Looking for the perfect weekend escape with your best friends? Look no further than Salina, Kansas! Whether you’re seeking unique boutiques, delicious bites, or hands-on creativity, Salina has everything for the ultimate friends’ getaway. Here’s your jam-packed itinerary for a weekend full of fun and relaxation!
Friday: Arrive, Catch Up and Unwind
Where to Stay:
Option 1: Airbnb
Kick off your weekend in a cozy and charming Airbnb, perfect for hosting a group of friends. You can find quaint downtown lofts or secluded country stays depending on your vibe.
Option 2: Homewood Suites
Prefer the luxury of a hotel? Homewood Suites offers spacious rooms, a pool, and a hot breakfast to fuel your adventures. Plus, it’s centrally located for easy access to everything Salina has to offer.
Catch up with your friends over dinner:
- Daimaru Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi: Sit at a hibachi grill and enjoy the show, or grab a table; your choice!
- Enjoy your well-known favorites: Longhorn Steakhouse, Olive Garden, Red Lobster and more.
Saturday: Shop, Create, and Savor
Morning Coffee:
Start your day with coffee and conversation at one of Salina’s beloved coffee spots.
- Ad Astra: A local gem with stellar coffee and cozy vibes.
- Starbucks: If you’re in the mood for the classic favorites. The downtown Starbucks is conveniently located inside Homewood Suites.
- 1858 Coffee: Sip on a latte and indulge in one of their delicious pastries to kickstart your morning.
Morning Shopping Spree:
After your caffeine fix, it’s time to shop ’til you drop!
- Home Decor: For a dose of interior inspiration, head to Flipping Fabulous, where you’ll find vintage furniture and stylish home goods.
- Fashion Finds: Snag trendy outfits at Blushe, True Betty, Sanity and Eccentricity. These local boutiques offer everything from chic dresses to statement accessories. Salina also offers department stores Target, Marshalls and Kohl’s.
- Pick up seasonal decor and craft supplies at Hobby Lobby.
- Gifts & Books: Stop by Red Fern Booksellers, Country Seasons and The Market Shop for unique gifts, local art, and must-have reads.
- Antiques: Explore treasures from the past at Rebecca Jane’s and Baron Mushmouse downtown or head out to Junk in the Trunk, a huge antique store located in the Central Mall. You’re bound to discover a one-of-a-kind keepsake.
Lunch Break:
After all that shopping, recharge with a delicious lunch downtown:
- Old Chicago: Known for hearty comfort food, perfect for catching up with friends.
- Candiles: Satisfy your cravings with authentic Mexican cuisine that packs a flavorful punch.
Afternoon Creative Fun:
Tap into your artsy side with hands-on activities.
- On-the-Pot: Get your hands dirty and create your own pottery masterpiece. Whether it’s a coffee mug or an artistic vase, you’ll love having something handmade to bring home.
- Bath Pub: Blend your own custom fragrance at this unique spot where bath bombs, lotions, and scrubs are the name of the game. Design the perfect scent that reminds you of your weekend with the girls.
- Posie’s Palette: Unleash your inner Picasso with a guided painting class at Posie’s Palette. No experience necessary, just bring your creativity and enjoy a glass of wine as you paint.
After an afternoon of crafting, it’s time to wine and dine!
- YaYa’s Euro Bistro: For a Mediterranean-inspired feast, try YaYa’s where you can indulge in fresh seafood, tapas, and mouth-watering desserts.
- Barolo Grille: An intimate spot for Italian fine dining, complete with pasta and an exquisite wine list.
- Martinelli’s Little Italy: Enjoy classic Italian dishes that make you feel right at home. Their lasagna and garlic bread are crowd-pleasers!
Evening Entertainment:
Wind down your day with a little evening entertainment.
- Stiefel Theatre: Depending on what’s showing, you can catch a live show, concert, or Broadway-style performance.
- Theatre Salina: See a live performance of The Little Mermaid or The Sound of Music.
- The Salina Art Center Cinema: This independent art house cinema offers a wide variety of programming, including independent films, documentaries, foreign language films, special screening events, Oscar shorts, film discussions, and Q&A events with filmmakers.
- AMC 10: Newly-released movies or the latest blockbuster more your style? Salina’s AMC 10 at the Central Mall is sure to have something you’ll love.
- The Cellar Wine & Whiskey Bar: For something more laid-back, grab a glass of wine or a whiskey cocktail at this sophisticated lounge.
Sunday: Mimosas with Brunch and Another Sprinkle of Fun
Brunch:
Start your last day with a leisurely brunch at Blue Skye Brewery & Eats. Sip mimosas while an internal battle wages over which of their amazing brunch items you’ll order. So many delicious options – Brizzas (breakfast pizzas), Chicken & Waffles, The Cure (tots topped with sausage gravy, cheese, over easy eggs, pico and chipotle aioli), and so much more!
Museum & Art Galleries:
Salina boasts an impressive collection of art and culture, perfect for a Sunday stroll.
- Salina Art Center: Check out rotating exhibits of contemporary art, or even take part in one of their hands-on workshops.
- Smoky Hill Museum: Dive into the history of the region and enjoy interactive exhibits that make history come alive.
Before you head out of town, swing by any last-minute shops for a final souvenir. Visit the places you missed on Saturday or return to a favorite spot for another browse.
By Sunday afternoon, you’ll leave Salina refreshed, relaxed, and with a few new treasures (and memories) in tow. Whether you’re bonding over pottery-making or sharing laughter over dinner, this weekend getaway will have you planning your next trip before you even hit the road!