Things To Do
in Salina
Salina is a mid-sized city in north-central Kansas and a regional hub for commerce, culture, and outdoor recreation. It sits along I-135, offering a friendly Midwestern welcome, a walkable downtown, and a mix of museums, parks, and family-friendly attractions. The city blends prairie landscapes with a growing dining scene, making it a convenient base for exploring the Smoky Hills region.
With affordable prices and laid-back charm, Salina is well-suited for a relaxed weekend break or a longer Kansas road trip.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Salina Art Center, where you can admire contemporary art exhibits and discover local talents. Afterward, stroll through the charming streets of downtown Salina, stopping by unique shops and cafes. Don’t forget to grab a coffee at one of the local favorites, like The Cozy Inn, famous for its sliders.
Head to the Smoky Hill Museum to dive into the rich history of Salina and the surrounding region. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local diner, sampling traditional Midwestern fare. As the afternoon rolls on, take a walk in the nearby Oakdale Park, where you can relax by the pond or enjoy a game of disc golf.
As the sun sets, find a nice spot at a local restaurant like The Olive Garden for a delightful dinner. After your meal, consider catching a live performance at the Salina Community Theatre or a concert at one of the local venues. End your night with a nightcap at a cozy bar, soaking in the local atmosphere.
Begin your day with a visit to the Salina Community Theatre for a behind-the-scenes tour of this local gem. Afterward, enjoy a peaceful morning at the Salina Public Library, where you can browse through an impressive collection and perhaps find a quiet corner to read. Don’t miss the chance to snap a few photos at the historic courthouse nearby.
For lunch, head to a food truck or café offering local specialties before making your way to the Salina Art Center for an interactive workshop. Spend your afternoon creating your own masterpiece and interacting with local artists. If time permits, explore the outdoor sculpture park adjacent to the art center.
In the evening, enjoy dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant that showcases fresh, local ingredients. Following dinner, explore the nightlife scene by visiting a local brewery for a tasting session. Cap off the night with a stroll through the vibrant downtown area, where you might catch live music or street performances.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $75-150 |
| 🛒Groceries per week | $60-120 |
| 🚗Gasoline per gallon | $3-4 (varies) |
| 🎟️Movie or event ticket | $8-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed small-town vibe with convenient regional access
- Affordable prices and family-friendly attractions
- Strong local arts scene and parks
- Good base for prairie and Smoky Hills exploration
- Limited large-city nightlife
- Attractions are spread out requiring a car
- Very hot summers and potential severe weather
Places to Visit in Salina
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful murals and brick facades along Santa Fe Avenue offering vibrant street photography.
Contemporary architecture and outdoor sculptures provide contrast against blue Kansas skies.
River views and pedestrian paths great for golden-hour photos by the water.
Parks with bridges, lake reflections, and leafy canopies ideal for portraits.
Food in Salina
Salina Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A staple of local diners, often served with mashed potatoes and corn fritters.
Must-Try!
Smoky, slow-cooked ribs with a tangy sauce, commonly available at local barbecue joints.
Sweet breakfast treats from regional bakeries, perfect with coffee.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market featuring local produce, bakery items, and prepared foods, usually in downtown or Oakdale Park on weekends.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Friendly greetings, handshakes, and casual conversation days; hold doors for others; be punctual for appointments.
Safety
Tipping in Salina
Ensure a smooth experience
Tip 15-20% at restaurants and for taxi/rideshares; round up at casual counters; tip housekeeping at hotels as you would elsewhere.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days with occasional thunderstorms. Plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon and stay hydrated.
Mild to cold with occasional snow. Indoor attractions like museums are ideal winter options.
Mild temperatures and blooming prairie scenery; watch for sudden weather changes.
Comfortable temperatures and colorful foliage; great for walks and photography.
Salina at Night
Hiking in Salina
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Nearby urban trails and prairie landscapes suitable for easy to moderate hikes.
Airports
How to reach Salina by plane.
Small regional airport serving general aviation and limited commercial flights; close to downtown.
Major international airport about 85 miles southeast with frequent flights and car rental.
Regional airport about 100 miles east with limited but useful connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many local families rooted in farming and nearby towns.
There are students at the KS State University Polytechnic campus and regional colleges.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular activity in schools and communities; local leagues and pick-up games occur in gyms across town.
Seasonal leagues and park programs throughout spring and summer.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Salina.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many menu options can be adapted; look for veggie sandwiches, salads, and veggie burgers, or ask for substitutions.