Salina KansasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Salina, Kansas.
1. Rolling Hills Zoo
WILDLIFE ADVENTURE PARK
Rolling Hills Zoo offers visitors a chance to see over 100 species of animals in naturalistic habitats spanning across 65 acres. The zoo features a wildlife museum with lifelike dioramas that transport visitors around the world to experience different ecosystems. Families particularly enjoy the tram tours and interactive exhibits that make wildlife education engaging for all ages.
2. Kenwood Cove Aquatic Park
PREMIER WATER ADVENTURE
Kenwood Cove Aquatic Park features 1,400 feet of water slides, thrill rides, and a dedicated children's play area perfect for cooling off during hot Kansas summers. The water park offers attractions suitable for all family members, from lazy rivers to more adventurous water slides. Visitors can enjoy real surf experiences and all-day fun at Salina's largest aquatic facility.
3. Smoky Hill Museum
INTERACTIVE HISTORY EXPERIENCE
Smoky Hill Museum is a nationally accredited museum that explores local history with interactive exhibits designed for all ages. The museum provides hands-on, minds-on experiences that make children eager to stay longer and adults want to return. Despite its small package, this museum delivers a big-city experience with fun historical discoveries around every corner.
4. Stiefel Theatre for the Performing Arts
HISTORIC ENTERTAINMENT VENUE
The Stiefel Theatre for the Performing Arts is a beautifully restored historic venue featuring an impressive lineup of entertainment options throughout the year. The building itself is considered a treasure by locals and visitors alike, with careful restoration maintaining its original charm. This cultural cornerstone of Salina hosts concerts, comedy shows, and theatrical performances in an intimate setting.
5. The Garage
UNIQUE SPECIALTY MUSEUM
The Garage is a specialty museum in Salina that offers visitors a distinctive cultural experience focused on automotive history and memorabilia. This highly-rated attraction showcases vintage vehicles, tools, and artifacts that tell the story of America's automotive heritage. Visitors appreciate the museum's attention to detail and the nostalgic journey through time it provides.
6. SculptureTour Salina
PUBLIC ART WALKING EXPERIENCE
SculptureTour Salina transforms the downtown area into an outdoor art gallery featuring rotating sculptures from artists across the country. Visitors can take a self-guided walking tour to view these impressive installations while enjoying the charm of downtown Salina. The annual exhibition changes each year, providing new artistic experiences for repeat visitors and highlighting Salina's commitment to public art.
7. Central Kansas Flywheels Yesteryear Museum
VINTAGE MACHINERY COLLECTION
Central Kansas Flywheels Yesteryear Museum, located at 1100 W. Diamond Drive, preserves the agricultural and industrial heritage of the region through its extensive collection of vintage machinery. Visitors can explore antique tractors, steam engines, and early farming implements that showcase the technological evolution of America's heartland. The museum offers a fascinating glimpse into rural Kansas life through the decades with hands-on demonstrations during special events.
8. Salina Art Center & Cinema
CONTEMPORARY ART HUB
Salina Art Center & Cinema offers high-caliber contemporary art exhibitions and programming that surprises visitors with its metropolitan quality in a small city setting. The center combines visual arts with an independent cinema showing films not typically available in commercial theaters. With admission by donation, this cultural gem makes art accessible to everyone while providing thought-provoking experiences.
9. Webster Conference Center
RETREAT AND RECREATION
Webster Conference Center provides exceptional facilities designed for everything from day visits to week-long retreats for families, churches, and civic organizations. The center boasts a perfect 5.0 rating from visitors who appreciate its well-maintained grounds and accommodating amenities. Guests can enjoy both indoor and outdoor activities in a peaceful setting that encourages connection and relaxation.
10. Fossett Plaza
AVIATION HISTORY MONUMENT
Fossett Plaza celebrates the historic achievement of Steve Fossett's nonstop flight around the world, which originated from Salina. This official Roadside America attraction has become a popular destination for aviation enthusiasts and history buffs visiting the area. The monument honors Fossett's pioneering spirit and Salina's connection to aviation history through informative displays and commemorative structures.
11. Smoky Hill River Festival
VIBRANT ARTS CELEBRATION
The Smoky Hill River Festival is known across Kansas as summer's official kickoff party, bringing together music fans, foodies, and art lovers in beautiful Oakdale Park. This annual celebration invites families to experience unique arts offerings in a festive atmosphere that showcases Salina's cultural vibrancy. The festival features live performances, artisan vendors, interactive activities, and culinary delights that draw visitors from throughout the region.
12. District Eat and Play
ENTERTAINMENT AND DINING COMPLEX
District Eat and Play offers a comprehensive entertainment experience combining dining, games, and social activities under one roof. Visitors can enjoy a variety of food options while challenging friends to bowling, arcade games, or other interactive attractions. This modern facility serves as a popular gathering place for locals and travelers seeking an all-in-one entertainment destination in Salina.
13. Cozy Inn
LEGENDARY SLIDER BURGERS
Cozy Inn is a legendary hamburger joint in Salina that has been serving its famous sliders since 1922, making it one of Kansas' oldest continuously operating restaurants. The tiny diner is known for its small onion-fried burgers that have remained unchanged for generations, creating a distinctive aroma that permeates the surrounding block. Visitors often leave with bags of sliders and stories about this nostalgic Kansas institution that maintains its original counter-service tradition.
14. Indian Rock Park
NATURAL OUTDOOR RECREATION
Indian Rock Park offers outdoor enthusiasts access to hiking trails, fishing spots, and scenic views within Salina's 700 acres of parkland. The park features distinctive rock formations that give it its name and provide interesting geological features to explore. Visitors can enjoy picnic areas, wildlife viewing, and recreational activities in this natural setting that showcases the beauty of the Kansas landscape.
15. Paramount Bar
HISTORIC DOWNTOWN NIGHTLIFE
Paramount Bar occupies a beautifully restored historic building in downtown Salina, offering craft cocktails and a sophisticated atmosphere for evening entertainment. The establishment features regular live music performances that showcase local and regional talent in an intimate setting. With its blend of historic charm and contemporary drinks menu, the Paramount has become a cornerstone of Salina's revitalized downtown nightlife scene.