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The Legend Lived Here: Discover WIld Bill Hickok's Abilene | |
Few names from the American West are as recognizable as James Butler "Wild Bill" Hickok.
Known for his long hair, quick draw, and larger-than-life reputation, Hickok became one of the most famous lawmen of the frontier. While he met his end in Deadwood, South Dakota, some of the most important chapters of his story took place right here in Abilene, Kansas.
In 1871, Abilene was one of the busiest cowtowns in America. Thousands of cattle arrived at the northern terminus of the Chisholm Trail, bringing cowboys, gamblers, merchants, and adventurers from across the West. With prosperity came problems, and maintaining order in a town filled with saloons and gambling halls was no easy task.
Following the death of legendary lawman Tom "Bear River" Smith, city leaders hired Hickok to serve as marshal of Abilene.
For eight months, Wild Bill patrolled the streets, enforced local ordinances, and became one of the most recognizable figures in town. His reputation alone was often enough to stop trouble before it started. One newspaper described him as a man whose presence in a saloon doorway could instantly quiet a room.
Today, visitors can still explore many of the places connected to Hickok's story and experience the Wild West history that helped make Abilene famous.
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Church Basement Ladies Brings Laughter, Music and Heart to Abilene | |
If you are looking for an unforgettable evening of live entertainment during your visit to Abilene, make plans to see Church Basement Ladies at Great Plains Theatre.
This beloved musical comedy serves up a generous helping of humor, nostalgia, music, and small-town charm. Set in the basement of a rural Minnesota church during the 1960s, the story follows a group of church ladies as they navigate changing times, family life, church traditions, and, of course, plenty of casseroles. The result is a heartwarming production filled with laughter, memorable songs, and characters audiences quickly come to love.
The talented cast includes Isabelle Wisdom-Flores as Vivian Snustad, Emma Witz as Mavis Gilmerson, Sydney Fabregas as Karin Engelson, Lauren Carroll as Signe Engelson, and Harrison Lamb as Pastor Gunderson. Directed by Ashlyn Mullins with music direction by Catherine Hammer, this production brings the charm and comedy of the popular stage series to life.
Performance Schedule
Performances continue through June 28:
- Wednesday, June 24 at 2:00 p.m.
- Thursday, June 25 at 2:00 p.m.
- Thursday, June 25 at 7:30 p.m.
- Friday, June 26 at 7:30 p.m.
- Saturday, June 27 at 2:00 p.m.
- Saturday, June 27 at 7:30 p.m.
- Sunday, June 28 at 2:00 p.m.
Make It a Weekend in Abilene
A trip to the theatre is the perfect centerpiece for an Abilene getaway. Arrive early to explore the Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library, Museum & Boyhood Home, stroll the boardwalks of Old Abilene Town, tour the elegant Seelye Mansion, or enjoy a ride aboard the Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad. Finish your day with a live performance that will leave you smiling long after the curtain falls.
Whether you grew up in a church kitchen, know someone who did, or simply enjoy a good laugh, Church Basement Ladies offers a delightful blend of comedy, music, and Midwest hospitality.
Tickets are available by calling Great Plains Theatre at 785-263-4574. Advance reservations are encouraged.
| | Lunch & Learn: Eisenhower and the National Highway Act | | |
The Eisenhower Presidential Library will host a hybrid Lunch & Learn program, "Eisenhower and the National Highway Act," on Jun 25, 2026, at 12 p.m. CDT. This event, featuring guest speaker Dr. Michael Birkner, is part of the 2026 programming season celebrating America's 250th anniversary.
Dr. Michael Birkner, Professor of History at Gettysburg College, will explore the history of the 1956 Highway Act—consistently ranked by historians as one of the federal government's most significant accomplishments. The presentation will detail how Eisenhower conceived the project, its journey into law, and how it fundamentally changed life in America.
This program is a hybrid event. The in-person session will be held in the Library's indoor courtyard, while a live stream will be available on the Library's YouTube channel. Guests attending in person are encouraged to arrive by 11:45 a.m. to secure a seat and a light box-lunch, which will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis.
The 2026 programming season celebrates America's 250th anniversary and examines President Eisenhower's top accomplishments in the continual pursuit of a more perfect Union. These programs are made possible courtesy of The Eisenhower Foundation.
| | Ride the Rails This Week with the Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad | | 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. | | | |
Church Basement Ladies at Great Plains Theatre
Join us in the basement of a rural Minnesota church in the 1960s where the ladies are cooking up lots of laughs. Navigating changes in the church and in their own lives while making casseroles, this musical is sure to leave you with a full heart (and a hungry stomach). 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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Cinderella at Great Plains Theatre
You are cordially invited to the GPT castle to enjoy the fairytale you know and love. Dance the night away with us - we promise you'll be home before midnight! 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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Union Pacific "Big Boy" Returns
Rail fans, take note! The legendary Union Pacific Big Boy No. 4014 will travel from Topeka to Salina on Thursday, July 23, following the same route it took in 2024 when it passed through Abilene.
The excursion is part of a historic coast-to-coast tour celebrating America’s 250th anniversary, making this a special chance to see a moving piece of railroad history. 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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Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical at Great Plains Theatre
The mean green Grinch is making hs way to Abilene for the holidays! Your heart will grow three sizes the day you come see this family-friendly holiday celebration on stage. Featuring the story and music you know and love. This musical is the perfect addition to your holiday traditions. 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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