The Best Wildlife Experiences in Wichita, KS
Few activities marry education and entertainment quite like a visit to a local zoo. You can learn about some of the fascinating creatures that share the planet with us and add a taste of the extraordinary to your daily life.
Zoos have changed dramatically from the inhumane spectacles often erected in the past. Modern zoos focus on the preservation of endangered species, appropriately appointed animal enclosures, and educational opportunities for visitors. There are several unique places where you can have memorable wildlife experiences in Wichita, KS. The list below is a rundown of some of the best zoos and wildlife experiences in the area!
Kansas Wildlife Exhibit
The Kansas Wildlife Exhibit at the Great Plains Nature Center is part of a decades-long tradition of zoos in Wichita. Its location in Central Riverside Park at 700 Nims has been the site of a zoo or wildlife experience since 1901. The Central Riverside Zoo, originally established in this location, was the first zoo in Wichita.
The Wildlife Exhibit has existed in its current form since 1988. Visitors enjoy the chance to see over 25 species of native mammals, birds, and reptiles in naturalistic displays designed to support their health and comfort. Some of the animals in the Wildlife Exhibit are permanently injured, making the park a sanctuary for creatures who can't be released back into the wild.
It's certainly hard to beat the Kansas Wildlife Exhibit when it comes to convenience. The site is open year-round and does not charge an admission fee. However, if you start planning a visit, most people recommend coming around noon, when the animals receive their daily meals.
Tanganyika Wildlife Park
Tanganyika Wildlife Park has a well-earned reputation as one of the most interactive wildlife parks in the country. Located at 1000 South Hawkins Lane in Goddard, KS, the park features 9 animal feeding encounters and 16 unique experiences that allow you to get up close and personal with rare and endangered species from all over the world.
Ever wanted to swim with otters, feed a lion, or meet a family of pygmy hippos? You can do that and more at Tanganyika Wildlife Park, forming priceless memories along the way. Tickets are available in three separate tiers, but all of them come with unlimited meals, snacks, and drinks from their cafe, Luna's Canteen. You can also bask in the last few weeks of summer sun at Tanganyika Splash Park, a shaded pool area with three waterslides and a dancing fountain.
There's a lot to see and do at Tanganyika Wildlife Park, and the on-site team will help you get the most out of your outing by providing a schedule and a walkthrough of everything included with your ticket, so you don't have to worry about missing out on anything during your visit. Those wanting to swim with penguins, meet a pygmy hippo, or have a close encounter with a two-toed sloth typically need to book their special animal experiences in advance.
Sedgwick County Zoo
Sedgwick County Zoo doesn't provide a great wildlife experience to the Wichita, KS community just because of the animals they have on display. It's also because of how you can see them. Visitors can travel around the property on the Martha C. Buford Safari Express, an electric train where guests can get a guided tour of the zoo. The Conservation Cruise is another fun way to explore the park by floating along the river for about 15 minutes and witnessing some of the animals from a novel perspective.
Of course, the most important part of a wildlife experience is the wildlife itself. The Sedgwick County Zoo offers a wide range of animals to meet and interact with, including elephants, penguins, rhinos, stingrays, tortoises, and several equine species. The zoo also allows you to feed many of these animals through their Wild Encounters program.
Anyone looking to get more involved with the animals can sign up for volunteer work at the Sedgwick County Zoo. Tickets for single and multiple attractions are available for $5 and $20, with zoo members getting a discount on each. The Sedgwick County Zoo is an affordable option that provides opportunities for in-person encounters with incredible animals.
Diamond Springs Ranch
The spirit of the old Wild West lives on at Diamond Springs Ranch. The property at 1734 SE 96th St in Sedgwick, KS provides a vast, picturesque landscape for visitors to ride horses on hourly trail rides around the ranch. These trail rides give you the opportunity to take in the natural beauty of Kansas and spot some local cattle grazing in open pastures.
If you're a novice on horseback, the Ranch offers hour-long riding lessons for $50. In previous summers, the location has also been the site of a weeklong Horse Camp where beginners can build their skills and get more comfortable in the saddle. There’s also an incredible tree house available for rent for those who want to make it a multi-day experience!
Embark on Your Next Adventure From a High Point East Apartment
If you plan to head to see any of these wildlife experiences for yourself, it's easier to do so when you live in the region. In the Wichita area, there are few places that combine comfort, affordability, and luxury quite like High Point East Apartments.
Our location off I-35 in east Wichita gives our residents streamlined access to the best wildlife experiences in the city, in addition to all the other fun things you can do around Wichita. If you love animals, you may live with a few four-footed friends. We're proud to welcome dogs and cats at High Point East Apartments.
Every apartment in our community comes with central heat and air, a dishwasher, and a walk-in closet. You can also take advantage of communal amenities such as a swimming pool, fitness center, and an enclosed Bark Park that can bring you closer to your neighbors. Schedule a tour today to get a clearer picture of how High Point East takes home living to new heights.