Wichita Travel Guide

When Clyde Cessna, Walter Beech and Bill Lear started their jet-building projects in the largest city in the state of Kansas in the late 1920s, they started an industry that would propel it to the top of the world. Literally. Dubbed the "Air Capital of the World," Wichita is home to Cessna, Hawker Beechcraft, Learjet and Spirit AeroSystems, which all have their main manufacturing facilities here. But that's not the only reason why the city is flying high. With its many world-class natural, cultural and family-friendly attractions, Wichita allows visitors to experience what living on top of the world is really like.

Sights

Understand the pivotal role of Wichita in the development of the airplane industry by paying a visit to the Kansas Aviation Museum. While you're museum-hopping, don't forget to include The Museum of World Treasures, the Wichita-Sedgwick County Historical Museum and the Great Plains Transportation Museum, all located within the Old Town. The Indian Center is another museum worth a visit. When you want to unwind, stroll through the more than 20 different gardens at Botanica, The Wichita Gardens, a city-owned facility featuring an aquatic collection and butterfly gardens. The whole family will surely enjoy the mini golf and interactive displays at the Exploration Place.  Or take the kids to one of the largest zoos in the United States. The Sedgwick County Zoo holds more than 2,500 animals. The Great Plains Nature Center just out of the city is a perfect spot to marvel at the beauty of the North American prairie.

Restaurants

The brick-lined streets of the Old Town in Downtown Wichita hold numerous restaurants that are sure to please. Fine dining places have also sprung at The Waterfront at Beech Lake located at 13th street and Webb Road in East Wichita. Incidentally, Pizza Hut was also started by the Carney brothers in Wichita in 1958.

Shopping

There are two main shopping malls in Wichita: The Towne East Square Mall and the Towne West Square Mall with four anchor stores and more than 100 shops and boutiques. They are located in opposite ends of the city. For more choices, head to New Market Square on North Maize Road. If you want trendy, upscale shopping amidst a backdrop of water fountains and a duck pound, Bradley Fair, an outdoor shopping mall at North Rock Road, has what you're looking for.

Where to Go in Wichita