| Official name | City of Wichita |
| Type | City |
| Wichita skyline and Arkansas River | |
| State | Kansas |
| Country | United States |
| Established | 1868 |
| Population | 400,000 |
| Area (km²) | 423 |
| Time zone | Central (CST/CDT) |
| ZIP code(s) | 67201–67278 |
| Area code(s) | 316 |
Wichita is the largest city in the state of Kansas and a major center for aviation, industry, and innovation in the central United States. Known as the "Air Capital of the World," Wichita has a long history tied to aircraft manufacturing and continues to play a key role in the aerospace industry.
Overview
- Founded in the 1860s at a trading post along the Chisholm Trail
- Incorporated in 1870 and rapidly grew as a rail and cattle town
- Home to a thriving economy, arts scene, and strong educational institutions
History
- Began as a meeting place for Native American tribes
- Became a vital shipping point for Texas cattle in the late 19th century
- Evolved into a hub for aircraft production during WWII and beyond, earning its aviation nickname
Economy
- Major aerospace companies: Spirit AeroSystems, Textron Aviation (Cessna, Beechcraft), and Airbus
- Also home to Koch Industries, one of the largest privately held companies in the U.S.
- Diverse economy includes healthcare, manufacturing, tech, and higher education
Landmarks and Attractions
- **Exploration Place** – science and discovery museum
- **Sedgwick County Zoo** – nationally ranked zoo with over 3,000 animals
- **Old Cowtown Museum** – living history museum recreating the 1870s
- **Keeper of the Plains** – a 44-foot-tall statue honoring Native American heritage
- **Wichita Art Museum** and **Botanica Wichita**
Education
- Wichita State University – known for engineering, business, and innovation
- Friends University and Newman University also located in the city
- Strong public school system managed by USD 259
Culture
- Hosts the Wichita Riverfest, the largest festival in Kansas
- Known for its jazz history and cultural diversity
- Offers numerous local breweries, food trucks, and live music venues
Transportation
- Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport (ICT)
- Major highways: I-35 (Kansas Turnpike), US-54, and I-135
- Local bus service through Wichita Transit
Fun Facts
- Wichita is where Pizza Hut and White Castle were founded
- The first electric guitar was played here in 1932
- Often used as a test market for new fast-food products due to its demographic makeup