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Part 1 - Indoor Activities
Free or Low-Cost Things to Do in Salina

Okay, so you spent a little more during the holidays than you planned. Or maybe you’

Okay, so you spent a little more during the holidays than you planned. Or maybe you’ve simply set a goal to eliminate some debt this year. Now you’re looking at your checking account balance and feeling like the next few months are going to be dull because you have no discretionary spending money. Don’t worry, it happens to lots of us. There’s no need to panic or even to feel bad. Being generous and paying down debt are good things!

Fortunately, Salina has a multitude of free and low-cost opportunities to have a great time. You don’t HAVE to spend a lot to make amazing memories in Salina.

Who knows? You might discover that you actually enjoy and learn from the free activities just as much! 

Part 1 of our series is all about things you can do when the weather is unfavorable. It’s a list of INDOOR free or low-cost things to do in Salina.

Click here for Part 2 of this series where we share OUTDOOR free or low-cost things to do in Salina.

Or read on for indoor options:

Smoky Hill Museum

Did you know that admission to this Salina icon is free? Smoky Hill Museum is a cultural and historical hub dedicated to preserving the heritage of the Smoky Hills region. You can dive into Salina’s rich history here and marvel at how far we’ve come as a city and a community.

And with their continuously rotating exhibits, there’s always something new to see and do.

Be sure to see:

  • Permanent exhibits that showcase the area’s history
  • Temporary exhibits that keep things fresh, in case you find yourself thinking “But I’ve already seen it” 😉
  • The children’s area that offers hands-on activities blending history and science—perfect for curious young minds!

 

Location: 211 West Iron Avenue, Salina, Kansas

Hours:

  • Tuesday through Friday from 11am to 5pm
  • Saturday from 10am to 5pm

 

Click here to check out their website.

Interactive exhibit at Smoky Hill Museum in Salina, Kansas
Imagination Station at the Salina Public Library

Salina Public Library

If you can’t find something that fascinates and entertains you at the Salina Public Library, then you’re just not even trying! 😆

Endless possibilities await when you step through the door. Looking for an epic fantasy fiction novel? They’ve got it. Want to dive deep into Middle Eastern politics? Got you covered. Want to learn and plan that backyard garden you’ve been dreaming about? They’ve got that, too.

Beyond the thousands of books available, there are daily activities and classes you can join to learn new skills and explore your creativity.

What to Do:

  • Pick up a new hobby or dive deep into research
  • Relax in the quiet reading areas
  • Participate in regular events like technology classes, craft-making workshops, and storytimes for kids. Whether you’re looking to learn, create, or simply unwind, the library’s got you covered.
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Location: 301 West Elm Street, Salina, Kansas

Click here to check out their website where you can see hours and scheduled events.

Salina Fieldhouse

Looking for something a little more physically demanding? Salina’s got options! Burn some energy indoors at the Salina Fieldhouse!

This beautiful 68,500 square foot indoor sports facility located in downtown Salina is sure to offer something you’ll enjoy.

For just $3 per person, you can enjoy basketball, pickleball, volleyball, soccer, baseball, and other fun pick up sporting activities.

Check their Facebook page for the current schedule (as they sometimes are fully booked for tournaments and team practices). 

Location: 140 North 5th Street, Salina, Kansas

Pickleball courts Ready for play at Salina Fieldhouse
Available ad space

YMCA of Salina

The YMCA of Salina is another fun, sporty option for burning some energy when the weather isn’t cooperating.

Don’t worry if you’re not a member! Just $5 per person, or $20 per family, will get you full access to:

  • the gym where you can play basketball, volleyball, pickleball and more
  • the fitness center with walking track where you can work out to your heart’s content
  • two swimming pools, one a lap pool where they host loads of water classes, and one a fun family pool sure to delight the kids
  • racquetball / handball courts, ping pong table, and more
  • group classes where you can try out something new and fun
  • steam rooms and a hot tub to relax and rejuvenate after that workout (or skip the workout and simply luxuriate in some much-needed self-care)

 

Location: 570 YMCA Drive, Salina, Kansas

Click here to access schedules for the gym, the pools, and group classes.

First Fridays Art Walk

Not feeling sporty today? How about something a little more refined?   

The First Fridays Art Walk is a fun, vibrant monthly event that showcases the city’s rich arts and cultural scene. Yes, those of us inside the community already know what visitors delight in discovering — Salina is an absolute HUB of entertainment, arts and culture!

Held on the first Friday of each month, the Art Walk offers residents and visitors an opportunity to explore downtown Salina’s restaurants, shops and cultural attractions.

Key participants are the Salina Art Center and the Greater Salina Community Foundation. These organizations host free events as part of every First Friday.

Past events hosted by the Salina Art Center have included performances by Ballet Salina from the Tamara Howe School of Dance and exhibitions by local artists in their gift shop and community gallery. The Greater Salina Community Foundation has hosted events featuring local artists, such as Meghan Hessman of Sunflower Follies Art Studio, providing a platform for artists to display and sell their work.

What to Expect:

  • Art galleries, live performances, and cultural experiences throughout downtown Salina.
  • Stop by the Salina Art Center (242 South Santa Fe Avenue) for free events from 4pm to 6pm.
  • Meet local artists and discover unique creations at various venues.

 

Location: Downtown Salina,  Kansas, the First Friday of every month.

Community members enjoying a presentation at First Fridays event
Art supplies

Second Saturdays at the Salina Art Center

After viewing works of art at the First Fridays Art Walk, maybe you’re inspired to create a masterpiece of your own.

Unleash your creativity at Second Saturdays Art-Making. It’s a monthly, community-focused event designed and hosted by the Salina Art Center to inspire creativity and bring people together, while fostering an appreciation for art in a welcoming space.

Details:

  • Free and open to all ages and skill levels, making it a family-friendly activity
  • Supplies are provided, and each month features a new art-making theme, ensuring a fresh and engaging experience
  • A relaxed, come-and-go format means you can participate at your own pace

 

Location: Salina Art Center Warehouse, 149 South 4th Street, Salina, Kansas 

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With so many options for free and low-cost things to do in Salina, you’re sure to find an activity that fits your mood (and your budget), no matter what Mother Nature is doing at the moment. 

If the sun’s out, or if you’re up for a brisk outdoor activity regardless, click here to see our lineup of free and low-cost things to do in Salina in the great outdoors.

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