Abilene's New Visitors Guide is Here! | |
Our NEW Abilene Visitors Guide is here!
You can read it online, but trust us, this is one you’ll want to request and hold in your hands!
Abilene’s story is told from two perspectives: Eisenhower and the Chisholm Trail. Start at one cover and explore Eisenhower’s Abilene, or flip it over and start from the other side to discover our Chisholm Trail story.
There’s no wrong way to read it. Front to back. Back to front. Just pick a side and start exploring!
And did we mention the cover? It features a special soft-touch finish that makes this guide feel as unique as the stories inside.
Request your FREE copy and start planning your Abilene adventure!
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Did you know the artist who created the monument at Wild Bill Hickok’s grave in Deadwood, South Dakota, is the same artist behind Abilene’s soon-to-be-unveiled Wild Bill Hickok statue at Old Abilene Town?
It’s a fascinating connection between two communities forever linked to one of the American West’s most legendary figures.
Two iconic tributes. One legendary artist.
This Sunday, August 16 at 1 p.m., Abilene will add a new chapter to that story with the dedication of its new Wild Bill Hickok statue at Old Abilene Town.
A special thank you to Gleason Family Adventure for capturing these photos during their visit to Deadwood and helping us share this unique connection!
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And this weekend, they’re coming back to Abilene!
On Saturday, August 15, Texas Longhorns will return to Old Abilene Town for Chisholm Trail Days: Longhorns & Legends, a celebration of the people, stories and traditions that made Abilene famous as the End of the Chisholm Trail.
Watch the longhorns make their way through Old Abilene Town during three parades at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Then stick around for Wild Bill Hickok stories and reenactments, live string band music, can-can dancers, games, photo opportunities and more.
And the weekend doesn't end Saturday!
Return Sunday, August 16, at 1 p.m. for the dedication of Abilene's new Wild Bill Hickok monument, honoring one of the most legendary figures from Abilene's Wild West past.
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Abilene Stories to Tell!
by Traveling Adventures of a Farm Girl
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This past weekend, we spent a few days in historic Abilene. Every town has its special history, and Abilene has several stories to tell. It is a joy to share some of the things we learned while visiting this vibrant town filled with art, western flair, and fun. Thank you to Visit Abilene for hosting us.
The Chisholm Trail and cowboy story.
The story of the cattle drives is key to this wild west town. We enjoyed some of the Wild West story with a visit to the Central Free Fair and the Wild Bill Hickok PRCA Rodeo.
| | 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. | | | |
Chisholm Trail Day: Longhorns & Legends
Step back in time and celebrate the spirit of the old West at Chisholm Trail Day: Longhorns and legends - August 15, 10 AM to 5 PM at Old Abilene town. Enjoy a full day of activities including- Longhorn parade, Wild Bill Hickok and his stories, food vendors the mini old town, fun and more family friendly fun! Learn more
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Wild Bill Hickok Monument Dedication
The citizens of Abilene will be pleased to learn that arrangements have been made for the erection of a handsome bronze monument honoring our distinguished City Marshal, Mr. James Butler Hickok, known throughout the frontier as "Wild Bill."
The likeness of Marshal Hickok shall be erected near the cabin he occupied and the city jail over which he kept watch, so that citizens and travelers alike may remember the man who maintained order in Abilene during the great cattle drives. There his image shall stand guard over the very ground where he once performed his duties. Learn more
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18 & 19
Friday & Saturday
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Abilene Oktoberfest
The 9th Annual Abilene Oktoberfest is back for another fun-filled celebration of German food, music, dancing, and tradition!
Bring the whole family and enjoy authentic German food, German bier, live German music, and traditional German dancers from Kansas City. Festival traditions and activities include the tapping of the keg, Hammerschlagen, a cornhole tournament, and plenty of opportunities to join in the fun.
Oktoberfest is a family-friendly celebration with activities for all ages, including bouncy houses and other entertainment for the kids.
Gather your family and friends and come celebrate Oktoberfest in Abilene with great food, cold bier, lively music, dancing, and plenty of German-inspired fun! 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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