Wichita

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Wichita's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore Wichita
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Wichita Botanical Gardens, where you can stroll through beautiful landscapes. Take a moment to appreciate the diverse plant life and enjoy the fresh air.

afternoon
:

Visit the Sedgwick County Zoo to see a wide variety of animals and learn about wildlife conservation. Grab lunch at a nearby cafe to refuel for the afternoon adventure.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant specializing in Kansas cuisine. After dinner, take a relaxing walk along the Arkansas River to enjoy the sunset.

day 2
Art and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day at the Wichita Art Museum, which showcases an impressive collection of American art. Spend time exploring the various exhibits and enjoy the serene surroundings.

afternoon
:

Head over to the Old Cowtown Museum to experience Wichita's history in an interactive way. Participate in demonstrations and learn about life in the 19th century.

evening
:

Savor dinner at a trendy restaurant downtown, where you can indulge in craft cocktails and local dishes. End your day with a performance at the Orpheum Theatre.

day 3
Outdoor Adventures
morning
:

Kick off your day with kayaking or paddleboarding on the Arkansas River. Enjoy the peaceful water and take in the scenic views of the city as you paddle.

afternoon
:

Visit the Wichita State University Campus, where you can explore the beautiful grounds and the iconic statue of the Shocker. Grab lunch in the student union for a taste of campus life.

evening
:

Have a barbecue dinner at a local grill known for its smoked meats. Take a nighttime stroll through Wichita’s Delano District, enjoying its vibrant atmosphere.

day 4
Sports Day
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Wichita Sports Forum, where you can engage in various sports activities. Check out the schedule to join a pickup game or participate in a class.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a casual lunch at a sports bar, discussing your favorite teams. Visit the INTRUST Bank Arena to catch a game or explore its history and significance to the city.

evening
:

Have dinner at a pizzeria popular for its sport-themed decor. If there’s a live game, join the crowd and enjoy the buzzing atmosphere.

day 5
Fall Festivities
morning
:

Visit the Wichita Farmers' Market to enjoy fresh produce and handmade goods. Sample local treats and pick up some artisan products.

afternoon
:

Explore the Botanica Wichita, especially during fall for beautiful seasonal displays. Have lunch in the café located on-site while enjoying the surroundings.

evening
:

Join a pumpkin patch visit and enjoy bonfires and hayrides. Have a picnic dinner or grab takeout from a nearby restaurant to savor under the stars.

day 6
Shopping Spree
morning
:

Start your day at Towne East Square, a premier shopping mall with various stores. Browse for unique gifts and try on the latest fashions.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at one of the mall's dining spots, choosing from a range of cuisines. Then, head to the nearby Waterfront for boutiques and specialty shops.

evening
:

Dine at a waterfront restaurant that offers stunning views of the lake. It's a perfect way to relax after a long day of shopping.

day 7
Bike and Brew
morning
:

Rent a bike and explore the scenic bike trails along the Arkansas River. Enjoy the fresh air and make frequent stops to take in the views.

afternoon
:

Stop by a local brewery for a lunch of refreshing craft beers and delicious pub grub. Take a brewery tour to learn about the brewing process afterward.

evening
:

Continue your evening at a different brewery or taproom to sample more local brews. Wind down with snacks and enjoy live music to finish off the day.

day 8
Historical Sites
morning
:

Visit the Keeper of the Plains for a morning of learning about Native American history. Take a leisurely walk to see the iconic sculpture and enjoy the surrounding sculptures.

afternoon
:

Explore the Museum of World Treasures, filled with exhibits from ancient to modern times. Grab lunch at a nearby café that pays homage to the city's history.

evening
:

Head to a local steakhouse for a classic Kansas dinner. Complete the evening with a visit to the Wichita Skyline for breathtaking views of the city.

day 9
Family Fun Day
morning
:

Start the day at the Exploration Place, where your family can enjoy science and hands-on exhibits. Kids will love the interactive displays and fun demonstrations.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a picnic lunch at a local park before heading to the Sedgwick County Zoo. The zoo offers educational programs and animal encounters that the whole family will enjoy.

evening
:

Wrap up the day with a visit to the local amusement park for rides and games. Grab dinner from one of the food stalls for a fun and vibrant end to your family day out.

day 10
Music and Nature
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the Prairie Park Nature Center, where you can enjoy nature trails and spot wildlife. Take in the tranquil environment and breathe in the fresh air.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a local eatery that offers a music-themed ambiance. Afterward, visit the Orpheum Theatre for a behind-the-scenes tour of this historic venue.

evening
:

Attend a live music concert in one of Wichita's parks or at a local venue. Enjoy dinner at a restaurant known for its vibrant music scene.

Discover Wichita

Read more in our Wichita 2024 Travel Guide.

Wichita Travel Guide