Happy Friday! It looks like we’ve got some sunshine ahead this weekend, which will be a nice break from the rainy, gloomy stretch we’ve been stuck in.

The real estate market has also picked up a lot over the past few weeks, which is a little unusual for this time of year. In fact, I had the chance to help 7 families close on their new homes this week alone. If you’ve been thinking about making a move in 2026, feel free to reach out. I’d be happy to chat and help you game plan!

This week we’re talking about the brand-new Adventure Playscape opening at Exploration Place, a full list of things happening around Wichita this weekend, and a new video breaking down everything new and coming to Wichita in 2026.

Let’s get into it!

– Caleb Claussen (your favorite Realtor 😉)

It’s finally happening! The long-anticipated Adventure Playscape at Exploration Place — a massive, 6.5-acre outdoor expansion that brings play, learning, and Kansas spirit together — is officially opening to the public. Mark your calendars for March 13, 2026 as this exciting new destination comes to life just southeast of the museum on the Arkansas Riverfront.

Imagine exploring 10 themed play zones that each celebrate the wonder of science, nature, and the great Sunflower State! Kids and families can discover everything from climbing giant structures like a 20-foot bison and 45-foot rocket to navigating bridges, slides, swings, gardens, and interactive sensory areas inspired by Kansas’ rich heritage. There’s even a special Sunflower Meadow designed just for toddlers and little adventurers.

🍉 What to Expect
• 10 immersive playground areas themed around aviation, agriculture, prairie life, and more (including water play areas when weather permits)
• Structures both big and small — from farming and wildlife play elements to aviation-inspired thrill features that invite climbing, sliding, and exploring
• Spaces for all ages, from toddlers crawling through Sunflower Meadow to older kids zooming down slides and testing their skills
• Rest areas and family-friendly conveniences like multi-stall restrooms and new concession stands serving snacks and treats (per advance preview reporting)

📆 Opening Date: March 13, 2026 (opens for year-round fun as weather permits)
📍 Location: Exploration Place Outdoor Adventure Playscape (300 N. McLean Blvd., Wichita)
🎟️ Admission: Included with regular Exploration Place admission (free for members and eligible through programs like Museums for All, Sunflower Summer, and more) — there’s no separate upcharge for the playscape!

Admission prices at Exploration Place typically are:
• Adults (ages 12–64): $20
• Seniors (65+): $15
• Youth (ages 3–11): $15
• Children 2 & under: Free
(Members always free)

Whether you’re a Wichita local or visiting from out of town, the Adventure Playscape adds hours of discovery and joy to your Exploration Place experience — blending education, imagination, and good old-fashioned play in one unbelievable outdoor setting.

🎶 Disney’s The Little Mermaid Jr.
Make a splash under the sea with this family-friendly production from Music Theatre Wichita! Follow Ariel and friends on a magical adventure filled with your favorite songs and lovable characters.
📍 Location: Century II Performing Arts & Convention Center
📆 Date & Time: March 6–8, 2026 • 7:00 PM
🎟️ Tickets: $21
🔗 More info

🎨 Envision Arts Center Grand Opening
Celebrate the official grand opening of this exciting new creative space designed to make the arts more accessible and inclusive in our community.
📍 Location: Envision Arts Center
📆 Date & Time: March 6, 2026 • 5:00 PM
🎟️ Tickets: Free
🔗 More info

🛍️ Spring Vintage Market Weekend
Spend the weekend browsing curated booths filled with vintage finds, timeless décor, and one-of-a-kind treasures.
📍 Location: Hunt and Gather Vintage Market
📆 Date & Time: March 6–8, 2026 • Fri–Sat 10:00 AM–6:00 PM • Sun 12:00–4:00 PM
🎟️ Tickets: Free
🔗 More info

🤠 Bob Wills’ Texas Playboys
Enjoy a night of classic western swing and toe-tapping country favorites from this legendary group.
📍 Location: The Cotillion
📆 Date & Time: March 6, 2026 • 8:00 PM
🎟️ Tickets: $39.66
🔗 More info

🌿 Outside the Book Club
Take book club outdoors with this nature-inspired gathering combining reading, fresh air, and thoughtful conversation.
📍 Location: Great Plains Nature Center
📆 Date & Time: March 6, 2026 • 2:00–4:00 PM
🎟️ Tickets: Free
🔗 More info

🏛️ Allen House / Corbin Education Center Combo Tour
Explore stunning architecture and design history with a guided tour of this iconic Frank Lloyd Wright home and education center.
📍 Location: Frank Lloyd Wright's Allen House Museum and Study Center
📆 Date & Time: March 7, 2026 • 9:00 AM
🎟️ Tickets: $60
🔗 More info

🍫 Death by Chocolate – Welcome to Oz!
Indulge in an immersive evening of chocolate, creativity, and themed fun inspired by the magical world of Oz.
📍 Location: Exploration Place
📆 Date & Time: March 7, 2026 • 6:30 PM
🎟️ Tickets: $150–$250
🔗 More info

🎸 JUMP – America’s Van Halen Experience
Rock out to all the high-energy hits in this electrifying tribute to Van Halen.
📍 Location: The Cotillion
📆 Date & Time: March 7, 2026 • 8:00 PM
🎟️ Tickets: $28.86
🔗 More info

🎻 Wichita Symphony Youth Orchestras Spring Concerts
Support talented young musicians as they perform an inspiring evening of spring concert repertoire.
📍 Location: Century II
📆 Date & Time: March 7, 2026 • 7:30–9:30 PM
🎟️ Tickets: $20 Adults • $10 Students (13–18) • Free for 12 & under
🔗 More info

There’s a surprising amount of growth happening around Wichita right now.

New entertainment districts, major healthcare investment, national restaurants coming to town, expanding suburbs, and one of the largest highway projects in Kansas history are all unfolding right now.

I put together a full breakdown of everything new and coming to Wichita in 2026 in this week’s video.

If you—or someone you know—is thinking about buying, selling, or investing in real estate around Wichita, I’d love to help! And even if you’re just tackling a home project and need a solid contractor recommendation, I’ve got plenty to share. The easiest way to reach me is by call or text at 316-259-1995. Or if it’s easier, you can grab a time on my calendar and I’ll follow up with you!

That’s all for this week! I hope you have an awesome weekend!

-Caleb Claussen

P.S. If you or a friend is looking to buy, sell, or invest around the Wichita market, I’d love to be your real estate resource of choice! Reach out anytime!