Wichita ks gay bars
The queer travel reference to Wichita
When you think of “Queer Vacation Destinations” Kansas’ largest city might not be the first city that comes to your mind. However, this city in the Heart of the Country offers a fusion of nightlife, unique dining, eclectic neighborhoods, rich history and world-class museums.
Wichita is famous for its Midwest niceness, however members of the Gay community know those pleasantries can sometimes only extend so far. So, what is it enjoy visiting one of the largest cities in the Bible Belt as a member of the LGBTQ+ community?
Wichita doesn’t have a devoted “gayborhood” like many major U.S. cities, however you will find a number of LGBTQ+ approachable areas, restaurants, bars and shops spread throughout the capital. In recent years, Wichita has made strides to be more welcoming and add legal protections to the metropolis code. In 2021 the City of Wichita adopted the strongest Non-Discrimination Ordinance in the Declare of Kansas protecting sexual orientation and gender identity within city limits. This NDO is the primary reason Wichita scored a flawless 100 on the Human Rights Campaign’s Equality Index.
Wichit
by Emma Rose Kraus
Journalism Intern
If there’s one thing many people ask co-owners Jerry Nguyen and Chad Porter when they step into Wichita’s newest gay twirl bar, it’s where the two men got the name, XY.
“I’m kind of a nerd,” laughs Nguyen. “XY is actually coming from the male chromosomes, I’ve thought about it for really quite a while because I was a pre-med student. I changed my major but I went to a lot of science classes and this was a cool name to use.”
The bar opened its doors at its 235 N. Mosley location in Old Town last Fresh Year’s Eve.
XY provides a classy and sassy evening escape for LGBT+ patrons and the relax of the Wichita community alike, with great drinks, a gyrate floor and weekly events.
“Wichita has a great LGBTQ community,” relays Porter. “We wanted a place where people could come and dance and we’ve got an atmosphere here that isn’t strict. We’ve got a lot of millennials that come out here who are straight that meld in really good with our community, so we’re very fortunate there.”
With one of the biggest dance floors in the Wichita bar scene and 6,000 square feet of space, XY Prevent offers a different level of club entertainment than other spots in the l
Wichita, Kansas Gay City Guide
Wichita is often called the “Air Capital of the World” due to the large presence of aviation and aeronautical companies in the city. Although the city today has many industries and much to see and do, the name stuck. Beyond creature home to a thriving aeronautical industry, the urban area is a warm and welcoming place with a friendly, eclectic vibe and plenty to see, carry out and enjoy. Truly, Wichita is wonderful!
A Look at Wichita’s History
The area that is now the city of Wichita was initially founded in 1864, as a trading publish located on the site of a village belonging to the Wichita Indians. In its first years, Wichita served as a stopover on cattle drives going from Abilene, Kansas and other cities westward. When the railroad eventually moved into the area in the late 1800s, the city became a major cattle shipping center. Today, Wichita remains recognizable for its agriculture industry but also for its aircraft and aerospace industries, as well as other manufacturers. It is also home to several universities, and a thriving arts and culture scene, including a symphony orchestra and ballet company as adequately as several museums and performing art
Wichita's LGBTQ+ events and entertainment
As every Midwesterner knows, we treasure an excuse to host a excellent party. The residents of Wichita are no exception! Wichita proves it’s one of the most inclusive cities in the Midwest with a wide variety of LGBTQ+ events, parades, celebrations and festivals. Here are Wichita’s queer-friendly events you don’t wish to miss.
Annual Events
Wichita City Pride
Wichita Capital Pride, hosted by the City of Wichita and Confident of Wichita (Wichita LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce), is held each year in June at Naftzger Park. This Movement Block Party began as a celebration of Wichita adopting the strongest non-discrimination ordinance in the state and now includes food trucks, a bar, vendors, art, family-friendly activities, live music and an all-ages performative show.
www.ProudOfWichita.org
Wichita Pride Festival
The Wichita Lgbtq+ fest Festival is held each year in September and kicks off with a Unity March/Parade and family picnic. Throughout the weekend, festivalgoers can enjoy a Pride Pageant and traditional pride festival that includes vendors, local artists and drag shows. Local LGBTQ+ health clinic Positive Directions suggestions free