America Likes Cattle. And Cattle Built Abilene. | | |
Before railroads stretched across the prairie, cowboys drove thousands of longhorns north on the Chisholm Trail to Abilene, Kansas. When those herds arrived, this small prairie town exploded with energy. Stockyards filled, trains loaded cattle for eastern markets, and Abilene quickly became one of the most famous cattle towns in the West.
That cattle trade put Abilene on the map and helped shape the community visitors experience today. From Wild Bill Hickok’s days as marshal to the boardwalks of Old Abilene Town, the story of the trail still rides through town.
If you love western heritage, cowboys, and the place where the Chisholm Trail met the railroad, help us share Abilene’s story with the nation.
Vote for Abilene in USA TODAY 10Best's Best Historic Small Town in contest today! Every vote helps tell the story of the town that helped move America’s cattle and build the West.
| | Great Plains Theatre Season 32 | | Abilene's Joe Minick Receives Kansas Trailblazer Award | | |
Kansas Trails Inc. hosted Trail Appreciation Day at the Kansas State Capitol on March 5 to celebrate trail development, stewardship, and the individuals whose volunteer leadership has made lasting contributions to communities across the state.
During the event, Joe Minick of Abilene, Kansas received the Kansas Trailblazer Award from Lt. Governor David Toland in recognition of his extraordinary volunteer leadership and decades of service advancing heritage tourism, outdoor recreation, and historic preservation.
Minick played an instrumental role in the development of the Iron Horse Trail, Kansas’ only rails with trails project. His lifelong commitment to community service helped transform a local vision into a project with a statewide impact. In addition to the Trailblazer recognition, Minick was also honored with the 2026 Kansas Recreation and Parks Association Distinguished Volunteer Award.
Governor Laura Kelly proclaimed March 5, 2026, as Trail Appreciation Day in the State of Kansas, encouraging Kansans to recognize the importance of trails and the volunteers who help make them possible. In the proclamation, the governor recognized Minick for his exemplary volunteer service and lasting contributions to trails, recreation, and historic preservation in Kansas.
The five-mile Iron Horse Trail, which opened in fall 2025, connects the communities of Abilene and Enterprise along the Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad, Kansas’ official state heritage railroad. The trail offers residents and visitors the opportunity to walk, run, or bike while enjoying the scenic beauty of Dickinson County.
Minick’s leadership and dedication helped bring the project to life, creating a new outdoor asset that supports tourism, encourages healthy lifestyles, and celebrates the region’s rail heritage.
For more information about the Iron Horse Trail visit www.Facebook.com/IronHorseTrailKS
| | 2026 is off to a great start! Check back weekly for updates as we receive more information from our partners about exciting events happening this year. | | | |
The American Parade - The 34th State
This film is about the early days of settling a homestead. It was filmed near Elm Springs in Marion County. Dickinson County residents were in the movie and will be discussing the making of the movie. Doors open at the Dickinson County Heritage Center at 2:15 pm, and the movie shows at 2:30 pm. Cost is by donation. Learn more
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Project Recovery (Lunch & Learn)
Guest speaker: Dr. C. Lawrence Evans
Professor of Government, William and Mary College Learn more
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Ida Stover Eisenhower Memorial Quilt Show
Attend the Dickinson County Historical Society's quilt show to see beautiful quilts on display. All Dickinson County quilts are welcome and can range from recently completed to the late 1880s. Viewers can vote on their favorite quilt. Learn more
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Abilene HandCrafters Spring Market
Come join us IN TWO BUILDINGS. Sterl Hall and the National Guard Armory in Abilene KS. 60+ hand crafted vendors, breakfast and lunch options, snacks, drinks and more! Learn more
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11 & 12
Saturday & Sunday
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2026 Sunflower Journey Quilt Show
Presented by the End of the Trail Quilt Guild, this event includes a merchant mall, silent auction, door prices, scissor sharpening and lunch at the Sunflower Cafe. Admission is $7 and children ages 10 and under are free. Learn more
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2026 Eisenhower Marathon
The Eisenhower Marathon returns on Saturday, April 18, 2026. Join runners from across the country to run through the same territory cattlemen followed when bringing their herds to Abilene on the Chisholm Trail in the 1800s. Runners love this “flat and fast” course! Learn more
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24 & 25
Friday & Saturday
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Plains, Trains and Cowboys
Celebrate America 250 with a collaborative heritage event at the Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad, Dickinson County Heritage Center, and Old Abilene Town featuring western heritage experiences and rail adventures. Learn more
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Dickinson County Celebrates Freedom of Religion
On Sunday, April 26, Dickinson County will honor one of America’s most cherished freedoms: the freedom of religion.
Hosted by the Dickinson County Republican Women, the day includes church open houses from 3 to 5 p.m. across the community, followed by a 5:30 p.m. potluck dinner and presentation at St. Andrews that brings neighbors and visitors together. It is a powerful reminder that liberty is not just an idea from the past. It is something we practice and protect every day. Learn more
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Downtown Abilene Cruise for Food Car Show
Rev up your engines and join us for the Downtown Abilene Cruise for Food Car Show! Learn more
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8th Annual Abilene Downtown Antique Fest
Get ready for the 8th Annual Abilene Downtown Antique Fest on Saturday, May 9, a can’t-miss event that’s perfect for Mother’s Day weekend! Stroll through historic downtown Abilene and discover a treasure trove of antiques, vintage finds, and handcrafted items from talented vendors. Discover the charming atmosphere that makes Abilene one of the Best Small Towns to Visit. Whether you’re hunting for a unique gift or just looking for a fun day out, Abilene Downtown Antique Fest promises a memorable experience for all! Learn more
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National Greyhound Association Spring Nationals
See the world's fastest canine in action and learn why Abilene is the Greyhound (dog) Capital of the World! Learn more
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School's Out Fest
School’s out, and the fun is in full swing! Kick off summer in Abilene, Kansas, with School’s Out Fest—a full day of family-friendly activities, live music, sidewalk chalk art, and fantastic food and drinks in the heart of historic downtown. Learn more
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Symphony at Sunset Annual D-Day Commemoration
Commemorate D-Day at this meaningful outdoor concert held on our beautiful campus grounds. This annual concert is held the first Saturday in June in partnership with the Salina Symphony and Eisenhower Foundation. Plus, free museum admission all day! Learn more
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Memories of the Prairie at Dickinson County Heritage Center @ 7 p.m.
Experience first-hand stories, educational programs and re-enactors bring history to life at the Historical Society and Museum on Saturdays during the summer. Come learn about the history of Dickinson County and Kansas from those that have lived it. Topic: Lost Towns of Kansas (Chapman Center for Rural Studies) Learn more
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Memories of the Prairie at Dickinson County Heritage Center @ 6 p.m.
Experience first-hand stories, educational programs and re-enactors bring history to life at the Historical Society and Museum on Saturdays during the summer. Come learn about the history of Dickinson County and Kansas from those that have lived it. Topic: Auntie M's Attic (period clothing) Learn more
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Memories of the Prairie at Dickinson County Heritage Center @ 7 p.m.
Experience first-hand stories, educational programs and re-enactors bring history to life at the Historical Society and Museum on Saturdays during the summer. Come learn about the history of Dickinson County and Kansas from those that have lived it. Topic: Women's Suffrage (Marla Matkin) Learn more
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Naturalization Ceremony at Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum
Learn more
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Memories of the Prairie at Dickinson County Heritage Center @ 7 p.m.
Experience first-hand stories, educational programs and re-enactors bring history to life at the Historical Society and Museum on Saturdays during the summer. Come learn about the history of Dickinson County and Kansas from those that have lived it. Topic: The Minersville Story Learn more
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Petals at Their Peak Garden Showcase
Eisenhower Park Rose Garden, 500 NW Pine St., Abilene, KS
7:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Celebrate the beauty of the Eisenhower Park Rose Garden during peak bloom. Enjoy vibrant annuals and perennials, perfect for morning photos and a peaceful stroll through the garden. Landscape Designer Joy Maas and Horticulturist Assistant Sarah Taylor will be on site to answer gardening questions. “Petals at Their Peak” T-shirts will be available for $25, and a gardening booklet based on the popular “You Too Can Have a Green Thumb” class will be offered for a donation to Friends of the Park.
This year’s color theme is Red, White & Blue in celebration of America 250. Learn more
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Central Kansas Free Fair
Mark Your Calendars: Central Kansas Free Fair Returns to Abilene – July 28 to August 2, 2026.
Enjoy the sights, sounds, and flavors of the Central Kansas Free Fair. This beloved tradition continues to shine as one of the region’s favorite summertime events! Learn more
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Wild Bill Hickok PRCA Rodeo
Get ready for action-packed nights at the Wild Bill Hickok PRCA Rodeo, July 28 - 31! Watch as talented cowboys and cowgirls showcase their skills in exciting rodeo events. Learn more
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Central Kansas Free Fair - Parade
Experience the excitement of the Central Kansas Free Fair, starting with the annual parade on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, at 4 p.m. Don’t miss this annual tradition! Learn more
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Central Kansas Free Fair - Demolition Derby
Visit Abilene, Kansas, for one of the region's best demolition derbies! Watch as drivers compete in a high-energy clash of skill and durability, battling to be the last car standing. Learn more
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Eisenhower Foundation's Annual Eisenhower Legacy Gala
This exclusive Gala honors General and President Eisenhower with a reception, dinner, and keynote speaker. Learn more
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National Greyhound Association Fall Meet
See the world's fastest canine in action and learn why Abilene is the Greyhound (dog) Capital of the World! Learn more
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Pink Friday
We've all heard of Black Friday, American Express Small Business Saturday, Cyber Monday, and Giving Tuesday, but what about Pink Friday? Pink Friday is a small business spin on the traditional Black Friday shopping experience, reminding people to #ShopSmallFirst. Learn more
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Cowtown Christmas
Celebrate the season in Abilene, December 4-6, 2026! Tour stunning homes during the 49th Annual Heritage Homes for the Holidays Tour, enjoy an Old-Fashioned Christmas at the Dickinson County Historical Society, and experience a Cowboy Christmas at Old Abilene Town. Visit the Historic Seelye Mansion to see over 60 beautifully decorated Christmas trees and ride the Cowtown Santa Express with the Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad. Don’t miss the Cowtown Christmas Light Showdown evening cruise for dazzling decorations, plenty of Santa sightings, and opportunities to shop small at Abilene’s unique businesses all season long! Learn more
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49th Homes for the Holiday Tour
Discover why USA TODAY readers rank Abilene as one of the Best Historic Small Towns during the Heritage Homes Association's 49th Annual Homes for the Holidays Tour! Explore beautifully decorated historic homes and a charming church decked out for the season. Learn more
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Experience Art & Culture
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Journey to the Old West
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Live the American Story
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Explore Ike's Life & Legacy
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Enjoy Family Fun and Learning
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Stay in Abilene
Abilene is home to more than 200 rooms ready to serve travelers. From national chain hotels to locally-owned motels, award-winning bed and breakfasts, and unique Airbnbs, Abilene's lodging community offers something for every price point.
Learn more
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Gunsmoke Trail
Howdy, partners, and welcome to the Gunsmoke Trail! This road trip visits four cities in Kansas that had a role in Gunsmoke, the Emmy award-winning primetime Western that entertained audiences for 20 years.
The show still runs on select networks, with iconic characters telling the story of frontier life in the Old West. Several present-day cities in Kansas play a part in the show’s storylines, including Wichita, Abilene, Hays City (now Hays), and of course, Dodge City.
Learn more
Itinerary
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201 NW Second St.
Abilene, Kansas 67410
785-263-2231
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Office Hours:
Monday - Friday:
8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Saturday & Sunday : Closed
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