Southeast Wichita - Wichita, KS Area Guide

The Outer Southeast community lies in Wichita, Kansas, a city that was first inhabited by the Wichita Indian tribes. In 1864, a settler named J.R. Mead arrived in the area and established a trading post. In 1865, Mead sent fellow settler Jesse Chisolm on a journey into the southwest region to make trades with the Wichita Indians, which lead to the establishment of the Chisolm Trail. In 1872, Wichita experienced a population boom due to the construction of a Santa Fe Railroad branch in the area. In 1895, Fairmount College was founded, followed by another population boom in 1918. Wichita continues to thrive today.

The Wichita-Sedgwick County History Museum on South Main Street features core history exhibits that depict the early history of Wiichita, along with the 1916 Jones VI Automobile exhibit. The museum also hosts family-friendly arts and crafts events.

Outer Southeast community residents appreciate living just a short distance away from several popular eateries and bars on and around East Harry Street and East Lincoln Street, with options ranging from mom-and-pop pizza joints to fine dining establishments.

When locals have a taste for authentic Korean food, they head over to Manna Wok Oriental Restaurant on East Harry Street. This family-run restaurant features a vast menu with signature favorites such as the bi bim bap rice stone bowl, a delicious combination of mixed veggies, rice, beef and eggs served in a hot stone bowl. Regular patrons also recommend the kimchi, a popular Korean side dish consisting of pickled vegetables and savory spices.

For a tasty prime rib or seafood dinner, Outer Southeast locals suggest Scotch and Sirloin on East Kellogg Drive. In business since 1969, this fine dining establishment features an elegant dining room, a full bar and some of the best meats and seafood in all of Kansas. Local insiders rave over the prime rib, available in large and small cuts. Signature favorites include the fried lobster strips served with drawn butter, the mozzarella caprese salad and the Colorado double cut lamb chops, complete with mint jelly and roasted red potatoes.

If you're in the mood for pizza or a scrumptious sandwich, check out Po Boy on East Lincoln Street. This local neighborhood joint serves some of the tastiest pizzas in town, which keeps the regulars coming back for more. Regular customers can't say enough about the massive pizza rolls served with white or red sauce, as well as the hand-tossed pizzas with a wide selection of toppings. Po Boy also serves hot steak sandwiches and signature po'boys.

For a casual evening of wine and cocktails, pay a visit to the Wine Dive bar on East Douglas Avenue. With a casual, rustic atmosphere, tasty tapas and an extensive wine and cocktail list, Wine Dive has everything you need for a perfect night out.

When locals feel like watching the big game and enjoying a few tasty brews, they hop on over to Walt's Great American Sports Bar and Grill on East Central Avenue. This family-owned establishment fares high with locals, as the friendly service and pleasant atmosphere helps everyone feel right at home. With wide-screen televisions for optimal game viewing, Guitar Hero contests every Sunday, Wii sports challenges every Tuesday and a full bar to boot, there's always a good reason to stop by Walt's.

The sidewalk-lined streets throughout the neighborhoods of the Outer Southeast community are safe for cyclists and pedestrians, and cyclists also have access to over 60 miles of biking lanes and bike paths throughout the City of Wichita. Residents can park safely on residential streets, but must only park within the specific time frames stated on the neighborhood parking signs. The City of Wichita also provides standard parking meters on certain downtown streets and in areas with heavier traffic.

Transportation services such as Uber and Lyft do not operate legally in Wichita; however, taxi rides can easily be booked through ABC Taxi of Wichita. While residents don't hail cabs within the Outer Southeast neighborhoods, you may be able to flag one down in the downtown area during busy traffic periods or after the bars close.

Residents who utilize public transportation can board Wichita Transit buses at several stop locations within the immediate vicinity, including East Harry Street and North Rock Road. The Interstate 35 highway can be accessed via Kellogg Drive and 47th Street, allowing for easy commuting and travel outside of the community.

Residents of the Outer Southeast community reside within close proximity to several scenic parks with multiple amenities such as playgrounds, tennis courts and picnic shelters, provided by the City of Wichita Parks and Recreation Department. While the parks are free to enter, individuals in need of sheltered areas for large parties or ball fields for intramural sports may be subject to rental or deposit fees.

If you're looking for a great place to spend time with the family, locals recommend Central Riverside Park on North Nims Street. This beautiful scenic park provides playground equipment, picnic tables and a gazebo. The park also houses the Kansas Wildlife Exhibit, featuring over 25 animal species.

Sports and fitness enthusiasts often visit Sycamore Park on 15th Street North, as it features basketball courts, tennis courts and 13 acres of open space for outdoor exercise. For a fun day of exercise and play with your dog, pay a visit to Meridian Dog Park on North Meridian Avenue. This spacious park borders the north bank of the Arkansas River and features drinking fountains, benches, waste stations and sectioned-off areas for smaller dogs.

The City of Wichita and the Wichita Parks and Recreation Department oversee a variety of annual events that honor and celebrate the city's history and heritage. Popular events include Celebrate America, an annual 4th of July celebration at the Old Cowtown Museum, the Wichita River Festival in downtown Wichita and the River City Ribfest, a family-friendly barbecue festival featuring delicious food and live music.

Residents of the Outer Southeast community pay approximately 9 percent less in living expenses when compared to the city average, with an average rental rate of approximately $470 per month for a one-bedroom apartment. Standard one-way bus fare into the city ranges between $1.75 and $2. Seniors and disabled individuals can ride the bus for 85 cents but must show proper identification when boarding. When drinking in local pubs, Outer Southeast residents typically pay between $2.50 and $4 for domestic and imported beers. Wichita gas prices fall approximately 14 percent lower than the national average.

The Outer Southeast neighborhood lies within close proximity to a variety of grocers and retailers, with several popular shops just a short trip away on East Harry Street and East Kellogg Drive.

Local shoppers recommend Walmart Neighborhood Market on East Harry Street for groceries, as well as Dillons Food Stores, which specializes in natural foods and organic options and is also on East Harry Street. For locally grown fruits and vegetables, the Old Town Farmers Market on 1st and Mosley opens in May and runs through the summer.

For high-end merchandise, locals suggest the Von Maur department store at Town East Square on East Kellogg Drive. Von Maur carries luxury brands such as Coach, Diesel men's wear, Joe's Jeans and Bulova timepieces, allowing convenient, one-stop shopping for luxury and high-quality items.

If you're searching for the perfect outfit, check out Barfield's Boutique on East 21st Street North. Barfield's features a nice selection of fashionable dresses, hats, accessories and shoes for every occasion.