When it comes to summer getaways in the Midwest, cities like Chicago or Minneapolis may steal the spotlight, but look a little further south and you'll find a hidden gem that blends urban energy with small-town charm. Make your way to Wichita, the Heart of the Country, where summer days are filled with sunshine, outdoor events, unique attractions and more than a few surprises.

This summer, skip the crowds and land somewhere unexpected. Here’s why Wichita deserves a top spot on your summer vacation list.

Sunshine & open spaces

Wichita offers all the warmth and sunshine of summer without the overcrowded tourist traps. You’ll find spacious parks, walkable districts, and easy parking (yes, really). Whether you're paddling the Arkansas River or riding a bike or electric scooter through downtown, everything moves at a refreshingly slower pace. The relaxing vibe makes Wichita a great place for individuals with sensory sensitivities.

Family-friendly fun

Traveling with kids? Wichita’s got you covered. Spend a day feeding giraffes, lemurs, rhinos and more at Tanganyika Wildlife Park. Spend hours playing at the children’s garden at Botanica Wichita or catch a movie under the stars at Starlite Drive-In or one of the city's many free summer events like RiverFlix. Plus, the Sedgwick County Zoo is the only zoo in the country where you can meet two African elephant calves that were born earlier this year within four days of each other.

Aviation experiences

Known as the Air Capital of the World, Wichita is a haven for aviation lovers. The Kansas Aviation Museum and hands-on exhibits at Exploration Place are perfect for curious minds and future pilots. Wichita is also home to Doc, one of only two airworthy B-29s in the country, which you can learn about – and even take a flight in – at B-29 Doc Hangar, Education and Visitors Center.

Walkable districts and local shopping

Explore the charm of neighborhoods like Delano, Old Town and the Douglas Design District, where you’ll find local boutiques, coffee shops, murals, breweries and more. You can sip a craft cocktail on a patio and stumble upon public art or live music.

Food that overdelivers

Wichita’s food scene punches way above its weight. From pho and barbecue joints to modern fusion cuisine, this city serves up bold flavors. Don’t miss the city’s ethnic restaurants, farmers markets, and the iconic NuWay crumbly burger and homemade root beer for a taste of Wichita’s roots.

Summer events

Wichita comes alive in the summer with events like Riverfest – a nine-day festival with concerts, fireworks, food and family fun – Somewhere Fest & Conference, JuneteenthICT, Wichita Taco Fest and the NBC World Series.

Another beloved summer tradition that celebrates the city’s lively local coffee and craft beer scene is Wicked Brew Tour. Launched in 2015, this self-guided tour invites participants to explore a variety of local establishments, enjoying handcrafted beverages ranging from espresso to kombucha to IPAs.

Stay cool

With water parks and splash pads, such as Rock River Rapids, it’s easy to find ways to beat the heat. There are plenty of indoor options as well like Strataca underground salt mine (a short drive away in Hutchinson) and Blast Off Bay, an indoor water park just west of Wichita.

Affordable and accessible

Whether you’re road-tripping or flying in, Wichita is centrally located in the Heart of the Country, easy to reach and much more affordable than bigger tourist cities. You’ll get big-city experiences without big-city prices.

Plan your summer stay in Wichita

Wichita is one of those places that might surprise you. It’s rich with culture, packed with personality and full of people who are proud of where they live – and ready to share it with you. Explore more things to do with kids in Wichita and download our visitor guide for additional inspiration.