Exploration Place
A playful science museum featuring interactive exhibits, dinosaur models, a planetarium, and spectacular drone light shows.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Exploration Place
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A playful science museum featuring interactive exhibits, dinosaur models, a planetarium, and spectacular drone light shows.
"Great on a rainy or too hot day. Toddler friendly and ASD toddler friendly."
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save time and potentially money by purchasing Exploration Place tickets online in advance.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be doing a lot of exploring, so wear comfy shoes! Especially if you plan to visit the park areas.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Drone Light Festival
Arkansas River
Mesmerizing synchronized drones create stunning formations and light shows over the river.
Interactive Exhibits
Museum Galleries
Engage with a variety of hands-on displays, from dinosaur models to science experiments.
Boeing Dome Theater & Planetarium
Dome Theater
Experience immersive shows and explore the cosmos in this state-of-the-art planetarium.
Steam Engine Train Ride
Museum Grounds
Enjoy a charming ride on a historic steam engine train, a hit with all ages.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit: Timing is Key
Adventure Playground Sneak Peek
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save time and potentially money by purchasing Exploration Place tickets online in advance.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be doing a lot of exploring, so wear comfy shoes! Especially if you plan to visit the park areas.
📱 Check the Calendar
Look for special events like drone show Exploration Place or Exploration Place summer camps on their official calendar.
👶 Toddler & ASD Friendly
The museum is noted as being very welcoming for toddlers and children with ASD.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save time and potentially money by purchasing Exploration Place tickets online in advance.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be doing a lot of exploring, so wear comfy shoes! Especially if you plan to visit the park areas.
📱 Check the Calendar
Look for special events like drone show Exploration Place or Exploration Place summer camps on their official calendar.
👶 Toddler & ASD Friendly
The museum is noted as being very welcoming for toddlers and children with ASD.
💡 Readability Tips
Some exhibits may have low lighting or dark backgrounds, making text hard to read. Bring a small flashlight if needed.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Exploration Place is generally well-regarded, especially for its family-friendly atmosphere and interactive exhibits. Visitors appreciate the engaging displays, the planetarium shows, and the upcoming adventure playground. However, some reviews mention issues with exhibit lighting and readability, and a few feel it's less engaging for older children.
"I had a few hours free in PG, and always like to visit museums so I stopped in. The museum is gears more towards kids, and is smaller which is normal for a regional one. But it was still worth a stop.
The exhibits were varied with some interesting topics and information. However they need to work a bit more on readability as there was several areas too poorly lit to read the information signs. Also in Place of Learning the choice of black lettering on a dark brown background makes for difficult readability.
Staff are very friendly and helpful, there is a lovely area to sit and drink a coffee from their cafe and a small gift shop. It was very quiet on a Friday morning and I spent about 1.5 hours, including stopping for a drink.
I would recommend a visit if you have free time especially if you have younger kids."
Malcolm Gray
"Honestly this place has gone severely downhill. Although they updated the inside they took out the funnest area of the museum and replaced it with chairs and tables. Definitely not worth the price for kids over like 6"
Jessika Kelsi
"We just had a birthday party here for my son and it was awesome! The new area for kids is so cool. The kids were so busy and had so much fun. The staff was amazing. I didn't catch the one gentleman's name but he is definitely an asset for the museum. Really good value and all the free passes for the kids was a really nice add-on. Thank you so much!"
Jocelyn Walker
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Exploration Place is located in Wichita, Kansas. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available on-site. Public transportation options may also be available; check local transit schedules for routes serving the museum.
Yes, ample parking is available at Exploration Place. It's recommended to arrive a bit early, especially during peak times or special events, to secure a good spot.
Exploration Place is situated near the Arkansas River, making it accessible for walkers and cyclists. There are often bike racks available.
From downtown Wichita, Exploration Place is a short drive or a pleasant walk along the riverfront. Consider a rideshare service if you prefer not to drive.
Information on public transport routes serving Exploration Place can be found on the Wichita Transit website. It's always best to check current schedules.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices for Exploration Place can vary. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date Exploration Place prices and admission details. Look for potential Exploration Place discount codes or Exploration Place coupon offers online.
While not always mandatory, purchasing Exploration Place tickets in advance is recommended, especially for popular events like the drone show Exploration Place, to guarantee entry and potentially save time.
The Exploration Place hours typically vary by season and day of the week. Always check their official website for the most current operating hours before your visit.
Yes, Exploration Place membership options are available, which can offer benefits like free admission and discounts. This is a great option for frequent visitors.
While general admission usually requires a ticket, check for any special free admission days or community events that might be announced. Membership also provides free entry.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Highlights include the dinosaur models, interactive science exhibits, the Boeing Dome Theater & Planetarium, and the steam engine train ride. The new adventure playground opening in 2026 is also highly anticipated.
Absolutely! Exploration Place is very family-friendly, with many interactive exhibits designed for children of all ages. It's noted as being toddler and ASD friendly.
The Boeing Dome Theater & Planetarium Exploration Place offers immersive shows about space and science. It's a fantastic way to learn and be entertained.
Yes, Exploration Place has outdoor areas, including park spaces along the Arkansas River. The upcoming adventure playground will be a significant outdoor attraction.
Yes, photography is generally allowed for personal use. However, flash photography might be restricted in certain areas or during shows. Check for specific guidelines.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Exploration Place has a cafe where you can purchase snacks, drinks, and light meals. It's a convenient spot to refuel during your visit.
Outside food and beverages may be permitted in designated areas, but it's best to check the museum's policy on their website or inquire at the entrance.
The area around Exploration Place offers various dining options, from casual eateries to more formal restaurants, especially if you venture slightly further into downtown Wichita.
The cafe typically offers a selection of snacks, coffee, and light fare suitable for a museum visit. Specific menus can change seasonally.
The cafe usually has standard kid-friendly options like snacks and simple beverages. For more specific dietary needs, bringing your own snacks might be a good idea.
📸 📸 Photography
The Arkansas Riverfront offers great views, especially during the drone show Exploration Place. The museum's architecture and interactive exhibits also make for interesting shots. 
Tripod usage might be restricted, especially during busy periods or in crowded exhibit areas. It's advisable to check the museum's photography policy.
While drone shows are a highlight, personal drone usage may be restricted due to safety and privacy concerns. Always check local regulations and museum policies.
Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer lighting. For the drone shows, evening events provide the most dramatic photo opportunities.
Yes, photos of the dinosaur models are generally permitted for personal use. They are popular subjects for Exploration Place photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Don't miss the steam engine train ride, which is always a hit with younger visitors. The museum is noted for being toddler and ASD friendly, making it a welcoming environment for diverse needs. 🚀 Science & Tech Enthusiasts
Day-Trippers & Tourists
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Drone Light Shows
+1 The shows are often part of special festivals or events, offering a unique and modern entertainment experience that blends technology with artistry. Visitors rave about the visual spectacle, making it a must-see attraction for those visiting during an event. Planning your visit around one of these drone show Exploration Place events is highly recommended for an unforgettable experience.These drone shows are not just visually stunning; they represent a cutting-edge approach to public entertainment. The precision and creativity involved in choreographing hundreds of drones create a mesmerizing ballet of light. It's a testament to innovation and a popular draw for both locals and tourists looking for something extraordinary. The Exploration Place drone show is frequently highlighted in visitor photos and videos, underscoring its impact.
When attending a drone show Exploration Place, consider arriving early to secure a good viewing spot along the riverfront. The best vantage points offer unobstructed views of the sky. Check the Exploration Place calendar for scheduled dates and times, as these are special events and not part of regular daily admission. The experience is often described as magical and awe-inspiring, making it a highlight for many visitors.
Family Fun: The New Adventure Playground
The playground is designed to encourage climbing, discovery, and engaging play, making it a significant new draw for families visiting the museum.This expansion signifies Exploration Place's commitment to providing diverse and engaging experiences for younger visitors. The focus on themed areas suggests a rich environment where children can immerse themselves in imaginative play. Parents can look forward to a safe and stimulating space for their kids to burn energy and create lasting memories. The anticipation for this new addition is palpable, with sneak peeks suggesting it will be a major highlight.
The playground is expected to be a fantastic addition for all ages, with features catering to various developmental stages. It's designed to be a place where kids can truly let loose and explore. Keep an eye on Exploration Place announcements for updates on the playground's progress and its grand opening. This development is set to enhance the already family-friendly reputation of the museum.
Exploring the Exhibits: From Dinosaurs to Space
A significant attraction is the Boeing Dome Theater & Planetarium. Here, visitors can embark on journeys through the cosmos, experiencing immersive shows that explore the mysteries of space and the universe.
While the exhibits are generally well-received, some visitors have noted that certain areas could benefit from improved lighting for better readability of information panels.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit