The best of Wichita, Kansas
Well hey there, Cowtown! Wichita is a city with a rich history (and a sweet li’l craft beer scene)—so saddle up for some fun in the biggest city in the Sunflower State.
“The Keeper of the Plains” is an awe-inspiring landmark honoring the Native people of the area. This 44-foot sculpture was built by the artist Blackbear Bosin and stands in the spot where the big and little Arkansas rivers meet. The land between these two rivers is sacred ground, and as a tribute, a “ring of fire” burns each evening (Fall & Winter: 7-7:15 p.m., Spring & Summer: 9-9:15 pm).
Walk across the two suspension bridges (inspired by the bow and arrow) and stroll along the rivers filled with duck, geese and heron. It’s magical at sunset.
When beer o’clock rolls around, head to one of Wichita’s best watering holes:
Central Standard Brewing has 70’s-inspired decor plus food trucks (and its “Wizard of Hops” is legendary)!
River City Brewing Co. is in the heart of downtown Wichita (we love those cobblestone streets!) with a killer patio.
Hopping Gnome Brewing Company has the world’s cutest logo (which is fitting since it lies in the heart of the Douglas Design District).
Nortons Brewing Company is home of “bacon crack” (yes, we’re addicted), a full (and delicious!) bar menu and an outdoor space as perfect as its brewskis.
Turns out, coffee n’ shopping go hand in hand! Pennant is an adorable spot in the Delano neighborhood. Grab a cup of joe and head to Bungalow 26 and Vortex Souvenir for an array or cuteness. Afterwards, pop into the Wichita Art Museum (FREEEEE!) and see some of WAM’s contemporary and historic collections (the buffalo sculpture out front is 100% huggable).
Or start your day at Reverie Roasters, a coffee shop n’ bakery with legit chocolate croissants. Snap some pics of the downtown murals and swing by Camp Creek Vintage (if you love a good thrifting opportunity) or The Workroom for all the best in local shopping, before grabbing brunch/lunch at Homegrown eatery.
A must on the Wichita to-do list is a visit to the Old Cowtown Museum. The spirit of the Wild West is alive and well in this rough n’ tumble town from the 1800’s. Wichita was on the Chisholm Trail and the cattle drives that originated in Texas and ended in Kansas helped earn this city its famous moniker, Cowtown.
This open-air, living history museum is home to 54 fully-furnished buildings and 25,000 artifacts. Hit the saloon, meat market, blacksmith shop, general store or head out to the frontier homestead. It’s an incredible experience immersing oneself into the life and times of our nation’s pioneers.
Fare thee well, Wichita! Your dancing rivers, night skies, rich plains and well-worn trails were many a young man’s dream. Thank you for sharing your bounty with us. Till next time!
