Disclosure: Great Plains Ventures sponsored this post, and Aloft Wichita sponsored my overnight stay. All opinions and photographs are my own.
District 96 is your destination for a multitude of entertaining activities and boutique hotel lodging in Northeast Wichita, located at K-96 and Oliver Street. Imagine checking into a fresh, modern hotel, savoring a chef-prepared meal, and pausing to play indoor pickleball or golf, located steps away.
The neighborhood gem makes it easy to plan a weekend that feels like a getaway, whether you’re visiting Wichita for the first time or simply rediscovering this area of the city.
A Wichita Lineup You’ll Love: Food, Fun, and Sports at District 96
ANOTHER BROKEN EGG CAFE: SAVOR A SOUTHERN-INSPIRED BREAKFAST OR LUNCH
The locally owned Wichita franchise, Another Broken Egg Cafe (4862 E 35th St N) offers diners a comforting Southern-style breakfast or lunch meal prepared made-to-order with fresh ingredients.
I’ve raved about Another Broken Egg Cafe before, and the breakfast menu selection just keeps getting better. The seasonal food and drink selections keep it interesting, offering diners quality Southern fare you won’t find anywhere else in the city.
Unlike a diner-style restaurant, Another Broken Egg Cafe layers each meal with ingredients such as seasonal produce and fresh herbs.
A successful restaurant must serve quality meals consistently at a standard that exceeds the competition, and this one checks all the boxes.
Go for a Southern brunch or lunch duo featuring a half-order sized meal with soup or salad. Indulgent Bourbon Street Pancakes, spicy shrimp and grits, or the Southwest Scrambler are repeat-worthy orders.
The locally-owned eatery at District96-ICT is at the top of my list when people ask me, “Vanessa, where should we go for a really good, fresh breakfast in Wichita?”
PRO TIP: On a sunny day, order from the patio table or walk-up to the pass-thru window to order a spritzer, cold brew cocktail, or mocktail.
TAPNPADDLES: PICK UP A PADDLE FOR PICKLEBALL
Joining friends for a game of pickleball is a way of life for sports enthusiasts who love playing at TapNPaddles (4656 E. 35th Street). Whether you’re a die-hard player or want to drop in for a one-hour court session, the pickleball venue offers a places where players of all skill levels can compete.
As a beginner player, I felt comfortable learning the game on one of 12 indoor, air-conditioned courts. We reserved a court during Open Play, and surrounding courts were occupied by Senior Open Play and one-on-one training sessions.
Open to the public and Tap Elite, Plus, and Choice Members, TapNPaddles makes it easy to reserve a court online. If you fancy a game of table tennis or cornhole, reserve Courtside Social, a portable professional-grade game set available for no charge on a first come, first served basis.
After a fun game of pickleball, we cooled off with a District 96 Strawberry Blonde Ale by Norton’s Brewing at the TapNPaddles bar. I was surprised to discover the Bar & Court Menu features dips, burgers, and pita pocket sandwiches as courtside bites during kitchen hours.
The cocktail lounge is the ideal place to quench your thirst while watching pickleball on television or playing a game of chess.
The pickleball venue is located next door to Raha Mediterranean, a more laid back eatery serving chef-prepared cuisine with bold flavor. Honestly, I could’ve spent half a day at TapNPaddles having fun.
PRO TIP: Arrive dressed in your sports gear. The locker room is for members only.
K96 LIQUOR: SHOP FOR SPIRITS, WINE, OR BEER
K96 Liquor (4858 E. 35th Street North Suite B), is the ideal place to shop for a bottle of wine, spirits, or beer before retiring for drinks at Aloft Hotel or before returning home.
The locally-owned liquor store works with distributors to carry a vast selection of well-known brands, and I was pleased to find spirits on the shelf produced by Wichita makers, including Una Vida Tequila and Greatness Vodka.
The store’s owner helped me located the perfect bottle of dry red wine to take back to the hotel. As shoppers came and went, I noticed how she knew what some of the regular customers wanted before they located it.
K96 Liquor is one-stop shopping if you’re seeking a variety of wine, beer or spirits to purchase for your next gathering with friends or family. And if you’re a guest at someone’s party, consider purchasing one of the pre-boxed bottles that come in gift-worthy packaging.
PRO TIP: Inquire about holiday-themed gift sets.
ALOFT WICHITA: OVERNIGHT IN STYLE
Aloft Wichita (3642 N. Oliver) is a hip hotel that feels like a staycation for locals and it’s the ideal retreat for leisure or business travelers. Between bold design, unexpected fun, and local art connections, this spot makes it easy to blend work and play in one trip.
Newly renovated, the boutique hotel has a swimming pool with outdoor seating and fire pits, views of a lake, and a swanky hangout, W xyz® Bar. Aloft Wichita is not another hotel. It’s a vibe.
The lobby is home to games (Ms. Pac-Man, anyone?), a complimentary coffee station, and a sunken lounge area where a musician plays music on Tuesday evenings, the same night W xyz® Bar serves a taco and margarita special.
After check-in, we sipped District 96 Strawberry Blonde Ale by Nortons Brewing Company at the bar to the sounds of live music. The lobby was filled with hotel guests and drop-in locals who socialized from velvety, stylish couches and around a billiards table. Business travelers worked from laptops at a central desk area.
Later, we explored the hotel’s art gallery by Envision, which displays remarkable works completed by Wichita artists with vision loss. The breathtaking collections change throughout the year.
Guests who want to make the most of the available amenities during the day will appreciate the fitness facility’s collection of state-of-the-art machines and weights.
When it’s time to slumber, one can count on Aloft Wichita’s beds to be some of the most comfortable ones thanks to soft Marriott Bonvoy® bedding and blackout curtains guaranteeing a good night’s sleep.
Our Aloft King room was equipped with a workspace and a mini fridge to keep my bottled water ice cold. The in-shower bath products are top quality.
The pet-friendly hotel provides dog bowls, toys, and laundered pet beds for its four-legged guests weighing up to 40 pounds via the ARF (Animals Are Fun) program.
In the morning, the Re:Fuel by Aloft℠ grab-and-go yogurt with fruit cups or hot breakfast menu is open for early-morning bites. My preference? The OG B.E.C Sandwich served on a Brioche Bun.
Assorted beverages, snacks, and cookies are available for a mid-day munch. At night, one can purchase non-alcoholic and boozy beverages from the reach-in cooler.
Wichita’s Aloft Hotel felt less like a stay and more like stepping into the city’s creative pulse. The best part? It’s minutes from downtown Wichita, and steps from The Kitchen, RAHA Mediterranean, Another Broken Egg Cafe, Tap N Paddles, K96 Liquor LLC, and ShotSuite.
Reserve a guest room for your next staycation or trip to Wichita.
PRO TIP: Pick up an Una Vida Tequila Passport to complete a cocktail tour of District 96’s bars and restaurants.
RAHA MEDITERRANEAN: INDULGE IN GLOBAL CUISINE
Adjoining TapNPaddles, Raha Mediterranean (4956 E. 35th Street N.) serves a menu of lunch or dinner fare catering to diners who appreciate flavorful main dishes blending indulgent and nutritious ingredients.
To set the mood, we ordered an Indigo N Ginger and Keepers Heart Old Fashioned from a cocktail menu consisting of eight drink options. A beer and wine list equally impressed.
In a city with many Lebanese restaurants, we agreed that Chef Rickard’s Roasted Mushroom Hummus was some of the best we’ve tasted, and the Labeneh and Muhammara served with warm pita bread were award-worthy.
Don’t miss a chance to sink your teeth into Smoked Brisket prepared with labneh, blueberry barbecue, and sliced sweet peppers. Served with Persian Fried Rice, the dinner service surpasses typical Mediterranean restaurant cuisine in the city.
NOTE: If the waitstaff asks what kind of water you want to drink with dinner service, inquire about pricing.
PRO TIP: The restaurant’s private dining space, resembling an enclosed patio with refined seating, is available if you want to reserve it for an upcoming event.
SHOTSUITE: PERFECT YOUR GAME
At first glance, I thought ShotSuite (4854 E. 35th Street N) was only an indoor golf simulator venue, but it’s so much more.
ShotSuite offers a plethora of games for virtual sports, ranging from bocce ball and rugby to dodgeball and carnival games. Add an upscale bar serving scrumptious eats with handcrafted cocktails and it’s the ultimate one-of-a-kind experience for a date night or a group outing.
Participating is as easy as reserving a suite and participants don’t have to bring equipment or know how to play each game. Each crafted experience is tailored to you, mixing competition and entertainment.
I shared laughs with a friend while throwing soft dodge balls at a screen of approaching zombies, and Full Swing golf allowed me to work on my swing on one of over 50 courses, including a Battleship-style game via Target Golf.
The quality of the game simulator’s censors combined with the multitude of games was better than any indoor sports simulator venue I’ve experienced. And the food menu? Think elevated game day food.
Order the house-made Salsa And Guac appetizer before selecting lunch or dinner. Don’t sleep on the Bogey Dogs menu, which includes the best-tasting Chicago Dog outside of the Windy City. The Hot Honey Pepperoni is the top choice when selecting from a four types of flatbread pizza. (View the menu.)
I especially enjoyed unwinding after gaming with a Dubai Chocolate Martini and Azalea Martini as a golf tournament aired from bar-side television. The bartender’s inventive cocktail recipes are well-balanced.
PRO TIP: If you love your ShotSuite experience, inquire about membership perks and shop the pro shop‘s apparel selection. League play is also an option.
THE KITCHEN: INDULGE IN A COMFORTING, CREATIVE MEAL
When I want to eat a healthier restaurant meal made with the freshest ingredients, I indulge in a flavorful Buddha Bowl, sandwich or dinner-size salad at The Kitchen (3622 N. Oliver).
The restaurant, known for its scratch-made bistro classic fare, was created by Chef Natasha Gandhi-Rue, who with her husband, won Guy’s Grocery Games Season 23, Episode 11, appearing on the Food Network.
Shareable appetizers like the gravy-drenched Disco Fries and Jalapeño Cheddar Bites are worth ordering; however, if you want a lighter option, order the Steak Lettuce Plater served with sliced Bavette steak and vegetables.
Chef Gandhi-Rue’s scratch-made pasta entreés are irresistible, and I liked customizing my pasta by adding bacon, mushroom, and chicken. Another hearty meal, the Thai Bowl is one I’ve ordered repeatedly over the years, much like the Fajita Bowl.
The best value for the experience is Tuesdays Dinner for 2, featuring three courses and a dessert to share for $40. Take it from me, The Kitchen’s cake selection is worth the visit alone.
PRO TIP: Seat yourself indoors or on the patio, and then ask your server about the updated Happy Hour bar menu or order from one of 24 beer taps, which include locally-brewed beers.
If you love The Kitchen, think about hosting a party in their reservable room that seats 32 people or ask about catering options.
Overall, you’ll find there is more than enough to do at District 96 during your day trip or overnight stay. Simply park and walk to food, fun, and sports adventures – some of the best experiences in Wichita.
District 96 is more than a commercial district. It’s an entertainment destination for locals and travelers who want unforgettable lodging, dining, shopping, and sports-themed attractions in one place.
With over 200 new restaurants opening in the last two years, finding an up-and-coming restaurant to enjoy is easy. But if you want to dine like a local, refer to my pocket guide of must-visit restaurants when visiting Music City.
Their award-winning barbecue is served with southern hospitality, and if you’re lucky, Carey might swing by your table for a casual chat during the meal. Menu favorites include heaping BBQ Nachos, Memphis Sushi, and Dry Rubbed Ribs, but opt for the shareable Combo Platter when in doubt.
PRO TIP: Leave room for banana pudding or a drool-worthy fried pie fresh from the oven. View 
The food was exceptionally prepared and presented during our group’s family-style private dinner service. The Pre-Show Dinner menu, served from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., features Italian-inspired dishes.
I joined others, tapping our feet to the sounds of live bluegrass music while indulging in various shareable appetizers. Skillet cornbread, deviled eggs, and crispy Brussels sprouts satisfied. The sandwiches, with a side salad, are a creative twist on burgers and chicken sandwiches.
PRO TIP: Arrive at 5:00 p.m. to enjoy weekly Happy Hour cocktail menu specials, beer discounts, and $5 snacks. View 
The menu features Southern comfort classics ranging from barbecue meals, oysters, sandwiches, and steaks. Sit back with a deck drink or ice-cold beer as the sun sets. Hot chicken seasoning ranges from Sissy (perfect for me!) to Hiroshima levels, thanks to added cayenne paste.
PRO TIP: The deck gets crowded, especially on show nights at The Opry. It stays open until 3:00 a.m. Monday-Friday for post-show celebrations. View 
Meals are artfully plated using traditional Japanese ingredients. Sesame, soy, and miso make recipe appearances. The bar menu showcases boozy and non-boozy drinks with names such as Viva Magenta (gin) and Matcha Limeade.
PRO TIP: Park in the rear of the building and walk up the back stairs. View 
Referred to as Camp Bobby, the pop-up holiday bar was decorated down to every detail. Live bands play during summer’s Backyard Sessions, and it’s a fantastic place to soak of downtown views or play yard games any time of year.
PRO TIP: View 
The cidery rolls out a new seasonal selection every three weeks, so consider adding it to a tasting flight of four pours.
PRO TIP: They love four-legged customers. Ask about monthly dog-friendly events. View 
We enjoyed tastings of four single-barrel bourbons of our choice during a group reservation. Their Small-Batch Cask Strength and Tennessee Single Barrel Whiskey, two of my preferred selections, went down like a warm hug.
PRO TIP: Are you feeling brave? Ask if you can sample Wooshine. View 
A blanket and velvety pillows gave the living room space a homey feel, which was delightful. Hotels are great, but sometimes you prefer a comfortable stay with amenities like home, and the Charlotte Retreat delivered.
Taking advantage of the flatscreen TV with access to streaming channels, we relaxed on the leather couch, watching the morning news with fresh coffee before departing for a day in the city. The bar included fresh ground coffee for the Keurig machine or French press.
The kitchen had all the utensils needed to prepare a basic meal, and the spice rack included essential seasonings. Although it lacked a dishwasher, it didn’t matter as we didn’t have many dishes to do because we ate our meals at area restaurants.
The bedroom included a pillowy-soft, queen-sized bed. Flanked by two reading lights and an end table, it was a great place to kick back and enjoy a book or admire nature from the sliding glass door view.
A full bathroom with a tub and shower included Tommy Bahama bath products. A nearby laundry room came equipped with basic laundry supplies for extended-stay travelers. The bedroom closet and dresser drawer provided enough storage for our belongings.
Although we saw neighboring homes’ residents come and go, they did not disturb the peaceful tranquility of enjoying the patio. We sat for hours watching the entertaining squirrels traverse up and down the trees while a cottontail bunny curiously checked out the neighbor’s garden.
Although the house was sandwiched between two more significant properties, it feels secluded because of its deep front yard and leading walkway. The neighborhood is well-kept and safe. We never heard the sound of traffic or neighborhood activity.
We enjoyed watching the sun’s rays move on the front lawn as the sun set overhead. A feeling of serenity and restfulness comes over us. Grateful for the calmness, we retired to bed.
I can’t recommend staying at Cozy in KC’s The Charlotte Retreat enough. It’s the ideal lodging for an individual’s or couple’s weekend stay. View the
Opened in 2020, the cafe delivered island vibes with brightly painted walls and decorations. The owners consider the space a “tropical coffee shop” where everyone is welcome.
We ordered bagels and steaming cups of espresso for breakfast – reasonably priced for the quality. If you’re seeking breakfast options, the menu’s Chori Pap, French Toast, Acai Bowl, or Egg Breakfast wraps are wow-worthy.
The whimsical mural outside the building and outdoor patio seating drew us to the cafe. Inside, the place was bustling with morning patrons ordering specialty coffee drinks and traditional drip espresso.
PRO TIP: Consider ordering a homemade menu of biscuits or a breakfast sandwich prepared with local ingredients. Gluten-free Hotcake Breakfast Sandwich is an option for those who require it.
The standard breakfast classics are served elevated with inventive ingredients. We shared the Kimchi Spice Bloody Mary while our Garden Harvest Omelet and Habanero Pork Belly Benny were prepared. The food was delectable, and there wasn’t a bite left when we asked for the check.
Known for its espresso concoctions and baked goods, the coffee shop stays busy serving customers who sit indoors and often opt to watch passersby from the outdoor patio.
We ordered a two-meat combo platter with ribs, brisket, burnt ends, and two southern-style sides, The Holy Trinity. Just as you would expect, the smoked meats were tasty, true to the city’s reputation for barbecue.
The place is wild. It’s where you dine when you’re in the mood for delicious non-traditional pizza, burgers, and wings prepared with inventive, extreme ingredients.
We enjoyed sipping craft beer while watching the clouds roll in from our perch over the metro. Music played indie rock, and the vibe was relaxed. Couples and small groups kept to themselves, soaking up the scene.
PRO TIP: Check the 
The shop smelled of freshly-made waffle cones. As I went to pay for my double scoop of Cereal Milk and Cinnamon ice cream, a friendly couple offered to buy it for me. Grateful, I resisted but thanked them for their kindness. Betty Rae’s Ice Cream is as sweet as the customers there.
PRO TIP: While the flavor offerings often change, preview 
Note: This is a barcade, so only patrons ages 21+ are allowed.
Whether you’re hoping to buy artisan skin care supplies at Soap Bar, indie home goods from Mid Coast Modern, or colorful dinnerware at Pryde’s Kitchen & Necessities, you are sure to fill your shopping bags.
The sounds of falling water and birds are the only sounds you hear. However, you may notice one or two visitors sitting in shaded areas amongst flowering shrubs and vines; the setting’s tranquility envelopes you.
We felt like we had the gardens to ourselves, stopping only to say hello and thank a master garden for their hard work. Free to explore, the public is welcome as long as they appreciate the rules posted at the entrance.
Pause as you view 48 streams of water falling into the basin around the statuary representing firefighters at work. A nearby memorial displays the etched names of the fallen firefighters.
At Union Station, you’ll appreciate its Science City, 3-D movie theater, restaurant, shops, Gottlieb Planetarium, and gift shops. The building’s architecture alone is worthy of your time.
Because it was National Margarita Day during our visit, I ordered a salty margarita made with Pepe Zevada Tequila Resposado. It was phenomenal! Later, I asked the bartender the same question I recommend all travelers ask, “If it were your shift meal, what would you order from the menu?” Having served in restaurants for years, I appreciate knowing what meal the staff wants, not necessarily the special for the evening of what the manager wants to be pushed to patrons. We dined at the dimly lit bar on savory chicken sandwiches and copious steak fries. The meals are huge.
CRAFT BEER SCENE
Craft Pride is a Texas-only beer bar with 54 taps, and its adjacent side room includes single cans and bottles of even more beer! To access the bonus beer room and patio, exit the main tasting room and follow the signs. While I appreciated learning more about the brews from the bartender, I wanted to spend the most time drinking leisurely and listening to bluegrass music outdoors.
