The welcoming nature of Salina Kansas, located in the Smoky Hills region of the Great Plains, is a breath of fresh air and a trip worth taking. With a population of just around 50,000 and easy access to I-70 and I-135, it is the perfect combination of modern city life and small town attraction. If you get the opportunity to visit Salina, here are three ways to experience the most from your trip.
A Blast From the Past
Go back in time and experience history through the stories of those who lived it at the Smoky Hill Museum in Salina, Kansas. The intentional detail put into each exhibit tells a story of the struggles and successes of those who settled the Smoky Hills region. With many permanent and rotating exhibits, see what life was like in a one-room sod dugout or take a journey through the crossroads of the heartland. Visitors will leave with a greater understanding and appreciation for the people who created a thriving city from a wild frontier. Children visiting the museum will love the Curiosity Shop, an interactive exhibit that engages kids in exploring the world around them through play. Smoky Hill Museum is free of charge and open Tuesday through Saturday.
A Family Getaway
A trip to Salina wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Rolling Hills Zoo. With over 350 animals and a wildlife museum as well, this zoo is a must-see for families visiting Salina. Open seven days a week, the 60-acre park features animals such as a rare white camel, Indian rhino, giraffes, bears, and more. The museum presents animal exhibits from regions around the world with state of the art human animatronics teaching about the unique relationships between animals and humans. Rolling Hills Zoo also features a hands-on children’s discovery center, which is a nice break halfway through the museum tour. Check out the 2,000-square-foot art gallery, and top off your trip with lunch at the Overlook Restaurant.
A Cultural Tour
Known as a thriving art community, Salina invites its visitors to not only experience the art and culture of the city but also to interact with it. SculptureTour Salina, on Santa Fe Street in the heart of downtown Salina, is an impressive way to do this. Each spring, the city offers a new outdoor walking tour of sculptures created by artists from all over the country. Visitors can pick up a brochure and ballot card at many downtown crosswalks and businesses and vote for their favorite sculpture. The sculpture that wins the most votes will be purchased and find a permanent home in the city. This is a free activity and pairs perfectly with dinner and shopping downtown.
From historic restaurants to world-class shopping, car shows and water parks, there are so many more reasons to love Salina. What makes it truly special are the people who call it home and the diverse community in which they live. Visit Salina and discover its rich history, cultural accomplishments, and family fun.
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