Wichita: Something for Everyone
If you want a travel destination that offers a little something for everyone, you might consider Wichita, Kansas. Nicknamed the Air Capital of the World after several major aircraft companies were established here in the early 1900s, Wichita today offers a wide range of attractions, restaurants, arts and culture as well great shopping choices.
What to See and Do
You can learn all about Wichita’s aviation history at the Kansas Aviation Museum, which is located in the former Municipal Airport’s Terminal and Administration building near the Boeing and McConnell Air Force Base.
Another popular attraction in Wichita is the Intrust Bank Arena. Home to Central Hockey League’s, Wichita Thunder, the Intrust Bank Arena features 15,000 seats and serves as venue for other events.
At the Botanica Wichita Gardens, you can stroll among 24 different themed gardens such as the Butterfly Garden and the Sally Stone Sensory Garden.
At the Sedgwick County Zoo, you can observe up to 2,500 animals, represented by 500 different species.
A must do while in Wichita is visit the Old Town. Situated east of the downtown area, this former warehouse district is now a lively and interesting zone where you can enjoy a variety of restaurants, shops, nightclubs and interesting museums like the Museum of World Treasures and the Great Plains Transportation Museum. You will also find this area to be in close proximity to hotel accommodations.
Arts and Culture
If you want to learn more about Wichita’s interesting history, you can check out history museums like the Mid-America All-Indian Center or the Wichita-Sedgwick County Historical Museum, which houses exhibits and artifacts.
Home to many art museums and performing arts companies, Wichita serves as a cultural center for all of Kansas. The Wichita Art Museum is the largest art museum in Kansas, housing more than 7,000 art objects. For live entertainment, you can enjoy outstanding performances by the Wichita Symphony Orchestra and the Music Theatre at the Century II Convention Hall.
Additionally, Wichita hosts a number of lively annual festivals such as the Wichita River Festival. Held every June near the downtown area, this festival offers a wide range of events like a parade, flea market, live music and fireworks as well as cultural and sporting events. In October, you can attend the Tallgrass Film Festival to enjoy more than 100 short and independent films from around the world.
Shopping
If you want to do some shopping while visiting Wichita, you will be happy to know that the city offers two major malls, which include the Towne West Square Mall and the Towne East Square Mall. Each of these malls feature more than 100 shops. You will also find two fantastic shopping centers in the city, Bradley Fair and NewMarket Square. If you want to find a bargain on antiques, head over to the Flying Moose Antique Mall, which offers more than 100 vendors selling a variety of antiques from fine arts and collectibles to furniture.
You can begin your trip to Wichita today by comparing hotel deals online and securing a reservation. No matter what your budget or taste, you are sure to find a hotel in Wichita that will suit you well.
