Discover the Heartbeat of Wichita: Downtown Wichita

• HelloHowdy
  [haw-dee]
• GoodbyeSee ya
  [see yuh]
• YesYep
  [yep]
• NoNah
  [nah]
• Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [pleez/no problem]
• Thank youThanks
  [thanks]
• Excuse me/SorryPardon me/My bad
  [pahr-dun me/my bad]
• How are you?How's it goin'?
  [hows it goin]
• Fine. And you?Good. And you?
  [good. and yuh]
• Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [yah speak ing-lish]
• I don't understandI don't get it
  [eye don't get it]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseLet me see the menu, please
  [let me see the menu, please]
• I don't eat meatI'm vegetarian
  [im vedge-eh-tair-ee-an]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
• I would like to pay, pleaseCheck, please
  [check, please]

• Help!Help!
  [help]
• Go away!Get lost!
  [gett lost]
• Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [call the cops]
• Call a doctor!Get a doc!
  [gett uh doc]
• I'm lostI'm turned around
  [im turned uh-round]
• I'm illI'm feeling sick
  [im feel-ing sick]

• I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [eye wanna buy]
• I'm just lookingJust browsing
  [just brows-ing]
• How much is it?How much does it cost?
  [how much duz it cost]
• That's too expensiveThat's pricey
  [thats prye-see]
• Can you lower the price?Can ya give me a deal?
  [can yuh give me a deal]

• What time is it?What's the time?
  [whats the time]
• It's one o'clockIt's one
  [its one]
• Half past (10)It's ten-thirty
  [its ten-thur-tee]
• MorningMornin'
  [mornin]
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [afternoon]
• EveningEvenin'
  [evenin]
• YesterdayYesterday
  [yester-day]
• TodayToday
  [to-day]
• TomorrowTomorrow
  [tomorrow]
• 1One
  [wun]
• 2Two
  [too]
• 3Three
  [three]
• 4Four
  [four]
• 5Five
  [five]
• 6Six
  [six]
• 7Seven
  [seven]
• 8Eight
  [ayt]
• 9Nine
  [nine]
• 10Ten
  [ten]

• Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [wheres the]
• What's the address?What's the addy?
  [whats the addy]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Can you point it out?
  [can you point it out]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [whens the next bus]
• A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [uh ticket]

Wichita was founded in 1868 as a trading post along the Chisholm Trail, which was a major cattle-driving route. The name 'Wichita' is derived from the Wichita Native American tribe, who inhabited the region. The settlement quickly grew, attracting settlers due to its strategic position and fertile land.

The arrival of the railroad in the 1870s marked a turning point for Downtown Wichita. It transformed the area into a bustling hub for commerce and transportation, leading to rapid population growth. The railroad facilitated trade and contributed to the establishment of key industries, including meatpacking and agriculture.

The discovery of oil in the early 20th century brought unprecedented economic prosperity to Wichita. Downtown became the center of the oil boom, attracting numerous companies and workers. This era contributed significantly to the city’s wealth, influencing its architecture and urban development.

The 20th century saw the rise of various cultural institutions in Downtown Wichita, including theaters, art galleries, and museums. The Orpheum Theatre, built in 1922, became a cultural landmark, hosting vaudeville shows and later film presentations. The city’s commitment to the arts is reflected in public sculptures and festivals celebrating local culture.

In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, Downtown Wichita underwent significant revitalization efforts. Initiatives aimed at restoring historic buildings, enhancing public spaces, and promoting local businesses transformed the area into a vibrant destination. The development of the Wichita WaterWalk and various entertainment venues has made Downtown a focal point for community events and tourism.

Downtown Wichita is easily accessible from other neighborhoods within the city. If you're coming from the west side, you can take the city bus route 21, which runs directly to downtown. If you're coming from the east, routes 13 and 14 will drop you off in the heart of downtown. For those arriving from further afield, the nearest major airport is Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport (ICT), located approximately 10 miles west of downtown. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are readily available at the airport.

Downtown Wichita is compact and pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot. The Wichita Transit offers bus services that connect various parts of the downtown area. For a more leisurely experience, consider renting a bicycle through the local bike-sharing program, which has docking stations throughout the downtown area. Additionally, many attractions are within walking distance, and there are plenty of designated bike lanes for cyclists.

Downtown Wichita is generally safe for tourists, but it’s wise to remain vigilant. The areas around 13th and Broadway and the Delano District may have higher crime rates, particularly at night. Avoid wandering alone in poorly lit areas after dark and keep your belongings secure in crowded places. Always be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance in Wichita. For non-emergencies, the Wichita Police Department can be contacted directly. Be familiar with the location of the nearest hospital, which is Via Christi Hospital on St. Francis. It is also advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are accessible throughout downtown for minor health needs.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for walking, especially in warmer months. Don't wear overly casual attire if you plan to dine at upscale restaurants. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially if visiting religious sites. Public Transport: Do be courteous to fellow passengers and offer your seat to those in need. Don't eat or drink on public buses. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly smile; a handshake is common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties such as the famous Kansas barbecue. Don't leave a tip lower than 15% at restaurants, as this might be considered rude.

To experience Downtown Wichita like a local, visit the Farmer's Market held on Saturdays for fresh produce and artisanal goods. Engage with local artists at the various galleries and studios, especially during the First Friday Art Walk. When dining, ask locals for their favorite spots, as some of the best meals can be found in small, family-owned establishments rather than larger chains. Don’t forget to check out the Riverwalk area for a scenic stroll and enjoy the local events that often take place in the parks.