Wichita, Kansas Wheelchair Travel Guide

Wichita, Kansas, often referred to as the “Air Capital of the World,” is a dynamic city with a rich aviation history, vibrant cultural scene, and welcoming Midwestern charm. While it may not be the first city that comes to mind for accessibility, Wichita offers a variety of wheelchair-friendly attractions, accommodations, transportation, and dining options worth exploring.

Accessible Attractions

• Sedgwick County Zoo: One of the most accessible zoos in the Midwest. The flat terrain and paved paths make it easy to navigate in a wheelchair. Accessible parking and restrooms are available, and wheelchairs can be rented on-site. Highlights include the Downing Gorilla Forest and the immersive Tropics exhibit.
• Botanica Wichita: This stunning botanical garden features accessible paths that lead to beautiful themed gardens such as the Butterfly House and Shakespeare Garden. Wheelchairs are available for visitors, and the facility includes accessible restrooms.
• Museum of World Treasures: Located in Wichita’s Old Town, this museum is fully wheelchair accessible, featuring elevators and ramps. It houses exhibits ranging from fossils and ancient artifacts to modern history collections.
• Exploration Place: Wichita’s science and discovery center is a hit for all ages, with hands-on exhibits and accessible pathways throughout. The outdoor Exploration Park and the castle-inspired architecture are equally accessible.
• Old Town District: This historic district has cobblestone streets and a mix of flat, accessible sidewalks. Many restaurants and shops in Old Town offer wheelchair access. Accessible parking is available throughout the area.
• Keeper of the Plains: The iconic Keeper of the Plains statue, located at the confluence of the Arkansas and Little Arkansas Rivers, is surrounded by accessible pathways and bridges. Visit at dusk for the “Ring of Fire” lighting ceremony.
• Arkansas River Path: This scenic 10-mile trail is mostly paved and offers stunning views of the river. The flat surface makes it wheelchair-friendly for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Great Plains Nature Center: Explore Wichita’s natural beauty through accessible trails and an informative visitor center. The paved paths make it easy to enjoy the Kansas wildlife.

Accommodations

• Hotel at Old Town: Accessible rooms are equipped with roll-in showers featuring grab bars, shower seats, and adjustable shower wands. Standard beds with adjusted heights are available; specific details can be confirmed directly with the hotel. Located in a historic building in Old Town, this hotel combines vintage charm with modern accessibility.
• Drury Plaza Hotel Broadview Wichita: Rooms feature roll-in showers and grab bars in ADA-compliant bathrooms. Options include one king or two queen beds; standard accessibility features ensure ease of use. Overlooking the Arkansas River, this hotel provides historic elegance with modern amenities.
• Hyatt Regency Wichita: Roll-in showers and grab bars are available in accessible rooms. Spacious and accessible layouts cater to guests with mobility needs. This centrally located hotel connects to the Century II Performing Arts & Convention Center and offers stunning river views.

Transportation

• Wichita Transit Fixed-Route Bus Service: All buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts or ramps, facilitating easy boarding and alighting for passengers using mobility aids. Designated seating areas are available for individuals with disabilities. Drivers announce major bus stops and street intersections to assist passengers with visual impairments. Service Hours: Monday through Friday: 5:30 AM to 7:30 PM, Saturday: 6:00 AM to 6:30 PM
• Paratransit Services: Designed for individuals who cannot independently use fixed-route buses due to disabilities. Accessible vans provide shared rides on demand within the city limits.
• Guardian Medical Transportation: Offers ADA-compliant wheelchair and non-ambulatory passenger services.
• Personal Assist Transit: Provides executive transportation with wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
• Timber Lines Accessible Transportation: Focuses on medical transportation with accessible vans for local residents.
• MobilityWorks: Offers short and long-term wheelchair-accessible van rentals with retractable tie-downs.
• Uber offers wheelchair-accessible vehicles (WAV) through its Uber Health platform. Availability may vary, so confirm via the app or support.

Dining

• The Anchor: A wheelchair-accessible gastropub in the Old Town area, known for its delicious burgers and craft beer selection.
• HomeGrown Wichita: A breakfast favorite with accessible entrances and seating.
• Doo-Dah Diner: A casual spot serving classic comfort food, with wheelchair-friendly facilities.