Exploration Place

About

Exploration Place sits along the banks of the Arkansas River in Wichita, Kansas, offering a dynamic science and discovery center that sparks curiosity in visitors of all ages. Since opening in 2000, it's become one of the state's top family-friendly destinations, blending education with genuine fun across multiple floors of interactive exhibits.

The museum features a wide range of hands-on experiences. The Kansas Aviation exhibit celebrates the state's deep roots in aircraft manufacturing, letting visitors try flight simulators and learn about aerospace history. The Medieval Faire area transports kids into a castle setting with building challenges and role-playing activities. There's also a dedicated area for toddlers and young children, designed with sensory play and early learning in mind.

One of the standout features is the CyberZone, where visitors can explore coding, robotics, and digital design through interactive stations. The Design Build Fly exhibit connects engineering concepts to real-world problem solving. Rotating exhibits keep things fresh, so repeat visits always bring something new.

Outside, the grounds along the river offer walking paths and green space, making it easy to pair a museum visit with some time outdoors. The location in downtown Wichita means restaurants and other attractions are close by.

Exploration Place also hosts a dome theater that shows large-format films on science, nature, and space topics. These immersive screenings are a highlight for many visitors and are included with some ticket packages.

The museum regularly runs special programming, camps, and events throughout the year. Birthday parties and group visits are popular options. Pricing is reasonable, and memberships offer good value for families planning multiple trips.

For anyone visiting Wichita, Exploration Place is worth a stop. It's the kind of place where kids lose track of time exploring, and adults find themselves just as engaged. Plan for at least two to three hours to see everything comfortably.

Accessibility

Exploration Place provides accessible parking spaces near the main entrance, with ramps leading into the building. The facility features elevator access between floors, ensuring wheelchair users and those with mobility challenges can reach all exhibit areas. Restrooms throughout the museum are wheelchair-accessible and ADA-compliant.

The museum's interactive exhibits are generally designed at varying heights, and many stations can be engaged from a seated position. The open floor plan on each level allows for easy movement with wheelchairs, scooters, and strollers. Pathways between exhibits are wide and free of steps.

The dome theater has accessible seating options. Visitors should ask staff about preferred seating when arriving for a showing.

For visitors with sensory sensitivities, the museum environment can be stimulating due to interactive sounds and lighting in certain exhibit areas. Some science centers of this type offer sensory-friendly hours with reduced noise and lighting - contact Exploration Place directly to ask about any scheduled sensory-friendly events or accommodations they may offer.

Staff members are available throughout the museum to assist visitors. The front desk can answer questions about specific accessibility needs upon arrival.

The outdoor areas along the river feature paved pathways that are generally accessible, though terrain and conditions may vary seasonally.

For the most current information on specific accommodations, assistive devices, or service animal policies, contact Exploration Place directly before your visit. Their team can help plan a comfortable experience tailored to your needs.

More accessible places in Kansas

• Botanica Wichita (Wichita)
• Wichita Art Museum (Wichita)
• Museum of World Treasures (Wichita)
• Great Plains Nature Center (Wichita)
• Sedgwick County Zoo (Wichita)
• Brown v. Board of Education National Historical Park (Topeka)