Southwest Wichita - Wichita, KS Area Guide

The first official settlement in Southwest Wichita was from the Wichita tribe of Native Americans. In the early 1800s, trader Jesse Chisholm helped pioneer a trade route for the Wichita tribe into Oklahoma. The trail, known as the Chisholm Trail, became legendary and opened up trade to the rest of the country. Attracted by the developing trade route and opportunity for business ventures, James R. Mead, William Greiffenstein and Buffalo Bill Mathewson came to the area, and began the commercial development of the community.

In 1870 the town was officially incorporated and began growing at a rapid rate, becoming the third-largest city in Kansas. For more about life in the area during the late 1800s, residents can visit the Old Cowtown Museum. Art fans, on the other hand, are just minutes away from the Wichita Art Museum, where more than 7,000 pieces are always on display.

Established chains and friendly locally owned establishments make up the dining scene in Southwest Wichita. With food options to fit nearly any palate, there is something for everyone in this area of town. Diners interested in authentic Mexican cuisine can visit El Mexico Cafe, a cozy restaurant and lounge that pays homage to Old Mexico. Here, classic dishes and house margaritas always appear on the menu. For a real treat during your visit, make sure to try the signature Botanas, a grilled dish that features onions, peppers and plenty of flavor.

Those in the mood for traditional Italian cuisine while in the neighborhood can visit Marchello’s in the heart of the neighborhood. Known for their homemade sauces and one-of-a-kind dishes, this casual Italian eatery holds a proud reputation as one of the go-to spots in the neighborhood for traditional Italian fare. Make sure to try their famous Stuffed Shell Florentine to get a taste of the establishment’s homemade marinara sauce.

The nightlife scene in Southwest Wichita consists mostly of local sports bars and pubs. Visit O’Malley’s Irish Pub all week long for late night drink specials. The pub is best known for their selection of Irish whiskeys, with over 30 different flavors available to try.

Many residents of Southwest Wichita choose to travel by car, as the community is fairly spread out and is neither walker or biker friendly. With Interstates 135 and 235 nearby, traveling to surrounding Kansas communities is a breeze for those who call this neighborhood home.

Cabs are relatively prevalent in the area, or residents can call the Uber car app through their smart phone, which provides safe and reliable rides around town. In terms of public transportation, Southwest Wichita is serviced by the Wichita Transit Bus with 18 different routes servicing the greater Wichita area.

At the heart of Southwest Wichita, lies O.J. Watson Park, a cornerstone of the community since 1965. This park boasts more than 119 acres of green space, including a 40 acre lake for fishing. Visitors can also enjoy amenities such as pony rides, sand volleyball and miniature golf during the warmer months. Throughout the well-manicured park, residents can enjoy playground equipment, a walking trail, picnic tables and sports fields. Famously, the park also hosts a miniature train that travels throughout the scenic woods of the park.

Throughout the year, the park also hosts a number of community events, including school fundraisers, races and charity events. During the winter, the park has its own Christmas tree lot and during the fall, a haunted house is set up for the neighborhood children to enjoy.

Life in Southwest Wichita, Kansas carries an average to below average cost of living. The average one bedroom apartment rental in the area costs around $470 per month, low by both the state and the city’s standards. Gas prices settle in around 3.3% lower than the national average, while a bus ride to the city center costs riders $1.75 per ticket. A pint of beer at the local pub typically costs around $3 per glass.

Modern conveniences make up a majority of the shopping experience in Southwest Wichita. Here, residents can easily shop for all of their everyday essentials, without having to travel far. Visit the Ace Hardware for home improvement items, or stop by the local Walgreens for beauty products and over-the-counter medication. Looking for everyday items on a budget? This neighborhood hosts a Dollar General as well.

Just north of the heart of the neighborhood, right along Douglas Avenue, lies a number of small locally owned shops for those who prefer boutique shopping. At Sweet Cheeks Babies, everything needed for little ones, from accessories and supplies to clothes and shoes, lines the shelves at this local store.

Residents of Southwest Wichita do their grocery shopping at Dillons Grocery, where all types of everyday essentials, baking and cooking items are available. The store also hosts a number of fresh, organic and locally grown items. Shoppers on a budget can also visit the neighborhood’s Aldi’s Grocery store, where discounted food and everyday items always make shopping more budget friendly.

Area residents can go to nearby Old Town Farmers Market for a selection of fresh, local produce. The market also features breads, jams, jellies and work from local artists. Live music and chef demos create a lively shopping experience when the market opens up Saturday mornings from 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM.