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Each time you visit the Smoky Hill Museum, a new story inspires you. See what we do.

FEATURED STORIES

  • This exhibit celebrates Salina’s long history of embracing the arts and creative expression by showcasing the Museum’s collection of creative objects. Learn about notable early photographers of Salina, art educators, print makers, graphic artists and more as you explore the central gallery exhibit. You will not only learn but can be creative with several hands-on opportunities.

  • Before others called them Osage, they called themselves Children of the Middle Waters. Join Dr. Andrea Hunter, as she traces the history of the Osage people from their earliest known existence to the removal of the tribe to Oklahoma. She’ll also share about their creation stories, culture and connection to Kansas. Dr. Hunter is a member of the Osage Nation, Director & Tribal Historic Preservation Officer, archeologist and sought-after speaker. This presentation is offered in collaboration with the Salina Public Library as part of its 2019 Salina Reads Program.

    The Smoky Hill Museum hosts this free presentation on Thursday, October 3, from 5:30-6:30 p.m.

  • Our programs are designed to further our mission and encourage visitors to engage with history.
    Take a look.

  • September 28, 2019, from 10:00 am to 4 pm

    One-day festival of family-focused learning and exploration with a touch of history! Celebrate the Smoky Hills region with a downtown parade, demonstrators, entertainment, food and special activities for kids of all ages.

    NEW THIS YEAR! We are adding even more family fun with an Old West area. There will be a Chili Cook-off, horseshoe tossing, roping, Old West performers and more!

    Admission is Free. This year’s parade theme is Salina's Old West.

  • Patches, a life-sized hippo made from painted salvaged steel panels by artist Dale Lewis from Hastings, Minnesota, is staying at the Museum. Sculpture Tour Salina is pleased to announce Patches as the People's Choice Award winner for 2018. more.....

  • 1950s exhibit

    1950s: An American Dream?
    Exhibit Open October 19 through March 2020

    Many have a nostalgic view of the 1950s. On the surface, this decade beamed with prosperity with new homes, automobiles and appliances. Yet, under this decade’s shiny appearance, many felt pressured to conform to societal norms. Changes were brewing below the surface of the American dream. This exhibit opens to the public October 19, 2019. Friends members are invited to a special preview. For information on how to become a friend, click here.

  • Discover how we were founded and remain true to our original mission.

  • Meet the amazing people who work hard to make our vision a reality.

  • Special thanks go to our exhibit and case sponsors. The Museum is able to continue its strong exhibits and educational programming through their generosity. Interested in sponsoring an exhibit? Contact Kay Quinn at kay.quinn@salina.org.

  • Visitors

    10,286

  • Volunteer Hours

    1103

  • Dollars Raised

    $61962

  • Program Participants

    13,086

Welcome to the Smoky Hill Museum

Family and kid-friendly interactives, changing exhibits, and fun family activities are among the Museum's highlights - all free of charge. The Museum Store offers Kansas cards, wheat weaving, specialty-food items, toys and more.

  • Cary Brinegar & Kay Quinn

    For The Creative Spirit

  • Brad & Christina Daily

    For The Creative Spirit

  • Jerry & Carol Exline

    For The Creative Spirit

  • For The Creative Spirit

  • Jeff Denton

    For the Dugout

  • For the From Sod to Stone area

  • For the Industry On the Move case.

  • Morrie and Sydney Soderberg

    For the Mercantile

  • Benson Accounting CPA, PA & Modern Woodmen of America

    For 1950s: An American Dream?

  • Debbie & John Divine

    For 1950s: An American Dream?

  • Larry & Joy Smith

    For 1950s: An American Dream?

  • Bette Timmel

    For 1950s: An American Dream?

News & Notes

September 16, 2019

Most pumpkin patches have more activities to keep you and your family entertained all afternoon. Keep reading for a full list of our favorite pumpkinless patch pastimes.

September 9, 2019

Showing a little encouragement is an easy way to make someone’s day, and we’ve come up with a few ideas on how you can do so.

September 2, 2019

Autumn’s beautiful weather and fun holidays make it easy to find volunteering opportunities in your area. We’ve come up with a few ideas to get you started.

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