Wichita, KS, is greater than only a metropolis within the coronary heart of the Midwest. With its wealthy aviation historical past, thriving arts scene, and numerous neighborhoods, residing in Wichita presents a singular mix of tradition and neighborhood. From the enduring Keeper of the Plains to the bustling Outdated City district, there’s at all times one thing new to find on this dynamic metropolis. Whether or not you’re settling into a brand new condominium in Wichita, looking for a home within the metropolis, or have been a longtime resident, this Redfin article will dive into some enjoyable information about Wichita you’ll wish to know.
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Fast information about Wichita
Median dwelling sale worth
$212,000
Common month-to-month hire
$950
Stroll Rating
35/100
Transit Rating
20/100
Bike Rating
44/100
1. Wichita is the “Air Capital of the World”
Wichita is called the “Air Capital of the World” because of its important contributions to the aviation trade. The town is dwelling to main plane producers like Cessna, Beechcraft, and Bombardier Learjet. This aviation heritage dates again to the early twentieth century and continues to be a significant a part of the native economic system.
2. Wichita is the birthplace of Pizza Hut
One of many world’s hottest pizza chains began within the metropolis. “The first location opened in 1958 near Wichita State University, founded by two college students with a $600 loan,” says Paige Albert from Brick & Bustle Bridal Store. “Today, it’s a global brand, but it all started right here in the Heart of the Plains.”
3. The Sedgwick County Zoo is among the greatest within the nation
The Sedgwick County Zoo is the seventh-largest zoo in the USA and homes over 3,000 animals from around the globe. Opened in 1971, the zoo options expansive reveals just like the African Plains and the Downing Gorilla Forest. It’s a standard attraction in Wichita and presents quite a few academic packages.
4. The Outdated Cowtown Museum provides guests a glimpse into Wichita’s previous
The Outdated Cowtown Museum is a residing historical past museum that recreates life in Wichita in the course of the late nineteenth century. Spanning 23 acres, it options over 50 historic buildings, together with houses, companies, and a schoolhouse. Costumed interpreters deliver the previous to life, demonstrating trades and each day actions from the 1800s.
5. One in every of Kansas’ high universities is predicated in Wichita
Wichita State College (WSU) is famend for its sturdy engineering, aerospace, and enterprise packages. The college’s Innovation Campus fosters collaboration between college students and trade leaders, driving analysis and improvement. WSU’s Shocker athletics, notably basketball, have additionally gained nationwide recognition. Notable alumni embrace Pizza Hut founders Dan and Frank Carney and Fred VanVleet of the NBA’s Houston Rockets.
6. Tallgrass Prairie Nationwide Protect protects Wichita’s pre-settlement ecosystem
Positioned simply exterior Wichita, the Tallgrass Prairie Nationwide Protect protects a uncommon remnant of the as soon as huge tallgrass prairie ecosystem. Guests can discover the protect’s trails, observe numerous wildlife, and study concerning the space’s pure historical past. Established in 1996, it presents a glimpse into the panorama that dominated the central United States earlier than widespread settlement.
7. Wichita Riverfest is among the space’s greatest occasions
Wichita Riverfest is an annual nine-day pageant held alongside the Arkansas River, celebrating the neighborhood with live shows, fireworks, parades, and family-friendly actions. Originating in 1970, the occasion attracts over 400,000 attendees annually. It’s a spotlight of town’s cultural calendar and showcases native expertise and companies.
8. Frank Lloyd Wright’s Allen Home is now a museum
The Allen Home, designed by the famend architect Frank Lloyd Wright, is among the final of his Prairie-style houses. Inbuilt 1918, it options Wright’s signature design components, akin to horizontal traces, open flooring plans, and integration with the panorama. The home is now a museum providing guided excursions to structure fans.
9. Botanica, The Wichita Gardens homes over 4,000 plant species
Botanica, The Wichita Gardens, is a 17.6-acre botanical backyard that includes themed gardens, together with a butterfly home, a rose backyard, and a youngsters’s backyard. The vegetation change with the seasons, as you’ll discover over 100,000 dafodils within the spring and 12,000 pansies in the course of the winter. Established in 1987, it offers a serene escape and academic packages on horticulture and conservation. Seasonal occasions, akin to the vacation gentle show, entice guests year-round.
10. The Orpheum Theatre is considered one of Wichita’s oldest venues
The Orpheum Theatre, opened in 1922, is a historic performing arts venue in downtown Wichita. It was the primary atmospheric theater in the USA and options ornate Spanish Renaissance-style structure. The theater hosts a wide range of performances, together with live shows, movies, and theater productions, and is a cherished cultural landmark. “It’s very peaceful and I’ve taken lots of engagement and wedding photos there,” says native photographer Saindy Pyles. Botanica offers the proper colourful backdrop for particular images.
Methodology: The median dwelling sale worth and common month-to-month rental information is from the Redfin Information Heart. The Stroll Rating, Transit Rating and Bike Rating information is from Stroll Rating.