The project integrates 10 distinct themed environments into a cohesive landscape of native prairie grasses and limestone. By blending educational play with regional identity—such as the aviation-themed zone celebrating Wichita’s status as the Air Capital of the World—the design moves beyond standard playground architecture. The site now features over 40,000 native plants and 500 tons of local stone, prioritizing environmental restoration alongside recreation.
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Wichita's New 6.5-Acre Adventure Playscape Drives Tourism Surge
A $25 million investment in Wichita’s Exploration Place has transformed the science center’s riverfront into a sprawling, 6.5-acre destination. The Adventure Playscape, designed by Hoerr Schaudt, has already triggered a 70 percent jump in museum attendance, positioning the site as a major economic engine for the Kansas region.
Lead designer Matthew Macchietto collaborated with occupational therapist Ingrid Kanics to ensure the space remains universally accessible. Beyond standard mobility considerations, the design incorporates a sensory garden for visitors who require quieter environments. This focus on inclusivity and regional heritage has already secured long-term community support, highlighted by a recent $1 million investment from Koch, Inc. As the playscape matures, officials expect the museum’s annual economic impact to climb from $21 million to $66 million.
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