Hotels in Salina

Awaken Your Spirit: Explore the Riverfront Wonders and Cultural Treasures of Salina

Nestled in the heart of Kansas, Salina is a charming off-the-beaten-path destination that beautifully marries culture and nature. Explore the Smoky Hills region, where scenic landscapes offer tranquil river views and outdoor adventures. Delve into local history at the fascinating museums, showcasing art and heritage that reflect Salina's rich past. Don’t miss the Salina Zoo, a delightful family-friendly spot, and the vibrant parks that provide serene escapes. With its welcoming atmosphere and unique attractions, Salina invites travelers to experience the essence of small-town charm in a picturesque setting. For the best hotel rates in Salina, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Salina

Some of the best places to stay in Salina are Abilene, Lindsborg and Minneapolis. Abilene, Lindsborg, and Minneapolis offer unique attractions for travelers. Abilene is known for its historical sites, while Lindsborg showcases Swedish heritage and art. Minneapolis boasts a vibrant arts scene and beautiful parks. Accommodations in these towns range from cozy motels to charming inns, catering to various budgets. For first-time visitors, Lindsborg is the best choice, providing a delightful blend of culture and community. If you're looking for hotels in Salina, options like Quality Inn and Country Inn offer comfortable stays. Here are some of the best hotels in Salina that our travelers love:

1. AbileneOpens in a new window: Abilene is a charming destination for travelers interested in outdoor activities and cultural exploration. Home to the Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library & Museum, this area offers a glimpse into American history. It's also near Eisenhower Park, perfect for family outings. For accommodations, there are several hotels catering to diverse needs. USA Inn Junction City Near Fort RileyOpens in a new window is a 3.0-star hotel ideal for business and pet-friendly stays, offering essential services for business travelers and allowing pets with some restrictions. Abilene ExpressOpens in a new window, also a 2.5-star hotel, shares similar amenities, making it suitable for those traveling with pets. Additionally, Diamond Motel AbileneOpens in a new window is a cozy motel that welcomes pets, providing a comfortable stay for animal lovers.
2. LindsborgOpens in a new window: Lindsborg is a delightful small town known for its outdoor beauty and rich cultural heritage. With attractions like Bethany College and the historic Coronado Heights, it offers a unique blend of education and recreation. The town is also home to several pet-friendly lodging options. Coronado Motel and RV ParkOpens in a new window is a 2.5-star motel that allows dogs, perfect for travelers with pets. Coronado West MotelOpens in a new window, another 2.5-star motel, also welcomes dogs, ensuring a comfortable stay for furry companions. For business-focused guests, Best Western Plus McPhersonOpens in a new window, located nearby, is equipped with meeting rooms and business amenities, making it suitable for corporate travelers.
3. MinneapolisOpens in a new window: Minneapolis is a vibrant area perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Notable attractions include Prairie Lavender Farm and the Ottawa County Historical Museum. This destination offers a selection of pet-friendly accommodations for visitors. Rock City MotelOpens in a new window is a 2.5-star motel that welcomes pets, making it an excellent choice for travelers with animals. For those needing business services, Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Concordia, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window, also a 2.5-star hotel, provides a range of amenities including meeting rooms and a business center, catering to corporate guests while still being accessible for leisure travelers.

Things to do in Salina for first time

A three-day visit to Salina offers a delightful blend of riverfront beauty and vibrant cultural experiences. Explore scenic parks and forests, enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and sledding, and immerse yourself in local festivals and art scenes, making it a perfect getaway for adventure and relaxation. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Salina:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at Coronado Heights, where stunning views of the Smoky Hill River Valley await you. Explore the historic site and take in the breathtaking scenery. Next, head to the Courtyard Gallery, featuring a vibrant collection of local art that showcases the creativity of Salina’s artists. Finish your day by visiting the Wild Dala Horse Herd, a unique outdoor art installation that features beautifully painted horses—perfect for some memorable photos and a leisurely walk among the colorful sculptures.
• Day 2: Start your day at the Birger Sandzen Memorial Gallery, which houses a fantastic collection of paintings by the renowned artist and local legend. After soaking in the art, make your way to the Freemount Lutheran Church, an architectural gem that offers a glimpse into the spiritual heritage of the area. Wrap up your day with a visit to the McPherson County Old Mill Museum, where you can learn about the region's milling history and its impact on local culture.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at the Mingenback Art Center Gallery, where you can appreciate the diverse range of artwork on display. Following your artistic exploration, venture to the Hoglund Dugout, a fascinating historical site that provides insight into the early settler lifestyle in Kansas. Conclude your trip with a visit to Kanopolis State Park, where you can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, or simply relaxing in nature, making the most of the great Kansas outdoors.

5 tips to find a great Salina hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: For those looking for an affordable getaway, the best time to visit Salina is in January, October, and December, when hotel prices tend to be lower. If you're traveling internationally, it's wise to book your flight at least eight months in advance to secure great value for your money. A stay of at least 1-2 days is ideal for exploring the city's main attractions, such as the scenic river and various museums. Salina offers a budget-friendly experience, making it perfect for travelers seeking to make the most of their visit without breaking the bank.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for great savings on hotels in Salina, last-minute deals can be a fantastic option. You may discover significant discounts by checking the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com. You could find accommodations with good availability and a price guarantee, making it easier to book a room at a lower rate. To maximize your chances of snagging these offers, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com for updates on flash sales and exclusive promotions, so you won’t miss any opportunities to save.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the location, star rating, and season. So, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Salina.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in Salina is usually more expensive. However, if you opt for accommodations further from the city center, you can take advantage of transportation options like a car to explore the area, which can be more likely to be affordable.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Become a member of Hotels.com's free One Key rewards program when booking your stay in Salina. Earn points for your hotel bookings and progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers. Unlock a range of exclusive rewards, including room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and member-only offers. Join today.

What to eat in Salina

Here are some top-rated dishes in Salina, Kansas, United States of America:

• Barbecue: In Salina, barbecue is a beloved culinary tradition, often featuring slow-smoked meats like brisket and ribs, slathered in tangy sauces. You'll find local joints serving up generous portions with sides like baked beans and coleslaw, perfect for enjoying with friends and family.
• Chicken Fried Steak: A true comfort food, chicken fried steak consists of a breaded and fried beef cutlet smothered in creamy gravy. It's a staple in diners across Salina, often accompanied by mashed potatoes and green beans, making it a hearty meal that reflects the region's homestyle cooking.
• Tacos: Salina offers a unique twist on tacos, incorporating local ingredients and flavors. Many eateries create personalized taco experiences, allowing you to choose from various fillings like grilled meats, fresh veggies, and zesty salsas, making each meal a delightful adventure.

Best time to go to Salina

Salina experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 31.8°F (-0.1°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 81.7°F (27.6°C). May tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Salina are March, June, and July, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by dry to light rainfall. In contrast, January, February, and December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by dry rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.