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Salina

Salina, Kansas, US

Salina, Kansas is a charming Midwestern city known for its rich agricultural heritage, vibrant arts scene, and historic landmarks. Visitors enjoy exploring the Smoky Hill Museum, stunning parks, and local shopping experiences.

Location Overview

Timezone

America/Chicago

Local Time

09:23 AM

Population

47,000

Best Time to Visit

Temperature:

68-90°F (20-32°C) - Hot with occasional thunderstorms.

Best Time

Apr-Jun, Sep-Oct

Connectivity

Power

120V

Port

Type A, Type B

Internet

Great

Airport Info

MCI

Kansas City International Airport

Distance

Approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes by car via I-70 E, covering around 180 miles.

Description

Kansas City International Airport offers a range of dining and shopping options with easy accessibility. It has excellent ground transportation facilities and is known for its large, circular terminals.

Salina, situated in north-central Kansas, offers a blend of cultural richness and historical depth. The Smoky Hill Museum provides an insightful look into the local history, while Stiefel Theatre hosts diverse performances. Art enthusiasts can explore the Salina Art Center with its contemporary exhibits. The Rolling Hills Zoo presents a family-friendly outing alongside Kenwood Cove Aquatic Park's summer fun. Salina's unique combination of arts, history, and outdoor recreation makes it an inviting destination. Visitors are encouraged to explore the city's local shops and diverse dining options for a complete experience.

Salina Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating

Safe

Exercise standard precautions.

Local Laws

Salina follows Kansas state laws, which include regulations on alcohol consumption and smoking in public places.

Crime Rates

Salina has a relatively low crime rate compared to larger cities. Most crimes are non-violent, with property crimes being more common.

Health Risks

Healthcare facilities in Salina are adequate for most needs, with a regional hospital available. There are no significant health risks specific to the area.

Natural Disasters

Salina is located in Tornado Alley, so there is a risk of tornadoes, especially during the spring and summer months. Residents and visitors should be aware of weather alerts.

Law Enforcement

Salina has a visible and responsive law enforcement presence. The local police department is active in community engagement and crime prevention.

Public Transportation

Public transportation in Salina is limited but generally safe. The city operates a bus service that is reliable and well-maintained.

Solo Travelers

Solo travelers should feel comfortable exploring Salina, as it is a friendly and welcoming community.

Recent Developments

There have been no significant recent developments impacting safety in Salina.

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Salina Monthly Weather Overview

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Best season to visit

Current Conditions ():

Best Time to Visit Salina

Summary: The best time to visit Salina is in spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when temperatures are moderate, ranging from 15-25°C (59-77°F). These periods offer pleasant weather for outdoor activities and events, making them ideal for travel.

❄️

January

January is cold with average temperatures ranging between -21°F to 41°F (6°C to 5°C). Snowfall is common, making it less ideal for sightseeing but perfect for cozy indoor activities.

💘

February

Cold weather continues with temperatures from -24°F to 46°F (4°C to 8°C). It's still winter, but events like the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce Annual Banquet offer entertainment.

🌱

March

March marks the beginning of spring, with temperatures reaching 34°F to 57°F (1°C to 14°C). It's a good time to explore Salina's museums and cultural sites.

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April

Best

Spring is in full swing with temperatures climbing to 45°F to 67°F (7°C to 19°C). The Tulip Time Festival blooms in nearby communities, adding to the charm.

🌷

May

Best

May enjoys mild temperatures of 54°F to 75°F (12°C to 24°C). It's a vibrant month for outdoor activities, with various community events and fairs.

☀️

June

Best

June temperatures range from 63°F to 86°F (17°C to 30°C). Outdoor festivals and the Smoky Hill River Festival make it a lively time to visit.

🏖️

July

July is hot with temperatures from 68°F to 93°F (20°C to 34°C). It's best for pool activities at Kenwood Cove or exploring air-conditioned museums.

🌞

August

Warm temperatures persist, ranging from 66°F to 91°F (19°C to 33°C), making it ideal for visiting beaches and attending the County Fair.

🍂

September

Best

September's mild temperatures between 59°F to 84°F (15°C to 29°C) make it perfect for outdoor events and fall festivities in the area.

🍁

October

Best

October sees temperatures from 46°F to 72°F (8°C to 22°C). It's a picturesque time with fall foliage and events like Oktoberfest.

☔

November

Cooler temperatures from 34°F to 57°F (1°C to 14°C) with Thanksgiving events and the start of the holiday season.

🎄

December

Cold weather with temperatures between -23°F to 45°F (5°C to 7°C). Holiday lights and festive events fill the local calendar.

Seasonal Events in Salina

June annually

Smoky Hill River Festival

Celebrates arts, crafts, music, and food, attracting visitors from across the region.

Smoky Hill River Festival

April annually

Salina River Run

A popular running event featuring various distances for runners of all levels.

Salina Parks and Recreation

August annually

Byways Bluegrass Festival

Features live bluegrass music performances in a picturesque setting.

Visit Salina

September annually

Kansas State Fair

Large fair showcasing agriculture, rides, and live entertainment.

Kansas State Fair Official Site

Popular Foods in Salina

Kansas BBQ

Known for slow-cooked, perfectly smoked meats popular across the state.

Bierock

A meat-filled pastry, usually with beef, cabbage, and onions, of German Russian origin.

Fried Catfish

Local favorite, often seasoned and breaded, served at community events.

Cornbread

A staple in many Kansas meals, often enjoyed with BBQ or chili.

Chicken-Fried Steak

Breaded and fried beef steak, typically served with cream gravy.

Closest Airports to Salina

Regional Airport

Salina Regional Airport (SLN)

Salina Regional Airport is a small regional airport with basic amenities and direct flights to select destinations. It is conveniently located, offering quick access to Salina city.

About 10 minutes by car from downtown Salina, covering roughly 4 miles along Centennial Rd and Beechcraft Rd.

Arrive early as parking can be close to terminals. It is a small airport making check-ins and security checks faster.

SLN Website

International Airport

Kansas City International Airport (MCI)

Approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes by car via I-70 E, covering around 180 miles.

Consider using the shuttle service for efficient transport to and from the parking lots. Check the airport layout map for easier navigation among terminals.

MCI Website

Popular Trip Types

Family Vacation

Salina, Kansas, is a family-friendly destination with attractions such as the Rolling Hills Zoo, which offers a diverse array of animal exhibits and educational programs. The Discovery Center provides interactive science and art experiences for children of all ages, while Kenwood Cove Aquatic Park is perfect for water fun during the summer.

Cultural and Historical Exploration

Salina boasts a rich history and offers several cultural attractions, including the Smoky Hill Museum, which showcases local history through engaging exhibits. The Stiefel Theatre for the Performing Arts provides opportunities to enjoy concerts and performances in a beautifully restored historic venue, contributing to Salina's vibrant arts scene.

Outdoor Adventure

For those seeking outdoor activities, Salina offers numerous parks and recreation areas. Lakewood Park provides trails and fishing opportunities, and the nearby Smoky Hill River Trail offers scenic views and hiking paths for nature enthusiasts. Whether it's biking, picnicking, or bird-watching, outdoor lovers will find plenty to enjoy.

Couples Retreat

Salina offers a serene setting for couples looking to escape and unwind. With quaint bed and breakfasts, cozy local eateries, and peaceful natural surroundings, couples can enjoy a relaxing and intimate retreat. A visit to the local wineries or a stroll through the picturesque Indian Rock Park enhances the romantic experience.

Road Trip Stopover

Located along Interstate 70 and Highway 81, Salina is an ideal stopover for road trippers exploring the region. With unique attractions, comfortable accommodations, and a variety of dining options, it provides a convenient and enjoyable break from long stretches of driving, allowing travelers to recharge and explore.

Custom Language

Tornado Alley

Storm-prone.

Used to describe the region's vulnerability to tornadoes during spring.

The River

Smoky Hill River.

Refers to the local U.S. river known for recreation.

BBQ Feast

Barbecue meal.

Commonly used for gatherings involving grilled food.

Prairie Land

Grasslands.

Refers to the natural landscape surrounding Salina.

Central Kansas

Salina region.

Denotes the geographical area of Salina and its surroundings.

Popular Sports & Teams in Salina

Salina Liberty

The Salina Liberty is a professional indoor football team that competes in the Champions Indoor Football league. Known for their exciting games and strong community involvement, they play their home games at the Tony's Pizza Events Center.

Salina Liberty Official Site

Kansas Wesleyan Coyotes

Kansas Wesleyan University’s athletic teams are known as the Coyotes. They compete in the NAIA and are recognized for their strong performances in sports including football, basketball, and soccer.

Kansas Wesleyan University Athletics

Salina Central Mustangs

Salina Central High School's sports teams, the Mustangs, are well-regarded in local high school sports, with strong programs in football, basketball, and track and field.

Salina Central High School Athletics

Salina South Cougars

The Salina South High School Cougars have competitive teams in various sports, particularly known for their achievements in basketball and soccer.

Salina South High School Athletics

Sacred Heart Knights

Sacred Heart High School's sports teams, known as the Knights, participate in numerous sports including football and basketball, and are celebrated for their spirited performances.

Sacred Heart High School Athletics