With a rich history and culture, there’s no shortage of educational experiences in Wichita, Kansas. Both kids and adults alike will enjoy taking in the sights and museums to learn more about the area’s past.
Kansas Firefighter’s Museum
All kids love the fire station and now they can take a tour of one while learning about history at the Kansas Firefighter’s Museum. The museum is home to the state’s largest collection of firefighting memorabilia and includes a Model-T, a Model-A fire truck, hats, uniforms, ladders, buckets, and more. Get an up-close look at a 1930s fire engine, as well as a functioning steam-powered water dispersion system. Kids will get a kick out of seeing the brass pole that was once used to slide down when the firefighters were called out to an emergency.
After touring the museum, head to the nearby Kansas Fallen Firefighter Memorial, which includes a memorial wall, statue of a firefighter in debris, brick plaza, and a meditation area.
Kansas Firefighters Museum is located at 1300 S. Broadway St. and is open Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Kansas Aviation Museum
There are only two air-worthy Boeing B-29 Superfortress aircraft left in the world, and the Kansas Aviation Museum is home to one of them. Manufactured during WWII, the B-29 has been restored to its full glory and is now a flying museum. When not in the air, it’s on display at the museum’s B-29 Doc Hanger & Education Center. Aside from the B-29, you’ll also see a 1927 Swallow, 1929 American Eagle, and more. Sit inside these stunning aircraft and imagine soaring through the sky. Browse exhibits that tell the tale of these mighty aircraft and the history of aviation.
Educational programs are offered throughout the year for all ages. The Kansas Aviation Museum is located at 3350 George Washington Blvd. and is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m.
Old Cowtown Museum
Learn about the history of the Old West at the Old Cowtown Museum. Spanning over 23 acres, the open-air living history museum features 54 historic structures that depict an Old West town. Inside the Smith House and Blood Family Homestead, which are frame houses that were built in the late 1800s, you’ll find period clothing, furniture, and memorabilia. The Southern Hotel is a recreated 19th-century rooming house with a dining room and lobby. In addition to period homes, you can also tour retail establishments such as a saloon, general store, blacksmith, livery stable, and saddle and harness shop.
The interactive exhibits also feature costumed historical interpreters that offer further insight into the daily life of the past. Guided tours are available, or you can opt for a self-guided tour. Old Cowtown Museum is located at 1865 Museum Blvd. and is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 12 to 5 p.m.
Spend the day exploring Wichita’s museums to learn about the city’s past and present. With so many educational experiences available for all ages, you’ll no doubt have fun while learning a little something.
https://www.flickr.com/photos/neuwieser/5965760870/sizes/l Image via Flickr by Neuwieser
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