For many people, traveling and visiting new places is an exciting time. Some revel in the excitement of never-seen-before sights and sounds around every corner, while those with sensory needs may have a hard time coping with the unexpected. New experiences, crowds and noise can lead to sensory overload for some people with sensory processing disorders and other sensory needs.
There are a variety of resources available to assist those who have a sensory need or invisible disability – individuals with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), autism or dementia – just to name a few. One such resource is KultureCity. The organization offers an app and a website to help explorers find Sensory Inclusive™ Certified Locations. There are three in Wichita: Exploration Place, INTRUST Bank Arena and Sedgwick County Zoo. Let’s explore what each attraction has to offer.
Exploration Place
As Kansas’ premier science center, Exploration Place is home to a variety of engaging permanent and traveling exhibits, interactive adventures and a dome theater to watch fascinating films. There is also a Sensory Garden that features planter boxes and water features for a calming, hands-on experience. The garden also has a place to sit, relax and enjoy the view of the Arkansas River. Sensory bags are also available to borrow during your visit.
INTRUST Bank Arena
From sporting events such as Wichita Thunder hockey games and the 2025 Prevagen U.S. Figure Skating Championships to big concerts like Cody Jinks and Justin Timberlake, INTRUST Bank Arena is a great place to be entertained. But with the potential to hold thousands of people, the noise level can be pretty high. Through the KultureCity program, the arena offers a sensory room and sensory bags you can borrow – complete with noise-canceling headphones, fidget tools and more.
Sedgwick County Zoo
As one of the country’s top 10 largest zoos, Sedgwick County Zoo offers plenty of open-air space to explore. The zoo is home to more than 3,000 animals and nearly 400 species plus special, personalized experiences such as penguin encounters. The boat ride and tram tour also provide ways to sit back and take in unique views of the zoo. You’ll also find designated quiet areas where you can take a break throughout the zoo’s 250 acres and sensory bags are available to check out at the ticket windows. You can return it to the gift shop as you exit.
Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport
Recently, the Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport announced its participation in the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program, a global initiative aimed at providing support and assistance to travelers with hidden disabilities. The program enables individuals to discreetly indicate that they have a non-visible disability and may need additional assistance, understanding or more time. By wearing a Sunflower lanyard, pin, wristband or retractable Sunflower ID card, a traveler can communicate their needs without disclosing their specific condition, making their journey comfortable.
Jesse Romo, Director of Airports, said, “With this program we hope to ensure that individuals with invisible disabilities feel seen, supported and valued throughout their journey. And the fact that the sunflower is also our state flower, makes it a perfect fit for ICT.”
In addition to these certified locations, Wichita has a variety of other attractions, restaurants and sensory-friendly places to visit. For more ideas and to plan your visit to the Heart of the Country, take a look at our latest visitor guide.
(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by PostX News and is published from a syndicated feed.)
