If you only had one day to explore Wichita, where would you go? Our editorial team put our heads together to narrow down the absolute can’t-miss places to eat, sip, and explore our beloved city – Wichita, KS. And then we asked our audience and added a few more gems! Whether you’re here for a quick visit or looking to play tourist in your own hometown, here’s how we’d spend the perfect day in Wichita.
It must be said: this is not a fully comprehensive list, though we have quite a few of those. We suggest you start here for things to do in Wichita if you are looking for the full range of options, including with kids!
Favorite Wichita Eats
This was a really tough one to narrow down. We have so many incredible options for dining out in Wichita! But to narrow down our go-tos – we are suggesting not only delicious cuisine but also really fun, beautiful, or unique overall dining experiences as well.
Clifton Square – You can’t go wrong in Clifton Square, a charming cluster of historic houses turned restaurants, coffee shops, and boutiques. Grab a seat at The Belmont for elevated comfort food, or cozy up at Ziggy’s Pizza for a casual slice that locals swear by. If you’ve still got room, don’t skip dessert—Frost, Papa’s Ice Cream, or Andy’s Frozen Custard all hit the sweet spot and all within walking distance.
Casual Patio – We love the laid back vibes on one of our favorite patios at Public at the Brickyard in Downtown Wichita.
Fine Dining – If you’re looking for something a little more upscale, try Newport Grill on the water for fresh seafood and patio cocktails. An absolute must is George’s French Bistro, a local favorite for elevated French dishes that feel both indulgent and approachable. And we love the patio dining option at Vora Restaurant European(and they have a great happy hour). Oh, and we can’t forget First Mile Kitchen, also located at Bradley Fair, and Lotte in Downtown Wichita is another favorite!
On-the-go – For more a more casual option, we love Meddy’s (Mediterranean).
Favorite Wichita Brews (Coffee, Beer & Cocktails)
Coffee – Wichita’s coffee scene is strong, and Larcher’s Market in Clifton Square makes for the perfect morning pick-me-up. If you’d rather stay close to downtown, Coffee Daze, Greater Grounds, and Pennant Coffee are other great options with friendly, laid-back vibes.
Crafted Beer – Beer lovers should plan an afternoon stop at Central Standard Brewing, and Hopping Gnome Brewing Company is another favorite for approachable craft beers in a fun, welcoming taproom.
Cocktails – When it’s cocktail hour, you have choices: Dockum Speakeasy ,an underground speakeasy style bar is a vibe. Vorshay’s Cocktail Lounge also offers a unique experience with cocktails, karaoke music, and happy hours on East Douglas.
Head to Bubbles Champagne Bar for espresso martinis and champagne cocktails in a stylish lounge, or for a truly unique twist, head to CoCoa Dolce Lounge, where you can pair a flight of bubbles with handcrafted chocolates.
Favorite Wichita Things to Do
No trip to Wichita is complete without experiencing the Keeper of the Plains, an iconic statue where the Big and Little Arkansas Rivers meet. Visit at sunset to see the nightly “Ring of Fire” ceremony.
With the Kids – If you’re traveling with kids, the Sedgwick County Zoo is nationally ranked, and Tanganyika Wildlife offers hands-on interactive animal experiences. And you cannot miss Exploration Place, Kansas’s premier science center with traveling and permanent exhibits, live shows, and a dome planetarium. Prefer something more serene? Botanica offers 17 acres of stunning gardens to wander with a children’s garden, carousel and some of our favorite local events.
Unique Experience – Pop into Grow Plant Bar where you can shop for greenery, sip a drink, and even build your own plant arrangement to take home, a truly unique Wichita stop. And when we polled our audience about “must go-to spots”, The Nifty Nuthouse continued to come up (iconic little shop with nostalgic candy, nuts and treats).
Art & Nature – Art, culture, and history lovers will enjoy the variety of Museums on the River, while outdoor enthusiasts might prefer the Great Plains Nature Center for trails and wildlife viewing.
Wichita may surprise first-time visitors with just how much there is to do—and how much locals truly love their favorites. With one day, you won’t see it all, but by hitting these spots, you’ll taste, sip, and explore the very best of the city.
