Exploration Place
Exploration Place stands as Kansas' premier science and discovery center, boasting interactive exhibits, daily live science shows and films in the state's largest dome theater, all designed to spark a deeper interest in science and technology for visitors of all ages. Located in the scenic Museums on the River district, this unique attraction offers creative and engaging experiences that await eager explorers!
Must-See Exhibits & Immersive Experiences
Exploration Place exhibits make science fun and hands-on, from the dozen permanent sections to a rotation of traveling exhibitions—Legos, dinosaurs, superheroes and more. “Design Build Fly," a one-of-a-kind exhibit, takes visitors behind the scenes in Wichita’s aircraft plants and lets you test landing gear, rivet a wing and simulate flying a private jet, among other activities.
At other popular permanent exhibits, you can learn about medieval life while climbing through a three-story castle, play carnival games with a health twist and experience extreme wind conditions in their tornado booth.
Live science shows are performed multiple times each day, and The Dome has a daily lineup of science and nature films viewed on an immersive, 60-foot screen with 360-degree views and booming surround sound.
Keep an eye on Exploration Place events for special experiences ranging from family sleepovers to adult-only themed parties. Each fall, the museum hosts an outdoor Drone Light Festival over the Arkansas River. The Dome hosts seasonal screenings of popular movies and has been one of several screening sites for Wichita’s annual Tallgrass Film Festival.
Amenities & Accessibility
Don’t miss walking around the exterior of the stunning 100,000-square-foot building designed by internationally acclaimed architect Moshe Safdie and built for Exploration Place to incorporate the riverfront. A 1,500-seat, open-air amphitheater is scheduled to open in Fall 2024 and an adventure playground is set to debut in Fall 2025.
Exploration Place has a well-stocked gift shop and a snack bar with indoor and outdoor seating. All areas of the building and exhibits are ADA-accessible.
Hours, Ticketing & Parking
Exploration Place is open daily; check their website for current hours and special events. Parking is free.
Ticket options range from all-access passes or exhibits-only general admission to annual memberships. Dome tickets may be purchased separately and do not require museum admission.
Spending a few hours or the entire day at Exploration Place puts you in the center of Wichita's Museums on the River district. Nearby, a selection of restaurants, hotels, and other attractions ensure a memorable stay in the Heart of the Country.
