50 Fun Facts About Wichita

Wichita, known as the "Air Capital of the World,” is home to many world-class aviation manufacturers.
Wichita is the largest city in Kansas by population.
The Keeper of the Plains, a 44-foot steel sculpture by Native American artist Blackbear Bosin, stands at the confluence of the Arkansas and Little Arkansas Rivers in Wichita.
Wichita began as a trading post on the Chisholm Trail.
The city's name, "Wichita," comes from the original Native American tribe.
Wichita is home to the Sedgwick County Zoo, one of the largest in the U.S.
Bill Lear, inventor of the Learjet, founded Learjet Corporation in Wichita in the early 1960s, revolutionizing aviation with innovative designs.
Pizza Hut, one of the largest pizza chains, was founded in Wichita in 1958.
White Castle restaurant was founded in Wichita in 1921.
Mentholatum was discovered in Wichita in 1894, in a building that now houses The Spice Merchant & Company.
Exploration Place, a science and discovery center, is along the Arkansas River in Wichita.
In the 1880s, Wichita was the fastest-growing city in the U.S.
Wichita hosted the first organized sit-in at the Dockum Drug Store in 1958 to end segregation.
Wichita hosts the annual Riverfest, a nine-day festival with concerts, food vendors, and activities.
Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport is Kansas' largest airport.
Wichita State University is the third-largest university in Kansas.
The Old Town district features historic brick buildings converted into restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues.
The Wichita Symphony Orchestra is the largest in Kansas.
The Wichita Art Museum houses an impressive collection of American art, including works by Mary Cassatt, Kehinde Wiley, and Edward Hopper.
The Wichita Riverwalk is a scenic path along the Arkansas River for walking, jogging, and biking.
The Kansas Aviation Museum, in an historic airport terminal, showcases the state's aviation history.
Wichita boasts a diverse culinary scene with a variety of international cuisines.
The annual Wichita Asian Festival celebrates Asian culture with food, performances, and exhibits.
Wichita is home to several craft breweries, including Central Standard Brewing and Wichita Brewing Company.
INTRUST Bank Arena is a multi-purpose venue in downtown Wichita for concerts, sports, and conventions.
The Great Plains Transportation Museum in Wichita preserves regional railroad history.
The Kansas Sports Hall of Fame in Wichita honors state athletes and coaches.
The Douglas Design District is known for its eclectic mix of shops, galleries, and restaurants.
Botanica Wichita is a botanical garden with themed gardens, sculptures, and events.
The Ulrich Museum of Art at Wichita State University showcases contemporary and modern art.
Wichita hosts several annual film festivals, including the Tallgrass Film Festival and the Wichita Asian Film Festival.
The Kansas African American Museum in Wichita celebrates the contributions of African Americans in the state.
The Wichita Thunder is a professional ice hockey team based in the city.
Wichita is known for its vibrant mural art scene with many murals adorning buildings.
The Wichita Public Library system offers numerous resources and programs across its branches.
The Mid-America All-Indian Center showcases the history and culture of Native American tribes in the region.
Barry Sanders, born in Wichita, is a former NFL running back considered one of the greatest, winning the Heisman Trophy during college.
Wichita's Douglas Avenue is part of historic U.S. Route 66, featuring nostalgic landmarks and attractions.
The Old Cowtown Museum in Wichita is a living history museum depicting 19th-century life.
Wichita hosts several professional sports teams, including the Wichita Wind Surge baseball team and the Wichita Force indoor football team.
Sedgwick County Park in Wichita offers hiking trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas.
The Great Plains Nature Center features local wildlife exhibits, nature trails, and educational programs.
The Crown Uptown Theatre in Wichita is a historic venue known for dinner theater and live performances.
The Wichita-Sedgwick County Historical Museum showcases regional history through exhibits and artifacts.
Wichita's Orpheum Theatre, dating back to 1922, is known for its elegant architecture and diverse programming.
The Cessna 172, a popular general aviation aircraft, was designed and produced by Cessna Aircraft Company, founded in Wichita in 1927.
The Coleman Company, founded in Wichita in 1900, is well-known for outdoor recreation products.
Kirstie Alley, an Emmy and Golden Globe-winning actress known for "Cheers," was born in Wichita.
Musician Gage Brewer introduced the electric guitar to the world from a Wichita stage in 1932.
Wichita is a hub for professional bowlers, thanks to its top-tier bowling centers, prestigious Wichita State bowling program, and rich history of hosting and producing elite bowlers.