Wichita is the Air Capital of the World, which is good news for flight-obsessed ICT kids! Whether you’re looking for a spot to watch planes take off and land, museums to explore, or aviation-themed restaurants, we’ve got you covered.
Where to See Airplanes in Wichita KS
Annual Air Events in Wichita
Stearman Bar & Grill Fly-In
June 15, 2024
McConnell Air Force Base Open House & Air Show 2024
August 24 & 25, 2024
The McConell AFB Open House & Air Show is not to be missed! This event is open to the public & completely FREE on August 24 & 25, 2024. The US Navy Blue Angels are scheduled to perform & there will be a Kid Zone, as well as opportunities to see & board several aircraft.
Pro Tip: Bring ear protection!
Airports in Wichita
Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport
2277 Eisenhower Airport Parkway, Wichita, KS 67209
There isn’t a great place to park and watch planes take off & land here. However, if you want to ride the escalators, check out the arrivals/departures board, and learn about the history of aviation in Wichita, you can make a quick stop in the short-term parking lot and pop inside.
Pro Tip: Head to Pawnee Prairie Park on Tyler & watch the air traffic there! Pull up the flight schedule here to see the best times.
Loyd Stearman Airfield
14789 SW 30th St, Benton, KS 67017
Located just north of Wichita, this is a family favorite for plane watching! Grab a bite at Stearman Field Bar & Grill and watch the birds come and go. Check out their calendar of events here & don’t miss the annual fly-in every June!
Pro Tip: There’s a playground too!
Aviation-Themed Restaurants in Wichita
Stearman Bar & Grill
14789 SW 30th St, Benton, KS 67017
A family-friendly spot perfect for dinner on the patio & plane-watching! Pizza, burgers, sandwiches, and a great kids menu!
Hangar One Steakhouse
5925 W Kellogg Dr, Wichita, KS 67209
Steakhouse with a fun flight-themed atmosphere. More for adults than kids but close enough to the Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport that you can occasionally see arrivals & departures.
Aviation Museums in Wichita
B-29 Doc Hangar, Education & Visitor Center
1788 S Airport Rd. Wichita, KS 67209
The B-29 Doc Hangar, Education and Visitors Center provides a unique and one-of-a-kind look into aviation history. Located in Wichita, Kan., at Eisenhower National Airport, the 42,000 sq. ft. facility is an interactive experience for all ages.
Pro Tip: Doc isn’t always on display, so check before you go!
Kansas Aviaiton Museum
3350 South George Washington Blvd. Wichita, KS 67210
The Kansas Aviation Museum is a great attraction for any flight fanatic. Indoor & outdoor exhibits, an historic airport terminal, and the Kansas Aviation Hall of Fame are all housed in the original Wichita Municipal Airport built in 1935.
Pro Tip: Their indoor kids space and Little Aviators program are a must! Free with the Sunflower Summer app.
Exploration Place
300 N. McLean Blvd. Wichita, Kansas 67203
Other Kansas Attractions Worth the Drive
Check out our guide to the 9 Best Air & Space Museums in Kansas! If you’re looking for a day trip from Wichita, these will fit the bill.
