12 Fun Activities To Do With Kids In Wichita

Nestled in the heart of the Great Plains, Wichita, Kansas might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of family-friendly destinations. But with over 30 parks, a renowned interactive science museum, and a variety of other kid-friendly activities, Wichita offers more than enough entertainment for young visitors. To help plan your next family day out, we've compiled a list of 12 fun activities to do with kids in Wichita that are sure to keep everyone happy and entertained. From visiting the local zoo to exploring the city's unique cultural offerings, there's something for every family to enjoy in Wichita.

Exploration Place (children's science center)

Characteristic	Description
Name	Exploration Place
Type	Science museum in Wichita, Kansas
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.6 / 3,502
Address	300 N McLean Blvd, Wichita, KS 67203
Phone	(316) 660-0600
Hours	Wednesday - 10 AM–5 PM Thursday - 10 AM–8 PM Friday - 10 AM–5 PM Saturday - 10 AM–5 PM Sunday - 10 AM–5 PM Monday - 10 AM–5 PM Tuesday - 10 AM–5 PM
Profiles

When it comes to discovering Wichita with kids, Exploration Place should definitely be on your list of must-see attractions. This interactive science center is perfect for families looking for an educational experience that's both entertaining and fun.

Located on the edge of the Arkansas River in downtown Wichita, Exploration Place consists of two levels of hands-on exhibits that explore five major themes: flight, medieval life, Kansas habitats, space, and the human body. The sheer variety of exhibits is sure to delight children of all ages, with something for every interest.

One of the most popular exhibits is the outdoor Kansas in Miniature, which is an 1800 square-foot display of iconic sites throughout the state of Kansas. This miniature world features models of famous landmarks such as the Kansas State Capitol building and the historic John Brown cabin.

Another fan favorite is the Design Build Fly exhibit in the flight area, which allows children to build their own airplanes using provided materials and then test-fly them. This fun and interactive activity encourages problem solving and experimentation.

For those who love space exploration, Exploration Place boasts a planetarium that shows educational films and live star shows. Kids can learn about the planets in our solar system, constellations, and even what it's like to land on the moon.

Exploration Place also offers seasonal exhibits, such as the Spooky Science event during Halloween and Gingerbread Village during the Christmas season. These events are themed and make for memorable family outings.

Ticket prices are reasonable, with discounts for military personnel and seniors. There are also several membership options available for frequent visitors.

Overall, Exploration Place is a top-notch children's science center that offers a fun and educational experience for the whole family. So, if you're looking for a kid-friendly activity in Wichita, be sure to check out this gem on the river.

Sedgwick County Zoo

Characteristic	Description
Name	Sedgwick County Zoo
Type	Wildlife park in Sedgwick County, Kansas
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.7 / 7,961
Address	5555 W Zoo Blvd, Wichita, KS 67212
Phone	(316) 660-9453
Hours	Wednesday - 9 AM–5 PM Thursday - 9 AM–5 PM Friday - 9 AM–5 PM Saturday - 9 AM–5 PM Sunday - 9 AM–5 PM Monday - 9 AM–5 PM Tuesday - 9 AM–5 PM
Profiles

Are you planning a family trip to Wichita and wondering what attractions are kid-friendly? Look no further than the Sedgwick County Zoo! The Zoo is among the top-rated attractions in the city and offers a great educational experience for children of all ages.

With over 3,000 animals and 400 species, the Sedgwick County Zoo covers an area of 247 acres and is home to a variety of animals, including lions, tigers, giraffes, elephants, and many others. The zoo is also known for its conservation efforts and provides a safe haven for endangered species from all over the world.

One of the zoo's main attractions is its African Elephants exhibit, which is one of the largest in the country. Children can watch these majestic animals up close and even feed them if they choose to purchase one of the feeding sticks at the Zoo's gift shop.

Another popular exhibit is the Penguin Cove, where visitors can watch penguins swim and waddle around their habitat. Children can also learn about the life cycle of butterflies at the Butterfly Garden, where they can walk through an enclosed garden filled with various butterfly species.

If your children love reptiles, you can visit the Herpetarium, which is home to a diverse range of snakes, lizards, turtles, and other amphibians. The Zoo also has a Kid's Farm where children can pet and feed farm animals such as goats, sheep, and pigs.

In addition to its animal exhibits, the Sedgwick County Zoo also offers a variety of educational programs and events for children of all ages. These events include animal encounters, zoo camps, and even birthday parties.

Overall, the Sedgwick County Zoo is a perfect destination for families traveling to Wichita with kids. It offers a fun and educational experience that children will cherish for many years to come. So be sure to add the Sedgwick County Zoo to your travel itinerary and let your children enjoy a day filled with fun and adventure!

Wichita Art Museum

Are you planning to visit Wichita with your kids anytime soon? If you are looking for a fun and educational activity, the Wichita Art Museum is a great option to explore.

The Wichita Art Museum, located in downtown Wichita, is known for its impressive collection of American art. The museum boasts more than 8,000 pieces of art, including works from famous American artists such as Mary Cassatt, Winslow Homer, and Edward Hopper.

What makes the Wichita Art Museum even more special is its dedication to education and outreach. The museum offers a variety of programs for children, including art classes, guided tours, and hands-on activities.

One program that stands out is the "Art Start" program, which is perfect for children aged 3-5. During this program, children have the opportunity to participate in interactive tours and art-making activities, all while learning about the different types of art on display at the museum.

For older kids, the museum offers a variety of learning opportunities through its docent-led tours. These tours are designed for various grade levels and are a great way for children to explore the galleries and learn about the different art forms.

In addition to the education programs, the Wichita Art Museum also has a family-friendly café and gift shop. The café offers a variety of food and drinks, including options for children, and the gift shop has a wide range of art-related books, toys, and souvenirs.

Overall, the Wichita Art Museum is a great place to spend the day with your kids. Whether you are looking to explore the galleries, participate in an education program, or simply enjoy a meal together, the museum has something for everyone. So why not add a visit to the Wichita Art Museum to your family’s itinerary on your next trip to Wichita?

Botanica Wichita (botanical garden)

Characteristic	Description
Name	Botanica, The Wichita Gardens
Type	Tourist attraction in Wichita, Kansas
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.8 / 4,497
Address	701 Amidon St, Wichita, KS 67203
Phone	(316) 264-0448
Hours	Wednesday - 9 AM–5 PM Thursday - 9 AM–8 PM Friday - 9 AM–5 PM Saturday - 9 AM–5 PM Sunday - 1–5 PM Monday - 9 AM–5 PM Tuesday - 9 AM–8 PM
Profiles

If you are visiting Wichita with kids, make sure to add Botanica to your list of must-visit places. This gorgeous botanical garden is spread over 17.6 acres and offers a breathtaking display of plants, flowers, and sculptures.

Botanica has something for kids of all ages. Younger children will enjoy the "Down on the Farm" exhibit which features farm animals such as chickens, goats, and sheep. They can also explore the Butterfly House where they can observe over 10 different species of butterflies in their natural habitat.

For older children, Botanica offers a range of educational exhibits like the Bee House where kids can learn about different species of bees and their importance in pollination. The Downing Children’s Garden is another favorite attraction where children climb, crawl and explore their way through a maze of tunnels, bridges, and treehouses.

One of the major highlights of Botanica is their Chinese Garden which has been designed to represent the different elements of nature in Chinese culture. It features a Koi pond, a tea house, and stunning Chinese architecture. Children will enjoy walking across the zig-zagged bridges and through the rock garden, and can appreciate the beautiful plants and flowers that are unique to this garden.

In the summer months, Botanica hosts a variety of events and concerts for children and their families. The Garden Games and Water Wars events are popular with kids as they can participate in water balloon fights and other outdoor activities. During the holiday season, Botanica transforms into a winter wonderland with thousands of twinkling lights and displays.

Finally, make sure to stop by the gift shop on the way out. They have a range of toys, books, and souvenirs that will make great memories of your visit to Botanica. Overall, a visit to Botanica Wichita is a great way to spend a day with kids while enjoying the beauty of nature.

Kansas Aviation Museum

Characteristic	Description
Name	Kansas Aviation Museum
Type	Museum in Wichita, Kansas
Website	Go to website
Address	3350 George Washington Blvd, Wichita, KS 67210
Phone	(316) 683-9242
Hours	Wednesday - 10 AM–5 PM Thursday - 10 AM–5 PM Friday - 10 AM–5 PM Saturday - 10 AM–5 PM Sunday - 12–5 PM Monday - Closed Tuesday - 10 AM–5 PM
Profiles

Looking for a fun and educational activity to do with your kids in Wichita, Kansas? Look no further than the Kansas Aviation Museum!

Located on South Oliver Street, this unique museum is home to a vast collection of aviation history that will delight both kids and adults alike. From vintage airplanes to interactive exhibits, there's something for everyone at the Kansas Aviation Museum.

One of the highlights of the museum is the chance to get up close and personal with real aircraft. Kids will love seeing the planes on display, such as the Boeing B-52, which was used by the U.S. Air Force during the Cold War, and the Beechcraft Twin Bonanza, a popular business aircraft from the 1950s and '60s.

But the fun doesn't stop there. The Kansas Aviation Museum also features a variety of interactive exhibits that make learning about aviation a truly engaging experience. Kids can explore a flight simulator, explore a control tower, and even try their hand at building their own model airplane, all in one place!

Another must-see exhibit is the Wichita-built Stearman model plane, which is a true example of local history. This plane model was built by the Stearman Aircraft Company, which was based in Wichita during the 1930s and '40s. In fact, the company produced almost 10,000 planes during World War II, which were used to train thousands of pilots.

For families on a budget, the Kansas Aviation Museum is definitely a great value. Admission is affordable, and there are plenty of educational activities for kids that won't break the bank. Plus, there are frequent special events and programs, such as airplane restoration projects and flight school, that offer even more hands-on learning opportunities for your kids.

So if you're looking for a fun and exciting way to spend a few hours with your kids in Wichita, the Kansas Aviation Museum is definitely worth a visit. With its fascinating exhibits, interactive activities, and unique historical artifacts, it is sure to be a hit with kids of all ages.

Great Plains Nature Center

Characteristic	Description
Name	Great Plains Nature Center
Type	Nature preserve in Wichita, Kansas
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.8 / 385
Address	6232 East 29th St N UNIT 2200, Wichita, KS 67220
Phone	(316) 683-5499
Hours	Wednesday - 9 AM–5 PM Thursday - 9 AM–5 PM Friday - 9 AM–5 PM Saturday - 9 AM–5 PM Sunday - Closed Monday - 9 AM–5 PM Tuesday - 9 AM–5 PM
Profiles

Wichita is a great place to visit with kids as it offers a lot of outdoor activities and beautiful nature. One of the places that you shouldn't miss to visit with your little ones is the Great Plains Nature Center.

The Great Plains Nature Center is located on the eastern edge of Wichita, and it offers a range of educational and fun activities for both kids and adults. This nature center is a perfect destination for families who are looking to explore the beauty of Kansas's wildlife and natural resources.

One of the many things that make this nature center popular among children is its interactive exhibits. You will find a variety of exhibits dedicated to different animals, such as snakes, eagles, and deer. Kids also have the opportunity to touch and interact with some of the animals while learning about their habitat and food preferences.

The nature center also has a three-acre outdoor Kansas Wildlife Exhibit, which features native animals such as bison, elk, and black bears. The exhibit provides a great opportunity for children to see and learn about the animals they may have only seen in pictures.

The Great Plains Nature Center also offers various trails and picnic areas that parents can take advantage of during their visit. The outdoor trails provide a great opportunity for families to explore nature together and admire the beauty of the flora and fauna.

One of the best things about the Great Plains Nature Center is that admission is free, allowing families to enjoy the exhibits and activities without breaking the bank. Additionally, the center hosts many special events throughout the year that are sure to entertain both kids and adults.

In conclusion, if you are looking for a fun, educational, and budget-friendly activity to experience with your little ones, the Great Plains Nature Center is an excellent option. It provides countless opportunities to learn about wildlife and nature, and the interactive exhibits and outdoor trails ensure that your kids will have a blast.

All Star Sports (indoor sports complex)

Wichita, Kansas is a great destination for families with kids. There are numerous family-friendly attractions and activities to enjoy in this charming city. One such attraction is the All Star Sports indoor sports complex.

The All Star Sports indoor sports complex located at 8333 W. 21st St. in Wichita is a one-stop-shop for all things fun and exciting, especially for kids. This massive facility has over 83,000 square feet of entertainment space and is designed to cater to all ages.

The All Star Sports indoor sports complex boasts of numerous thrilling activities such as go-kart racing, mini-golf, batting cages, arcade games, laser tag, rock climbing, and bumper cars. These activities are perfect for families with little ones, teenagers, or adults who are still kids at heart.

One of the highlights of the All Star Sports indoor sports complex is the go-karting experience. The facility has a 1/8 mile indoor track that is specially designed for junior and adult go-kart racers. The track features twists and turns, and challenging obstacles that make the game exciting and memorable. This is an exciting activity that kids and adults can do together.

For those who prefer to stay indoors, there are plenty of indoor games such as air hockey, basketball hoops, skee-ball, and more. The arcade games are also a great way to keep the younger ones entertained. There are games with different levels of difficulty, making them accessible for children of all ages.

Visitors at the All Star Sports indoor sports complex can also try out their rock climbing skills. This attraction has different climbing walls varying in height, difficulty, and slope. It's a fantastic way to challenge oneself and have a great time.

The All Star Sports indoor sports complex is an excellent place to spend a day out with the family. It opens its doors every day from 10 am to 10 pm and offers affordable admission prices and package options, making it accessible to families on a budget.

In conclusion, the All Star Sports indoor sports complex is an ideal location for families with children looking for an action-packed day out. It's a family-friendly attraction with a wide range of activities, making it perfect for everyone. So why not plan a visit to Wichita and make a stop at the All Star Sports indoor sports complex for a day of fun and adventure!

Derby Skate Park (skateboarding and rollerblading)

Are you planning a family trip to Wichita and wondering how to keep your kids engaged and entertained? Look no further than Derby Skate Park, a hub for skateboarding and rollerblading enthusiasts.

Located just outside of Wichita, Derby Skate Park boasts over 24,000 square feet of concrete features for riders of all skill levels. The park includes a mixture of ramps, rails, and ledges, allowing skaters and bladers to perform tricks and hone their skills.

But don't worry if your kids aren't experienced skaters or bladers - Derby Skate Park offers lessons for beginners. Experienced instructors will teach your children the fundamental techniques and safety precautions they need to know before hitting the skate park.

In addition to its diverse features and lessons, Derby Skate Park also hosts competitions and events throughout the year. Your kids can watch the pros perform impressive tricks or even take part in a competition themselves.

However, safety is always a top priority at Derby Skate Park. All riders are required to wear protective gear such as helmets, knee pads, and elbow pads. Additionally, staff members are always onsite to enforce safety rules and provide assistance if needed.

So, what are you waiting for? Take your kids to Derby Skate Park for a fun, exciting, and adrenaline-fueled experience. Whether your children are experienced skaters or just starting out, there's something for everyone at this top-notch skate park.

The Alley Indoor Entertainment (bowling and arcade games)

Characteristic	Description
Name	The Alley Indoor Entertainment
Type	Bowling alley
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.4 / 2,057
Address	11413 E 13th St N, Wichita, KS 67206
Phone	(316) 618-1000
Hours	Wednesday - 11 AM–11 PM Thursday - 9 AM–11 PM Friday - 11 AM–1 AM Saturday - 11 AM–1 AM Sunday - 11 AM–11 PM Monday - 11 AM–11 PM Tuesday - 11 AM–11 PM
Profiles

If you are looking for some indoor fun activities for your family in Wichita, The Alley Indoor Entertainment should be on your list. This popular recreational center offers an exciting combination of bowling and arcade games that cater to children of all ages.

Located in the heart of Wichita, The Alley Indoor Entertainment is an impressive facility spread across 60,000 square feet and filled with a range of games and attractions. They feature a whopping 32 lanes of bowling, complete with state-of-the-art equipment, advanced scoring systems, and bumpers for younger kids.

The arcade games at The Alley are another favorite among kids. They have a variety of new and classic arcade games that your children will love, and with the extensive variety of games and machines, there’s something for everyone. Whether your children are obsessed with racing games, gun shooting games, or claw machines, they will have plenty of choices to keep them entertained for hours.

The ambiance of The Alley is also something that sets it apart. The center has an edgy and sophisticated décor, which is not your run-of-the-mill family entertainment venue. The lighting and sound systems create a stimulating atmosphere, and there are always kid-friendly tunes playing. The staff is also friendly and attentive, making sure that everyone is comfortable and having fun.

If you are worried about what to eat while you’re at The Alley, they have thought of everything! There is a full-service restaurant – The Monarch – that serves delicious food and drinks. The menu has an extensive range of options for both adults and children, including pizza, pasta, burgers, fries, sandwiches, and salads, as well as an impressive selection of cocktails, beer, and wine.

All in all, The Alley Indoor Entertainment is an excellent place to visit with your kids in Wichita. Not only is it a fantastic way to stay indoors and beat the heat or cold weather, but it also provides the opportunity for some good old quality family bonding. So why not book a lane or two, grab a bite to eat, and enjoy the games with your family at The Alley?

Laser Quest Wichita

Taking a trip to Wichita with kids can be an enjoyable experience. There are many things you can do with your children to keep them entertained and engaged. If you are looking for a fun-filled way to spend a few hours indoors, Laser Quest Wichita is a great option.

Upon arrival, you will be introduced to your laser tag gear, which includes a vest and a phaser. The phaser is a gun-shaped device that uses infrared technology to shoot and "tag" opponents in the game. The vests also act as targets to receive hits from other players.

Once you have been equipped with your gear, the fun can begin. Laser Quest Wichita has a multi-level, arena filled with exciting obstacles, tunnels, and mazes. The area is dark, and the flashing colored lights create a futuristic ambiance, making the game feel more realistic.

The game rules are simple- shoot as many opponents as possible while avoiding getting "tagged" yourself. There is a scorecard at the end of each game that shows the players' scores and rankings.

To sum it up, if you are visiting Wichita with kids or looking to organize a fantastic birthday party, consider spending a few hours at Laser Quest Wichita. It provides a unique experience that everyone is bound to enjoy.

Wichita Ice Center (ice skating)

Characteristic	Description
Name	Wichita Ice Center
Type	Ice skating rink in Wichita, Kansas
Website	Go to website
Address	505 W Maple St, Wichita, KS 67213
Phone	(316) 337-9199
Hours	Wednesday - 12–3 PM Thursday - 12–3 PM Friday - 1–4 PM, 7–10 PM Saturday - 12–4 PM, 7–9:30 PM Sunday - Closed Monday - 12–3 PM Tuesday - 12–3 PM, 7:30–9:30 PM
Profiles

Wichita Ice Center – An Entertaining Day Out for Kids

Wichita, the largest city in Kansas, has plenty of family-friendly attractions that can keep your little ones entertained for hours. If you're visiting Wichita with kids, you won't want to miss the Wichita Ice Center, which is one of the most popular venues in all of Wichita for ice skating and winter sports.

The Wichita Ice Center is a premier indoor ice-skating arena that offers a wide range of activities and programs that cater to kids and families alike. The center features two NHL-sized ice rinks and a state-of-the-art sound system that creates an ambiance fit for champions. You'll find a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere at the Wichita Ice Center whether you’re an amateur, a professional, or a complete beginner to ice-skating.

The Wichita Ice Center offers a variety of ice-skating sessions ideal for children of all ages. Public skating sessions are offered daily and they welcome all levels of skaters to come and enjoy the ice. They offer skate rentals for those who don't have their own skates. You can rent helmets too to ensure safety while ice-skating.

In addition to open skating, the Wichita Ice Center also has birthday party packages and group events that are perfect for kids of all ages, providing entertainment and catering to all your party planning needs. Private ice times for group events can also be arranged, and private lessons are available for those wanting to learn ice-skating. The center also has a Pro Shop with all the necessary gear and equipment that is all available for purchase.

The Wichita Ice Center is also home to several professional ice-skating teams and programs. You and your kids can watch them practice and perform stunning shows. Figure skating lessons and Hockey schools are available for children of all ages who aspire to learn and train. The center also hosts various public skating events and competitions throughout the year that are ideal family events.

Finally, the Wichita Ice Center's concessions area features a hot chocolate and coffee stand, as well as a pizza cart and vending machines for snacks and drinks. You and your children can refuel and recharge after a fun-filled ice-skating session while enjoying the views of the ice rink.

Ice-skating is a great way to spend a fun-filled day with your kids if you're visiting Wichita. The Wichita Ice Center offers everything you need for an enjoyable and memorable visit. Get your skates on, take to the ice, and make unforgettable memories with your little ones!

Paint the Towne (painting studio for all ages)

Looking for something fun and creative to do with your kids in Wichita? Look no further than Paint the Towne! This local painting studio specializes in providing a fun, creative atmosphere for people of all ages to create their own custom works of art. Here’s everything you need to know before you and the kids head over.

Paint the Towne offers a wide variety of painting classes and events, with themes ranging from abstracts and landscapes to holiday and seasonal decorations. The instructors are friendly and experienced, and they’re more than happy to help you and the kids create a masterpiece you’ll be proud to hang up at home. Best of all, you don’t need any prior artistic experience to participate. The focus is on having fun and creating something unique, so don’t worry if you’re not a professional painter.

If you’re looking for a creative way to celebrate your child’s birthday, Paint the Towne also offers birthday party packages for kids. These packages include a private studio space, a dedicated instructor to help the kids with their paintings, and all the painting supplies you need. You can even bring your own food and drinks to make it a true celebration.

The studio is conveniently located in the heart of Wichita, with plenty of parking nearby. Pricing varies depending on the class or event you choose, but it’s generally very affordable. Paint the Towne also frequently offers special deals and discounts, so be sure to check their website or follow them on social media to stay up-to-date.

Overall, Paint the Towne is a fantastic option for families looking for a fun, creative activity in Wichita. Whether you’re looking for a one-off class or a birthday party package for your kids, this painting studio offers an engaging, supportive environment where you and the kids can unleash your inner artists. So why wait? Grab your paintbrushes and head over to Paint the Towne today!

Frequently asked questions