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Frequently Asked Questions

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Answer
collapse Question : 01. Who operates Cowtown? ‎(1)

Cowtown is supported through a partnership between Historic Wichita Cowtown, Inc. and the City of Wichita (KS) Division of Arts & Cultural Services.

collapse Question : 02. What should I bring for my visit? ‎(1)

Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes. Cowtown is an outdoor attraction that sits on 23 acres off the Chisholm Trail. You will be doing a lot of walking. Also be sure to bring sunscreen.

collapse Question : 03. How much time should I allow for my visit? ‎(1)

It takes at least 1 1/2 hours to tour all the buildings. When you add in speaking with the interpreters, taking wagon rides and watching gunfights, the average visit is 2 hours or more.

collapse Question : 04. Does Cowtown offer guided tours? ‎(1)

Yes. Guided tours must be scheduled in advance by calling (316) 350-3323.

collapse Question : 05. Does Cowtown offer membership? ‎(1)

We're always looking for new Cowtown members since one visit is never enough to take in the whole experience. As a member, you can come to Cowtown as much as you like. Learn more about memberships.

collapse Question : 06. Does Cowtown offer AAA Discounts? ‎(1)

Yes. Admission is $6.00 (including tax) per person regardless of age. Proof of membership is required.

collapse Question : 07. Where can I purchase food at Cowtown? ‎(1)

A snack bar is located inside the Saloon with hot dogs, chips, candy, soda and Sarsaparilla for sale. Old-time candy and soda is also available in the Gift Shop.

collapse Question : 08. Can I bring in cameras or camcorders? ‎(1)

Yes to both! We encourage you to take as many pictures as you want so you can remember your visit to Cowtown. Don't forget to share them on your personal Facebook and Twitter pages with the hashtag #CowtownWOW.

collapse Question : 09. When was Cowtown established in Wichita? ‎(1)

Cowtown was established in 1950 and opened in 1955. It is one of the oldest open-air history museums in the Midwest.

collapse Question : 10. Is Cowtown accredited? ‎(1)

Yes. Cowtown is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums. Only 3 percent of the nation's estimated 34,144 museums are accredited. Accreditation is the highest national recognition achievable by a museum that recognizes high standards in individual museums and ensures they continue to uphold public trust.

collapse Question : 11. How many buildings are on Cowtown's grounds? ‎(1)

There are 54 historic and recreated buildings at Cowtown.

collapse Question : 12. What is the oldest historic structure at Cowtown? ‎(1)

The Munger House, just west of the Orientation Building. This two-story residence was built in 1869 by Darius S. Munger on a plot of land near 10th and Waco.

collapse Question : 13. What is the newest original structure at Cowtown? ‎(1)

Heller Cabin opened to the public in October 2009. It is the first building visitors encounter when entering Cowtown. The addition of Heller Cabin at Cowtown is especially significant because it is considered as one of the top 10 intact structures in the United States from the settlement period.

It is also one of Cowtown's best documented properties because it was photographed, measured, and sketched and all its parts were numbered before it was dismantled and brought to Cowtown. Historic Wichita Cowtown, Inc. funded and oversaw efforts to move Heller Cabin from Elmo, Kan. to Cowtown and return it as closely as possible to its original state. Heller Cabin was built by Civil War veteran Leonhard Hoffman, who expertly cut and pieced the logs together.

collapse Question : 14. Are the items inside the buildings real? ‎(1)

Yes. Cowtown has an artifact collection that consists of more than 10,000 authentic objects from 1865-1880. The collection is owned by Historic Wichita Cowtown, Inc.

collapse Question : 15. Is Cowtown located on Wichita's original platted town site? ‎(1)

No. Wichita's original city limits extended from the Arkansas River east to Broadway.

collapse Question : 16. Did any famous Old West figures live in Wichita? ‎(1)

Absolutely! Billy the Kid and his family lived in Wichita. So did Wyatt Earp (for one year) and William Barclay "Bat" Masterson.

collapse Question : 17. Are animals allowed? ‎(1)
We love animals! However, we ask that you leave your pets at home. Certified service animals are always welcome.  ​
collapse Question : 18. Are strollers and wagons allowed? ‎(1)
Yes! There are a few exhibits and buildings where stroller and wagon access may be limited, however you are welcome to park them outside of exhibits as needed. Please keep in mind to take your valuables with you.  ​
collapse Question : 19. Can I bring food and beverages to Old Cowtown? ‎(1)
During general admission days, guests are welcome to bring a water bottle and sack lunch during their visit to Cowtown. However, food and non-alcoholic beverages may not be brought on site during special events.  

We do have snack and beverage options available for purchase in the Visitor Center and in the Saloon. Please note that no alcohol may be brought onto museum grounds at any time.  

Also, as a living history museum, we ask for your help in keeping the grounds of Cowtown clean. Please dispose of all food and beverage waste in a trash or recycling bin, which are located throughout the facility.