Jones Excavating

Some of the world's best-loved stories are told through the artistry of the Ballet Wichita. Combining classical masterpieces as its soundtrack, such notable productions like Alice in Wonderland, Swan Lake and La Boheme are presented by some of the area's most accomplished performers. Their skills are only accentuated all the more by the stellar musicianship of their accompanying orchestra, the sets and backdrops that help tell the story, and the tireless work of many stage managers, costumers and directors. The Wichita's clever slogan is true when they say that every year is a leap year for them and their audiences.

The Tallgrass Film Festival may be the launching pad for the next Steven Spielberg! To find out about all the great film-making talent in the area, make sure you head for this festival held the third week in October at various locations in downtown Wichita. This is the ninth annual festival, and it has built a solid tradition of allowing you to screen the best foreign, independent, short, retrospective and premiering films. Grab some popcorn, take a seat, and enjoy!

While exploring the city, be sure to take time out to visit a true symbol of Wichita. You'll find the Keeper of the Plains monument in the heart of the city, where the Arkansas and Little Arkansas rivers meet. The statue was erected in 1974 to commemorate the United States Bicentennial.

How about taking a really close look at the planets and the stars? The kids will love seeing Saturn's rings through the 16-inch telescope at the Lake Afton Public Observatory. Once you go through the whole Solar System, enjoy some great interactive exhibits and attractions in the observatory's museum area. The exhibits will describe what you just saw through that ultra-powerful telescope in greater detail.