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.
While strolling Douglass Avenue downtown, I noted the 1800s architecture and how local businesses are working to maintain its authenticity. What would Wyatt Earp, who allegedly walked these streets in 1873, think of it today?
The coffee shop sits adjacent to an active railroad track and the town’s downtown corridor, a bustling location for locals who stop in for a quick caffeine boost and delicious breakfast.
It was challenging to decide what I wanted to eat from the menu’s extensive list of affordable pub fare options, but I eventually settled on a simple but savory taco salad. We sat in the quiet company of a few locals who also stopped by for a late lunch.
The select-your-meal menu includes beef or chicken sliders or baskets of fried appetizers. Small but big in flavor, my Original Chicken Sliders reminded me of a Chick-fil-A meal. If you’re extra hungry, I suggest ordering extra sliders, as the combo meal with fries is a light lunch.
Of course, we had to try out 900 Club’s indoor golf simulator. The setup is available to the public to practice their swing, and the local high school team is known to use it when outdoor conditions are unfavorable for play.
PRO TIP: Museum-goers who like to stroll the grounds leisurely and its buildings will want to carve out at least two hours for a tour and, of course, allot time to shop the gift shop’s inventory of homemade goods.
I purchased a large container of pure raw honey produced by Sylvan Grove’s Labertew Honey Co., an affordable purchase given its size.
PRO TIP: Prefer to create art rather than shop for it? Check the 
Less than 1,000 people call Wilson home today. The tight-knit community is a welcoming town with a thriving Czech culture and tourism stops, which include a hometown eatery.
One can expect almost a dozen fruit flavors ranging from pumpkin to cherry. The Dutch Apple pie with added vanilla ice cream didn’t disappoint for its flaky crust and extra cinnamon and sugar.
Half of the store is devoted to home decor and gift merchandise, while the other half serves as gallery space featuring Betty Kepka’s artwork. The impressive collection features Czech folk art consisting of mostly handprinted eggs with various patterns. The Wilson native worked as an art teacher.
PRO TIP: The sister boutique to Midland Railroad Hotel, the store features a DIY Plant Bar. Visitors can purchase and build a terrarium using succulent plants. Check their 
Open seven days a week, the store stocks everything from candles and crafts to gift baskets and backed goods. A secondary room’s inventory includes colorful t-shirts of various designs and an assortment of books by Kansas authors.
Each time I visit Lucas, I discover something new to me. The positive messages and vibrant colors of the Lucas Public Library mural caught my eye, and I wasn’t leaving town without taking a selfie photo with the polar bear sitting on a Main Street bench. Yes, a polar bear.
I was enamored by the intricate wheat-weaving creations by Kansas artist Doris Johnson. All of the art is for sale, should you decide to bring home a shadow box featuring pin-cushion figurines, a stained glass window, or a framed photo of a Midwest landscape.
Other fascinating spaces to view while in town include 
The gallery’s featured artists rotate every two months, and the public is invited the 2nd Friday of the month to an exhibition reception. The artists give talks about their work.
PRO TIP: Walk to the gallery’s rear to shop the gift shop for affordable artwork.
PRO TIP: Arrive for dinner when they open. Locals fill up the dining room quickly. Save room for dessert. I wish I had tried the banana pudding or skillet cookie.
After a day of exploring, we sat in the one-time parlor, reading stories of the home’s first residents and the generations that followed. Then, a tour of each room containing family heirlooms completed the family’s story.
We were pleased with the home’s comfortable amenities, including high-speed WiFi, laundry facilities (robes provided!), a walk-in shower with toiletries, and a full kitchen (breakfast pastries and French press coffee, anyone?).
The home sleeps six people. Each bedroom contained a Queen-sized bed with plenty of space to store one’s belongings. We slept peacefully thanks to blackout curtains and the home’s peaceful surroundings.
Families will appreciate the home’s spaciousness and proximity to the park across the street. It’s a safe, lovely neighborhood. 
PRO TIP: Parking in front of the home on the gravel driveway. Read the house manual, located in the kitchen before unpacking.
I suspect you’ll appreciate the enormity of the the museum and its high-tech displays. The Children on the Homefront: Growing Up With War may leave you speechless.
Outside, a sidewalk winds visitors through the Plaza of Presidents, Memorial Courtyard, and Japanese Garden of Peace. There, the sound of falling water and koi splashing create a peaceful setting.
PRO TIP: Learn about Fredericksburg native Admiral Chester W. Nimitz, who led the United States naval force over Japan. His statue is visible from Main Street.
You’ll enjoy strolling to many of these shops, and the public art and historical markers dotting the district’s landscape make shopping the area entertaining.
One of the newest additions to Downtown Shawnee’s storefronts, Chicken Creek Co. by The Flower Chick, caters to women who love brightly colored, fun, and sometimes whimsical gifts. The hilarious greeting card selection makes gift-giving easy.
Each item in the store is hand-selected by its owner. I appreciated that she stocks handcrafted items by other independently-owned businesses, ranging from jewelry to candles.
Shoppers can expect fiction and non-fiction titles, and I was impressed to see several best-selling titles in stock. Are you on the hunt for a good read during a road trip? Do you have a young adult reader interested in a new book? You’ll find multiple genres at Seven Stories.
Don’t be surprised if you find a gift for someone else while shopping for your next book. A hand-curated selection of whimsical greeting cards are for sale.
Many of the gift items are adorned with funny sayings and hilarious phrases. Shoppers know that the owner frequently replenishes the inventory with new items; sometimes, a line of customers forms outside the storefront before it opens.
Known for their handmade selection of individual chocolates, I also love the extensive line of confections. Don’t leave the store without asking for a sample of the Milk Chocolate Covered Toffee. One bite and you’re likely to buy a bag of it.
Melt-in-your-mouth Sea Salt Caramel, Imperial filled with creamy, chocolate ganache, and Vanilla Bean chocolates are some of my top recommendations if you’re creating a bag or box of sweet treats.
Animal lovers will appreciate the selection of domestic and exotic animals. The family owned and operated store’s greeter, Frankie, a Capuchin monkey, excitedly jumps around its cage attracting shoppers’ attention.
For me, the chirping colorful birds and fluffy bunnies were the highlight of the visit.
As I perused the shelves, I noticed the owner carries mostly Midwest brands of bath bombs, personal hygiene products, and household cleaners.
If you’re someone who prefers a sustainable lifestyle, you’ll appreciate the store’s thoughtfully selected inventory.
Suds Refillery hosts a candle filling event every third Thursday of the month, so bring an empty vessel with you when you arrive.
The ideal accommodation for travelers seeking a beautiful vacation rental that sleeps four people or a business traveler who wants more space and comforts of home than a hotel provides, 
Soft pillows and a floor rug are comfortable additions to the living room, a spot where I snuggled up under a blanket to stream my favorite TV shows as the snow fell outside.
The simplicity of the room’s design provided a clutter-free relaxing experience. When I wasn’t resting peacefully, I streamed a movie from the Roku TV options while nestled under a plush duvet. A cellphone charging station on the bedside table made it a hassle-free experience.
Luxury amenities, including Tommy Bahama bath products, a hair dryer, make-up removal washcloths, and soft white towels conveyed Cozy in KC’s sense of care for the guest experience.
The apartment’s second bedroom was equally spacious providing plenty of room for added guests to feel at home. Like the master bedroom, the walk-in closet included a hangers, a luggage rack, and a soft king-size microfiber blanket.
For those seeking a relaxing soak, the second bathroom’s shower/bathtub combination meets one’s needs. The window streaming natural light and spacious countertop gave it a suite-like feel.
A nearby built-in cabinet provided access to placemats and essential barware.
While staying the weekend, I appreciated the state-of-the-art appliances when preparing breakfast before heading out to explore Shawnee. It was nice to wake up after restful sleep and prepare a pot of tea. If I felt like coffee, I used the K-Duo® Single Serve & Carafe Coffee Maker and the provided coffee grounds.
Known for a gastropub menu of hearty classics ranging from flatbread pizzas to comforting classics like meatloaf, the food arrives at the table artfully plated and tasting delicious. When you go, leave room for towering slice of Carrot Cake or Chocolate Tort.
While you can order to-go food online or have it delivered via Uber Eats (
If you’re not a fan of beer, a selection of wine, cider, Prosecco, and Mom Water are available alternatives. Although they don’t serve food, it’s common to see a food truck parked outside or you can bring your own food to enjoy in the taproom.
Next door, 
The town’s largest mural, painted by artist Jacob Cromer, is located at Johnson Drive and Neiman Road and it’s not to be missed.
For more travel inspiration, read my bonus suggestions for exploring town: 
