Wichita is often called the “Air Capital of the World” due to the large presence of aviation and aeronautical companies in the city. Although the city today has many industries and much to see and do, the name stuck. Beyond being home to a thriving aeronautical industry, the city is a warm and welcoming place with a friendly, eclectic vibe and plenty to see, do and enjoy. Truly, Wichita is wonderful!
A Look at Wichita’s History
The area that is now the city of Wichita was initially founded in 1864, as a trading post located on the site of a village belonging to the Wichita Indians. In its first years, Wichita served as a stopover on cattle drives going from Abilene, Kansas and other cities westward. When the railroad eventually moved into the area in the late 1800s, the city became a major cattle shipping center. Today, Wichita remains known for its agriculture industry but also for its aircraft and aerospace industries, as well as other manufacturers. It is also home to several universities, and a thriving arts and culture scene, including a symphony orchestra and ballet company as well as several museums and performing arts centers. Even better, is also a city with a growing and thriving LGBTQ community, where all can feel welcome and at home.
A Few Fun Facts About Wichita
Read more fun facts about Wichita here.
Wichita’s LGBTQ Community
Wichita is a city that loves and supports its LGBTQ community with a variety of resources, including:
The Center of Wichita is a community center that strives to be a “place to call home” for Wichita’s LGBTQ community. Located in the heart of downtown Wichita, the Center works to accomplish this mission by providing education, advocacy, networking opportunities, and resources to Wichita’s LGBTQ community, friends, and allies.
PFLAG of South Central Kansas is the city's local chapter of the national PFLAG organization, which is the largest grassroots organization of its kind in the country. PFLAG is well-known for its mission of supporting LGBTQ people, friends, family, and allies across the country in a wide variety of ways. With 500 chapters and more than 200,000 members in the United States, PFLAG plays a critical and important role in providing advocacy, support, and resources to the LGBTQ community.
What's the Weather Like in Wichita?
Those who live in Wichita can expect temperatures that vary widely depending upon the season. Lows in January can average around 22°F with an average of 13 inches per snow to be expected, while highs in July can reach around 92°F. Spring and fall are typically the most pleasant seasons to enjoy the outdoors in Wichita, with temperatures generally being more mild and pleasant during these times of the year. Wichita receives an average of 34 inches of rain per year, and slightly more than the national average of sunny days.
The Best Events in Wichita
Wichita Pride is the city’s annual pride celebration for the LGBTQ community, and one of the state’s largest. The celebration is very popular each year, drawing big crowds who love the parades, parties, family-friendly activities, and many other events which are offered. You won’t want to miss your chance to join in the fun as well – it’s one celebration you want to be sure to put on your calendar!
Wichita is home to a thriving art and music community, as well as a growing filmmaking community, all of which are celebrated at the annual Tallgrass Film Festival. For 18 years running, this film festival has been showcasing some of the best and most inspiring films each year, and it is the biggest film festival in the state of Kansas. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy a show -or several- for yourself!
Where to Live in Wichita
Unlike some larger cities that have one particular “gayborhood” where most of the LGBTQ community lives, Wichita’s LGBTQ community is somewhat spread out across the city. This isn’t a bad thing though – it simply means that there are many wonderful neighborhoods to choose from. The downtown area is always a good choice as it is anchored by several unique neighborhoods nearby. Close to the downtown area or neighborhoods like College Hill Eastborough, and others, each with its own unique personality and character.
The median home price in the Wichita real estate market is currently in the mid-$100,000 range, which is considerably lower than the national average of around $210,000, making Wichita a very affordable place to live. Of course, there are also more expensive homes available in Wichita for those who are interested. Ultimately, whatever your price range, style-preference, and lifestyle needs, you can find a home to suit your tastes in Wichita!
Arts and Entertainment
The Wichita Art Museum is a stunning museum, one of the largest in the state of Kansas and with one of the most extensive collections of contemporary and historical works. For over 100 years, the museum’s collection has been inspiring, educating, and delighting visitors. You’ll definitely want to spend an afternoon (or many afternoons!) here yourself, enjoying all that it has to offer.
Music Theater Wichita is a summer musical theater company that has produced more than 200 Broadway scale productions since its founding in 1972. The center is known for its excellent productions and talented casts. In fact, there are music theater Wichita alumni in almost every Broadway production currently running. Don’t miss the chance to be delighted and entertained by one show (or many!) yourself!
Parks and Recreation
The Wichita Museum of World Treasures is a unique world history museum located in the heart of Wichita. It has many fascinating items on display, including one of the largest and most complete Tyrannosaurus Rex skeletons in the country, Egyptian mummies, a section of the Berlin Wall, and more. A visit to this unique and delightful museum is definitely a wonderful way to spend a day.
Botanica - The Wichita Gardens
The Botanica Community Gardens in Wichita is a wonderful place for visitors and residents alike to enjoy the stunning beauty of the outdoors on nearly 18 acres of botanical gardens. The gardens offer a wide range of botanical life from all over the world, as well as many outdoor art installations for visitors to enjoy. It also includes a butterfly garden, Shakespeare garden, and a rose and wildflower garden among other attractions.
Wichita Nightlife
Club Boomerang is one of the most popular and well-known gay bars in the city. It is known for being an easy-going place to enjoy beer, cocktails, and dancing, and it even offers a late-night breakfast buffet.
The Rain Café and Lounge is an LGBTQ bar with a global vibe in a lively pub setting. It is known for its patio bar, live music, and excellent selection of global bar eats and drinks. It’s a great stop on a night out in Wichita!
Contact a Wichita Gay Realtor Today
If you're ready to make a move to Wichita, at www.gayrealestate.com, we're here to help you take the first step toward finding an agent who knows and loves the community, and who can help you find a home and a neighborhood you'll love. We're proud to have a network of excellent realtors in Wichita, and we would love to help connect you with the right one. Contact a Wichita gay realtor today for a free, no-obligation consultation!
