Whales

Out of the deep hidden waters of the South Pacific emerges a magnificent mammal that rivals no other. They are loved, hunted, revered and protected. An entire culture is intertwined with these legendary sea creatures.

They are whales of the South Pacific and live thousands of miles away from Kansas. But for just a few months, you will join the unseen world of these awe-inspiring beings - in the heart of the Midwest - at Exploration Place with the international traveling exhibition, Whales ׀ Tohora.

Plunge into the wondrous water world of whales through this exhibition's breathtaking blend of science and storytelling created by the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa - a leader in marine mammal collections.

Exhibit Highlights

• Encounter two life-size sperm whale skeletons, and several other whale skulls, models and more.
• Listen to haunting whale voices.
• Crawl through a model of a blue whale heart.
• Become a whale as you dive to the depths in search of a giant squid.
• Learn about the history of whaling - including the Whale People, whale riders, authentic artifacts, and the current efforts that center on preserving the species.

PLUS MUCH MORE!

NEW Discounted Whales/Tohora
Admission Prices

Click here to purchase tickets online now!

Whales/Tohora Education Programs

Dive further into whales, the Maori People and more with the Whales/Tohora Lecture Series* and tours.
Lecture Series Topics

• The Whale Family Tree Did you know that dolphins are toothed whales? Learn who else belongs to the whale family tree and about these animals' characteristics.
• The Evolution of the Whale How have whales changed over time? Find out about their evolutionary journey.
• The Maori People and the Sacred Whale Discover one of the indigenous populations of New Zealand - the Maori - and their relationship to the whale.
• The History of New Zealand EP has hosted exhibitions from all over the world - and now will be host to Whales/Tohora from New Zealand. Investigate this country's fascinating past and its connection to the whale.

Click here for lecture dates and times.

Exhibition Tours

• One-hour tours of Whales/Tohora will be available for general public on Thursdays at 6 p.m. and Saturdays at 3:30 p.m.
• Specialized guided tours for groups of 15 or more available by reservation only. Call 263-3373, ext. 114 for details. For motorcoach group tours, call 263-3373, ext. 115.

*Lecture series free with Whales|Tohora or EP general museum admission. Subject to change without notice.

Quick Clicks

Click here for the special Whales/Tohora exhibition page from Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa.

Click here for EP’s Whales Education Packages

We recommend that you bring a light jacket or sweater to wear in the exhibition area. The whale skeletons and artifacts require a constant 67-degree temperature and 55% humidity.

PLEASE NOTE: The following is NOT allowed in the exhibition. -Cell phones -Photography or video

Go on Vacation in Wichita

If you’re looking to save a few dollars this summer, stay in town (or make a short trip) and take advantage with the Whale of a Good Time Hotel Package from the Hilton Garden Inn. This package includes:

• Deluxe guestroom accommodations, starting at $99 per night for family/group of four
• Cooked-to-order Great American Breakfast Buffet
• 25% off coupon for admission to EP’s Whales/Tohora Exhibition*

To make reservations for this package, call the Hilton Garden Inn at 316-219-4444 or book online at www.wichita.hgi.com under the Hotel Specials Option.

Hilton Garden Locations
Hilton Garden Inn - Wichita
2041 North Bradley Fair Parkway
Wichita Northeast Hampton Inn & Suites Opening Summer 09'
2433 North Greenwich Road

*Not valid with any other offer. One person per coupon, good for up to four people. Tickets must be purchased separately at EP. Not redeemable for cash. Offer good thru 8/31/09.