7 Entertaining Activities for Kids in Wichita, KS
Last updated in October 2024
When it comes to keeping the little ones entertained, Wichita has got some fantastic options that’ll surely get the whole family buzzing with excitement. Take The Arcade, for instance, where nostalgia reigns supreme with over 90 classic games and friendly staff ready to help make your gaming dreams come true. Or how about a visit to the Sedgwick County Zoo? It’s not just a place to see animals; it’s a marvel of conservation that mixes fun with education and hands-on experiences for kids—like feeding giraffes and petting stingrays!
Botanica, The Wichita Gardens
Botanica, The Wichita Gardens is a vibrant oasis in Wichita, Kansas, perfect for families and nature lovers alike. It boasts a stunning array of seasonal flowers that bloom throughout the year, showcasing everything from tulips to chrysanthemums. The gardens feature interactive experiences like a butterfly house and a children's area with a carousel, making it a fantastic spot for a family day out. Whether you're looking to enjoy a peaceful walk, admire beautiful landscapes, or engage with nature, Botanica has something for everyone!
What People Love
Stunningly maintained gardens filled with seasonal flowers and diverse plants.
Family-friendly atmosphere with activities like a carousel and children's play areas.
Beautiful events throughout the year, including special holiday displays and exhibits.
A relaxing space, offering peaceful walks and great spots for photography.
Interactive experiences like the butterfly garden and Lego installations.
What People Don't Like
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Service frustrations with unhelpful staff during busy events.
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Parking and organization issues during popular attractions like the holiday light show.
You Have to Try
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The butterfly garden, where you can often see and even interact with butterflies.
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The charming carousel that's a hit with kids and nostalgic for adults.
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Seasonal events like the Tulip Festival and Illuminations light show.
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Exploring the Lego sculptures scattered throughout the gardens, which add a fun twist.
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The Children's Garden, specifically designed to inspire and entertain little ones.
Great Plains Nature Center
Great Plains Nature Center is a delightful free venue located in Wichita, KS, that provides families with a unique chance to immerse themselves in nature and learn about local ecosystems. With interactive exhibits, live native wildlife, and well-maintained trails through the beautiful Chisholm Creek Park, it is the perfect spot for a day out. Whether you're hiking the trails, enjoying a family picnic, or exploring the center's educational displays, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
What People Love
It's a hidden gem for nature lovers right in the heart of Wichita.
Great place for families with tons of interactive activities for kids.
You're likely to spot wildlife like deer, turtles, and various birds while walking the trails.
The trails are well-maintained and offer a peaceful escape from the city.
The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, enhancing the experience.
What People Don't Like
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Some areas of the trails could use better signage.
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Ticks have been a concern for some visitors.
You Have to Try
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Check out the educational exhibits featuring local wildlife and plants.
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Take one of the scenic trails, many of which are stroller-friendly.
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Participate in their fun story walks designed for kids, perfect for family outings.
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Don't miss the live animal exhibits inside the center, especially the fish room!
Great Plains Transportation Museum
The Great Plains Transportation Museum in Wichita, Kansas is dedicated to preserving the rich history of railroading in the Great Plains. Featuring an assortment of historic railroad equipment, including locomotives and railcars, this charming museum offers both educational and interactive experiences suitable for all ages. With friendly volunteers eager to share their knowledge, visitors can climb aboard trains, explore fascinating exhibits, and enjoy a unique glimpse into railroad history.
What People Love
Friendly and knowledgeable staff who are passionate about railroading.
Hands-on experience with train cars and engines that kids can climb into.
Flexible indoor exhibits and a variety of train memorabilia.
Affordable admission price, making it accessible for families.
Interactive atmosphere where kids can learn while having fun.
What People Don't Like
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Accessibility issues for strollers and wheelchairs due to limited facilities.
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Some visitors feel the museum could benefit from more exhibits for the price.
You Have to Try
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Climbing aboard the Santa Fe steam locomotive #3768 to see its grandeur up close.
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Exploring the various train cars, including fun experiences like ringing the bell.
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Checking out the rotating indoor exhibits filled with railroad prints and artifacts.
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Participating in the scavenger hunt designed for kids, which makes learning fun.
Kansas Firefighters Museum
The Kansas Firefighters Museum is a delightful spot in Wichita, set in a historic 1909 fire station. It's a treasure trove of firefighting history, featuring vintage vehicles, old photographs, and plenty of artifacts that tell the story of how fire services have evolved. Families love it here, as there's so much to learn and see, and the staff are super friendly, eager to share their knowledge about this essential part of Kansas history.
What People Love
Interactive and educational guided tours that engage both kids and adults.
A fascinating collection of firefighting memorabilia and vintage fire vehicles.
Friendly and knowledgeable staff that enhance the museum experience.
Great for families, with plenty to see and do for children of all ages.
The beautiful memorial section honoring fallen firefighters, which adds depth to the visit.
What People Don't Like
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Limited operating hours, only open on Saturdays.
You Have to Try
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The guided tours, which provide insightful stories and engaging interactions with the exhibits.
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The horse-drawn fire engines that showcase the history of firefighting equipment.
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Experiencing the memorial to fallen firefighters, which offers a heartfelt tribute and important context.
Sedgwick County Zoo
Sedgwick County Zoo in Wichita, Kansas is an amazing destination for families and wildlife lovers alike. Home to nearly 3,000 animals of over 400 species, this zoo not only provides entertainment but also focuses on wildlife conservation. You'll find beautifully maintained enclosures and a variety of interactive experiences, from getting up close with giraffes to touching stingrays. With its clean facilities, friendly staff, and plenty of shaded areas, it’s a fantastic spot for a fun and educational day out with the family.
What People Love
Wide variety of animals and well-maintained enclosures.
Educational and interactive experiences for kids.
Beautiful grounds with plenty of shaded areas.
Friendly and knowledgeable staff available at exhibits.
Clean facilities and a flat, easy-to-navigate layout.
What People Don't Like
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Some animals not readily visible, especially in hot weather.
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Additional fees for popular activities like feeding giraffes.
You Have to Try
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Feeding the giraffes—an unforgettable experience for kids!
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The stingray exhibit where you can touch and feed them.
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The tropical house is a must-see for its unique variety of species.
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Taking the train ride around the zoo, though keep in mind it may not have as many animal views.
The Arcade
The Arcade in Wichita is a delightful spot that pulls you back to an era of retro gaming where nostalgia meets modern fun. It's home to over 90 classic arcade games and 15 pinball machines, including crowd favorites like Pac-Man and Skee Ball. Admission pricing is very affordable, allowing families to make a full day of playing all their favorite old-school games. With friendly staff and tasty food options, The Arcade has become a go-to place for families and friends looking to relive some childhood joy together.
What People Love
A fantastic selection of retro arcade and pinball games, bringing back nostalgic memories.
Affordable pricing with flat-rate play, allowing for unlimited enjoyment.
Friendly and accommodating staff who enhance the experience.
A vibrant atmosphere that caters to both kids and adults, making it a great family outing.
Delicious food options, particularly their pizza and creative drinks.
What People Don't Like
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The food service can be slow at times, with some orders taking longer than expected.
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The arcade can get quite loud and cramped, which may detract from the experience.
You Have to Try
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The pinball machines, especially the new ones, which are well-maintained and a hit with both kids and adults.
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The classic arcade favorites like Pac-Man, Galaga, and Mortal Kombat that offer a trip down memory lane.
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Their delicious pizza, which many rave about after playing games.
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The unique themed cocktails, which are a fun addition to your gaming experience.
Wichita Toy Train Club & Museum
The Wichita Toy Train Club & Museum is a delightful destination for families, showcasing an array of detailed model train layouts that capture the imagination of both young and old alike. Located in downtown Wichita, this family-friendly museum allows visitors to wander through impressive displays and interactive areas where kids can build their own train tracks. Whether you're a train enthusiast or simply looking for a fun day out, this place is a charming addition to your Wichita adventure!
What People Love
Fun and engaging for children who love trains.
Friendly and knowledgeable staff.
Interesting and detailed train displays.
Multiple interactive areas for kids to explore.
A great place for family outings or birthday parties.
What People Don't Like
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Limited operating hours, being open only on Saturdays.
You Have to Try
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Check out the detailed O gauge and HO train displays; they're truly impressive!
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The interactive play area with Brio tracks for kids is a big hit!
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Don't miss the Batman train; it adds a fun twist to the experience!
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If you're into DIY, explore their model-building clinics for some hands-on fun.
