Looking for fun things to do in Abilene, KS? This Chisholm Trail “cowtown” in North Central Kansas consistently ranks in the top ten of USA Today’s Readers’ Choice Best Historic Small Towns. It might be small, but it has a surprising amount of fun—history, culture, public art, quirky roadside attractions, and more!
Abilene is also part of the newly launched Gunsmoke Trail, which includes Abilene, Wichita, Hays, and Dodge City. So keep reading as I share what makes this charming place one of my favorite Kansas destinations.
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HISTORY & CULTURE
Journey Back to the Wild West
Old Abilene Town is probably the most well-known of all the things to do in Abilene, KS, and for good reason—it’s SO much fun! The replica cowtown/living history museum recreates the “wild and wooliest” town in the West with family fun, including staged gunfights and longhorn cattle drives in an authentic Wild West setting.
One of my favorite things was witnessing the longhorn cattle drive. It was a spectacle watching them parade right through the heart of Old Abilene Town and loading onto a train, just like in the Wild West days. But this time, it’s all just for the thrill of the show.
You’ll also find stagecoach rides and authentic Wild West buildings to explore. Don’t miss the chance to sip on some sarsaparilla at the saloon and catch the lively can-can dancers putting on a show.
Remember that some events only happen during Chisholm Trail Days and special occasions, but you can always call them to check the schedule.
“Paws” for Doggie History at the Greyhound Hall of Fame
Walking through the doors, two retired racing greyhounds greeted me – they’re such sweethearts! Once I managed to tear myself away from the dogs, I watched a short introductory video and explored the exhibits.
The story of these lightning-fast pups, from their beginnings to their retirement, is truly captivating.
Their huge hearts, light but muscular build, and highly flexible skeletons enable them to reach up to 45 mph in just a few strides.
As an animal lover, I have to admit that I’m relieved that greyhound racing is now illegal in nearly every state. Still, it’s an intriguing piece of history.
The photos, memorabilia, and interactive exhibits at the Greyhound Hall of Fame left me with a newfound respect for these amazing athletes.
And, of course, I couldn’t resist saying hello to the museum’s greyhounds one more time before leaving. It was definitely the highlight of my visit!
Spin Through Time on the C.W. Parker Carousel
This 1901 carousel is the oldest operational Parker carousel known to exist. The wooden horses rock back and forth and have real marble eyes and genuine horsehair tails.
So whether you’re a history or carousel buff, or just looking for some old-fashioned fun, the C.W. Parker Carousel in Abilene is definitely worth a visit.
Go On a Museum Scavenger Hunt
412 S. Campbell St., Abilene, KS
Website
History comes to life at the Dickinson County Heritage Center! I found the stories behind some of the exhibits absolutely fascinating.
One highlight for me was getting a glimpse of Wild Bill Hickok’s six-shooter, which he wielded during his brief stint as marshal of Abilene. Another standout moment was seeing the horns of the longhorn he took down when it crashed into a passenger buggy during a stampede.
Don’t miss the chance to explore the museum’s outdoor historic buildings: a one-room log cabin, barn, schoolhouse, jail, a blacksmith shop (and more.)
Plus, make sure to check out the Museum of Independent Telephony. You can step into the shoes of a telephone operator or try dialing a rotary telephone – whether for a nostalgic trip down memory lane or a brand-new experience!
Play in Ike’s Presidential Playground
200 SE 4th St., Abilene, KS
Website
Learn more about America’s 34th president at the Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum. Explore library exhibits that cover his early years, military career, presidency, life with Mamie, and more.
I loved the gallery dedicated to Mamie! It was fascinating to see how her unique style left its mark on fashion trends of the time.
When I visited the Presidential Library, Eisenhower’s Boyhood Home was undergoing a preservation project, so it was temporarily closed. But now, the project is finished, and guided tours are back in action! Tours run every half hour, but there’s a limit of 10 people per tour, so be sure to grab your tickets at the site.
Don’t miss out on the museum’s stunning grounds – they’re beautiful and ideal for a leisurely afternoon walk. And while you’re there, visit the Place of Meditation, where Dwight D. Eisenhower and Mamie Doud Eisenhower are laid to rest.
Try Box Bowling at the Historic Seelye Mansion
1105 N Buckeye Ave, Abilene, KS 67410
(Stay tuned for an article featuring the entire Historic Seelye Mansion tour.)
As part of the historic Seelye Mansion tour (one of the things to do in Abilene, KS, you shouldn’t miss), you can try box bowling in the 1904 American Box Bowling Co. alley in the basement.
The arcade game was ordered at the St. Louis World’s Fair and still works beautifully! Small balls are rolled down the alley in an attempt to knock down five horizontal pins.
Ride the Rails on a 100-Year-Old Steam Engine
200 SE 5th St., Abilene, KS
Website
Get ready for an adventure on the Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad featuring Kansas’ only working steam locomotive, the Santa Fe #3415.
The 10 ½-mile Flint Hills Express adventure begins at the historic 1887 Rock Island Depot in Abilene. While onboard, passengers can explore the engines, chat with volunteer train operators, or simply soak in the countryside view. The trip includes a 30-minute stopover in Enterprise, KS, where you can visit the historic Hoffman Grist Mill and pick up some freshly milled flour to take home as a souvenir.
During my August ride, I chose one of the air-conditioned cars, but if you prefer, open-air gondola cars are also available for a different experience.
Explore Whimsical Public Art
Abilene is home to some amazing murals you’ve gotta check out! From cool historical scenes to interactive, colorful masterpieces, walking or driving around town to find them is a must.
Follow the Cowboy Boot Trail
Abilene is sprinkled with nearly a dozen painted cowboy boots, each boasting a unique, colorful theme as part of the Cowboy Art Trail public art project. Here’s your ultimate guide to everything along this creative trail.
QUIRKY ATTRACTIONS
See the Big Spur
Rittel’s Western Wear – 1810 N. Buckeye Ave., Abilene, KS
If you’re a fan of roadside attractions like me, stop and see the 28-foot-tall Big Spur when you arrive in Abilene. It’s hard to miss – the first thing I noticed as I drove in. While it may no longer hold the title of the world’s largest spur, it’s still a fascinating sight that’s definitely worth a pit stop.
How About the World’s Largest Belt Buckle?
400 N Pine St, Abilene KS 67410
Texas might have snatched the record for the World’s Largest Spur, but Abilene, Kansas, is now home to the World’s Largest Belt Buckle! It stands 19 feet 10 ½ inches wide and 13 feet 11 ¼ inches tall (not including the frame).
The buckle showcases iconic symbols of history and culture, including images of Dwight D. Eisenhower, Wild Bill Hickok, the Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad, the Historic Seelye Mansion, a C.W. Parker carousel horse, a C.L. Brown telephone, a racing Greyhound, and a Chisholm Trail longhorn adorned with blue quartz.
Peek at the “Addams Family Mansion” Look-Alike
106 N. Vine St., Abilene, KS
Website
Abilene is home to several stunning historic residences listed on the National Register of Historic Places, but my absolute favorite has to be the C.H. Lebold Mansion. It looks so much like the Addams Family Mansion, don’t you think?
Built in 1880 on the site of Abilene’s first log cabin, the mansion has quite a colorful history. It’s been everything from a private residence to a home for single telephone operators, an orphanage, and even an apartment building. It’s definitely worth a drive-by and a photo!
SHOP & EAT LOCAL
Have a Homestyle Fried Chicken Dinner
105 E Lafayette Ave, Abilene, KS
Website (Reservations preferred.)
If you’re looking for a good down-home fried chicken dinner, bring the whole gang for a family-style meal at Legacy Kansas in the historic Brookville Hotel.
The pass-and-serve fixings include skillet fried chicken, a relish plate, cottage cheese, coleslaw, mashed potatoes, creamed corn, biscuits, and ice cream. What more could you ask for?
Make a Kansas Souvenir and Snack Stop
2323 Fair Road, Abilene, KS
Visiting Wilkens Acres General Store is a must. It features products from over 100 Kansas companies and is conveniently located off I-70 for easy access.
Remember to grab a local favorite treat there—the Tasty Pastry Nut Roll! Although the actual bakery is in Clay Center, about 30 minutes from Abilene, these delectable delights are stocked daily at Wilkens Acres. They’re like cinnamon rolls, topped with white icing and crushed peanuts for that extra crunch.
Satisfy Your Chocolate Sweet Tooth
1993 Caramel Blvd., Abilene, KS
Website
I accidentally stumbled upon the Russell Stover Candies Factory Outlet. I couldn’t help but be drawn in by the chocolate-dripped bear out front, and the discounted prices on all the candy made my road trip even sweeter!
Discover Downtown Abilene
Take a downtown stroll through the charming streets lined with historic buildings, boutique shops, antique stores, art galleries, and cozy cafes. Upon arriving in town, I couldn’t resist indulging in a quick BLT at Amanda’s Bakery & Bistro, browsing through fascinating reads at Rivendell Book Store, and uncovering hidden gems at several antique shops.
Seasonal Things to Do in Abilene, KS
- Wild Bill Hickok Rodeo (July 30-August 2, 2024): This annual PRCA rodeo takes place at the Eisenhower Park Fairgrounds and features plenty of bulls, broncs, and barrels. (Facebook)
- Chisholm Trail Days at Old Abilene Town (August 30-31, 2024) Longhorns, live music, food trucks, and more.
Where to Stay in Abilene, Kansas
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites: If you’re looking for a traditional hotel stay in a flagged property (where you can earn points). This is where I stayed.
- Abilene’s Victorian Inn: One of my friends stayed here and had a great experience.
- Engle House Bed and Breakfast – On the National Register of Historic Places.
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