Situated on the banks of the Arkansas River in southern Kansas, Wichita is the largest and arguably the most interesting city in the state. Rich with culture, history, sports, and more, it's the top destination for visitors and a place that locals love. Whether you're planning a trip to the city or just want to learn more about where you're from, here are a few interesting facts about the City of Wichita. more 1. Home of the Keeper of the Plains One of the most iconic symbols of Wichita is the Keeper of the Plains. Located at the confluence of the Little Arkansas River and the Arkansas River, this 44-foot-tall steel sculpture was designed by Kiowa-Comanche artist Blackbear Bosin and erected in 1974. Styled in the shape of a Native American in a headdress with a tomahawk, the sculpture is also surrounded by displays that document the tribes that used to call the area home. Stop by at night to see the statue illuminated by fire pits in the foreground of the city skyline. 2. Where Pizza Hut and White Castle Were Founded If you've ever chowed down on some " belly bombers " or stuffed-crust pizza, you have Wichita to thank. Opened in Wichita in 1921, White Castle is the stuff of legends, commonly quoted by the likes of the Beastie Boys and enjoyed by night owls everywhere. Oddly enough, the chain has pulled out of the Wichita market over the past 100 years, but the origins of your mini-burgers are always good to know. In 1958, brothers Dan and Frank Carney opened the first Pizza Hut on the campus of Wichita State University. Not only did the business take off, but the brothers also implemented the revolutionary idea of pizza delivery years before their competitors. Sixty years later, the franchise has over 18,000 locations in 100 countries and $12 billion in sales, making it the largest and most profitable pizza chain in the world. 3. Known as the Air Capital of the World Wichita has a long-standing partnership with the aviation industry. In 1920, Wichita-based E.M. Laird Airplane Manufacturing Co. became the first manufacturer of commercial airplanes in the United States. During WWII, Wichita produced 44 percent of all aircraft for the war effort. Following the war, companies such as Cessna, Beechcraft, and Boeing have all produced airplanes or airplane parts in the city, giving Wichita the nickname "Air Capital of the World." 4. Home to the Seventh Largest Zoo in the Country Covering 247 acres, the Sedgwick County Zoo in Wichita is the seventh largest zoo in the country. Upon opening in 1971, the zoo quickly became the city's most popular attraction with over 2,500 animals across 500 species. Today, the zoo hosts over 650,000 visitors a year with exhibits including the Gorilla Forest, the Pride of the Plains, Penguin Cover, Tiger Trek, and See Eye to Eye with Giraffes. Admission is $15.95 for adults and $11.95 for children. With so many interesting tidbits and attractions, Wichita is an undiscovered gem that's worth a visit. You might just end up calling it one of your favorite cities. Image via Flickr by Ty Nigh
