Hotels in Salina

Serving as an important trade hub for the surrounding wheat country, Salina lies along the Smoky Hill River in Kansas. Once inhabited by the Kansa people, it was claimed by France in the 17th century before becoming part of the Kansas Territory in 1854.

Things to do in Salina

Delve into the local history at the Smoky Hill Museum, which details the people, events and industries that have shaped Salina. Artefacts from the 19th century to the present day are on display, with many of the objects accompanied by information about the people who donated them. If you’re interested in purchasing books about Kansas, the on-site store has a great selection.

A short drive north of Salina is the Central Kansas Flywheels’ Yesteryear Museum, which is dedicated to the state’s agricultural past. In addition to vintage appliances, agricultural tools and memorabilia, it has an early 19th-century church and a one-room schoolhouse on its grounds. Antique engine demonstrations and tractor parades take place during the annual Central Kansas Heritage Days festival.

Animals from Africa, Asia and North America are exhibited at the Rolling Hills Zoo, which is also home to a fascinating wildlife museum. You can come face-to-face with snow leopards, white rhinos and orangutans, as well as giraffes, capybaras and kangaroos. Animatronic human robots will lead you through the Museum at Rolling Hills, which features interactive exhibits about our planet’s wildlife.

Getting around Salina

Salina is around 1.5 hours’ drive from Wichita and 2.5 hours from Kansas City. Kansas City International Airport is just under three hours away and has flights to destinations across North America. Salina Regional Airport is 10 minutes from the city centre and has flights to Chicago, Denver and Houston. Buses connect from Kansas City to Salina, as well as travelling throughout the city.