Wonders of Wichita

We begin this month's adventure at the gateway to Wichita, a bustling Kansas metropolis where serene settings of spiritual respite are as important to the town's success as its strong economy.

At the confluence of the Little and Big Arkansas Rivers, in the heart of Wichita, no more dramatic welcome could be imagined than that of the majestic Keeper of the Plains in proud silhouette against the blue and gold of the evening sky. The recently renovated 44 foot tall sculpture created by Blackbear Bosin has been lifted 30 feet above its original location and is now facing east as the designer originally intended.

The Keeper is surrounded by a ring of fire and at the Keeper Plaza a "sacred hoop" incorporating earth, air, fire and water--core elements of life--commemorates the local Native American history. The addition of bike and jogging paths along both sides of the Arkansas River and two artistic pedestrian suspension bridges add to the beauty and accessibility of this landmark.

Those of us taking this "cruise" have already made reservations to return to Wichita in May so we can be on hand for the re-dedication of The Keeper of the Plains and the much touted nine-day Wichita River Festival. (www.wichitariverfestival.org)

This year marks the onset of even more notable additions to the already fantastic list of attractions in the Wichita area. Not the least of which is the grand opening of the world's first western theme park--Wild West World. You can feel the excitement as you walk the Old West Boardwalks of this amusement park with "100 great adventures" from thrilling roller coasters to shooting galleries to musical concerts at the Johnny Western Theater. (www.wildwestworld.net)

Even more family fun can be had this year at the beautiful Sedgwick County Zoo as they prepare to introduce their latest display, the Cessna Penguin Exhibit. Ten pairs of Humboldt Penguins, the kind found only along the Pacific coast of Chile and Peru, are the well-dressed stars of this interesting show. (www.scz.org)

Don't miss experiencing the Virtual Codex Atlanticus of Leonardo da Vinci at Exploration Place this summer. A laudable example of science and entertainment, Exploration Place has brought to the public this most amazing collection of Leonardo's manuscripts. Over 1,750 drawings on some 1,119 pages have been transformed into an interactive book where his remarkable drawings "come to life" and visitors can actually witness how his mechanical inventions work.(www.exploration.org)

The Wonders of Wichita never cease. Take a minute to contact www.visitwichita.com for more information about lodging options and upcoming events.

Editor's note: Susen Foster is the owner of Greater Success Advertising and the author of a series of travel books including the upcoming Inns & Wineries of America's Heartland. She can be reached at info@greatersuccess.com or call 580-622-5408.

C

5

4/16/07

None

Date: 4/10/07

	Web hpj.com

Copyright/Privacy
Copyright 1995-2008.  High Plains Publishers, Inc.  All rights reserved.  Any republishing of these pages, including electronic reproduction of the editorial archives or classified advertising, is strictly prohibited. If you have questions or comments you can reach us at High Plains Journal 1500 E. Wyatt Earp Blvd., P.O. Box 760, Dodge City, KS 67801 or call 1-800-452-7171. Email: webmaster@hpj.com