While Wichita, Kansas, certainly has its fair share of popular and renowned attractions, there are plenty of unique and lesser-known attractions that are worth seeking out. With a rich history and an Old West vibe paired with a thriving cultural scene, there’s much to explore.
Old Cowtown Museum
Take a stroll through the past at the Old Cowtown Museum. The open-air living history museum covers 23 acres and includes 54 historic structures that demonstrate an Old West town. Step inside the Smith House and Blood Family Homestead, two frame houses that were built in the late 1800s. The houses include period furniture, clothing, and memorabilia. The recreated Southern Hotel is a 19th-century rooming house complete with a dining room and lobby on the first floor. Aside from homes, you’ll also find retail establishments such as a general store, livery stable, blacksmith, saloon, and saddle and harness shop.
Historical interpreters in costume offer insight into the daily life during that period, and you can opt for a self-guided or guided tour of the museum. 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 noon to 5 p.m.
Kansas Firefighter’s Museum
The historic Engine House Number 6 is home to the Kansas Firefighter’s Museum. The museum features equipment used in the 1800s as well as Model-T and Model-A fire trucks. You’ll also find a hand-operated water pump, uniforms, ladders, buckets, and helmets that were once used to fight Wichita’s fires.
Head upstairs to see the firefighters’ beds, the brass pole they used to slide down in an emergency, and a variety of other memorabilia from firefighters across the state. After touring the museum, pay your respect at the nearby Kansas Fallen Firefighter Memorial. The memorial includes a statue of a firefighter in debris, a brick plaza, memorial wall, and a meditation area.
The Kansas Firefighters Museum is located at 1300 S. Broadway St. and is open Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Mid-American All-Indian Center
Learn about Native American history at the Mid-American All-Indian Center, which is found in central Wichita on the east bank of the Arkansas River. The facility is a museum and cultural center featuring artwork, artifacts, interactive exhibits, and more. Wander the halls to see displays of sculpture, paintings, beadwork, and handicrafts. Have a seat and watch one of the videos about Indian culture and heritage. Head outside to see a full-size Plains Indian tipi, traditional gardens of edible and medicinal plants, and supply carts. Guided tours are available, or you can also take a self-guided tour at your own pace.
Mid-American All-Indian Center is located at 650 N. Seneca St. and is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
When you’re eager to find Wichita’s hidden gems, you won’t need to look far. Scattered around the city are numerous attractions that are certainly worth visiting. Spend the day discovering Wichita’s unique attractions and you’ll walk away with not only a deeper knowledge, but also a deeper appreciation.
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