Blog

Wichita might be the largest city in Kansas, but you don't have to travel very far to find some exceptional wildlife. Check out these four animal-based attractions in the area if you want to trade the urban jungle for something a little wilder, even if it's only for the day. Sedgwick County Zoo Be sure to visit Wichita's most popular animal attraction, the Sedgwick County Zoo. This large facility is comprised of several different exhibits, all of which are themed after regions of the world. You can visit the Africa exhibit to see gorillas, lions, and elephants, or you can head over to the zoo's Asia habitat to see tapirs, tigers, and the adorable red panda. more The Sedgwick County Zoo also offers learning programs for different age groups, from early childhood all the way to senior citizens. You can purchase a daily ticket for about $15 or a year-long membership for about $100. Great Plains Nature Center Treat yourself to a day of environmental education by going to the Great Plains Nature Center. The main attraction here is The Koch Habitat Hall, a museum exhibit that showcases the American prairie ecosystem. The hall also has an aquarium, as well as wetland and woodland exhibits. Join one of the facility's trips into the local wilderness, where naturalists will help you discover smaller regional wildlife such as snakes, frogs, and butterflies. Whether you want to attend a specific educational program at the center or just browse its exhibits, you're sure to have a fun and informative trip. Tanganyika Wildlife Park Visit this third-largest animal collection in the state to go on a truly wild adventure. This is a family-owned zoo named after the African country of Tanzania. Naturally, there are plenty of African animals on display here. You'll see pygmy hippos, giraffes, cheetahs, and mandrills. The zoo also offers close encounters and interactive exhibits with animals such as lemurs and Indian rhinoceroses. Tanganyika Wildlife Park acts as a responsible caretaker of its animals by maintaining certification with the American Humane Conservation Program and providing its animals with enriched lives and the highest level of care. The facility is located in Goddard, just west of Wichita. Chaplin Nature Center You'll find this charming nature facility just an hour south of central Wichita. Owned and operated by the Wichita Audubon Society, this is a place for bird lovers to congregate. The center has several different educational exhibits and hosts a variety of events throughout the year, such as a butterfly count and stargazing program. The nature center is also surrounded by an extensive network of trails that will take you through 230 acres of dense forests, sweeping prairies, and scenic lakes. With just a little bit of luck, you'll have the opportunity to spot plenty of local bird life. The city of Wichita typically receives about 220 days of sunshine every year. Be sure to take advantage of this beautiful weather by getting outside and experiencing some of these great local animal attractions. Photo by P_Linehan | Licensed under cc BY 2.0

It's true. You can't run laps down the I-135 at top speeds. But, you can incorporate some racing techniques into your daily commute that will improve your skills. You're sitting in that seat to drive, so why not enjoy it? Thrill behind the wheel with these four tips from pro race car drivers you can use on the road. Avoid Traffic and Storms When you can't drive 65, use an app to steer clear of traffic congestion. Just like on the track, you want to avoid a pile-up.  According to Business Insider, Americans spend a shocking 42 hours and $1,400 in gas idly sitting in traffic each year. Try to use alternative routes rather than jumping on the interstate. more Well-equipped Dodge, Jeep, Ram, and Chrysler brand vehicles are loaded with a trial subscription to SiriusXM Traffic, Traffic Plus, and SiriusXM Travel Link. With SiriusXM Traffic, get real-time information on flow, accidents, construction, and more. Travel Link keeps you in touch with detailed weather information right at your fingertips. Check the Fundamentals Maintaining your car's basic systems will ensure it keeps you zooming down the road. Once a month, give your tires the "penny” test. This is a classic method to ensure your wheels are in good shape. Place a penny head down between your tires' tread. If you can see Lincoln's entire dome, it's time for new rubber. Check your engine oil every other time you hit the pump. It only takes a minute while you're filling up to pull out the dipstick and give it a glance. Is it full? Is it black? These are two things to keep an eye on. If you notice something amiss, get it to your dealership for an oil change. Service departments often include routine maintenance free as part of your purchase. Avoid the Heat According to the private group DMV.org, the maximum speeding ticket in Kansas is $528.00. Ouch. If you're going to put a ton of miles on the highway, it's best to go the speed limit. Rumor has it you won't get a ticket in the 5 to 8-mile-per-hour-over window, but that's ultimately up to the cops. You may earn some brownie points with a firmly attached seat belt. Stay Aware New race car driver Natalie Fenaroli says you need cat-like reflexes and razor-sharp focus to drive professionally. You need those same traits navigating Wichita, so be conscious of what's going on around you. Awareness — knowing where all the other cars are — is critical for safety on the road. Don't merely focus on the cars ahead of you. Look around, and remember that with distance comes comfort. Stay about one or two car lengths away from other vehicles around you. If road conditions are wet, give yourself more distance and, therefore, more time to react. We all enjoy a bit of get-up and go on the road, but the track is a very different place. Try out these four driving tips from professional racers you can use every day on the way. Photo by Dave Hamster | Licensed under cc BY 2.0

Windshield wipers are something that you might take for granted, but they're an indispensable part of your car's daily operation. We've put together this short list of ways you can keep your windshield wipers in top working order. Look for Wear and Tear Inspect your windshield wipers regularly for signs of excess wear. This might include a broken frame or corroded joint, as well as cracks and tears in the rubber squeegee part of the blade. Run your finger along the edge of the rubber to determine if parts of it have become rounded or chipped, which can have an effect on the wiper's ability to maintain contact with the windshield. If you discover significant damage to the wipers, consider replacing them right away. more Replace Wipers Regularly Even if there's no visible wear on your windshield wipers, you should still replace them regularly. Your personal maintenance schedule might depend on how much you drive or the climate in which you live, but you can still follow general replacement guidelines. Most experts suggest you replace your windshield wipers twice per year: once at the end of summer and again at the end of winter. This allows your wipers to stay in their best condition during the winter when your car might be subject to the stresses of snow, ice, and road salt. Perform Basic Maintenance Keeping your windshield wipers in good condition isn't just about replacing them when they wear out. You should also be maintaining them regularly. Luckily, this is easy to do. Inspect your blades periodically and wipe them with a clean cloth to remove accumulated debris. You can also use a damp cloth with vinegar to make sure they are clean. If you live in an area with heavy rainfall, consider applying a rubber-protecting solution to your windshield wipers. This will help to prevent them from becoming damaged in the first place. Use the Right Windshield Washer Fluid You may have come across recipes online for homemade windshield washer fluid. Some drivers in climates that don't experience freezing temperatures are even able to use plain water to keep their windshields clean. But a properly formulated windshield washer fluid contains cleaning solvents designed specifically to remove bugs, dirt, bird droppings, and other accumulated debris. Windshield washer fluid is also much more effective on ice, and using a cheap or homemade substitute can cause your wiper blades to smear your windshield. We recommend using a tried-and-true commercial formula. Use the Right Blades You've probably noticed that windshield wipers are inexpensive, but sometimes saving even a few extra dollars can be tempting. Before opting for off-brand wipers, however, you should make sure that you are choosing a product that's compatible with your car. If your wiper blades aren't exactly the right size, they may be unable to keep the windshield clean. There's more to the topic of windshield wipers than just flicking a switch when you need to use them. By following these simple tips, you can always keep your blades in good condition. Photo by Mr ATM | Licensed under cc BY 2.0

Wichita is a great place to see up-and-coming country performers and big touring bands. Whether you're looking for classic covers of the greats like Jonny Cash or more contemporary artists, these groups lay down those folky rhythms, and we like it that way. Discover our five best picks where boot-stompers can tip their hats and enjoy good ol' country music in Wichita, Kansas. Barleycorn's Outside historic Old Town resides a staple of Wichita's live music scene. Bands from everywhere travel to the area to take the stage at nationally revered Barleycorn's. There's something about country music that makes you smile, and when it comes out of Barleycorn's top-notch sound system, you can't stop your feet from dancing. more Along with country music artists such as Nashville's Keelan Donovan, Barleycorn's offers open mic nights, bar trivia, and karaoke. Order your favorite daily drink special or join the tasting club and sample whiskey from around the globe. Kirby's Beer Store When you're on the lookout for that hometown hole-in-the-wall, consider Kirby's. Your classic dive for 30 happening years is overflowing with character — entirely for friends in low places. A longtime mainstay of Wichita's country music scene,  you can catch acts almost every night on Kirby's small stage and never pay a cover charge. Discover why Kirby's is all about the music, with acts like Tough Old Bird and old-time country-folk stylings. Stay around for poker night most Wednesdays. Head over to Kirby's daily at 2 p.m. for the best chance at a seat in this micro concert hall. Lucky's Everyday If there were dirt roads in Wichita, they'd lead to Lucky's — the area's ultimate watering hole. A stone's throw away from the crowds in Old Town, this tucked-away hangout is hosting great regional music. Belly-up to Lucky's bar for great conversation after work, or rack the cue and play some pool. Classic pinball machines and a Galaga arcade add vibe to this venue, and the huge covered patio is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the music. Orpheum Theatre Since 1923, Wichita's Orpheum Theatre is the place to go for family-friendly concerts. This special hall holds a unique place in our hearts as America's first atmospheric theatre, and the oldest one still standing. Excellent seating offers theatre-goers of all ages an outstanding view of the stage, and the Orpheum is an excellent choice for date night with its intimate setting. Mort's Martini and Cigar Bar Leave your dog at home and drive your pickup to the original Wichita hotspot for country music: Mort's. A medium-bodied Double Mort cigar in an Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper pairs nicely with great live music, friendly service, and a terrific martini-bar vibe. Drop in on Mondays for half-priced drinks, and enjoy a warm summer evening sipping cocktails on the patio while you tap your toes to the tunes. These five places to catch a country music show in Wichita are only the beginning. Put your good boots on and fancy up, there could be two-stepping tonight. Photo by travis.nesbitt | Licensed under Public Domain Mark 1.0

How would you like to cruise suburbia in the family car of the year? Named the best and most versatile vehicle in its class, it's easy to become enchanted by the feature-packed 2018 Chrysler Pacifica minivan. Your family is going to love this new baby-hauler. Here are five reasons why. Trims and Exterior Form The customizable Pacifica is available in six decked out trims, from the brand new base L, LX, Touring Plus, Touring L, Touring L Plus, and the classy Limited. Starting at $26,995, the first reason you're going to love it is that it doesn't cost junior's college fund. You won't need to take out a second mortgage either. more Step back and run your eyes over your family's new minivan. Its crisp, sleek profile offers an attractive set of chrome roof rails on the Touring L trim. Two new colors grace Pacifica's already generous palette including copper pearl and ocean blue that will appeal to any Disney princess-in-training. The new S appearance package is turning heads with sporty black accents on the family's ride. Performance Features As we mentioned, Cars.com named the 2018 Pacifica its top pick for family cars. It has high-performance features you won't find in most minivans, such as Stow'n Go fold-flat seats that will save dad's back as well as the hands-free power liftgate. Throw in refined drivability, and you've got yourself one handy family-mover. Two separate, optional Uconnect theater entertainment systems keep boredom at bay on trips to grandma's and put the brakes on bickering over what to watch. Refreshingly intuitive controls in an updated touchscreen add teen-required connectivity with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto standard. Interior Craftsmanship Pacifica is both the tallest and widest vehicle in its class, which results in its outstanding interior roominess. Depending on how you configure the second-row seating, the Pacifica offers comfy room for seven or eight. The snazzy S package also shows up in the cabin with available black Nappa leather seats. There are four full sets of LATCH car-seat connectors for the little ones still in boosters. Discover more than 140 cubic feet of space with all the seats down — plenty of room for the birthday bike or a new toddler bedroom suite. Advanced Safety Features Nothing is more important than your family's safety. That's why Chrysler added its standard SafetyTec package including blind spot monitoring, rear park assist, and rear cross path detection to every trim — even the base L. Of course, the Pacifica aced the full battery of crash tests from both the NHTSA and IIHS, also winning a top safety pick award. Hybrid Powertrain Did you know the Pacifica comes in a hybrid too? With an impressive 566-mile driving range, an efficiency rating of 84 MPGe, and 33-miles of pure electric energy, this is your next-generation minivan today. The new Pacifica has a modern vibe and a fresh style. With an above average predictability score and tons of family-friendly features, what's not to love about the 2018 Chrysler Pacifica? Photo by katgrigg | Licensed under cc BY 2.0

Nothing is more alluring to an art enthusiast than the draw of a world-renowned gallery. Favorite venues like the Wichita Art Museum and Ulrich Museum of Art host their fair share of visitors, but are they the only places in town to catch a stunning exhibit? Discover four smaller galleries in Wichita that you really must see, but probably haven't. Mead Street Gallery Mead Street Gallery is easy to miss, nestled near the shops in Old Town yet set apart. Find unique and locally made items such as vintage-inspired jewelry, blown glass pieces, and wooden home decor. Catch a glimpse of the creative process in full swing as artists work on their various projects right onsite. more Originality rules this gallery, and style is unlimited with 2-D canvas and 3-D metal pieces crafted primarily here in Kansas. Make sure to explore the booths out back, then sip a cup of tea and enjoy a bite of chocolate cake in its relaxing atmosphere. Museum of World Treasures Inspire your visual imagination at the Museum of World Treasures on First Street. Galleries filled with ancient wonders abound at the museum, from pre-Hispanic grave art to Apulian pottery which visually depicts the history of ancient Greece. Examine nature's artwork with fascinating minerals, crystals, and stones on display. History comes alive as you trek through time and experience dinosaurs, early Egyptians, and so much more. Deepen your appreciation for the arts and have coffee with the curator, hosted the third Thursday of the month at 9 a.m. Mid-America All-Indian Center The works on display at the Mid-America All-Indian Center are more potent than mere words. Found along the Arkansas River, the center is home to a gallery, museum, and a gift shop. The mission here is to educate and preserve the art and culture of America's native people. See traditional artifacts such as beadwork, pipe bags, jewelry, pottery, and woven baskets. Delight in the largest public collection of legendary Kiowa-Comanche artist Blackbear Bosin's artwork on permanent display. Find flags from over 70 tribes, proudly showcased in the center's Gallery of Nations. Then shop for authentic Native American clothing and handcrafted gifts before you head home. Tessera Fine Art Gallery Indulge your sense of wonder and delight at Tessera Fine Art Gallery on East Douglas Avenue. This gallery's 3,000 square feet is home to one of Wichita's largest original art collections, studios, and classrooms. More than 40 local artisans showcase their diverse media and styles in the heart of downtown's Old Town district. Final Friday is one of the best times to hit Tessera's gallery and the entire art scene in Old Town. Wichita's art walk is the perfect opportunity to explore a variety of galleries in a fun and festive atmosphere. Most museums and exhibition halls open their doors for free, so come on down. These are just four of the coolest galleries you really should see in Wichita. From the local monthly art crawl to the celebration of our country's native culture, embark on your creative adventure today. Photo by Ty Nigh | Licensed under cc BY 2.0