10 Unique Things to do in Wichita, KS to Lift Your Local Knowledge Up
Local experts share 10 unique things to do in Wichita, KS that will help you get to know the Air Capital of the World like you’ve been here your whole life.
By Kaitlyn Neitman • Updated: October 28, 2024 • 4 Minute Read
Did you know that Wichita, KS is actually the largest city in the Sunflower State? Tucked in the heart of Kansas, Wichita is a true hidden gem of the Midwest. From its impressive aviation history to its charming local culture, there is much that Wichita is known for.
But no one knows the Air Capital of the World better than its locals. Whether you’re moving to an apartment in Wichita, KS, renting a house in the city, or looking for a home to buy in the area, we’ve compiled a list of 10 unique things to do in Wichita that will help you get to know the city as well as they do.
1. Clifton Square: The best place to start
In the heart of the College Hill neighborhood sits the charming Clifton Square. This unique shopping village makes its home in a collection of renovated Victorian-era houses, and makes for the perfect place to begin to get to know Wichita.
“Clifton Square is a charming, historic spot full of local boutiques and restaurants perfect for people looking to explore unique things to do in Wichita,” shares Troy, food blogger of Live Local. “It offers a delightful blend of shopping, dining, and relaxation in a picturesque setting. The square’s welcoming atmosphere makes it an ideal destination for a fun and memorable stop, whether you’re a local or just passing through.”
“Clifton Square has great restaurants, shopping, and atmosphere,” shares Kelsey, owner of Barre Forte, a group fitness center out west with the best bang for your buck. “It’s fun to hit up a bunch of the local spots when moving to Wichita, and this is a great place to start.”
2. Dive into the culinary scene with Blue Hook Cajun Seafood & Bar
As an ever-growing culinary hub, Wichita has so many diverse dining options to explore. To experience the city’s vibrant local culture and flavors, Blue Hook Cajun Seafood & Bar is a must-visit destination. Enjoy live bands on the weekends, indulge in famous seafood boils, and enjoy crispy fried catfish at this Wichita favorite.
3. Explore the duality of Wichita’s rich history and modern art scene
Built in 1922, the historic Orpheum Theatre in downtown Wichita is a culturally-filled niche within the community. Its architectural significance and beauty is rich in history, and it serves as a resource for both national and local music, film, comedy, dance, and theatre. It’s the perfect place to blend a love of local history with local art.
4. Take a treat break with Kelly’s Sweet Creations
Kelly’s Sweet Creations is a prime spot for delightful treats to add to your day of exploring unique things to do in Wichita. They offer a mouthwatering selection of freeze-dried candies, artisan fudge, ice cream, cinnamon rolls, cookies, coffee, soda, and dirty soda. With a commitment to quality, all treats are crafted daily, and new items are rotated in each week to keep it exciting for your sweet tooth.
5. Don’t miss one of the most iconic art installations in the city
“If you’re discovering Wichita, be sure to visit the Keeper of the Plains, particularly for the daily Ring of Fire ceremony,” shares Vandana, local photographer and co-founder of XXV Photography. The 44-foot tall sculpture created by local Native American artist Blackbear Bosin in 1974 stands at the meeting point of the Big and Little Arkansas rivers in downtown Wichita. “This stunning landmark serves as a popular gathering place for the local community and offers breathtaking views, especially at sunset,” says Vandana.
6. Keep your Wichita food tour going with Peruvian cuisine
Lima Nation brings the bold flavors of Peru to life in the heart of the Midwest. It expertly combines both the warmth and diversity of Peruvian food with Wichita’s evolving culinary scene, offering everything from their signature Lomo Saltado to the ever popular Pollo a la Brasa. Whether you’re indulging in an iconic happy hour, a Peruvian Sunday brunch, or showing your friends around town, it’s a must-visit to experience the diversity of Wichita’s culinary culture.
7. Check out the lively Kansas Grown! Farmers Market
The Kansas Grown! Farmers Market in the northwestern corner of the city is a must for anyone getting to know Wichita. In addition to some of the freshest, locally-grown produce in the city, you can find a wide variety of meats, baked goods, jams, salsas, honey, handmade crafts, and more. Open every Saturday from April to October, it’s the perfect place to stock up for your weekly meal prep.
8. This local chocolatier is the bee’s knees
When not working out of their women-focused private office and gathering space, the team at co-working space The Hive loves spending time at Cocoa Dolce. In addition to indulgent handcrafted chocolates and artisanal drinks, this great local startup offers a cozy, welcoming environment great for focusing and getting work done. They perfectly capture the entrepreneurial spirit that makes Wichita special.
9. Give back and have fun doing it with Wichita Wagonmasters
Each year, Wichita Wagonmasters, a local organization promoting the good life of Wichita, assists up to 50 local charities through event support and funding from their Good Life Grants. If you’re looking for a truly unique thing to do in Wichita, their annual Downtown Chili Cook Off takes place on the last Saturday of September. They feature over 50 chili teams, live music, a kids’ zone, and a variety of family-friendly activities spanning three blocks. Proceeds from the event fund their philanthropic efforts to help make Wichita a better place for everyone.
10. Please your palate with an iconic Vietnamese dish
Head over to the Southwest Wichita neighborhood to find Paris Banh Mi. They combine French styles with the unique Vietnamese style Banh Mi to create a one-of-a-kind dish you won’t find anywhere else. Stop by and try it alongside their popular boba teas or another one of their delicious creations.
Unique things to do in Wichita, KS: Final thoughts
Whether or not it’s the first Midwestern city to come to mind, there are plenty of unique things to do in Wichita that make it worth looking into. No matter what brings you to the Air Capital of the World, this list from local experts is sure to help you decide whether Wichita is a good place to live.
About The Author
Kaitlyn Neitman
Kaitlyn is a Content Marketing Coordinator with Redfin. She lives in Seattle, WA, where she enjoys hiking, reading, and finding cozy coffee shops to write in. Her ideal home has an in-home library with big windows for natural lighting to read by.