Wichita travel guide

Wichita travel guide

National Airports

Wichita has one main commercial airport and several smaller airports for general aviation. The commercial airport is:

Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport (ICT): This is the largest and busiest airport in the Wichita area, serving over 1.6 million passengers annually. It has nonstop flights to several major cities in the United States, including Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Houston, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Phoenix, and more.

The smaller airports in Wichita area are:

Colonel James Jabara Airport (AAO): This airport is located in northeast Wichita and primarily serves general aviation and charter flights.

Beech Factory Airport (BEC): This airport is located in northwest Wichita and is primarily used for general aviation and private aircraft.

Wichita Cessna Aircraft Field (CEA): This airport is located in southeast Wichita and primarily serves as a testing and manufacturing facility for Cessna Aircraft.

Westport Airport (FOE): This airport is located in east Wichita and primarily serves general aviation and charter flights.

Overall, Wichita has a range of airports to accommodate various aviation needs, from commercial flights to private aircraft.

Trains in Wichita

Wichita does not have passenger train service at this time. The nearest Amtrak station is in Newton, Kansas, which is approximately 25 miles north of Wichita. The station is served by the Southwest Chief route, which runs between Chicago and Los Angeles with stops in several cities along the way.

However, there are plans to bring passenger rail service back to Wichita in the near future. The Kansas Department of Transportation is currently studying the feasibility of a passenger rail line that would connect Wichita with Oklahoma City and possibly other cities in the region. This project is still in the planning stages, and it may be several years before passenger trains return to Wichita.

Buses in Wichita

Wichita Transit is the primary public transportation system in Wichita, and it operates a fleet of buses that serve the city and surrounding areas. The bus system includes fixed-route buses that run on a regular schedule, as well as paratransit services for individuals with disabilities who are unable to use regular buses.

Wichita Transit operates over 50 fixed routes throughout the city, with buses running from early morning until late at night. Fares are affordable, with single-ride tickets and daily, weekly, and monthly passes available for purchase. There are also discounts for seniors, students, and individuals with disabilities.

In addition to regular bus service, Wichita Transit operates a free trolley service called Q-Line, which runs along a route through downtown Wichita. The trolley runs on a continuous loop, stopping at popular destinations like the Old Town entertainment district, the Intrust Bank Arena, and the Keeper of the Plains statue.

Overall, Wichita Transit provides a convenient and affordable way to get around the city, with a range of services to accommodate different needs and schedules.

How to get to Wichita

There are several ways to get to Wichita, depending on your starting location and travel preferences. Here are some options:

By Air: Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport (ICT) is the primary commercial airport serving the Wichita area. It has nonstop flights to several major cities in the United States, including Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Houston, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Phoenix, and more. Alternatively, travelers can fly into other airports in the region, such as Kansas City International Airport (MCI) or Tulsa International Airport (TUL), and then drive or take a connecting flight to Wichita.

By Car: Wichita is located in south-central Kansas and is easily accessible by car via several major highways, including I-35, I-135, and US-54. The city is approximately a 3-hour drive from Kansas City, 3.5 hours from Oklahoma City, and 5 hours from Dallas.

By Bus: Greyhound Bus Lines and Jefferson Lines both operate bus service to Wichita from various cities in the region, including Kansas City, Oklahoma City, and Dallas. The Wichita Transit bus system also provides local and regional bus service throughout the city and surrounding areas.

By Train: While Wichita currently does not have passenger train service, travelers can take Amtrak to nearby Newton, Kansas, and then connect to Wichita by bus or rental car.

Overall, Wichita is a easily accessible destination with multiple transportation options available.

What is the best time to travel to Wichita

The best time to travel to Wichita depends on your preferences and what you want to do while you’re there. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect during different seasons:

Spring (March to May): Spring in Wichita is generally mild with temperatures ranging from the 50s to the 70s (Fahrenheit). This is a good time to visit if you want to avoid the heat of summer and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and visiting local parks and gardens.

Summer (June to August): Summer in Wichita can be hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching into the 90s (Fahrenheit). This is peak tourist season, and there are many outdoor festivals, events, and activities happening throughout the city. If you enjoy outdoor activities like swimming, boating, and outdoor concerts, this is a great time to visit.

Fall (September to November): Fall in Wichita is mild with temperatures ranging from the 50s to the 70s (Fahrenheit). The fall foliage is beautiful, and there are several fall festivals and events happening throughout the city. This is also a good time to visit if you want to avoid the summer crowds.

Winter (December to February): Winter in Wichita is cold with temperatures ranging from the 20s to the 40s (Fahrenheit). However, there are still plenty of indoor activities and events happening, such as holiday celebrations and indoor museums and attractions. This is also a good time to visit if you want to take advantage of lower hotel rates and fewer crowds.

Overall, the best time to travel to Wichita depends on what you want to do and what type of weather you prefer. If you plan ahead and choose a season that suits your preferences, you’re sure to have a great time in Wichita.

How to get around Wichita

There are several ways to get around Wichita, depending on your preferences and needs. Here are some options:

Car Rental: Renting a car is a convenient way to get around Wichita and the surrounding area. There are several car rental companies located at Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport, and you can also find rental locations throughout the city. However, be aware that parking in some areas of the city can be limited, and rush hour traffic can be heavy.

Public Transportation: Wichita Transit is the primary public transportation system in Wichita, and it operates a fleet of buses that serve the city and surrounding areas. The bus system includes fixed-route buses that run on a regular schedule, as well as paratransit services for individuals with disabilities who are unable to use regular buses.

Ride-Sharing Services: Uber and Lyft both operate in Wichita, providing on-demand ride-sharing services throughout the city.

Biking: Wichita has a network of bike lanes and trails, making it a bike-friendly city. You can bring your own bike or rent one from a local bike shop. The Wichita Transit system also has bike racks on many of its buses, allowing you to combine biking with public transportation.

Walking: Many areas of Wichita are pedestrian-friendly, particularly downtown and in the Old Town entertainment district. Walking is a great way to explore these areas and get some exercise at the same time.

Overall, there are several ways to get around Wichita, and the best option depends on your preferences and needs.

Accommodations in Wichita

Wichita offers a wide range of accommodations to suit different preferences and budgets. Here are some options to consider:

Hotels: Wichita has a variety of hotels, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury properties. Many of the major hotel chains are represented in the city, as well as some independent hotels. Some of the most popular areas for hotels include downtown Wichita, near the airport, and in the east side of the city.

Bed and Breakfasts: If you prefer a more personalized experience, there are several bed and breakfasts located in Wichita. These properties often offer unique and charming accommodations, along with breakfast included in the room rate.

Vacation Rentals: There are several vacation rental options available in Wichita, including apartments, houses, and condos. These can be a good choice if you’re traveling with a group or if you want more space and amenities than a hotel room.

Hostels: Wichita has a few hostels available for budget-minded travelers. These typically offer dormitory-style rooms and shared common areas, and are a good choice if you don’t mind sharing space with other travelers.

Campgrounds: If you enjoy camping, there are several campgrounds located in and around Wichita. These offer a more rustic and natural experience, and may be a good choice if you’re traveling with an RV or camper.

Overall, Wichita offers a variety of accommodations to suit different preferences and budgets. It’s a good idea to book in advance, especially during peak tourist season, to ensure availability and the best rates.