When most people think of Kansas, they picture wide-open prairies, road trips, and maybe a sunflower field or two. But Wichita — the largest city in Kansas — is full of surprises. On my recent visit, I discovered vibrant cultural landmarks, unique wildlife experiences, and damn good local food (still dreaming of the BBQ) that made this Midwestern city a true hidden gem worth adding to your travel list. See a highlight of my entire trip here.

Hatman Jack’s - Wichita Hat Works

Creating my own custom hat at Jack’s Hatworks in Wichita, Kansas was such an incredible experience! Jack, who has over 40 years of experience in hat making, guided me through every step — from shaping and styling to getting the perfect fit. His kindness, expertise, and passion for his craft made the whole process feel so personal and special. Walking away with a hat that was truly made just for me was such a memorable highlight of my trip to Wichita!

Swim with Penguins at Tanganyika Wildlife Park

One of the absolute highlights of my trip was visiting Tanganyika Wildlife Park, just outside Wichita. This family-owned wildlife park offers something no other place in the United States does: the chance to swim with penguins!

Yes, you read that right — I got to put on a wetsuit and actually swim alongside playful African penguins. They zipped through the water, brushed past my legs, and were just as curious about me as I was about them. The encounter is both fun and educational, as you’ll learn all about penguin behavior and conservation efforts from the knowledgeable staff.

In addition to the penguins, Tanganyika is known for its up-close animal encounters. From feeding lemurs to petting kangaroos, this is an experience I will never forget! Food is included with the purchase of your ticket. It’s a must-visit for families, couples, or anyone looking for a memorable adventure.

👉 Tip: Book your penguin swim experience well in advance — spots are limited and they fill up quickly!

See my post highlighting the experience here.

Visit the Keeper of the Plains

No trip to Wichita is complete without a stop at the Keeper of the Plains, a striking 44-foot-tall steel sculpture standing where the Big and Little Arkansas rivers meet. This iconic landmark honors the Indigenous peoples of the region and is both powerful and peaceful.

Visit at sunset when the sky lights up behind the sculpture and stay for the “Ring of Fire” lighting ceremony, which usually happens in the evenings. The flames surrounding the base of the sculpture create a magical atmosphere that’s truly unforgettable. It’s one of those moments where you really feel the soul of the city. See post of all the fun we had in this area here.

Diamond Springs Ranch

For a taste of the Kansas countryside, I took a trip out to Diamond Springs Ranch. This working ranch offers visitors a chance to experience authentic Midwestern hospitality and wide-open landscapes. Whether you want to go horseback riding, learn about sustainable ranching, or simply soak in the peaceful scenery, Diamond Springs Ranch is a refreshing escape from city life.

It’s also a great spot for stunning sunset views — the kind that paint the sky in soft pinks and golds as far as the eye can see.

Botanica Wichita

Back in the city, I spent an afternoon exploring Botanica Wichita, the city’s beautiful botanical gardens. Spread across 18 acres, the gardens feature themed areas like the Butterfly House, Shakespeare Garden, and the stunning Chinese Garden of Friendship. Whether you’re a plant lover or just want a relaxing stroll surrounded by nature, Botanica is a serene oasis. We frequent botanic gardens, and this was the most impressive one we’ve ever been to!

GROW Plant Bar

We had such a fun time at Grow in Wichita, where we got to sip on delicious coffee and cocktails while creating our very own terrariums! The staff was so sweet, welcoming, and incredibly helpful throughout the process. It’s such a unique and creative experience — the perfect mix of relaxation and hands-on fun. If you’re looking for something different to do in Wichita, GROW is definitely a must-visit!

PRO TIP: They have free parking just around the corner.

Wichita Art Museum

Right nearby is the Wichita Art Museum, home to an impressive collection of American art. From contemporary installations to classic pieces, the galleries offer a great way to soak up some culture between outdoor adventures. Don’t miss the museum’s glass bridge — it’s a fun architectural feature that makes for great photos. We also LOVED their gift shop and brought back some beautiful prints by local artists.

Where to eat in Wichita

Wichita’s food scene surprised me in the best way possible. I still dream of the BBQ we had at Station 8 and the coffee and breakfast at Reverie Roasters. Those two spots are an absolute must! This list includes only the places we absolutely loved and can highly recommend:

Station 8 BBQ – We still dream of this place. Best BBQ I’ve ever had and the staff is amazing. Come as soon as they open as lines are long!

Reverie Rosters — This was our absolute favorite spot for breakfast! We ended up coming back here multiple times. The quiche is to die for!
Doo-Dah Diner – A local favorite for breakfast and brunch. Their banana bread French toast is famous for a reason.
Aroma Coffee House — Another breakfast spot we loved with super fresh ingredients. They have private rooms you can book if you need to do some work.
T-Swirl Crapes– They taste even better than they look! We came back to try other savory versions as well and loved every bite!
El Gusto Mexican Eatery – If you’re craving Mexican, this casual taqueria serves up flavorful street tacos that hit the spot.
Cocoa Dolce – Hands down- the best chocolates I’ve ever had! They also host classes where you get to make your very own batch!
See my post on all the delicious food we enjoyed in Wichita here.

✨ Final Thoughts

Wichita, Kansas may not be on every traveler’s radar, but it absolutely deserves a spot on yours. From swimming with penguins and exploring art to enjoying scenic ranches and great food, Wichita is full of experiences that surprise and delight. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or passing through on a road trip, this city has plenty to offer.

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Wichita Kansas Itinerary