Floatin’ on the River Kayak Events: Paddle & Dine

Summer is the perfect time of year to do some floatin’ on the river! In addition to its kayak rentals on the river, the City of Wichita Park & Recreation office will be offering a series of guided kayak floats along the Arkansas River this summer. This is your chance to paddle the Arkansas River and see iconic Wichita sights like the Keeper of the Plains and the downtown skyline from a new perspective.

What a treat it will be to enjoy the moonlight or the sunrise (depending on which tour you choose) on the water in Wichita.

You won’t need any equipment to participate – the fee will cover your rental. You also won’t need prior experience, because each float begins with a short training. (You will want to make sure you’re up for the exercise, because even though the float is leisurely, it’s still a strenuous activity that lasts a little over an hour.)

This is a great Family Event, or would be a great Date Night. The fee for the tours is $40-$50 and includes instruction and equipment rental. Some events include food, beverages & music. Space is limited, and pre-registration is required for the tours. Signed waivers are also required before you participate.

Kayak Floats on the Arkansas River

Sunset Kayak Tour

Watch the Kansas sky transform into brilliant colors as the sun sets behind downtown Wichita. After a short kayaking lesson, you’ll float toward the Keeper of the Plains for a photo op, then return to the Wichita Boathouse patio for a barbecue dinner and live, relaxing music.

• July 12, 6:45 – 9:15 pm
• July 18, 6:45 – 9:15 pm
• August 9, 6:45 – 9:15 pm
• September 12, 5:45 – 8:15 pm

Glow Tour

Experience kayaking under the stars! Decked out in glow sticks and lights, you’ll float in the moonlight toward the Keeper of the Plains. With luck, you’ll catch the lighting of the firepots, an unforgettable Wichita moment. Afterward, unwind with desserts and light snacks on the Boathouse patio.  (Note: The lighting of the firepots is subject to mechanical or weather issues and is not guaranteed to occur, but it’s fun when it does!)

• August 15, 7:30 – 10:15 pm
• August 23, 7:30 – 10:15 pm
• September 5, 7:30 – 10:15 pm
• September 26, 7:30 – 10:15 pm

Senior Kayak Tour (55+) 

Designed just for seniors! Take a calm, guided paddle toward the Keeper of the Plains after learning the basics of kayaking. If you’re not sure you can make it back on your own, no worries, the staff are ready to help. This peaceful outing ends with a BBQ dinner on the patio of the Wichita Boathouse.

• August 1, 6:00 – 8:45 pm

Kayak Tours Location: All tours depart from the kayak ramp located just south of the Wichita Boathouse, 515 S. Wichita St., Wichita, KS 67202.

Registration is required

Kayak Rentals

If the sunrise and sunset tour dates don’t work for you, the City also has Self-Serve Kayak Rentals.

Of course, the unpredictable Kansas weather could get in the way of the best plans, so since this is an outdoor activity, you’ll want to double-check that these kayak floats down the Arkansas River are still on if the weather looks iffy.

Make sure to check the City of Wichita Park and Recreation Facebook page for any updates!