Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary, planning a surprise evening, or simply want to spoil your sweetheart, Salina and its surrounding towns offer several ways to elevate your next date night. From scenic flights and luxurious railcars to fine dining and live performances, here’s your guide to splurge-worthy, romantic experiences in and around Salina.
🚂 Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad
Step back in time and board a vintage train for a scenic ride through Central Kansas. Upgrade to the Dinner Train for a romantic, multi-course meal served while rolling through the countryside—ideal for couples looking to pair nostalgia with fine dining.
Click here to learn more on the Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad website.
Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad's steam locomotive ATSF 3415. Photo credit: Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad
Date night photo shoot in Salina, KS
📸 Hire a Professional Photographer
Capture your love story with a professional photo session. Whether you want candid shots in the park or golden-hour portraits downtown, hire a professional photographer for an unforgettable night and timeless photos.
💆♀️ Spa Day for Two
Rejuvenate together with a luxury spa day. Salina offers several high-end packages for couples looking to relax and reconnect. Plan your couples spa day at Hair Loft Salina, Peaceful Body Wellness Retreat, or Blondell’s Salon & Spa, just to name a few options.
Couples spa day
Glasses of red and white wine by firepit
⛺ Go Glamping at Milford Lake
Less than an hour from Salina, Milford Lake offers luxurious cabins, lakefront lodges, and even yurts. Spend a cozy weekend together with options for boating, kayaking, fishing, or simply relaxing by the fire pit.
Swap the spa for swings. Treat your partner to a luxury golf date at one of Salina’s best greens. Rent a cart, grab drinks at the clubhouse, and enjoy quality time together outdoors. Don’t know where the best places to tee off are in Salina? Don’t worry, we got you covered!
Beautiful water view at Salina Country Club. Photo credit: Salina Country Club
Roadmap with a red pin at Salina, KS
🛣️ Take a Day Trip
When half the fun is getting there — consider the top 5 best spots to go on a day-trip from Salina with your sweetheart. We’ve rounded up the top small-town adventures near Salina that are worth the miles.
Catch major performances and touring artists in one of the most beautiful venues in Kansas. With stars, symphonies, and stage productions, it’s a high-class date night—especially if paired with drinks and a show. Book early—premium seats sell fast.
Live performance at the Stiefel Theatre in Salina, KS. Photo credit: Stiefel Theatre
Playing cello in the symphony
🎼 Salina Symphony
Dress up for a night of elegance and experience the Salina Symphony, where regional and international musicians deliver world-class performances. It’s a classy, romantic night for any music-loving couple.
👉 Click here to check the schedule on their website.
🏰 Stay in a Scottish Lodge (Coming Soon)
Keep an eye out for Salina’s rumored Scottish Lodge-style retreat, rumored to blend rustic elegance with European flair. When it opens, it could become the next go-to romantic escape just outside city limits.
👉 Click here to check out their Facebook page and follow their journey to opening.
Grand dining room at The Scotttish Lodge in Salina, KS. Photo credit: The Scottish Lodge
🍽️ Fine Dining Favorites
Cap off your evening with a luxurious meal at one of Salina’s premier restaurants:
YaYa’s Euro Bistro – upscale Mediterranean cuisine. Located in downtown Salina, KS, in the Homewood Suites by Hilton, 115 East Mulberry Street.
Barolo Grille – boutique Italian-French fusion. Located in downtown Salina, KS, at 112 South Santa Fe Avenue.
LongHorn Steakhouse – classic with a high-end feel. Located at 2590 South 9th Street, Salina, KS.
Daimaru Steakhouse – teppanyaki & sushi show dining. Located at 3045 South 9th Street, Salina, KS.
Martinelli’s Little Italy – romantic and hearty. Located in downtown Salina, KS, at 158 South Santa Fe Avenue.
📝 Final Tip
If you’re planning a surprise or anniversary night, combine two or three ideas—like a photo session, dinner, and an evening at the Salina Symphony — for an unforgettable experience that feels like a romantic getaway without leaving Central Kansas.