Updated August 2025
Disclaimer: This post was sponsored by Visit Salina and its partners; however, all opinions and photos are mine.
In Salina, Kansas, immersive adventures provide travelers with unforgettable experiences. Like me, you’d instead pick the grapes before drinking the wine or create art rather than admire it. Take your pick from many hands-on activities, from creating artwork to feeding wildlife.
OBSERVE WILDLIFE IN ACTION AT ROLLING HILLS ZOO
Rolling Hills Zoo (625 N. Hedville Rd.), which is celebrating its 25th anniversary, is a place I always look forward to visiting. During a recent tour of the zoo, I was invited to observe zookeepers’ training demonstration with a sloth and a lion giving me face-to-face encounters with wildlife.
Keeper Encounters and Keeper Chats offer visitors access to animals in a way they may never have experienced. You’re in luck if you come upon one taking place. Attending one of the zoo’s events, like Safari Breakfast with an animal species, offers an exclusive glimpse of animals during the early morning hours.
Morning is the best time to visit the zoo for several reasons. The animals tend to be more active during morning feeding sessions, and if visiting during the summer, it’s cooler outside and more comfortable.
Special events such as the Party for the Planet on Earth Day raise awareness about global challenges and their effect on animals. During these events, visitors can also expect to witness Keeper Encounters.
The zoo has done quite a bit of renovating and adding animal species since my earlier visit. Its size and variety of animals are impressive, and as an AZA-accredited zoo, its dedication to wildlife conservation and education is evident.
As you traverse the zoo, you’ll observe birds, primates, big cats, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. The zoo’s renovations of exhibits makes it easier to observe wildlife.
PRO TIP: Plan for at least two hours to properly tour the zoo, and give yourself enough time also tour its indoor Wildlife Museum filled with taxidermy dioramas complete with animal noises.
PERFECT YOUR SWING AT CLUBHOUSE GOLF
Clubhouse Golf (117B N. Santa Fe) is one of the latest additions to Salina offering visitors a chance to practice their golf game via Foresight indoor simulator. Take it from me, an ex-high school golfer who never plays anymore: you don’t have to be a golf pro to enjoy swinging the club.
Open to the public, one can reserve one of four spacious golf bays by the hour. The simulator provides digital feedback for each swing as one practice at the driving range, the putting green or plays an 18-hole course.
I appreciated the detailed feedback, including the club face angle, stroke speed, and the ball’s trajectory. The ForeSight technology offers users various golf courses to select from, plus families with kids love its carnival game option.
PRO TIP: Bring your clubs. And if you want to enjoy food or drink during an adults-only golf session, order at Spicoli’s Toasted Subs bar next door and bring your snacks and beverages. Consider ordering the cocktail, Sand Trap.
GET CREATIVE AT SALINA ART CENTER WAREHOUSE
The hands-on fun continues at Salina Art Center Warehouse (149 S. 4th St.), where instructors teach classes on various art mediums to all ages.
Artists can reserve a day pass to gain unlimited access to the warehouse’s equipment during open studio hours. Summer is a busy time for the studio when about a dozen instructors teach classes. Are you interested in painting, ceramics or paper crafts? They have a class for it.
My instructor, Darren, taught me the step-by-step process of making a linocut drawing using a provided pattern. Admittedly, I wasn’t the best at carving intricate lines into the linoleum square (it’s more difficult than it looks!), but he patiently talked me through the process until it was ready for inking and rolling through the press.
PRO TIP: Follow the Facebook page for class announcements.
WATCH AN INDEPENDENT FILM AT SALINA ART CENTER CINEMA
When was the last time you watched an independent movie screening? Surround yourself with audio and visuals during a film screen at Salina Art Center Cinema (150 S. Santa Fe.) from the comfort of a plush leather seat with popcorn in hand.
I watched Problemista, a film about a mild-mannered young man working toward getting a VISA who encounters many people, making his journey challenging. The film included fantastical scenes and real-life scenarios written for an adult audience.
PRO TIP: The renovated, one-theater movie house regularly updates its movie screenings, so check its Facebook page for Now Showing titles.
TAKE AN EVENING STROLL ON SANTA FE AVENUE
The Downtown Arts and Entertainment District is a pedestrian-friendly corridor that takes on a new look as the sun sets. Enhanced streetscapes include ornate benches, planters with flowers, and mid-block crosswalks leading to public art sculptures.
The heart of the community transforms after sundown when neon signs glow, and overhead archways illuminate in color.
Stiefel Theatre
The crown jewel of the downtown corridor, Stiefel Theatre (151 S. Santa Fe), turns heads as the sun goes down. I saw its art deco design as the sun set, shining a golden hour glow on its tiered tower. After dark, the neon sign marquee shines brightly and is viewable for blocks along Santa Fe Avenue.
Constructed in the 1930s, the historic building is home to a steady lineup of live performances, including the Salina Symphony.
Public Art
Salina is an art-loving community, and it shows. I encourage you to walk along Santa Fe Avenue admiring the talented work of artists. The Sculpture Tour includes over 20 public art installations that update every May. You can vote for the People’s Choice Winner during an annual Unwrap Party.
During your stroll downtown, you’ll quickly notice vibrant -olored murals peeking out from around corners and down alleyways. Each October, selected artists from across the globe converge on Salina to paint street art during the Boom! Salina Kanvas Project.
PRO TIP: Surround yourself with multiple murals by walking Artwork Alley (140 S. 5th St.) located behind Stiefel Theatre.
Crosswalk Covers
The Art Deco crosswalk covers illuminate at night. Part of the downtown revitalization project, the pedestrian crosswalks are flanked by one-of-a-kind sculptures. A portion of the project’s financing came from sales tax generated by visitors to the city’s 28-block district.
WHERE TO DINE LIKE A GRAB A BITE TO EAT
Gourmet Eats
When you’re in the mood for a breakfast or lunch made to order with fresh ingredients, I recommend dining at Gourmet Eats (115 N. Ohio St.).
I ordered a local favorite, Breakfast Panini, on buttery toasted sourdough with turkey, bacon, egg, cheese, and fresh fruit. Served with zesty sour cream, I devoured every crumb. To say it was delicious is an understatement.
I took my time enjoying breakfast in the dining room as I watched the owner, Taylor, and her staff serve breakfast to drive-up window and dine-in customers.
PRO TIP: The breakfast menu includes eight selections ranging from sandwiches to biscuits and gravy. Dining for lunch? Expect a long list of sandwiches, wraps, and South of the Border entrees.
Ya Ya’s Euro Bistro
It’s always a delightful dining experience at Ya Ya’s Euro Bistro ( 241 S. Santa Fe), and this one was no exception. The restaurant, located adjacent to Homewood Suites, draws an influx of hotel guests and locals to the bar for Happy Hour.
At my reserved seat at the bar, I had a partial view of the open kitchen. I watched as bartenders raised martini shakers in the air, presenting craft cocktails and providing an immersive experience.
Since January 2024, Chef Jeremiah Harvey has elevated the restaurant’s menu, adding daily specials to its selections. Each dining experience begins with complimentary bread and a plate of creamy baba ganoush (eggplant), a Ya Ya’s Euro Bistro tradition.
Diners can select from a full dinner menu or Build Your Own Duet ($44) served with a Greek, Caesar, or spinach salad. Although the wood-fired pizza options and baked pasta were tempting, I ultimately chose the chef’s daily special, Stuffed Sol.
PRO TIP: The couple seated next to me recommended the Roasted Free-Range Chicken or the Pork Chop served with potato purée and sautéed mushrooms, providing me yet another reason to return to Ya Ya’s Euro Bistro.
Bogey’s
After a trip to Salina, people often ask me if I stopped at Bogey’s (1417 S. 9th St.) for ice cream. It’s a Salina mainstay. The fast food restaurant serves over 100 different shake flavors, and is known for its chili cheese fries and burgers.
I watched as young employees took multiple orders before handing me a chocolate-vanilla twist ice cream cone. A visiting sports team occupied much of the dining room, so I took my sweat treat to go.
PRO TIP: No matter the hour, Bogey’s is a busy place. Consider dining outside on the patio where fewer people are seated. In a hurry? Order via the drive-thru window.
BONUS ENTERTAINING ACTIVITIES IN SALINA
The Garage
If you love cars or want to take a trip down memory lane, visit The Garage (134 S. 4th St.). Daily admission rates include a gallery of pristine rate and vintage vehicles, a driving simulator, Hot Wheels and Lego exhibits, and live demonstrations.
The museum is known for hosting thematic events featuring specific makes and models of cars. For example, events like Going Tops Down highlight convertibles, while Cars & Coffee’s theme varies monthly.
PRO TIP: Just my luck, The Garage was closed for a private event the day of my visit. Check their hours and upcoming events via Facebook before making the trip.
The Yard
If you’re traveling with the kiddos, you may want to add The Yard (138 S. 4th St.) to your weekend plans. It’s a rentable indoor/outdoor baseball complex, where non-members can sign up for 30-minute or one-hour turf time. As long as you pack your turf cleats and equipment, you’re free to use the facility.
PRO TIP: If you’re looking for a place to reserve for a group event, consider their party rental options.
LODGING ACCOMMODATIONS WORTH RESERVING
Courtyard by Marriott
Courtyard by Marriott (3020 Riffel Dr.) is the place to stay in Salina when you want comfortable overnight lodging in proximity to most points of interest. Having stayed there in the past, I can vouch for its cleanliness and affordable amenities.
I took advantage of free WiFi to get some work done after exploring town. In the morning, I opted to enjoy a Starbucks coffee at Bistro, the lobby restaurant, where you can also purchase breakfast or lunch menu items.
After a busy day of activities, you should unwind in the on-site hot tub or indoor pool. Check-out is at noon, but Marriott Bonvoy members may be able to request an extra hour – more time to explore Salina.
I’ve stayed at the hotel a couple of times when in town covering events and attractions. Located near the highway, it’s proximity to the mall, downtown shopping, and Rolling Hills Zoo make it recommendable hotel.
PRO TIP: Sign up for Marriott Bonvoy Benefits before booking your stay to earn points to use toward future stays. No credit card required.
MORE SALINA TRAVEL ITINERARIES
The immersive experiences don’t stop there! Watch a live performance at Salina Community Theatre, explore unique shopping and dining downtown, or peruse impressive galleries at Salina Art Center.
Less than a 1.5-hour drive from Wichita, Salina is a place I can’t resist visiting at least once a year, and each time, I find new places waiting for me to enjoy.
People who pass on the sidewalk say hello. Business owners treat you like a friend. You’ll love Salina and its immersive experiences during your visit.
The north-central community of over 45,000 people has much to be proud of. Daytrippers will be impressed by the downtown area’s thoughtful design and unique businesses with something for every kind of traveler.
THE BATH PUB
The staff can also help you recreate a scent from an item you bring into the store, like an old perfume bottle or candle.
The fun continues throughout the store. Visitors are encouraged to take a photo in the store window’s bathtub. Children accompanying parents will enjoy the kids-only area that encourages artful play.
The smell of new books welcomes you as you walk through oversized wood doors into the store. The store’s shelves are organized by category while stacks of the latest titles are arranged upon dark wood tables.
But you’ll find more than books at Red Fern Booksellers. I was impressed to discover hand-made gift wrap, stationary for sale, puzzles, stickers, and handcrafted greeting cards. My visit ended perfectly when a butterfly greeted me as I exited the store, a delightful experience.
Whether you’re in the mood to create a seasonal gift for your home or a complete dishware set, On The Pot provides all the supplies you need to finish the project.
Be sure to check out their inventory of Julie’s Stickers, a collection of whimsical drawings and sayings, to add to your purchase. The owners are in the process of creating five downtown Salina stickers to sell as well.
PRO TIP: Traveling with family? Groups of 10 or more can book the studio for a reduced rate on studio fees with a 
From outfits with vibrant colors to unique Cansuelas handbags, the store lives up to its motto, “Be a Little Eccentric.” Shoppers searching for day-to-day closet staples will also find what they’re looking for.
The clothing and shoes inventory is constantly rotating for the seasons, and shoppers are guaranteed to find sizes available from XS to XL.
Beautifully upholstered chairs sit adjacent to elegant lamps and candleholders. Ornate plates adorn tabletops. Framed artwork, figurines, blankets, and garden urns reveal the shop’s distinctly different inventory. Body products and greeting cards near the register make a fabulous gift for a friend.
PRO TIP: Browse Baron Mushmouse’s clothing racks for Bohemian-style blouses, dresses, and dark denim jeans.
Every well-equipped kitchen needs decorative towels and cookbooks with a pantry stocked with dip mixes and jarred condiments. You’ll find it all and more at The Market Shop.
PRO TIP: Wind your way through the store’s thematic displays for scented candles and home decor. The rear of the store is a clothing paradise for fashion-forward women.
A new outfit isn’t complete without matching accessories. Blushe Boutique’s selection of hats, jewelry, and shoes makes shopping for a last-minute dinner date a breeze.
PRO TIP: Because the store stocks seasonal clothing, check the clearance racks in the rear of the store for mega deals.
Locally-made furniture, art, and pottery are the focus of the shop’s inventory, and Flipping Fabulous carries most of the supplies one needs for at-home projects. You’ll discover the most extensive stock of Redesign with Prima in the world and Melange One Paints.
PRO TIP: Walk upstairs to admire custom-made gifts and home decor created by local and regional artists.
Thanks to ever-changing displays, you’re guaranteed to see something you want to purchase each time you visit.
PRO TIP: Plan to spend about half an hour inspecting the store to see everything it offers. If you bring a gal pal to shop, prepare to spend more time because so many of the finds are conversation-inducing.
The café offers patrons a place to sit back and relax with a book or meet as a small group.
PRO TIP: Check the 
The menu consists of “world regional” fare, which to my surprise, includes 15 types of sushi rolls as well as nigiri and sashimi platters.
The linen tablecloths, orchestral music playing in the background, and robust menu options deliver an unforgettable meal experience at Barolo Grille.
I stopped for a refreshing margarita only to discover it was already Happy Hour at 2:30 pm. The setting was relaxed, and I made conversation with the bartender between sips while sports played on the TVs. I look forward to returning for lunch and Horchata Bread Pudding.
I felt like a kid again, savoring every bite of Lemon Custard ice cream as a Dagney’s employee shaped homemade waffle cones behind the counter. The color-changing plastic spoon made the whole experience nostalgic.
Choosing my entree, Penne Carbonara with Chicken, wasn’t easy because the menu ranged from seafood dishes and steaks to wood-fired pizzas. I appreciated the pasta dish, topped with a raw egg yolk that I was encouraged to stir into the black pepper cream sauce before enjoying it.
While all the street art designs are worth discussing, the enormity of the Mural at the Mill (343 N. Santa Fe Ave.) by Guido van Helten begs visitors for a closer look. The Australian muralist’s work wraps around all sides.
There is a buzz of creative momentum in Salina’s downtown. You can feel it as you shop, eat, and admire the area’s art scene. I recommend spending the day exploring it like a local.
The residents have always treated me kindly. Their welcoming spirit is genuine. I’m one of the town’s biggest fans for its progressiveness, focus on the arts, and plethora of entertainment options.
LODGING
I had the pleasure of staying in the 
The new hotel features Hilton’s expected amenities and then some. The beautifully decorated hotel is designed in a modern style with references to the region from the lobby’s opulent, gas-powered fireplace to the private library with the finest furnishings.
Guests also have access to complimentary free nearby parking, a hot breakfast, free WiFi, evening socials Monday-Wednesday. The impressive evening socials give guests a chance to unwind with an alcoholic beverage and a light dinner – and it’s all included in your stay.
The fitness room was the largest I’d ever seen in a hotel and it featured top-of-the-line exercise equipment. For swimmers looking to do laps, the pool is definitely large enough. Lounge chairs also make it an ideal place to sit back and close your eyes in relaxation. The facilities were clean and spacious. 
Homewood Suites by Hilton has thought of EVERYTHING. For travelers who have an extended stay, they’ve provided a laundry room for guests to use, a delightful discovery. Imagine arriving home with a suitcase of clean clothes!
And it gets better! Upon check-in, you’ll be asked what kind of complimentary coupon you would like to use at the hotel’s Starbucks cafe. Buy One, Get One specialty coffee beverages? Don’t mind if I do. Homewood Suites by Hilton rolls out the red carpet. After getting settled into your room, you’ll want to extend your stay. I highly recommend 
The 90-minute dramedy, set in 1912, told the story of scientist Marie Curie who spent two months at her friend Hertha Ayrton’s seaside home recovering from the emotional scars from public scrutiny. The two-person cast performed in a black box theatre where the audience sat only feet from them. It was a moving experience.
I love a museum that tells a story well. Did you know that Salina was once the third-largest producer of flour in the world? The newest exhibit, “
Eventually, the town became a crossroads for industry that included the railroad, Schilling Air Force Base (closed in 1966), technology companies, trucking, and healthcare.
The museum includes an abundance of hands-on activities for visitors of all ages. From examining parts of a buffalo to building a city and starting a tornado to playing with old-fashioned toys, Smoky Hill Museum is an entertaining experience. Make sure to walk upstairs to 
Before you exit the museum, purchase Kansas-made products and keepsakes in the gift shop. They have a wide selection of travel guides and non-fiction books about Kansas.
There is no charge to visit the Smoky Hill Museum. They are closed on Sundays, Mondays, and major holidays. Plan your visit 
Opened as the Fox-Watson Theatre in 1931, it was the idea of a wealthy grocer and banker in Salina. W.W. Watson, with help from others, opened the doors to the movie palace considered “one of the most beautiful in Kansas.” (Source: Stiefel Theatre). It was later renamed after Milton Stiefel who was a major contributor to its renovation.
Fast forward decades later after a major renovation in 2003. The theatre’s state-of-the-art sound system, backstage accommodations, and stunning interior make it a must-stop venue for performers.
Later, I met up with the executive director of the 
If you also appreciate listening to orchestral music or perhaps have always wanted to hear it, you can purchase tickets to one or all of the six concerts performed each year. The holiday show is so well attended that it was expanded to two days.
My first priority when touring Rolling Hills Zoo was to visit the giraffe exhibit. I approached the area slowly as to not startle them. To my surprise, Zuri, Billie, and the youngest, Korey, were as interested in me as I was in them. Korey, who was born in December 2020, is 10 feet tall and growing. The other giraffes are 11 years old.
I visited the zoo in the early afternoon hours when most of the animals were napping, including a bear in a hammock. However, a tiger rose from his slumber to yawn in acknowledgment of passersby. Capybaras and flamingos explored. Barnyard animals greeted children.
The zoo has an 
A visit to Rolling Hills Zoo should be at the top of your list of things to do when in Salina. To experience the upcoming events, view gate admission prices and the zoo’s hours, visit the 
BOUTIQUE SHOPPING
Known for carrying antiques, market finds, and locally-made jewelry, 
In search of new clothes to add to your closet? 
I came home with a pair of earrings from 
Also a place for families, the youngest visitors will appreciate the children’s book section and inviting gumball machine. I recommend asking about the specialty coffee of the month. Proceeds from my purchase of a Bee Kind Latté went to a local non-profit. You’ll find it difficult to leave without buying a book, t-shirt, or Kansas-themed gift.
DAGNEY’S ICE CREAM
MARTINELLI’S LITTLE ITALY
Leave room for homemade tiramisu or creme brûlée. Ask for the drink and dessert menus before ordering your meal to plan ahead. The family-style portions are HUGE. A quarter-size pasta dish is prepared with a half-pound of pasta. The spaghetti comes with a one-pound meatball. You’ll need a to-go box.
DAIMARU STEAKHOUSE & SUSHI BAR
Daimaru is popular with locals. The sushi chefs never stood still. I watched as they prepared enormous sushi platters. Artfully designed, the sushi tasted as good as it looked.
After exploring Salina, it was nice to come “home” to modern amenities and comfy beds. We took advantage of the indoor pool and spa for ultimate relaxation. A complimentary full breakfast topped our list of must-have accommodations making Hampton Inn a smart choice for an overnight stay. “Hampton’s On the House” breakfast is served daily from 6 am-10 am.
I purchased a freshly brewed coffee with creamer and a flaky croissant. The place was abuzz with activity, so I took a number and waited for my order. Trendy music played while baristas filled cups with cold-brewed coffees and prepped fruit smoothies. Moka’s Coffee has perfected the cafe formula. Modern atmosphere + Delicious Menu Items = Must-Visit Café. I’ll certainly return for a Mile-High Sandwich for lunch sometime.
SculptureTour Salina encourages you to vote on your favorite sculpture using a ballot deposited into a box at mid-block pedestrian crosswalks. With so many incredible works on display, how do you pick only one? We loved “Butterfly Tree” by Reven Marie Swanson from Colorado. The engineering of the piece kept the butterflies balanced and moving, a design element that made it unique from the others.
All of the sculptures are available for purchase. The sculptures are replenished downtown as each one sells. However, some remain on exhibit like my personal favorite, “Off the Merry-Go-Round” by Jodie Bliss, which was purchased by Homewood Suites. To learn more about SculptureTour Salina and how to cast your vote, visit their 
The collection of fiber artists’ work continued throughout the gallery showcasing thread painting, beadwork, weaving, and quilting techniques. As a frequent museum-goer, I’m used to seeing paintings and drawings. “
We loved the variety of choices on Food Row. The hardest part was deciding what to eat thanks to so many delicious options. The smell of bbq permeated the air. The sizzling sound of paella drew onlookers. The line formed for Tex-Mex. In the end, I decided to order a Walking Taco. It is a snack-sized bag of Doritos filled with taco toppings that you eat with a fork! My boyfriend couldn’t resist ordering an Italian sausage served with peppers and onions. Honestly, this food court rivaled some of the best I’ve seen in quality and selection.
Visual arts are a focus of the festival. A portion of the festival is devoted to artists selling their work and demonstrating it. We enjoyed visiting with a landscape photographer at his vendor tent and talking about the many places he worked. Art installations were added on the festival grounds for people to enjoy. The festival features eight artisans and almost two dozen installations. It truly is an #EpicArtsParty.
The festival’s live music is astounding. At any given time, there were bands playing on various stages around the park. We walked between stages to enjoy the sounds of The Marcus Lewis Band, SunDub, and The Hooten Hallers. All of the bands were talented, but we enjoyed 
We could’ve stayed all day, but we had more of Salina to check out. Our experience at Smoky Hill River Festival was memorable and one that I look forward to repeating next year. Parking was a non-issue, the park’s trees provided ample shape, and the option to bring a cooler of canned drinks was a pleasant surprise. To plan your visit to next year’s festival, check their 
The family-owned restaurant is always bustling with locals and tourists enjoying the sports bar-like atmosphere. The in-house craft beers on tap include standards you would want to see plus specialty beers like Hatch Green Chili Cream Ale or my favorite, Watermelon Crawl.
During our visit, we quickly became friends with a brother and sister duo from the area. Whitty, fun, and super knowledgeable about Salina, we compared travel stories and talked about our love of craft beer. They told us about Blue Skye’s award-winning Bloody Mary bar and brunch menu. So, of course, we returned the next morning to try it. It was fun! The server brings you a glass of ice with a shot of vodka. Your task is to make craft your own Bloody Mary recipe using a variety of tomato-based juices, hot sauces, and add-ins. As you can see in the photo below, we had a blast using the skewers to make a bouquet of tasty treats.
I’d recommend putting Blue Skye at the top of your list of places to eat when in Salina. The locals are welcoming, and the menu exceeds your expectations. Insider Tip: Don’t forget to check out the hallway leading to the bathroom.
The place was voted by Google as a Top Rated Burger and Best Burger Joint in Kansas 2012 from USA Today. A Single Cozy is $1.29, Double $2.19, and multiple packs start with six burgers up to 36. They are so yummy, that people buy them frozen to go! We ordered a six-pack of burgers with a bag of chips and a soft drink to enjoy at an outdoor picnic table. Between bites, I noticed people eating in their cars, riding up to the stand on bikes, and newcomers devouring burgers for the first time. They’ll all return for more. It’s a rite of passage to eat at 
All in all, we had a fantastic time in Salina. If it’s been years since you’ve traveled to the area, it’s time for a return visit – so much has been updated! Should you ask yourself, “Where could we visit in Kansas that promises a good time?” Salina is the answer.
