I recently had the pleasure of attending the TBX Summit in Wichita, Kansas—a city proudly known as The Air Capital of the World. With its deep aviation roots, creative food scene, and warm Midwest welcome, Wichita proved to be a destination full of surprises.
More About Wichita’s Aviation History
Wichita’s reputation as the Air Capital of the World didn’t happen by chance—it was built over a century of innovation, risk-taking, and craftsmanship. The city’s aviation story began in the early 1910s but took off in the 1920s when pioneers like Clyde Cessna, Walter Beech, and Lloyd Stearman set up shop on the Kansas prairie. Wichita became home to the “Big Three” manufacturers—Cessna, Beechcraft, and Stearman—which laid the groundwork for modern general aviation.
During World War II, Wichita’s factories produced thousands of aircraft, including the famous B-29 Superfortress, turning the city into one of the nation’s most critical aviation hubs. After the war, Wichita continued to grow as a powerhouse in aircraft manufacturing and design, eventually producing more than 250,000 aircraft—more than any other city in the world. Today, aviation remains deeply embedded in Wichita’s identity, with major companies still building planes and museums preserving its rich legacy.
Exploring Wichita’s Aviation Legacy
You can trace this history at the Kansas Aviation Museum, located beside McConnell Air Force Base. The museum’s energetic curator, Ben Sauceda, brings the exhibits to life, offering visitors an inside look at Wichita’s contributions to aviation.
A highlight of my trip was a tour of Textron, one of Wichita’s major aircraft manufacturers. I had the rare chance to step inside a brand-new aircraft that hadn’t yet been delivered to its client. Walking through each phase of the assembly process—from avionics to interior finishes—was mesmerizing and showed just how detailed and precise aircraft construction truly is.
Don’t Miss the Drone Show at Exploration Place
If you’re in Wichita, make time for the daily drone show at Exploration Place. This free outdoor performance is nothing short of extraordinary. You can watch from outside the museum, but plan to arrive early. It’s an innovative nod to Wichita’s future in aviation and tech.
Another highlight of Wichita was learning about the NIAR program on a tour at Wichita State University. They gifted us with a drone model that they 3D printed. Amazing what the students learn here in preparation for working in the tech world. This was an incredible behind-the-scenes tour.
A Sweet Stop: Cocoa Dolce & The Nifty Nut House
Wichita also delights in unexpected ways—like chocolate. At Cocoa Dolce, we toured the behind-the-scenes operations to see chocolatiers at work. From creating ganache to forming their signature treats, the entire process was fascinating. Sampling their flavors was a highlight, and I absolutely left with a bag of goodies.
Nearby, the legendary Nifty Nut House awaits—a vintage candy and nut shop that’s a Wichita institution. With shelves packed full of chocolates, nuts, nostalgic candies, and treats you didn’t even know you wanted, it’s a must-visit spot.
Culinary Creativity at Mark Arts
Our group enjoyed a hands-on lunch experience at Mark Arts, an art gallery that also features a culinary arts program. Wichita’s restaurant scene has strong Mexican influences, so we rolled up our sleeves and cooked a Mexican-inspired meal together. Working with colleagues—debating who chopped, stirred, or seasoned—made it all the more fun.
A Morning of Glassblowing
We began our day at a Karg Art Glass, a local glassblowing studio. I’ve always admired glassblowing, but trying it firsthand gave me a whole new appreciation. The artist guided us through the process and created something unique for each of us. It was a beautiful and memorable way to start the day.
More About Wichita
Wichita is Kansas’s largest city and offers a vibrant blend of history, culture, and innovation. While it’s famously known for aviation, Wichita offers much more. Its revitalized downtown features murals, public art, boutique shops, and inviting restaurants that showcase the city’s creative side. The iconic Keeper of the Plains—a 44-foot steel sculpture at the confluence of the Big and Little Arkansas Rivers—is one of the most photographed spots in the Midwest and honors the area’s Native American heritage.
Nature lovers can enjoy riverfront trails, lush parks, and well-known attractions, including the Sedgwick County Zoo and Botanica Wichita. With friendly locals, vibrant neighborhoods like Old Town, and a welcoming atmosphere everywhere you go, Wichita is a city that surprises and delights.
Where to Stay in Wichita
My go-to lodging is the Hyatt Regency on the River Walk. The hotel offers great service, convenient parking, and easy access to Wichita’s best sights—including the Keeper of the Plains and Exploration Place. Here is a video of one of the rooms.
Local Eats: Doo Dah Diner and Spangles
Food lovers should try Doo Dah Diner for hearty breakfasts or lunches, and Spangles, a Wichita favorite, for a classic burger or a quick bite.
Why Wichita Should Be on Your Travel List
Wichita is a vibrant small city with a big personality. It boasts a lively downtown, numerous museums, excellent dining, and a rich aviation legacy you won’t find anywhere else. The airport is easily accessible via daily flights nationwide, and the people embody genuine Midwest hospitality.
I’ve visited Wichita several times, and each trip reinforces the same feeling: this is a city that treats you well.
Whether you come for aviation history, culinary surprises, creative arts, or family-friendly fun, Wichita won’t disappoint—any time of year.
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