Exploration Place is developing a 6.5-acre outdoor playscape along the Arkansas River, featuring a variety of play and learning elements, scheduled to open March 13, 2026. This new addition will include a Water Play Park, multiple Playgrounds, and unique experiences, such as the Exploration Place Outdoor Amphitheater, which offers views of the Keeper of the Plains and the Outdoor Aviation Park. The water play cascade is one of ten distinct play areas in this exciting outdoor space, just outsideExploration Place.
If you’ve driven by Exploration Place lately, you’ve probably noticed the big changes taking shape, including the Bison Hill area and the Textron Aviation Playscape. It’s a major addition for Wichita families and an exciting upgrade to an already-favorite local spot.
The best part? Admission to this beautiful outdoor play area is included with regular Exploration Place admission. There’s no separate upcharge just to enjoy the playscape. It’s free for members and also included with free admission programs like Sunflower Summer, Museums for All, Blue Star Museums, and library membership programs.
They aren’t planning any significant price increases tied to this addition either. It’s simply an added benefit to the Exploration Place Wichita families already know and love, more space to explore, climb, learn, and play, all under the same admission.
Playground Areas at Exploration Place:
Textron Aviation Flight Adventure– The aviation area might be my favorite. Kids can climb on a plane, explore a jet, and even make their way up a giant rocket with views over the river. It really leans into that Air Capital of the World vibe in a way that feels both educational and just plain fun.
Junior League Water Play Cascade – The water play area is not your typical splash pad. Kids actually move the water themselves with pumps and channels, which kept my attention just as much as the kids. It’s one of those spots where they can play forever and not even realize they’re learning something. Many of the pumps and water wheels require children and adults to work together to fully activate them, creating an engaging and educational environment for visitors of all ages.
Treetop Climber Foggy Flint Hills – There is also this really cool fog and hills area that feels totally different from anything else in Wichita. My girls would love running through it and exploring the tunnels while everything is misty around them.
Cargill Agriculture Overlook – I also love how they included a whole agriculture-themed area with a combine, oversized wheat, and even swings inspired by crop circles. It’s such a fun way to show what Kansas is all about.
Slide Hill – A progression of slides serves visitors of all ages, from gentle runs for the youngest children up to an 18-foot curved slide with sweeping views across the playscape and the Arkansas River.
Bison Hill – The giant bison structure is another highlight. It’s big, climbable, and just fun to explore, plus there are little camping-style areas nearby that make it feel like a Kansas adventure.
Sensory Garden – They also thought about quieter spaces, which I really appreciate. There is a sensory garden with musical elements, mirrors, and calming areas if kids need a break from all the excitement.
Sunflower Meadow – For younger kids, there is a sunflower-themed space just for them, which is nice if you have little ones who need something more their size.
Prairie Play Zip Line -Then you have the big adventure pieces like the treetop climbing area, zipline, and a huge slide hill. It really feels like there is something for everyone, regardless of age or energy level.
Playscape at Exploration Place
The playscape was thoughtfully designed to reflect Kansas in every detail. More than 40,000 plants, many of them native grasses and species, have been added throughout the space, along with 250 new trees for shade. Even the materials tie back to the region, with 500 tons of Flint Hills limestone used to create a true Kansas landscape feel. The project also focused on sustainability, using efficient irrigation and stormwater systems that actually reduce overall water usage, even with the added water features.
Accessibility was a priority from the start, with every area designed for all ages and abilities to enjoy. The entire project is part of a $25 million investment supported by hundreds of local donors, businesses, and organizations.
Memberships are also available and can quickly pay for themselves if you plan to visit more than a few times a year. I find it to be one of the best values in Wichita because it includes unlimited access to the museum, dome movies, and the playscape. It makes it easy to pop in for a quick visit or spend a full afternoon without worrying about the cost each time. For families who like to stay active and have go-to spots around town, it is definitely worth it.
Exploration Place brings new experiences that will inspire Wichita’s residents for generations to come, with ten new destinations to explore.
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