The air is so pure and the breezes so fine, the zephyrs so balmy and light, that I would not exchange my home here to range forever in azures so bright. The Kansas state song, "Home on the Range," could add a new verse about the town of Derby. This small city not too far from Wichita has much to sing about.
Situated nearly a half an hour southeast of Wichita, the city of Derby, Kansas, rests neatly within the middle of the nation's heartland
The air is so pure and the breezes so fine, the zephyrs so balmy and light, that I would not exchange my home here to range forever in azures so bright. The Kansas state song, "Home on the Range," could add a new verse about the town of Derby. This small city not too far from Wichita has much to sing about.
Situated nearly a half an hour southeast of Wichita, the city of Derby, Kansas, rests neatly within the middle of the nation's heartland. For a town of just over 22,000 residents, Derby combines the easy-going nature of the plains with a suburban vibrancy that provides just enough kick to everyday life. While not bothered by the hustle and bustle of a big metropolis scene, the town makes the most of its comfortably tranquil city life with a wealth of community activities and plenty of space for a variety of recreational activities. Whether you fancy the culture of the Derby Historical Museum or the adventure of the Rock River Rapids, Derby has the right atmosphere and friendly company you'll enjoy.
Neighborhoods
Neighborhoods? You're looking at it. Derby is a small community, and while cozy has an appeal all its own, you won't find much in the way of distinct neighborhoods. Instead, the town is arranged with unique sections based on the natural landscape. To the West, the Arkansas River snakes along Derby's western edge. Running along the river is State Road 15, Southeast Boulevard, or, the long way to Wichita, if you prefer.
To the East, High Park lets you know you've reached the city's eastern limit. The park is nestled up against Spring Creek, which provides local residents with all sorts of water sport activities during those warm summer days. In the middle of the park sits the High Park Recreation Commission Gymnasiums, home to all aspiring tumblers and Cirque Du Soleil wannabes. Derby residents of all ages frequent the recreation center for fun and exercise or venture out to the serene and natural wonder of Derby's largest park.
Moving to Derby
Without the burden of choosing among a wide variety of neighborhoods, relocating to Derby is a much simpler process than moving to a much larger city or town. After all, Derby has just one ZIP code, so researching data to find out which area provides specifically what you're looking for will yield somewhat indistinguishable results.
Some of the town's features that you will need to consider before your move include whether you would prefer to live within easy access to the main thoroughfares and highways or whether a more remote location, near parks and a more rural section of the town suits you best. The main attractions of the city are scattered around town so there isn't a centralized hub to plan against. You can freely chose any section of Derby and feel comfortable that both Wal-Mart and Village Inn Pancake House are well-within a short drive's distance.
Living in Derby
Derby residents have plenty to keep them occupied all year long. In the warmer months, the parks and rivers offer outdoor sports and leisurely picnicking. In the winter, high school sports, the Derby Plaza Theater, Derby BowlÑthe town's popular bowling spotÑand a host of quaint dining choices provide options for fun when the weather outside gets frightful. Though Wichita is a few minutes' drive north, staying in Derby can do just fine for a less hectic night on the town or afternoon in the park.
There isn't much in the way of public transportation in Derby. Most residents get around by car or on foot; and with the easy pace of this decidedly plains state suburban community, you can rest assured that you won't have to deal with heavy traffic as you navigate the city on a stroll to Braum's Ice Cream shop for a scoop or Papa Murphy's for a take-and-bake pizza.
A packed schedule of community events draw residents from every corner of town and adjacent communities. Various Derby groups and state organizations hold events that range anywhere from a community dance held in late March to the Derby Relay for Life, a June event sponsored by the American Cancer Society to raise money and promote cancer awareness. All are welcome to the community functions and each serves as a fun and interesting way to meet with neighbors and town officials. And obviously this is a great cause to be a part of and to be participating in.
Derby is a modest town in Kansas that has a wide range of opportunities for work-life balance. Moving to the area allows new residents the chance to enjoy a calmer slice of life while providing access to an intermediate city within a few miles away. Whether you favor a more mainstream lifestyle of national retail and restaurant chains or prefer the uniquely Derby watering holes and recreation spots, Derby has what you're looking for.