Day 1:
Fuel up at one of Wichita’s local brunch spots like The Belmont before searching for retro snacks and holiday finds at the Nifty Nut House. Then, capture Insta-worthy moments downtown at the Somewhere in Winter Festival, where you can ice skate, snack at the artisan market and shoot under immersive light installations.
Wild Lights at Sedgwick County Zoo
Find even more bright art installations at Wild Lights at Sedgwick County Zoo, featuring larger-than-life illuminated sculptures that create an unforgettable after-dark experience. It’s the kind of glow that begs for a reel! Grab a bite and a seasonal brew at one of Wichita’s many holiday pop-ups or igloos, such as Tinsel Town at Nortons Brewing Company – where you can try the infamous Bacon Crack – or Miracle on Mosley Street at River City Brewing Co. If hand-crafted cocktails are more your style, head to Dockum or Lava & Tonic for low-light lounge vibes.
GROW Plant Bar
Day 2:
After a legendary breakfast at Doo-Dah Diner or a latte and a pastry at Reverie Coffee Roasters, turn holiday shopping into a legit treasure hunt at vintage and boutique shops such as Dead Center Vintage and The Vault Collection. Or spur your creativity by building your own terrarium – while sipping on a botanical beverage – at GROW Plant Bar. Continue an indulgent last day in the Heart of the Country with a wine and chocolate pairing at Cocoa Dolce Chocolates – and pick up last-minute gifts!
Snag sunset photos at the iconic Keeper of the Plains. New profile pic, incoming! Then, go all-in on a farm-to-table meal and craft brews at Public’s pop-up, The Jingle.
The Jingle at Public
Book experiences in advance:
- Somewhere in Winter Festival skating tickets – $10
- Wild Lights tickets - $16-$19; 3 and under are free
- Garden Igloos at Nortons Brewing Company - $25-$50, 2-hour blocks
- Miracle on Mosley Street at River City Brewing Co. – 90-minute reservations
- GROW Plant Bar’s DIY Plant Bar – information and pricing
- The Lola Bar at Lola Candle Co – reservations and pricing
- The Jingle at Public – reservations
Plan your stay:
- Hotel at Old Town – Trendy rooms in a historic warehouse district, walkable to shops and nightlife.
- Ambassador Hotel Wichita, Autograph Collection – A chic downtown stay with a cozy nightcap waiting at Dockum, the hotel’s elegant underground speakeasy.
