Abilene Tourism Advocate
December 15, 2023
Best Small Town to Visit in the U.S. - TravelAwaits (2023)
National Magazine Honors Abilene's Cowboy History: Named Top 10 True Western Town of the Year
The Abilene Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) is thrilled to end 2023 and kick off 2024 on a high note. Following a year of remarkable achievements, True West Magazine has honored Abilene with the prestigious title of being one of the Top 10 True Western Towns of the Year. This recognition is featured in the magazine's January/February 2024 Best of the West Collector’s issue, now available to subscribers and on newsstands.

"Abilene, though small in size, boasts big tourist attractions that rival communities many times our size. This award celebrates not only Abilene’s wild and wooly Chisholm Trail days but also our ongoing efforts to enhance and promote our rich western history," expressed Julie Roller Weeks, Director of the Abilene CVB.

This isn’t Abilene's first time in the top 10, having secured previous recognitions in 2023 and 2018. The community has also clinched the Readers’ Choice Award for Best Promotion of a Historic Place for the past three years.

Visitors to Abilene are encouraged to delve into its rich cowboy history by exploring Old Abilene Town, riding the rails with the Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad, touring the Dickinson County Heritage Center, and immersing themselves in the tales of Wild Bill Hickok and Tom “Bear River” Smith. Other highlights include the Cowboy Boot Art Trail, western-themed murals, the World’s Largest Belt Buckle and Big Spur, and the exhilarating Wild Bill Hickok PRCA rodeo.

For more information about Abilene and its vibrant cowboy history, please visit www.AbileneKansas.org.
Abilene, Kansas: The Best. U.S. Small Town with a Hallmark Christman Town Vibe
Immerse yourself in a scene of snow-covered streets, twinkling lights, and the warmth of a tight-knit community – the quintessential elements of a perfect Hallmark Christmas movie. Now, what if we told you that such a magical place exists in real life? Welcome to Abilene, Kansas – not just recognized as the Best U.S. Small Town to Visit by TravelAwaits, Best Historic Small Town by USA TODAY, a True Western Town of the Year by True West Magazine, Destination of the Year by the Midwest Travel Network and even a Best Small Town to Visit by Smithsonian Magazine, but also a genuine Hallmark Christmas Town waiting to enchant you.
Abilene, Kansas: A Timeless Retreat in the Heart of America's Midwest
"I come from the very heart of America," declared Dwight D. Eisenhower during his Guildhall Speech in London on June 12, 1945. These words echo through the charming town of Abilene, Kansas, a place that not only embraces its heartland heritage but also beckons visitors to immerse themselves in its rich history and warm hospitality. Nestled in North Central Kansas, Abilene is more than just a stop on the map – it's a destination that seamlessly blends small-town charm with a medley of fascinating attractions.
Unwrap the Wonder of Meredith Willson's Miracle on 34th Street: The Musical in Abilene, Kansas
The holiday season is upon us, and there's no better way to usher in the festive spirit than with the timeless charm of Meredith Willson's Miracle on 34th Street: The Musical, presented at the Great Plains Theatre in Abilene, Kansas. This heartwarming production, brought to you by the Community Foundation of Dickinson County, promises to be a joyous celebration for the whole family.
2024 American Flag Sponsorship
It's that time of year again! The Abilene Convention & Visitors Bureau is raising money to purchase flags for the 2024 season.

Visitors frequently comment about the beautiful flags, and with your help, we can continue this tradition.

Flag sponsorships remain at $25 each. Learn more at www.AbileneKansas.org/flags.

2023 Sponsors:
  1. Scott Litke
  2. Rawhide Portable Corral
  3. Carol Spitcaufsky
  4. Peterson Monuments & Designs
  5. John's Service
  6. Kurt Phillips
  7. Theresa Brierton
  8. Lawrence & Connie Cooper
  9. Vine Creek Accounting
  10. Chuck & Ann Brussow
  11. Brandon L. Rein
  12. Cathy Strowig
  13. Duri Ridge Free State Armory, LLC
  14. Amanda West State Farm
  15. McCallson Tax & Accounting
  16. Solomon State Bank
  17. First Bank Kansas
  18. Geske Interiors
  19. Wendell & Nancy Gugler Charitable Giving Fund
  20. Bill & Dee Marshall
  21. Jennifer Green
  22. Bill & Dee Marshall
  23. Mitzi Gose
  24. Tony & Sarah Geiger
  25. West's Country Mart
  26. Rick & Marcia Williamson
  27. M&R Grill
  28. Harlan & Peggy Janke
  29. Pinnacle Bank
  30. Danner Funeral Home
  31. Martin-Becker-Carlson Funeral Home
  32. Robson Oil Co. Inc. / Corner Stop / Liberty
  33. Bill & Nanc Scholl
  34. In Memory of William "Kim" Bogart
  35. In Memory of Leah Swinny
  36. In Memory of Dalmas & Barb Coates
  37. Sonic Drive-In of Abilene
  38. Auburn Pharmacy
  39. National Greyhound Association
  40. Kenton & Stephanie Clark
  41. Bruce & Denise Youtsey
  42. Great Plains Federal Credit Union
  43. Everett's Inc.
  44. Jim & Pattie Mayhew
  45. Lumber House Inc.
  46. Casey & Jane Foltz
  47. Holm Automotive Center
  48. Abilene Animal Hospital, P.A.
  49. Next Home Unlimited - Becky Schwab
  50. George W. McCormic, Sr.
  51. In Memory of Joyce & Gordon Kippenberger 
  52. In Memory of Emilies Bauernhof
  53. Abilene Rent-All & Sales
  54. In Memory of Jack & Betty Schneider
  55. Pioneer Farm & Ranch
  56. Bill & Marlene Howe
  57. The Abilene Group Financial Advisors
  58. Greyhound Hall of Fame
  59. The Brown Memorial Foundation
  60. Patterson Healthcare Pharmacy
  61. Russell Stover Chocolates
  62. Greg Barrett
  63. Mildred Hanson
  64. John & Judy Anguiano
  65. Veronica Murray
  66. General Dwight D. Eisenhower VFW Post 3279
  67. Charles Weaver

As of 12/8/2023
Abilene, Kansas
Latest News
Upcoming Events
December
1-17
Meredith Wilson's Miracle on 34th Street - The Musical at Great Plains Theatre
This musical version of the beloved Holiday classic follows a wave of love that is spread from the real Kris Kringle melting even the most cynical of hearts. This heartwarming spectacle of a musical is the perfect Holiday treat. It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas! Learn more
Community Attractions
Experience Art & Culture

Journey to the Old West

Live the American Story

Explore Ike's Life & Legacy

Have an Adventure


Enjoy Family Fun and Learning

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