Abilene Tourism Advocate
April 29, 2021
2020 Best Historic Small Town - USA Today
The Most Beautiful Small Towns in Every State
by Woman's Day Magazine

There's always something to see in a big city, but sometimes, you want a slower pace. Thankfully, the United States boasts some incredible small towns. Whether you want to brush up on history or go where everyone will know your name, these charming towns offer residents plenty to love (and visitors plenty to enjoy).
Latest News
Greetings from the Abilene Visitors Center
What does Florida, Arizona, Nebraska, Texas, Kentucky, Iowa, and Michigan have in common? Their residents all visited the Abilene Visitors Center during the week of April 12.

These visitors are on road trips across the country and seek authentic experiences. They are enjoying the freedom of the open road with fewer planned stops and room for exploration. When they see a billboard that interests them, they turn. When they have a question, they stop and ask.

They are all kind, courteous, and thrilled to visit with someone new. I wish I could bottle their kindness and positivity to share. Their enthusiasm is contagious!

Abilene attractions planned for May
After a year of canceled and curtailed events, Abilene is as open as the Wild West it evokes as part of its history. 

Almost all of its tourist attractions will celebrate the unofficial start of the town’s tourist season May 1.

Art in Abilene - Kansas Murals in America's Heartland
It’s said that a picture is worth a thousand words. When it comes to murals, these large-format, public art masterpieces can help share centuries of Abilene, Kansas, history in a very powerful way. Here’s a guide to the Kansas murals you’ll find when you visit Abilene in America’s Heartland.

5 Things You Need to Know About the Eisenhower Marathon
“A great small-town race. Well-stocked stations every mile, friendly volunteers, beautiful course, and lots to do in town after the race is over. Would definitely return to do this race again.” - Justin Moss

The Eisenhower Marathon is back in 2021! Join runners from across the country on Saturday, May 1 to run through the same territory cattlemen followed when bringing their herds to Abilene on the Chisholm Trail in the 1800s

Upcoming Events
May
1
Saturday
Eisenhower Marathon
Runners at the Eisenhower Marathon and Half Marathon wind through the territory south of Abilene that cattlemen followed when bringing their herds to Abilene on the Chisholm Trail in the 1800s.

May
1
Saturday
28th Annual Fly-In Breakfast & Airport Open House
Join the fun at the 28th Annual Fly-In Breakfast & Airport Open House!

May
8
Saturday
Abilene Antique Fest
Shop more than 100 vendors, 4 antique malls, and booths lining the streets of downtown Abilene. New vendors welcome!

May
8
Saturday
Holm Auto Free Car & Truck Show
Cars shows are back in Abilene! Kick-off the season with the Holm Auto Free Car & Truck Show complete with dash plaques, trophies, free t-shirts, goodie bags, and a bounce house for kids.

May
21
Saturday
Great Plains Theatre presents: Godspell
This classy musical turned movie from 1973 will be revived again in Kansas to share the teachings of Jesus as told by his followers. Oh, bless the Lord, my soul! 

Community Attractions
Enjoy Family Fun and Learning
Whether you're four or 104, Abilene has something for you to enjoy and learn!
Experience Art & Culture
A five-star community that embraces the arts, Abilene offers many unique attractions for art lovers.
Explore President Eisenhower's Life and Legacy
Visit all things Ike on this special tour!
Live the American Story
Abilene is the hometown of entrepreneurial and world leaders.

Learn about their lives and legacies at these fun attractions! 

Have an Adventure
Ride the rails on a 100-year-old steam engine (the only operating steam locomotive in Kansas!), enjoy an open-air car or dine aboard a dinner train with the Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad!
Journey to the Old West
Named #1 True Western Town of the Year, visit Abilene, Kansas and experience its wild and wooly side!

Community Spotlight
 
 
 
 
JRI Hospitality purchases historic Mr. K's Farmhouse

JRI Hospitality, which operates four restaurant brands throughout the country, has purchased the historic Mr. K’s Farmhouse in Abilene and will take over operations in early June. 

The purchase is a departure from the company’s four current brands, but with JRI being based in Salina, its leadership welcomed the opportunity to take over operations of the local landmark.


 
 
 
 
Iron Horse Trail Informational Meeting

Spurring economic development through increased outdoor recreation opportunities is the goal of the Community Foundation of Dickinson County’s Community Philanthropy Innovators Network (CPIN) committee.

The CPIN committee is looking at partnering with the Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad to create The Iron Horse Trail, a nearly 20-mile trail from Abilene to Enterprise to Woodbine using the railroad’s right-of-way.

The Iron Horse Trail will also serve as a gateway to the Flint Hills Trail State Park that begins in Herington and continues to Osawatomie.


201 NW Second St.
Abilene, Kansas 67410
785-263-2231
Office Hours:
Monday - Friday:
8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Saturday & Sunday : Closed