Salina, Kansas Travel Guide

Discover the charm of Salina, Kansas – a vibrant city where history, culture, and natural beauty come together to create an unforgettable travel experience.

Located in the central region of Kansas, Salina is a charming city that offers a perfect blend of historical allure and modern amenities. Known for its friendly community and vibrant culture, Salina is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by tourists seeking an authentic Midwestern experience. Start your journey in Salina's historic downtown district, where you'll find a collection of unique shops, local eateries, and preserved architecture that tells the story of the city's rich past. Art enthusiasts will delight in the Smoky Hill River Festival, an annual celebration of arts, crafts, and music that draws visitors from all over the region. For nature lovers, Salina boasts beautiful parks and outdoor spaces, including the scenic Indian Rock Park with its hiking trails and breathtaking views of the Smoky Hill River. Additionally, the Rolling Hills Zoo offers an opportunity to get up close with a variety of animals in a family-friendly setting. Salina is also a hub for cultural activities and events. The Salina Art Center and the Stiefel Theatre for the Performing Arts provide year-round entertainment, showcasing local and international talent. Foodies will enjoy the diverse culinary scene, which ranges from classic American diners to eclectic bistros serving farm-to-table dishes. Whether you're exploring its historical treasures, enjoying outdoor adventures, or immersing yourself in its cultural offerings, Salina is a destination that promises a memorable and enriching experience for every traveler.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Salina.

Visit during the Smoky Hill River Festival to experience the best of Salina's arts and culture.
Take a stroll through Oakdale Park for a relaxing day surrounded by nature.
Check out the local farmers' markets for fresh produce and handmade goods.
Explore the Smoky Hill Museum to learn about the area's history and heritage.
Don't miss a show at the Stiefel Theatre for an evening of live entertainment.

Explore Salina: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Salina

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Browse the full guide

All Attractions

Rolling Hills Zoo

Explore the incredible wildlife and immersive experiences at Rolling Hills Zoo, a top tourist attraction in Salina, Kansas.

4.6

Rolling Hills Zoo

Discover a world of wildlife at Rolling Hills Zoo, Kansas' premier destination for animal lovers and conservation enthusiasts.

4.6

Kenwood Cove Aquatic Park

Experience the ultimate water adventure at Kenwood Cove Aquatic Park, featuring thrilling slides and a relaxing lazy river in Salina, Kansas.

4.4

Oakdale Park

Explore the beauty of Oakdale Park, a serene retreat in Salina, Kansas, perfect for families, art lovers, and nature enthusiasts.

4.6

Best landmarks in Salina

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

Browse the full guide

All Landmarks

The Cozy Inn

Experience the irresistible charm and flavors of The Cozy Inn, Salina's beloved hamburger destination, serving up comfort food in a nostalgic setting.

4.7

Martinelli's Little Italy

Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Martinelli's Little Italy in Salina, KS, where tradition meets flavor in a cozy setting.

4.6

Hickory Hut BBQ

Experience the authentic taste of Kansas barbecue at Hickory Hut BBQ, where smoky flavors and a friendly atmosphere await every visitor.

4.7

Rolling Hills Zoo

Explore Rolling Hills Zoo in Salina, Kansas - a captivating blend of wildlife, education, and adventure for the whole family.

4.6

Best restaurants in Salina

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

Browse the full guide

All Restaurants

The Cozy Inn

Discover The Cozy Inn in Salina, KS - where delicious burgers meet friendly service in an inviting atmosphere.

4.7

Martinelli's Little Italy

Indulge in authentic Italian flavors at Martinelli's Little Italy - where every meal is a celebration of culinary heritage.

4.6

Olive Garden Italian Restaurant

Savor authentic Italian cuisine at Olive Garden in Salina, where family-friendly dining meets delightful Mediterranean flavors.

4.4

Russell's Restaurant

Discover the charm of Russell's Restaurant in Salina, KS - where family-friendly dining meets classic American cuisine.

4.3

Best bars in Salina

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

Browse the full guide

All Bars

Applebee's Grill + Bar

Experience the heart of American dining at Applebee's Grill + Bar in Salina, Kansas, offering delicious meals in a vibrant setting.

4.0

Chuck's Bar

Experience the heart of Salina at Chuck's Bar, where great food, refreshing drinks, and lively entertainment come together.

4.3

Chili's Grill & Bar

Discover the vibrant flavors at Chili's Grill & Bar in Salina, Kansas, where American and Tex-Mex cuisine meets a lively atmosphere.

3.8

Speakeasy

Experience the excitement of Salina's Speakeasy, a top sports bar offering delicious food, a lively atmosphere, and great entertainment.

4.1

Best nightclubs in Salina

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

Browse the full guide

All Nightclubs

Speakeasy

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Speakeasy in Salina, Kansas, where sports, drinks, and good times meet in a welcoming bar setting.

4.1

Big Nose Kate's

Discover the lively ambiance and local culture at Big Nose Kate's, a must-visit bar in Salina, Kansas, famed for its live music and friendly atmosphere.

4.0

The Blind Pig

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of The Blind Pig, Salina's ultimate sports bar with great food, drinks, and entertainment for all.

4.4

Paramount Bar

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Salina at Paramount Bar, where affordable drinks and a welcoming atmosphere create unforgettable moments.

4.5

Best shops in Salina

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

Browse the full guide

All Shops

Central Mall

Explore Central Mall in Salina, Kansas: your ultimate shopping destination with diverse stores, dining options, and a vibrant atmosphere.

3.6

Mid State Plaza

Explore Mid State Plaza in Salina, Kansas: a vibrant shopping haven with dining, entertainment, and a warm community atmosphere.

4.1

Ad Astra Books & Coffee House

Discover a charming blend of books and brews at Ad Astra Books & Coffee House, a must-visit spot in Salina, Kansas for coffee lovers and literary enthusiasts.

4.7

Kohl's

Explore Kohl's in Salina, Kansas - a budget-friendly department store offering a wide range of clothing, home goods, and accessories for every shopper.

4.2

Explore Salina on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Salina, mapped for you.

Salina Essentials

Salina, Kansas, is accessible by various modes of transportation. If you're flying, the nearest major airport is the Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport (ICT) in Wichita, about 90 miles south. Salina Regional Airport (SLN) also offers limited commercial flights. For those traveling by car, Salina is conveniently located at the intersection of I-70 and I-135. Greyhound bus services also connect Salina to other major cities.
Once in Salina, you can easily get around by renting a car or using local taxi services. Salina CityGo is the public bus system, offering routes throughout the city. Biking is also a viable option, with several bike-friendly paths and lanes. Additionally, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available.
The official currency is the U.S. Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, including hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are readily available across the city for cash withdrawals. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller businesses that may not accept cards.
Salina is generally a safe city for tourists. However, as with any location, it's wise to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas at night and be mindful of your belongings in crowded places. While Salina doesn’t have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it's best to stay alert and aware of your surroundings.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Salina has well-equipped medical facilities, including Salina Regional Health Center. Pharmacies are available for minor health issues. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably and season-appropriate; casual attire is generally acceptable. Religion: Do respect local customs if visiting religious sites, although specific dress codes are generally not strict. Public Transport: Do be courteous to other passengers and offer seats to the elderly. Don’t play loud music or eat on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or a handshake. Don’t forget to smile; it's considered polite. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and support local eateries. Don’t leave large tips; 15-20% is standard in restaurants.
To experience Salina like a local, visit the Smoky Hill River Festival, a major cultural event held annually. Explore the art installations at the Salina Art Center and catch a show at the historic Stiefel Theatre. For a unique local experience, don’t miss the Rolling Hills Zoo and Wildlife Museum. Engage with locals, who are generally friendly and eager to share their city’s history and culture.

When is the best time to visit Salina?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Salina

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Salina. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHowdy
  [haw-dee]
- GoodbyeSee ya later
  [see ya lay-ter]
- YesYep
  [yep]
- NoNope
  [nope]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/You're welcome
  [Please/You're welcome]
- Thank youThanks
  [thanks]
- Excuse me/SorryPardon me
  [par-dun me]
- How are you?Howdy
  [haw-dee]
- Fine. And you?Fine. And you?
  [Fine. And you?]
- Do you speak English?Do you speak English?
  [Do you speak English?]
- I don't understandI don't get it
  [I don't get it]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu, please
  [Can I see the menu, please]
- I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [I don't eat meat]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [Cheers!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseI would like to pay, please
  [I would like to pay, please]
- Help!Help!
  [Help!]
- Go away!Get outta here!
  [Get outta here!]
- Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [Call the cops!]
- Call a doctor!Get a doctor!
  [Get a doctor!]
- I'm lostI'm lost
  [I'm lost]
- I'm illI'm sick
  [I'm sick]
- I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [I wanna buy...]
- I'm just lookingI'm just lookin'
  [I'm just lookin']
- How much is it?How much does it cost?
  [How much does it cost?]
- That's too expensiveThat's way too pricey
  [That's way too pricey]
- Can you lower the price?Can ya bring the price down?
  [Can ya bring the price down?]
- What time is it?What's the time?
  [What's the time?]
- It's one o'clockIt's one
  [It's one]
- Half past (10)Half past ten
  [Half past ten]
- MorningMornin'
  [Mornin']
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [Afternoon]
- EveningEvenin'
  [Evenin']
- YesterdayYesterday
  [Yesterday]
- TodayToday
  [Today]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [Tomorrow]
- 1One
  [One]
- 2Two
  [Two]
- 3Three
  [Three]
- 4Four
  [Four]
- 5Five
  [Five]
- 6Six
  [Six]
- 7Seven
  [Seven]
- 8Eight
  [Eight]
- 9Nine
  [Nine]
- 10Ten
  [Ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [Where's the...?]
- What's the address?What's the address?
  [What's the address?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
  [Can you show me (on the map)?]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [When's the next (bus)?]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [A ticket (to ....)]

History of Salina

Salina was founded in 1858 by William A. Phillips and a group of settlers who aimed to establish a community along the Smoky Hill Trail. The town was named after the Saline River, which flows nearby. Phillips, an attorney and journalist, played a crucial role in promoting the new settlement and attracting more settlers to the area.
The arrival of the Union Pacific Railroad in 1867 marked a significant turning point for Salina. The railroad provided a vital link for trade and transportation, spurring economic growth and population increase. Salina quickly became a key hub for agricultural products, particularly wheat, which was shipped to markets across the country.
From 1867 to 1871, Salina was an important stop on the Chisholm Trail, a major cattle drive route from Texas to Kansas. Cowboys drove thousands of cattle through the town, which boosted local businesses and established Salina as a bustling frontier town. The Chisholm Trail played a crucial role in the development of the American cattle industry.
In the early 20th century, Salina experienced a cultural renaissance, with the establishment of various educational and cultural institutions. Kansas Wesleyan University, founded in 1886, and the Salina Art Center, established in the 1970s, became landmarks of the city’s commitment to education and the arts. These institutions have contributed to a vibrant cultural scene that continues to thrive today.
During World War II, the Smoky Hill Army Airfield (later Schilling Air Force Base) was established near Salina in 1942. The airfield served as a training base for B-29 bomber crews and played a significant role in the war effort. After the war, the base continued to operate until its closure in 1965. The site is now home to the Salina Regional Airport and the Salina Campus of Kansas State University Polytechnic.
Agriculture has always been at the heart of Salina’s economy. The fertile lands surrounding the city have made it a major center for wheat, corn, and soybean production. The annual Tri-Rivers Fair and Rodeo, which began in the early 20th century, celebrates this agricultural heritage with livestock shows, rodeos, and various community events.
In recent years, Salina has embraced innovation and technology, becoming a center for manufacturing and aerospace industries. Companies such as Great Plains Manufacturing and the Salina Vortex Corporation have established operations in the city, contributing to its economic diversification. Additionally, the Kansas State University Polytechnic Campus in Salina has become a leader in aviation and unmanned aircraft systems education.