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Independent Whitewater

Time to Kick Back and Relax

The Drift-in brings beach bar life to the Arkansas River! Float-up or drive-in for delicious food, sunny cocktails and cold beer on tap.

Located directly on the river at our office, the Drift-in offers a place for both rafters and the Salida community to gather before or after their trip to refresh, relax, and enjoy the surroundings with great company. Not a rafter? No problem, the Drift-in is open to everyone all season long. For 2025, the Drift-in will again be serving both lunch and dinner offering a convenient spot to fuel up before or after your big day on the Ark.

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What to Expect

The Drift-in is the only restaurant/venue in town of its kind, offering an authentic riverside dining experience for both rafters and the Salida community. Located outside on the shores of the Arkansas River, this open-air venue features a full-bar and restaurant with dining right on the water’s edge as well as two stages for live music most weekends. New for 2025, we’ll be adding more covered spaces to our venue space.

Events and Groups

The Drift-in is now booking for private groups and events! Looking for a fun spot to celebrate a special event? The Drift-in is the perfect place to host your family get-together, birthday party, or any other type of event. Inquire further about events through the page below.

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Restaurant Hours:

May 23rd – Labor Day 11 am -8 pm.
Food served at least until 8pm
Bar closes when the last guest leaves.

Month of May weekends before the 23rd, Open Friday-Sunday ONLY.