The new outdoor playscape at Exploration Place opens just in time for spring break and is sure to be our most regular outing this year. The Adventure Playscape is a 6.5-acre outdoor adventure space along the river, designed around quintessential Kansas themes that encourage kids to climb, explore, imagine, and learn through play.
And the great news for families is the new playscape is included with regular museum admission, so you can easily combine indoor exhibits with outdoor play. As moms, we love this because it provides added safety for our families as well.
Ultimate Family Guide to the 10 Play Zones at Exploration Place’s Outdoor Destination Playscape
We’ve been able to take a few sneak peaks of Wichita’s latest attraction, and here are is mom-friendly guide to the 10 themed play zones your kids will be begging explore.
Play Zone 1: Textron Aviation Flight Adventure
The centerpiece of the playscape celebrates Wichita’s aviation heritage in a big way.
Kids can climb through a large aviation-themed structure, explore a replica Cessna Citation jet, and scale a rocket tower that ends with a slide.
Mom tip: This will likely be one of the busiest areas. Head here early in your visit if your kids are eager to explore it.
Play Zone 2: Junior League Water Play Cascades
This interactive water zone is perfect for those hot Kansas days.
Kids can pump water, turn wheels, and guide water through channels and cascading features, creating their own flowing water systems. The rocks and structures are also climbable when the water isn’t running.
Mom tip: Bring a change of clothes or water shoes for the little ones – most kids won’t be able to resist splashing.
Play Zone 3: Sunflower Meadow (Ages 0–5)
Parents of toddlers will appreciate this dedicated play area for younger kids.
Sunflower Meadow explores the life cycle of a sunflower with features like bee bouncers, spinning flowers, leaf climbers, and small balance structures designed just for the littlest explorers.
Mom tip: If you have multiple kids, this is a great home base while older siblings venture out to nearby zones.
Play Zone 4: Treetop Climber
Adventurous kids will love this 100-foot-long climbing structure filled with ropes, nets, hammocks, and elevated walkways.
It encourages kids to climb, balance, and problem-solve as they navigate through the structure.
Mom tip: Sneakers are definitely the best choice for this zone and great for those adventuresome kiddos.
Play Zone 5: Prairie Zip Line
Few playground features get kids more excited than a zip line, and this one includes two lanes so kids can race side-by-side.
Mom tip: Simple but guaranteed to be one of the most popular attractions for elementary and middle school kids.
Play Zone 6: Bison Hill
This area features one of the most iconic (and our personal favorite) structures in the playscape, a giant climbable bison.
Kids can climb inside, explore lookout points, and slide down from the top. The surrounding area includes camping-inspired play elements like a canoe, tunnels, and caverns that spark imaginative outdoor adventures.
Mom tip: This is a great spot for kids who love pretend play.
Play Zone 7: Agriculture Overlook
This zone celebrates Kansas farming with interactive play elements.
Kids can climb giant wheat stalks, explore a combine structure, and swing while overlooking the river.
This theme is a fun and playful way to connect kids with the agricultural heritage of our state.
Play Zone 8: Foggy Flint Hills
Inspired by the rolling prairie landscapes of Kansas, this area features hills, tunnels, and gentle fog drifting through the play space.
The mist adds a magical feeling that makes the space especially fun for kids to explore.
Play Zone 9: Sensory Garden
Not every moment needs to be high energy. The Sensory Garden provides calmer spaces designed for exploration through textures, sounds, and nature.
It’s also designed to be accessible and welcoming for kids of all abilities.
Mom tip: This is a perfect place to take a break if kids start getting overstimulated.
Play Zone 10: Slide Hill
Kids who love slides will be thrilled, there are 18 slides throughout the playscape.
Many connect to other structures, including the rocket tower, making them a fun and fast way for kids to return to the ground and start another adventure.
Mom tip: Metal slides are overall a safer option than plastic and are the industry standard for that reason. Exploration Place will monitor the metal slides and close them if it gets too hot.
More Mom Tips for Planning Your Visit
Because the Adventure Playscape is so large, a little planning can make your visit smoother and more fun.
Parking Is Easy
Free parking is available in the museum lot, and there are additional overflow parking areas nearby, so don’t stress if it looks busy.
Buy Tickets Online
One of the easiest ways to save money and time: buy your tickets online ahead of time.
Families can save $2 per person and skip some of the check-in lines, which is especially helpful on weekends or during school breaks.
Wagons and Strollers Are Welcome
The playscape covers 6.5 acres, so little legs may need a break. Wagons and strollers are welcome.
Know Where the Family Restrooms Are
Parents will appreciate this detail: six family restrooms are located near the Water Play Cascades, behind the Graze Cafe.
That’s especially helpful if you’re visiting the water play area or have younger kids who may need quick access.
Plan to Stay a While
Between the museum and the outdoor playscape, this is easily a half-day outing. The great news is Exploration Place has an outdoor cafe with snacks for when everyone inevitably gets hungry.
Many Wichita families will likely adopt the strategy of exploring the museum first and ending the day outside so kids can burn off their energy before heading home.
For more information and for an FAQ visit Exploration Place’s website!
