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 rafters, the Salida community and the general public to gather before or after their rafting 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.


What to Expect
The Drift In is the only restaurant/venue in town of its kind, offering an authentic riverside dining experience for rafters, the Salida community and the general public. 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.
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.


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 to Sunday ONLY.