My hometown pride runs deep. A native Wichitan and travel writer, I’ve authored “100 Things to Do in Wichita Before You Die” for Reedy Press. The book is filled cover to cover with timeless destinations and lesser-known places.
Affectionately referred to as “Doo-Dah,” Wichita is a midsize city of almost 400, 000 residents who appreciate it for its affordability and many attractions. Any town or city is what you make it, and it’s up to those who explore it to stay curious. 100 Things to Do in Wichita Before You Die is a bucket-list book with quintessential places and experiences you’ll love.
It wasn’t easy narrowing down a list to only 100 things to do. I thought to myself, “Who would need this book?” I wrote it as a resource for visitors to Wichita, long-time residents, and newcomers. Actually, the book features more than 100 things to do, as I’ve also bonus lists and insider tips.
People love the book! It earned 1st place in the Kansas Professional Communicators’ 2023 Communications Contest in the Adult, Nonfiction category. The judge wrote, “What a delightful book. the one-page descriptions really work, and your voice sings as your love of the venues shines through.”
Follow the book’s Facebook page to learn about book signing events and view bonus content. Order the award-winning book.
Stay curious. #100ThingsWichita
I took advantage of a sunny weather day to visit most of the Saturday events. The impressive lineup of things to do kicked off with the parade on Andover Road. Parents and kids lined both sides of the street ready to grab flying candy thrown from floats passing by.
As soon as the parade came to an end, families gathered their belongings and headed to 
Car enthusiasts gathered at the 
Gearheads grabbed their phones to snap photos. Vehicle owners chatted about their love of all things cars. In my opinion, the shining star of the show Ford Falcon Squire Wagon. The white-wall tires, candy red paint, and classic design caught my attention as well as that of passersby. What make and model do you hope to see on display at a car show?
Parents shuttled their kids to the carnival where the rides like the ferris wheel and fast-moving Tilt-a-Whirl awaited. I think the best part of the carnival was witnessing adults taking their kids on rides for the first time.
Festival Tip: For $25, you can purchase a wristband that lets you ride as many rides as you want during the carnival. While a button is required for entry to Greater Andover Days, the wristband provides hours of entertainment Friday-Saturday.
While the fishing clinic at Lake George and hot dog eating contest took place, I returned to the carnival to buy concessions food and check out the games. I asked the concessions stand worker, “Which should I buy…cotton candy or a snow cone?” Once I saw the massive bag of spun sugar, I opted for a cherry snow cone, a yummy choice.
The sound of arcade games and a ringing of the winner’s bell rang out only steps from the concessions stand. A lifelong fan of Skeeball, I had to check it out. With every toss, kids and their parents worked hard to win oversized stuffed animals.
More activity was bustling at the Business Expo/Craft Fair where artisans sold unique gifts and local store owners talked with festival-goers. In a nearby tent, kids excitedly picked out the design they wanted to have painted on their faces while parents introduced themselves to one another. Entrepreneurs talked business and chatted about local happenings.
Nearby, small groups of kids ran to the nearby bouncy houses, a highlight of Saturday’s KidFest. Children couldn’t kick off their shoes fast enough. Piles of sneakers sat outside the entrance of an inflatable castle as kids jumped and giggled inside. Long lines formed to climb the towering stairs to slide down slides where parents waiting poised with cameras.
The 
The young performers delivered a show-stopping performance that entertained while educating kids. Afterward, kids jumped up to burn off energy at three family-friendly stations nearby: hay maze, water balloons, and pedal cars.
I took a break from the activity to grab lunch at the food court where there were many choices for street food fare. I walked by a barbecue food truck and a grilled hamburger station but ultimately decided to order a “tacone” from 
I knew just the place to sit down and enjoy my meal. The beer garden. Set up on Central Park Lodge’s patio within viewing distance of the concert stage, it was the ideal setting to people watch and listen to the band’s perform soundcheck.
The excitement of the day was topped off by a spectacular firework show that lit up the night sky over Andover Central Park. Onlookers craned their necks to admire the colorful splendor.
The room’s amenities include a flatscreen TV, liquor pantry, coffee cart with snacks, and an Alexa personal assistant. For those who need to get work down during their stay, the in-room desk is large enough for a laptop and then some.
Italian music played as I dined on an appetizer board of chef-selected meats and cheeses. I particularly loved the Italian herb cheese and the fresh made-in-house peach jam. The board was large enough for two to three people to enjoy before ordering dinner with a bottle of wine.
After devouring my delicious meal, I followed the signs leading to the bottom level of the hotel. I was led into a candlelit foray with a mysterious wooden door. I had arrived at 
The speakeasy pays homage to the building’s history while providing guests ambiance they won’t find anywhere else in the city. According to Dockum, the rules for enjoying the bar are simple, “Be good to us and we’ll spoil you.” It was definitely my kind of tavern.
Street art is a bonus surprise for visitors to Wichita. 
Another indoor space to view art, much of which is usually the work of talented regional artists, is 
Hockey fans visiting the area must experience an action-packed 
If you’re interested in catching a local band at a smaller venue, consider walking to 
There is no shortage of attractions beyond the doors of the Ambassador. Whether you’re visiting the city for the first time or a returning guest, the downtown area is the best place to experience what makes Wichita wonderful. Perhaps I’m a little biased since I’m a Wichitan, but I promise you’ll love your experience staying at 
Do you have questions about exploring Wichita’s downtown district? Want to learn more about the hotel? Drop a comment below. I’m always happy to give travel advice.
The rest of the hotel was equally impressive. The Drury Hotel Plaza Broadview features an indoor pool and whirlpool, business center, fitness center, guest pantry, and outdoor hot tub. Soon after checking in the hotel, I made my way to their free 5:30 Kickback®, a “happy hour” kind of event open to guests every evening. I presented my Kickback® card to the bartender and was given three complimentary drinks (wine, beer, or cocktails) to accompany self-serve appetizers. You’ll love this amenity.
Located in the heart of downtown Wichita and only a short walk from shopping and dining, its prime location is perfect for adventure seekers who want to enjoy the city. Using downtown transit is easy and there is a map available online to plan your Douglas Avenue route 
The next morning, I made my way to the second-floor mezzanine where an elaborate breakfast buffet awaited my arrival featuring a full lineup of delicious menu options. Adjacent to the buffet was a cereal station, coffee counter, and make your own waffle setup. I chose biscuits and gravy with a side of sausage. The freshly brewed coffee was just what I needed to give me a boost for the day.
Later at the hotel, I continued my historical journey by viewing the framed prints adorning the lobby’s walls. Did you know the 
If given the chance to walk into one of the hotel’s larger event spaces, the ballroom, you can view a mosaic designed by American Indian artist, Blackbear Bosin. He is the same artist who designed the city’s iconic Keeper of the Plains sculpture that stands proudly amongst the downtown skyline. The 1,550 square foot mosaic is the largest continual mural in Kansas. Ask the front desk attendant if the ballroom is accessible to view it.
All in all, I adored my experience as a guest at 
Even though I don’t exercise much (she inspires me to get moving!), Jennifer and I share quite a bit. We’re native Wichitans, and our pride for the city runs deep. We both appreciate making the most of each day and seeking adventure in everyday life. It’s that inner spirit that drives us to make life more delightful.
Did we inspire you to explore the city? Wichita is nestled between two rivers and linked by several bike trails. Building your own adventure and finding your favorite fuel around town is easy and fun.