May 23, 2019
The Keeper of the Plains statue in Wichita, KS.

If you live and Wichita, Kansas, and have an adventurous spirit, getting out and exploring the city is one of the best ways to spend a weekend. Here are some of the best spots in Wichita to put on your itinerary for weekend explorations.

1. Botanica Wichita

For flower lovers, there’s no better place to go for weekend exploring in Wichita than Botanica Wichita. This popular spot has been open since 1987 and offers four gardens filled with gorgeous flowers and plants.

If you want to know more about any of the plant species that you see, you can stop by the horticultural library to learn something new. Botanica Wichita also features numerous themed gardens that display different species depending on the time of year.

2. Keeper of the Plains Plaza

The history of Wichita is inextricably linked to that of the Native American people who have long called this area home. If you’d like to learn more about this cultural link, then the Keeper of the Plains Plaza is a great place to explore this weekend.

At the center of the plaza is a massive steel structure depicting a Native American keeping watch over the land. The statue stands where the Arkansas River meets the Little Arkansas River and in the evenings the plaza is lit by the Ring of Fire that surrounds the statute.

3. Exploration Place

If you have a passion for science, Exploration Place is a must-visit location in Wichita. This science center is tucked on the banks of the scenic Arkansas River and offers several ways that you and your kids can have fun.

Exploration Place features multiple exhibits dedicated to math and science, as well as exhibits dedicated to the culture and history of Wichita. You can also see a show at the Dome Theater or go for a stroll through the outdoor Exploration Park.

4. Sedgwick County Zoo

Do you love seeing exotic animals up close and in person? If so, then you need to spend a day exploring the Sedgwick County Zoo. The zoo is separated into different world regions to make it easy to find the exact animal you’re looking for among the more than 3,000 creatures that call this zoo home.

If you visit the Africa region, you can see large animals such as gorillas and hippopotami. You should also be sure to stop by the penguin cove to watch these playful and gregarious birds glide through the water.

5. Arkansas River Path

If you’re in the mood for a long, leisurely walk, you should head over to the Arkansas River Path. This paved trail is over 3 miles long and winds its way along the gorgeous river waters. Walk the entire path and you’ll get a great look at some of the top attractions in Wichita, including the All-American Indian Center. The River Path is also near the downtown area, so after you’re done walking, you can stop by a nearby eatery for a delicious meal.

Wichita is one of the best cities to live in if you love exploring on the weekends. The next time your work week is over, make sure to stop by one of these excellent exploration spots.

https://www.flickr.com/photos/tylercipriani/32913715534/sizes/l Image via Flickr by tyler.cipriani