October 06, 2025 | Stories
The Wichita Foundation Amphitheater at Exploration Place has completed its first full season, quickly becoming a vibrant community hub. Sparked by an impact investment by the Wichita Foundation, the amphitheater brings Wichitans of all ages together for free movies, live music, wellness activities, and more.
RiverFlix, the Friday night outdoor movie series, has been a standout. Of the 25 films scheduled this season, attendance has averaged 600 per screening, with the biggest night drawing 1,200 guests.
One memorable RiverFlix moment showed how the amphitheater creates a space where everyone can participate and thrive.
“A mom walked up to our staff, holding her phone with a question typed out to ask if RiverFlix would have closed captioning,” said Exploration Place Vice President of Advancement, Laura Roddy. “After telling her yes, she shared that her daughter was also deaf, and they usually can’t attend public movies. She was so glad to be able to enjoy the evening together.”
Beyond RiverFlix, the amphitheater hosts:
“Exploration Place is already seen as a trusted, multigenerational destination,” said Roddy. “The addition of the Wichita Foundation Amphitheater has been significant for the community…It is truly becoming a place where Wichita gathers.”
Looking ahead, Exploration Place is expanding programming with Zumba, additional yoga classes, and a bid for a national grant that would fund a free concert series on Saturday nights.
“We’re just getting started,” said Roddy. “The goal is to create connection through music, story and place.”
With more films and events planned for the rest of 2025, the Wichita Foundation Amphitheater continues to spark community connection while supporting Exploration Place’s mission to engage and inspire.
Learn more about upcoming movies and events at the Wichita Foundation Amphitheater by visiting Exploration Place’s website.
