Wichita is home to more than 120 parks, offering more than 5,000 acres of outdoor spaces to explore — and each one has something special to offer. Whether you’re chasing outdoor adventure, looking for peace and quiet or affordable entertainment for the whole family, there’s a park in Wichita for you. A fun way to explore Wichita’s many parks is to rent an electric scooter or rent a bicycle through Bike Share ICT or Boats & Bikes.
Buffalo Park
In addition to a sprawling playground, children will love the water playground and splash pad area at Buffalo Park. The large buffalo head kids can climb on in the middle of the spraying fountains make this park unique. It is one of Wichita’s 12 splash pads, which are free and open to the public from May through September.
Central Riverside Park
One of Wichita’s oldest and most beloved parks, Central Riverside Park features a scenic walking path, shady trees and the Kansas Wildlife Exhibit, which is home to native animals like bobcats, hawks and turtles. The nearby interactive fountain and playground make this a must-visit for families.
Chisholm Creek Park
Chisholm Creek Park is a natural habitat for many Kansas species is home to the free Great Plains Nature Center. The park includes a wetlands area, natural prairie grasses and 2-mile walking path full of various metal sculptures. It’s one of a dozen Wichita parks to be designated as Wichita Wild Habitat Areas.
Edgemoor Park
Equipped with a full recreation center, a children’s playground, 12 lighted pickleball courts plus other sports fields and courts, Edgemoor Park covers 25 acres. It’s most unique feature: The Ryan Woodward Memorial Skatepark, where skaters of all experiences can go to practice their jumps and tricks. Built in 2007, the skatepark is great for beginners and those with intermediate skills.
Naftzger Park
Right in the heart of downtown, Naftzger Park combines green space with city vibes. With a built-in stage, modern seating and an open lawn, it’s a great place to relax, attend a special event or catch a live performance. For pet owners, there's an enclosed off-leash dog park, providing a space for dogs to play. Watch the calendar of events for year-round programming, from regularly scheduled live music, movie screenings, and fitness classes to special events.
O.J. Watson Park
For classic family fun, head to O.J. Watson Park, located just south of downtown. You’ll find pony rides, miniature golf, paddle boats and kayaks, a train ride and a large playground — all set around a peaceful lake. Plus, most activity fees are only $5!
Pawnee Prairie Park
Wichita’s largest park by land size, Pawnee Prairie Park flies under the radar. It offers miles of trails through prairie and woods, equestrian paths and a cozy nature-themed playground. You’ll feel miles away from the city, even though you're still in it.
Pracht Wetlands Park
For a quieter experience, Pracht Wetlands Park in northwest Wichita is a peaceful retreat with winding boardwalks, wildlife viewing and beautiful sunset views. It's especially popular with birdwatchers and photographers — and still feels like a secret even on weekends. The park is also remarkable thanks to the beautifully painted Keepers on Parade statue you’ll find when you arrive. The artwork is one of Wichita’s 60-plus Keepers on Parade replicas you’ll find throughout the city – many within city parks.
Sedgwick County Park
Sedgwick County Park is a 645-acre park on the west side of Wichita includes playgrounds, walking and biking trails and multiple fishing ponds. The Sunrise Boundless Playground is a 27,000-square-foot barrier-free playground, in which 70 percent of the playground equipment can be used by people of all ages regardless of their health or physical limitations. Looking for a unique place for photography fun? Be sure to go through the 20-acre meadow that features large interactive public art installations by various artists.
Veterans Memorial Park
Wichita’s Veterans Memorial Park is home to 18 memorials in a 4.5-acre plot of land in downtown Wichita. It is also one of only three parks in the United States with a memorial commemorating the Berlin Airlift, which was dedicated in September 2019. This park represents six wars and every branch of the military, including Union and Confederate soldiers.
From skate parks and disc golf courses to fishing ponds, walking trails and outdoor fitness zones, Wichita’s parks are packed with experiences that go beyond the ordinary. Get more ideas and inspiration for your visit to Wichita with our 2025 Spring/Summer Visitors Guide.
