Just a short trip down I-70 will take you to the historic small town of Abilene, Kansas. There are countless activities and attractions for a wide variety of ages and interests. Plan a day or stay for a weekend!
Tips for a Day Trip to Abilene, Kansas
Abilene Travel Information Center
A great place to start your day is at the Abilene Travel Information Center, located at 201 NW 2nd, open Monday-Friday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. One thing to note when planning your trip, many attractions and restaurants are closed on Mondays, call ahead or check their website before your visit.
Top Attractions in Abilene
Eisenhower Presidential Library, Museum, and Boyhood Home
Abilene is home to the 34th U.S. President and 5-Star Commanding General during World War II, Dwight D. Eisenhower. Learn about Ike as you explore the Presidential Library, Museum, Boyhood Home, Visitors Center, and Gift Shop. Located on the same grounds you will also find 11-foot bronze statue of President Eisenhower and The Place of Meditation, the burial location for the Eisenhower family. Open Tuesday through Sunday.
Dickinson County Heritage Center
Located to the east you will find the Dickinson County Heritage Center, featuring the last known C.W. Parker Carousel that is still operational. Take a ride for $4. Other exhibits include a one-room log cabin, a one-room schoolhouse, and the Museum of Independent Telephony. Open Wednesday through Sunday.
Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad
The Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad runs through the Smoky River Valley between Abilene and Enterprise. Enjoy a 10 mile roundtrip train ride on the 100-year-old steam engine stopping at the Hoffman Grist Mill, a waterwheel flour mill and gift shop, then returning west to the 1887 Rock Island Train Depot. They often host special events and dinner train rides highlighting menus from local establishments.
Old Abilene Town
Old Abilene Town is located directly behind the train depot. Take a step back in time to an Old Western Town and watch a gun fight reenactment. Open May 25th – September 2nd, Saturdays and Sundays.
Greyhound Hall of Fame
To the west, across Buckeye Ave, you will find the Greyhound Hall of Fame. You will be greeted by two resident retired racers as you travel through the racing history of the greyhound breed. Open Wednesday through Sunday.
Seelye Mansion & Museum
Located in central Abilene is the Seelye Mansion, an 11,000 square foot home with 25 rooms that has been beautifully preserved with original 1904 features and furnishings. Step back in time as your host shares stories from years past. Try your hand at the Box Ball Bowling Alley from the World’s Fair. This tour is especially stunning when decorated at Christmas time. Open daily.
Mural Tour
Spend an afternoon discovering the numerous murals spread throughout town, can you find them all? Download a map here.
- Wild Bill Hickok Mural
- Dwight D. Eisenhower Mural
- Abilene Mural
- I Like Ike Murals
- American Bison Stamp Mural
- Sunflower Stamp Mural
- Longhorn Mural
- Train Mural
- Interactive “Harmon” Mural
- Turtle Mural
- Meraki Hair Studio Mural
- Midwest Meats Longhorn Mural
- Cedar House Greenhouse Mural
- Bison Mural
- Sunset Silhouette Mural
- Angel Wings Mural
- Tossed N Sauced Mural
- M & R Grill Mural
Boot Tour
Similar to the Mural Tour, the Boot Tour will take you around town discovering the variety of designed boots.
- “Ike’s Galaxy” Cowboy Boot
- “History of Farming in Dickinson County” Cowboy Boot
- “Rose Garden” Cowboy Boot
- “Wild Bill Hickok” Cowboy Boot
- “Mud Creek” Cowboy Boot
- “Sister City” Cowboy Boot
- “Varsity Letter” Cowboy Boot
- “Crazy Quilt” Cowboy Boot
- “Patriotism” Cowboy Boot
- “Mooooo” Cowboy Boot
More information on each boot and locations here.
World’s Largest Belt Buckle
Located in the Eisenhower Park & Rose Garden at 400 N Pine St, standing over 19 feet tall.
The Abilene Cowboy
Abilene High School is host to the 15 foot tall cowboy statue, located at 1300 N Cedar.
Big Spur
At 28 feet tall, this spur has been deemed the “World’s Largest Spur” by Guinness World Records, you will find it at Rittel’s Western Wear at 1810 Buckeye.
Where to Eat in Abilene
Abilene has a lot to offer and restaurants are no exception, in addition to many well known fast food options you will also find many local gems, including:
- Legacy Kansas: Munson’s Prime & Brookville Hotel
- The Farmhouse
- Tossed n Sauced Pizza
- Ike’s Place
- La Fiesta Mexican Restaurant
- M & R Grill
Coffee Shops
Need a midmorning or midafternoon pick-me-up? Check out Amanda’s Bakery & Bistro located downtown or Sips Espresso Bar north of I-70.
Russell Stover Chocolate Factory
No visit to Abilene is complete without a visit to the Russell Stover Chocolate Factory. Grab a “Bloopers” box from their retail store to enjoy during your stay and as you return home.
Stay The Weekend in Abilene
With so many attractions you could easily plan a weekend trip. Abilene offers a variety of lodging options to choose from.
Looking for a uniquely historic stay? Book as stay with one of two traditional bed & breakfasts, both with ties to President Eisenhower:
Traveling with an RV? Check out one of the local RV parks:
Looking for something a little familiar? Holiday Inn has you covered.
