Happy Friday! Sorry I’m late getting this out today, the busy spring market is here and I’m running full speed these days haha. And I hope you survived that hail storm earlier… the picture above is from my house. New roof baby!

In other news, there’s a lot going on around Wichita right now. A brand new spot just opened up that your kids are going to love, there’s a packed weekend of events all over town, and I also linked a quick video breaking down some big tax changes in Kansas that could actually impact your wallet more than you’d think.

In other news (write the rest of this).

Let’s get into it!

– Caleb Claussen (your favorite Realtor 😉)

Wichita’s newest hands-on creative space, The Imagine Lab, officially celebrated its grand opening last weekend—and it’s already shaping up to be one of the coolest new spots for kids and families to explore, learn, and create.

So what exactly is it? Think of The Imagine Lab as a mix between a children’s museum, makerspace, and interactive learning playground. It’s designed to get kids off screens and into doing—building, experimenting, and using their imagination in ways that feel more like play than learning (even though a lot of learning is definitely happening).

Inside, the space is filled with interactive exhibits and activity zones that focus on creativity, problem-solving, and hands-on exploration. Kids can dive into areas centered around things like STEM activities, building and design, art, sensory play, and imaginative role-play. It’s very much a “try it, touch it, figure it out” kind of environment—perfect for curious minds.

One of the standout features is how open-ended everything is. Instead of strict instructions, kids are encouraged to experiment, create their own ideas, and explore at their own pace. It’s the kind of place where one visit could look completely different from the next, depending on what catches their interest that day.

🕒 Hours:
Open daily 10:00 AM–8:00 PM (closed Tuesdays)

📍 Location: 1443 N Ridge Rd, Wichita, KS

Whether you’ve got little builders, future engineers, or just kids who love to explore and get hands-on, The Imagine Lab is one of those places you can easily spend a whole afternoon—and still hear “can we come back?” on the way out.

🏒 Wichita Thunder – Autism Acceptance Night
Join the Wichita Thunder for a meaningful night dedicated to awareness, inclusion, and community—paired with exciting hockey action on the ice.
📍 Location: INTRUST Bank Arena
📆 Date & Time: April 17, 2026 • 7:05 PM
🎟️ Tickets: Tickets required
🔗 More info

🏁 Test & Tune
Kick off your weekend with high-speed fun at the dragway. Whether you’re racing or just watching, it’s a great night for motorsports fans.
📍 Location: Kansas International Dragway
📆 Date & Time: April 17, 2026 • 5:00 PM–11:59 PM
🎟️ Tickets: Adults $15 • Ages 12–17 $10 • 11 & under Free
🔗 More info

🏰 21st Annual Spring Great Plains Renaissance & Scottish Festival
Step back in time with jousting, live entertainment, vendors, and all things Renaissance. Costumes encouraged for a full day of immersive fun.
📍 Location: Sedgwick County Park
📆 Date & Time: April 18, 2026
🎟️ Tickets: Day & weekend passes available (discount online)
🔗 More info

🎭 The Girl of the Golden West
Enjoy a dramatic and visually stunning opera performance filled with powerful music and storytelling, presented at Century II.
📍 Location: Century II Performing Arts & Convention Center
📆 Date & Time: April 18–19, 2026
🎟️ Tickets: $20–$85 • Kids Free
🔗 More info

🚓 Wichita Thunder – First Responders Night
Cheer on the Thunder while honoring local first responders with a special themed night full of appreciation and community spirit.
📍 Location: INTRUST Bank Arena
📆 Date & Time: April 18–19, 2026 • 6:05 PM
🎟️ Tickets: Tickets required
🔗 More info

🚲 Open Streets ICT – WSU & Shocker Neighborhood
Enjoy a car-free afternoon filled with biking, walking, and community activities around Wichita State. It’s a fun, active way to explore the area.
📍 Location: Wichita State University
📆 Date & Time: April 19, 2026 • 12:00–4:00 PM
🎟️ Tickets: Free
🔗 More info

🌾 Explore the Art of Wheat Weaving
Discover a unique and traditional art form with this hands-on experience focused on wheat weaving and craftsmanship.
📍 Location: CityArts
📆 Date & Time: April 19, 2026 • 5:00 PM
🎟️ Tickets: See website for details
🔗 More info

🎤 Max McNown
Catch rising artist Max McNown live for an evening of great music and an intimate concert experience at The Cotillion.
📍 Location: The Cotillion
📆 Date & Time: April 19, 2026 • 8:00 PM
🎟️ Tickets: Starting at $48
🔗 More info

Kansas just made some of the biggest tax changes in decades — and most people haven't heard about it yet. The state grocery tax is completely gone, Social Security is now fully tax-exempt, and income tax rates are legally required to keep dropping. If you live here or you're thinking about moving here, this one's worth watching.

(Click Each One To See The Full Listing)

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!