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Wichita, Kansas

Relive the 1870s at Old Cowtown Museum, a 25-acre, outdoor living history center on the banks of the Big Arkansas River off the Chisholm Trail. Walk the wooden boardwalks to a recreated Old West cattle town. Of the 60 structures on grounds, 27 are considered original, historic buildings. The buildings provide an authentic backdrop for costumed staff to bring history to life for visitors. The Munger House is on the National Register of Historic Places.

Highlights of the 36 exhibits on the Museum's grounds include historic home tours, working blacksmith, carpentry and newspapers shops, 1880s farm, marshal's office, law office, church, one-room schoolhouse, general store, clothing store, saloon and cowboy camp. See Wichita's first jail ( or the "hoosegow" as it was known then). Visit a working farm, circa 1880, complete with longhorn cattle. Authentically costumed history interpreters on the grounds chat with visitors and provide a hands-on, educational experience.

There are 13,003 artifacts in Old Cowtown Museum's collections. The primary purpose of the collections is to furnish the exhibits in its historic buildings and to demonstrate life in Wichita, Sedgwick County and the Southern Plains during the period of 1865 to 1880. The Museum also has a growing collection of reproductions for the purpose of historical interpretation and demonstration. The historical collection encompasses historical documents and photographs, domestic items, textiles, agricultural items, trades items, scientific equipment and furniture. Our hands-on collection is similar to the historic collection yet most of the items are reproductions or from a later period.

Attractions and Upcoming Events

Ulrich Museum of Art

The Ulrich Museum of Art, an integral part of Wichita State University, was established in 1974 to enhance and support the university's educational and service mission. Since its founding, the museum has served as Wichita?

Wichita, KS Arts

Botanica-The Wichita Gardens

Come and discover a place to revive your senses. At the end of Museum Boulevard, insulated from city bustle, you'll experience an unfamiliar calm. It is a complete sensory experience. What jars the senses fully awake is the array of color. Nearly 10

Wichita, KS Museums

City Arts

Located in the heart of Old Town on Old Town Plaza, CityArts is a center for artistic creation and appreciation. See the best of local and regional art in one of Wichita's largest exhibition galleries. At CityArts you can develop your own creativity as well!

Wichita, KS Arts

Old Cowtown Museum Complex

Relive the 1870s at Old Cowtown Museum, a 25-acre, outdoor living history center on the banks of the Big Arkansas River off the Chisholm Trail. Walk the wooden boardwalks to a recreated Old West cattle town. Of the 60 structures on grounds, 27

Wichita, KS Museums

Aley Mansion

The Aley Mansion was built in 1887 by William Henry Sternberg and is notable for its high-style Queen Anne Architecture. The home's prior occupants and history is well documented as are the works of W.H. Sternberg who not only built the Aley Mansion but built buildings across the country (

Wichita, KS Historic Homes

Things to do near Wichita, KS