Pines is an extremely popular destination for weddings due to its picturesque location and beauty. The wooden barn at the Prairie Pines is an especially charming affair, built in 1983. Made of logs, with traditional architecture, the barn has been updated to modern standards while maintaining its rustic appeal. The barn can accommodate a maximum of 150 guests, and is an excellent space to host small gatherings. Besides this, the barn is also host to a popular chamber music concert series annually.