Abilene Tourism Advocate

October 25, 2024

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Best Historic Small Town - USA TODAY

New in Abilene: Can't-Miss Spots For Your Next Visit

Discover why Abilene, Kansas, continues to earn top honors as one of the Best Small Towns to Visit in the U.S. From new dining spots to unique art installations and upcoming attractions, Abilene offers an exciting mix of history, charm, and entertainment. Here’s what’s new and on the horizon in this award-winning town!

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Abilene CVB Takes Home Top Honors at Kansas Tourism Conference

The Abilene Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) proudly earned the 2024 Best Community Awareness Campaign Award (Medium Budget Category) from the Travel Industry Association of Kansas for its “I Like Ike” campaign. Announced at the Kansas Tourism Conference in Olathe, the award recognizes Abilene’s creativity and innovative tourism strategies.

Judges praised the campaign for its exceptional use of brand assets and strong collaboration. They described Abilene as “a booming town of the largest things” and commended the marketing strategy for driving both in-person and online traffic. Additional feedback highlighted the campaign’s success in leveraging Eisenhower’s legacy, gaining media coverage, and attracting visitors with quirky roadside attractions.

2024 Huck Boyd Leaders of the Year

Seven entrepreneurial organizations will be recognized by K-State’s Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development as the 2024 Huck Boyd Leaders of the Year.

This year’s award winners include: tourism: Joe Minnick, Debbie and Terry Thompson, Hoffman Grist Mill/Ross Boelling, Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad, Abilene/Enterprise.

Best Things to Do in Abilene, Kansas

by Everyday Outdoor Family

If you’re looking for a great day trip from Kansas City or a weekend stop along I-70, then you need to plan a trip to Abilene! There are so many things to do in Abilene, Kansas–from seeing the World’s Largest Belt Buckle, to riding a historic train and carousel, to learning about America’s history in President Eisenhower’s hometown, Abilene has so much to offer. Many of the tourist attractions in Abilene, Kansas are free or cheap, which is a bonus for any budget travelers.

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Upcoming Events

October

26-27

The Great Pumpkin Patch Express

It’s the GREAT PUMPKIN, Charlie Brown! Join us on the train this Halloween season! The Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad presents The Great Pumpkin Patch Express, a train ride for the whole family that seeks to find that eternally elusive Great Pumpkin! The train will visit the pumpkin patch where kids get a trick-or-treat bag and hear a special reading of Charles M. Schulz’s “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown.” Trick or treating, a costume contest and more at the depot and in Old Abilene Town. More Info

October

25-26

5th Annual Haunted Cowtown

Join in the spooky fun at Old Abilene Town! The event is open 7:30 - 10:00 p.m. and admission is $5. More Info

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Community Attractions

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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Have an Adventure

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Enjoy Family Fun and Learning

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Community Spotlight

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.

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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.

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Itinerary

Abilene Convention & Visitors Bureau

201 NW Second St.

Abilene, Kansas 67410

785-263-2231

Office Hours:

Monday - Friday:

8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Saturday & Sunday : Closed