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Abilene Tourism Advocate
June 6, 2024
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Best Historic Small Town - USA TODAY (2024) |
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D-Day 80th Anniversary Remembrance Ceremony |
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The tide has turned! The free men of the world are marching together to Victory!
I have full confidence in your courage, devotion to duty and skill in battle. We will accept nothing less than full Victory! – General Dwight D. Eisenhower
Thursday, June 6, 2024
Join us on the actual anniversary of D-Day for a day of remembrance and reflection at the Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum. This is a unique opportunity to honor the legacy of General Eisenhower and the courageous soldiers of World War II.
Event Schedule:
9:00 a.m. - Meet a World War II Veteran
11:00 a.m. - Remembrance Ceremony (some seating will be available; please feel free to bring your own chairs)
2:00 p.m. - Veterans Panel featuring Members of the Ft. Riley/1st Infantry Division
Throughout the day, visitors can engage with reenactors, explore the Hands-on History Carts, and enjoy free admission to the museum. This day aims to be the largest gathering of World War II Veterans in the United States, offering a rare chance to hear their stories firsthand.
Of note, the event will include:
- A flyover by the 1st Infantry Division
- A promenade of WWII Veterans led by bagpipes
- A Colorguard
Confirmed speakers include Governor Laura Kelly, Brigadier General Nieve Knell, Ft. Riley, and Senator Jerry Moran, R-Kansas.
Can’t Miss: If you can only attend one event, make it the WWII Remembrance Ceremony. WWII Veterans will be present and honored by esteemed guests. Plan to arrive before 11:00 a.m. and gather in front of the General Eisenhower statue.
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Best Roadside Attraction by TravelAwaits (2023)
True West Town of the Year by True West Magazine (2018 & 2023 & 2024)
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New Mural Coming to Abilene |
The Eisenhower Foundation is pleased to announce that the design submitted by Ben Tegtmeier, Eudora, Kansas, has been selected for the Eisenhower Silo Project on the Bert & Wetta Sales Inc. silo in Abilene, Kansas. The mural will be completed in the fall of 2024 by Mindy Allen of Mindy’s Murals, Junction City.
Thank you to everyone who submitted designs!
This project is being completed thanks to generous support from the Kansas Department of Commerce, Kansas Creative Arts and Industries Commission (which receives support from the National Endowment for the Arts, a federal agency), the Community Foundation of Dickinson County, and Bert & Wetta Sales Inc.
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Discover Kansas Through Art: "See Kansas" Exhibit Opens in Abilene |
Artwork celebrating beloved Kansas landmarks is now on display at the Abilene Public Library. Inspired by the 1930s and 1940s National Parks posters and produced by Parks & Green Spaces, LLC, this vibrant collection showcases the beauty and history of iconic Kansas landscapes.
A collaboration between the Abilene Convention and Visitors Bureau and the Abilene Public Library, the exhibit features works from nine talented artists across the state. The pieces highlight Kansas landmarks such as Nicodemus, Monument Rocks, the Flint Hills, and other notable destinations. A special highlight is the "See Abilene" piece, emphasizing the elements that have earned Abilene recognition as the Best Historic Small Town.
The exhibit will be on display in the Carnegie Room at the Abilene Public Library until August 7 and coincides with the library’s 2024 summer reading theme: "Adventure Begins at Your Library."
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On June 22, 1945, Dwight D. Eisenhower declared in his Homecoming Speech, "The proudest thing I can claim is that I am from Abilene." Now, 79 years later, Ike's hometown is gearing up to honor him in a big way!
Join us on Friday, June 21, at 11:00 a.m. for the unveiling of the World's Largest I Like Ike Button. This impressive button, created by Abilene artist Jason Lahr of Fluters Creek Metal Works, will stand proudly at the northeast end of Little Ike Park, celebrating one of the most iconic campaign slogans.
So, wear your favorite I Like Ike Button and head to downtown Abilene to be part of this special event!
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Buckle Up for An Abilene, Kansas Day Trip
by Our Changing Lives
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We are on a mission to show people that interesting stories are found all across North America. One of our favorite historic destinations is Abilene, Kansas. This northern stop along the Chisholm Trail has plenty of Wild West history, but the stories don’t end there. Our news feed is often filled with new things to see and do in this Midwestern city. Recently, we discovered that they are home to the World’s Largest Belt Buckle, which we had to see for ourselves. Let’s look at our fun experiences from a recent Abilene day trip.
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Legally Blonde the Musical Opens at Great Plains Theatre |
Get ready to be dazzled by the fabulous and fun award-winning musical, "Legally Blonde The Musical," at Abilene's Great Plains Theatre! Based on the popular movie, this show follows the inspiring journey of Elle Woods, a determined young woman who breaks stereotypes and tackles scandals in her pursuit of dreams.
Perfect for all ages and particularly beloved in high school and community theatre circles, "Legally Blonde The Musical" boasts a large ensemble cast and several show-stopping numbers that will leave you cheering for more. It's an experience so fun, it should be illegal!
*SATURDAY MATINEE SPECIAL* Buy one, get one free!
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Cowtown to Carousels: Explore the Dickinson County Heritage Center
by Midwest Wanderer
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Old West history… The oldest operating C.W. Parker carousel… An Extensive Telephone Exhibit… These are three things that stood out to me at the Dickinson County Heritage Center and Museum in Abilene, Kansas.
We arrived as the museum was opening for the day, and the first thing I did was to practically run through the building and out the back to where the carousel stands. I scored a private ride on the carousel, and staff member Wade Needham related the history the C.W. Parker carousel company.
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27 Unique & Quirky Things to Do in Kansas
by Bill On The Road
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I’m always up for finding experiences that aren’t the typical tourist attractions. As I traveled around, looking for things to do in Kansas, I found all sorts of unique and quirky attractions and experiences!
Whether I was tracking down murals, eating fried chicken, or standing on a gigantic belt buckle – I found some great things to do in Kansas that might not be on your radar. Hopefully this list will add some extra fun to your next road trip through the sunflower state!
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Abilene Tourism Attractions Benefit from Sunflower Summer Program |
Kansas Tourism’s Sunflower Summer Program is in full swing, and Abilene tourism attractions are thriving thanks to this popular initiative.
“The Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad has already moved 360 Sunflower Summer riders on our Flint Hills Express excursion trains during the first two weeks," said General Manager Ross Boelling. "That's a 48% bump in ridership already. We love it! It's very easy and convenient for folks to use, and it’s bringing a significant amount of additional riders and revenue to the railroad.” He concluded, "Who wouldn't like to take an enjoyable (and free) ride on the official Kansas Heritage Railroad?"
Other attractions in the Abilene program include the Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum and the Dickinson County Heritage Center.
“We are thrilled to help this program expand in Abilene,” said Julie Roller Weeks, Director of the Abilene Convention and Visitors Bureau. “Sunflower Summer allows all Kansas children to access these quality attractions regardless of socioeconomic status. The additional revenue and visitation are an added economic benefit to our community and its attractions.”
Know Before You Go: 10 Things You Need to Know About the Sunflower Summer Program
- Sunflower Summer is a program brought to you by Kansas Tourism.
- Sunflower Summer is for Kansas residents only.
- The program offers FREE admission to the Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad, Dickinson County Heritage Center, Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum, and more than 200 other attractions throughout Kansas for all Kansas students (pre-K through 12th grade, including public, private, and homeschooled students).
- The program runs from May 25 through August 11, 2024.
- Tickets can be used once per attraction, per season.
- You must download the Sunflower Summer app to access tickets (available on both Apple and Android devices).
- Tickets are transferable, so parents can transfer them to grandparents to take their grandchildren.
- Attractions will be reimbursed for your visit!
- Abilene is home to many great tourist attractions, but only those listed above are part of the Sunflower Summer program.
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Visit www.SunflowerSummer.org to learn more!
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Legally Blonde at Great Plains Theatre
A fabulously fun award-winning musical based on the adored movie, Legally Blonde The Musical, follows the transformation of Elle Woods as she tackles stereotypes and scandal in pursuit of her dreams. Action-packed and exploding with memorable songs and dynamic dances - this musical is so much fun, it should be illegal!
Elle Woods appears to have it all. Her life is turned upside down when her boyfriend Warner dumps her so he can attend Harvard Law. Determined to get him back, Elle ingeniously charms her way into the prestigious law school. While there, she struggles with peers, professors and her ex. With the support of some new friends, though, Elle quickly realizes her potential and sets out to prove herself to the world.
Legally Blonde The Musical is perfect for high school and community theatre, featuring a large ensemble and several big song-and-dance numbers. Learn more
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D-Day + 80 Years
June 1-6, 2024: Schedule of Events
Opening June 1 — Normandy D-Day Commemoration Photos Exhibit
We have commissioned French Photographer Fabrice Bourge to curate a special exhibit which will be featured in the
Eisenhower Museum to commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day. He has a collection of almost 20 years of photographs that capture the D-Day ceremonies and events in Normandy, France. The exhibit will highlight photos that demonstrate the respect and gratitude that Normans show to veterans during these annual D-Day events.
June 1 — Symphony at Sunset D-Day Commemoration Concert
The Eisenhower Presidential Library and Foundation are thrilled to
host the 2024 Symphony at Sunset D-Day Commemoration Concert
on Saturday, June 1. Attended by thousands of visitors from across
Kansas, the event features music from the Salina Symphony and the
Fort Riley 1st Infantry Division Band, as well as food vendors and
educational activities.
June 4-6 — World War II Emerging Scholars Symposium
The Eisenhower, Roosevelt, and Truman Presidential Libraries will
present this emerging scholars symposium in partnership. The 2024
symposium theme is Waging Peace; it will be held virtually and will be
streamed via YouTube.
June 6 — D-Day+80 Years Commemoration
Activities include a remembrance ceremony, a meet World War II
veteran reception, World War II veteran panel, free admission to the
Eisenhower Presidential Museum, military reenactors, and hands-on
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Smoky Valley Limited: D-Day's 80th Anniversary (Kite's)
As we approach the 80th anniversary of D-Day, the Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad pays homage to Abilene’s favorite son, Dwight Eisenhower. Join us on Saturday, May 25, on the Smoky Valley Limited as historical impressionist Bill Nicks of Kansas City portrays Ike on this special Memorial Day weekend train! It's an election year, so you just might hear Ike's Abilene speech when he declares his candidacy, as well as hear Nicks portray Ike as we dine on traditional Kansas summer weekend food! Scott Sears of Abilene’s Legacy Kansas restaurant will be serving Brookville Hotel fried chicken, with real mashed potatoes and gravy, creamed corn, homemade biscuits, sweet and sour coleslaw, and a brownie with whipped topping for dessert. Enjoy this great meal as you dine in air conditioned comfort while riding through the Smoky Hill River Valley in our antique passenger coaches. Your two-hour dining adventure begins at 6:00 p.m. when our train leaves Abilene’s 1887 Rock Island Depot. It’s a night of re-enacted history on the Smoky Valley Limited! Reserve your seats today! Learn more
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Christian Youth Rodeo Association
Watch youth ages 3-18 participate in rodeo events including roping, racing, wrestling and riding. Learn more
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Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad Dining Car Heritage Series: Chicago North Western "Twin Cities 400" (Lucinda's Katering)
A&SV Dining Car Heritage Series:
Chicago North Western’s “Twin Cities 400”
Back in 1946, our Chicago and Northwestern Passenger coach was built to be something special. It was one of seven lounge cars made for the C&NW’s Twin Cities 400 that ran between Chicago and St. Paul. Last year, the Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad restored the car to its original beauty, reflecting the style of dining cars of the 1940s, allowing Smoky Valley Limited passengers to dine in an atmosphere of mid-20th century elegance! Join us on Saturday, June 15, for our special tribute to the C&NW Railroad and its Twin Cities 400 as Lucinda’s Katering of Abilene presents a meal once made by C&NW chefs! Stuffed pork loin, au gratin potatoes, green beans, tossed green salad, assorted rolls, and apple pie for dessert. Iced tea and water will be served. The train leaves our 1887 Rock Island Depot at 6:00 p.m.
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Memories of the Prairie
Experience first-hand stories, educational programs and reenactors bringing 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. The series culminates with an old-fashioned ice cream social. Learn more
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Hello Dolly! at Great Plains Theatre
This musical adaptation of Thornton Wilder’s hit play The Matchmaker bursts with humor, romance, energetic dance and some of the greatest songs in musical theatre history. The romantic and comic exploits of Dolly Gallagher-Levi, turn-of-the-century matchmaker and “woman who arranges things,” are certain to thrill and entertain audiences again and again. Learn more
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Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad Dining Car Heritage Series: Santa Fe "Super Chief" (Lucinda's Katering)
A&SV Dining Car Heritage Series:
The Santa Fe “Super Chief”
Of the many legacy railroads that built our state, the Atchison Topeka and Santa Fe gets the most credit for its impact on Kansas agribusiness and the communities that it served. The Santa Fe was a Kansas product, and its pioneering railroad services are legendary. One of those innovations was railroad dining. Kansan Fred Harvey of Leavenworth built a series of “Harvey Houses” to feed hungry passengers, and later, when dining cars became a standard feature on Santa Fe passenger trains, the dining cars were well known for quality food. On Saturday, June 22, the A&SV Dining Car Heritage Series fondly recalls the ATSF and its dining car innovations with our recreation of a menu from the Santa Fe Super Chief, a train that once crossed the Sunflower State. Lucinda’s Katering of Abilene is recreating a 1940s menu item: roast beef with mashed potatoes and brown gravy, string beans, tossed salad and rolls and butter, with apple pie for dessert. Iced tea and water will be available. Our train leaves Abilene’s historic Rock Island Depot at 6:00 p.m. for a two-hour air-conditioned train ride through the Smoky Hill River Valley.
Join us on the A&SV Smoky Valley Limited as we present a taste of Kansas railroad history! Learn more
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Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad Dining Car Heritage Series: The Rock Island "Rocket" (Lucinda's Katering)
A&SV Dining Car Heritage Series:
The Rock Island’s Rocket
As the song says, the Rock Island line was indeed a mighty fine line in Kansas, remembered as being the lifeblood of agriculture and the builder of so many communities in our state. Today, the Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad stands as a descendent of the Rock Island legacy, as our 1887 depot carries the Rock Island name and reminds us of the heyday of freight and passenger service in the Central Kansas region. The A&SV Dining Car Heritage series presents a special tribute to the Rock Island, as our dinner train, the Smoky Valley Limited, recreates a menu from the Rock’s well-known passenger train, the Rocket. Lucinda’s Katering of Abilene is recreating a 1940s Rocket dining car menu, with chicken fricassee, Kentucky-style potatoes and stewed corn, coleslaw, dinner rolls, and butter, and, for dessert, chocolate cake. Iced tea and water will accompany the meal. Our two-hour train ride in air-conditioned comfort is a great way to spend your Saturday evening!
Join us at 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 29, as the A&SV Smoky Valley Limited presents a taste of Kansas railroad history! Learn more
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Garden Guild Public Tours
Bringing back an old tradition of garden tours. Dickinson County boasts some of the most fabulous gardens, and we want to show them off. June 29th from 9 AM-3 PM, we want you to tour these spectacular gardens at your leisure.
Each location will have a limited number of tickets for you to purchase. The ticket price is $15 for adults, kids ages 12 and under are free with an adult purchase.
One ticket purchased will get you in each location.
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Old Fashioned Fourth of July
An Old-Fashioned 4th of July in Abilene, Kansas, is a celebration deeply rooted in community spirit, patriotic pride, and cherished traditions. As the Heart of America, Abilene honors Independence Day with a nostalgic flair, offering residents and visitors an experience that returns to a simpler time. Learn more
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Smoky Valley Limited: Fried Chicken for Independence Day (Legacy Kansas)
One last Independence Day celebration:
Brookville Chicken on the Smoky Valley Limited!
The fireworks may be over, but the good food continues as part of your Independence Day celebration on the Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad! On Saturday, July 6, our Smoky Valley Limited dinner train presents a classic Fourth of July staple: fried chicken from Legacy Kansas in Abilene. The traditional Brookville Hotel cuisine–fried chicken, mashed potatoes with cream gravy, cream style corn, coleslaw, and homemade biscuits, topped off with a rich, chocolaty brownie with whipped cream––is a perfect throwback to the July 4th holidays of the past. Iced tea and water accompany the meal, with beer and wine available for an extra charge. The train leaves our 1887 Rock Island Depot at 6:00 p.m. for a two-hour journey through the Smoky Hill River Valley. Make this celebration of our nation’s independence complete!
Come to Abilene and enjoy a classic summertime meal on the Smoky Valley Limited! Learn more
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Memories of the Prairie
Experience first-hand stories, educational programs and reenactors bringing 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. The series culminates with an old-fashioned ice cream social. Learn more
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Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad Dining Car Heritage Series: The Rock Island "Rocket" (Lucinda's Katering)
A&SV Dining Car Heritage Series:
Union Pacific’s Portland Rose
Central Kansas’ association with the Union Pacific Railroad goes back to 1867 when its predecessor, the Kansas Pacific, was completed, precipitating cattle drives on the Chisholm Trail to Abilene. Today, the UP remains a major force in the region’s economy. But the railroad’s 157-year history of service also includes a now-forgotten item: UP passenger trains that sped across Kansas carrying passengers to distant locations. One of those trains was known as the Portland Rose, a train known for comfort and fine dining that ran between Kansas City and Denver. On Saturday, July 13, the Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad pays tribute to the Union Pacific as our Smoky Valley Limited takes a page from the Portland Rose’s menu and cookbooks. Lucinda’s Katering of Abilene will present cube steak smothered in brown gravy and sauteed onions, mashed potatoes, and fresh peas, with tossed salad, dinner rolls, and a cheesecake for dessert. Iced tea and water will accompany the meal.
We’ll see you on our version of the Portland Rose as you ride in air-conditioned comfort on the Smoky Valley Limited and get a taste of Kansas railroad history! Learn more
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Bright Star at Great Plains Theatre
Inspired by a real event and featuring the Grammy-nominated score by Steven Martin and Edie Brickell, Broadway’s BRIGHT STAR tells a sweeping tale of love and redemption set against the rich backdrop of the American South in the 1920s and ’40s. When literary editor Alice Murphy meets a young soldier just home from World War II, he awakens her longing for the child she once lost. Haunted by their unique connection, Alice sets out on a journey to understand her past – and what she finds has the power to transform both of their lives. Propelled by an ensemble of onstage musicians and dancers, the story unfolds as a rich tapestry of deep emotion, beautiful melodies and powerfully moving performances. An uplifting theatrical journey that holds you tight in its grasp, Bright Star is as refreshingly genuine as it is daringly hopeful. Learn more
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Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad Dining Car Heritage Series: The Rock Island "Rocket" (Lucinda's Katering)
Rivaling Fred Harvey’s Dining Services:
MKT’s Katy Flyer
The Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railway had deep Kansas roots. Commonly referred to as “the Katy,” this legacy company had a rail network that connected towns and cities primarily in eastern Kansas. But the railroad made its mark in Central Kansas as well when the MKT acquired Rock Island track following the Rock’s 1980 bankruptcy and ran trains as far west as Salina on the track that the Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad uses today. A lost piece of railroad history is the fact that the Katy’s passenger trains once had a dining operation that rivaled the famous Fred Harvey experience, first with dining stops similar to the Santa Fe’s Harvey Houses, and then with dining cars that exemplified fine railroad dining and service. On July 20, the A&SV Dining Car Heritage Series presents a tribute to the Katy railroad’s once-heralded Katy Flyer with an early 20th-century menu featuring the railroad’s signature dish, Katy Chicken Pie, accompanied by a lettuce edge salad, mashed potatoes, corn, and a special biscuit item, “Katy Kornettes.” For dessert, Lucinda’s Katering is preparing MKT peach cobbler. Iced tea and water accompany the meal. Our two-hour air-conditioned ride through the Smoky Hill Rover Valley leaves our 1887 Rock Island Depot at 6:00 p.m.
Join us on the A&SV Smoky Valley Limited as we present a taste of Kansas railroad history!! Learn more
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Ice Cream Social
This annual event is a time to enjoy homemade ice cream and good fellowship at the Dickinson County Heritage Center. Enjoy a chance to take home a pie, cake, cookies, or other baked goods up for auction. The auction benefits the Historical Society. Learn more
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Petals at Their Peak
In its second year, Petals at Their Peak is a garden showcase that allows visitors to see and photograph the garden in all its splendor. The garden is filled with annuals and perennials saturated with color. Learn more
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Smoky Valley Limited: A Taste of Germany (Schatzi's Schnitzel House)
Guten Appetit!
A taste of Germany on the A&SV Smoky Valley Limited
Wilkommen to the A&SV Smoky Valley Limited! We’re proud to feature great German food, complete with German beer on a two-hour train trip through farmland originally settled by German immigrants who migrated to the Kansas territory in the 1850s. Join us on Saturday, July 27, as Chef Manfred of Schatzi’s Schnitzel Haus in Riley presents a menu of traditional German food, including schnitzel (breaded pork chop) or German beef goulash, with German sauerkraut with bacon, semmelknodel (bread dumplings) with mushroom sauce, and for dessert, homemade apfelstrudel (apple strudel). Iced tea and water accompany the meal. And for an extra charge, Schatzi’s has German beer! Our German train leaves Abilene’s historic Rock Island Depot at 6:00 p.m.
If you want a great weekend outing, come to Abilene and take the train for a taste of Germany! Learn more
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National Day of the Cowboy at Old Abilene Town
Old Abilene Town will open at 10 am for visitors to enjoy a vendor fair, food trucks, line dancing, cancan dancer and gunfighter performances. Jade Evens will perform from 6-8 pm. Learn more
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Central Kansas Free Fair Parade
The parade kicks off the annual Central Kansas Free Fair. The 2024 Parade begins at 4 p.m., Tuesday*, July 30, at 7th Street and Buckeye Avenue (Highway 15) and proceeds south to 3rd Street and west to Washington Street. Learn more
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100th Central Kansas Free Fair
Located in Abilene, the Central Kansas Free Fair is one of the largest in the state. This family-friendly event offers educational activities and entertainment for all ages, including the Wild Bill Hickok PRCA Rodeo, which has been frequently voted one of the top outdoor rodeos. Join us for family fun in Abilene! Learn more
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Wild Bill Hickok PRCA Rodeo
Witness the excitement of the rodeo, where skilled cowboys and cowgirls compete in thrilling events. Learn more
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Rodeo Dance at Old Abilene Town
Enjoy live music from the Lazy Wayne Band. Learn more
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Smoky Valley Limited: Central Kansas Free Fair Centennial (Broadway Station)
Celebrate the Central Kansas Free Fair Centennial:
The best of Kansas agriculture on the Smoky Valley Limited!
The Central Kansas Free Fair centennial means 100 years of exhibiting locally produced agriculture and livestock, serving as a mark of excellence in our central Kansas agricultural economy. On Saturday, August 3, the A&SV’s Smoky Valley Limited salutes Kansas agriculture when Broadway Station in Herington serves your choice of Kansas beef brisket or pork chops, with baked potato, tossed salad, corn, and dinner rolls, and dessert: strawberry shortcake. Iced tea and water accompany the meal, and for a little extra, enjoy a glass of wine with your meal. Your two-hour train journey takes you through the farmlands of the Smoky Hill River Valley to Enterprise, for a tour of our 1880s Grist Mill that captures the once-thriving milling industry in central Kansas. The Limited leaves our 1887 Rock Island Depot at 6:00 p.m.
Take a break from the fair and join us for a taste of Kansas agriculture on the Smoky Valley Limited! Learn more
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Demolition Derby
Visit Abilene, Kansas, for one of the best demolition derbies in the region!
A demolition derby is a thrilling motorsport event where participants intentionally ram their modified vehicles into one another until only one remains operational, emphasizing both skillful driving and vehicular durability. Learn more
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Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad Dining Car Heritage Series: Missouri Pacific's "Colorado Eagle" (Lucinda's Katering)
A&SV Dining Car Heritage Series:
Missouri Pacific’s Colorado Eagle!
The Missouri Pacific was one of Kansas’ legacy railroads and played a major role in shaping our state’s agribusiness-oriented economy. MoPac trains once rumbled through Dickinson County communities on its St. Louis to Denver main line, serving Herington, Hope, Carlton, Dillon, and Elmo. Known for its line of “Eagle” passenger trains, the Missouri Pacific’s Colorado Eagle was best known in Central Kansas as a reliable passenger train with good service and great food. On Saturday, August 10, the Abilene and Smoky Valley salutes the Missouri Pacific as our Smoky Valley Limited dinner train becomes the Colorado Eagle, serving items from a 1940s menu. Lucinda’s Katering in Abilene will serve roast chicken breast with stuffing, snowflake potatoes, and string beans, with tossed green salad, dinner rolls, and strawberry shortcake for dessert. Iced tea and water will accompany the meal. The train leaves Abilene’s historic Rock Island Depot at 6:00 p.m.
Ride in air-conditioned comfort through the river valley as A&SV’s Smoky Valley Limited presents a taste of Kansas railroad history! Learn more
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5th Annual Boutique Crawl
Join us for our 5th Annual Boutique Crawl! Enjoy a girl's night out while shopping in our local stores. There will be grab bags with some awesome prizes for the first 50 people. Fill out a punch card for entry into a prize drawing. For every $10 you spend at a shop you will receive a ticket for entry into our grand prize drawing! Some stores will be serving snacks and drinks. We will start at Little Ike Park then go to the stores to get your cards marked! Learn more
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Chisholm Trail Days at Old Abilene Town
Celebrate the historic cattle trail at the end of the Chisholm Trail. On Friday, enjoy a chuck wagon meal and a singer/songwriter showcase. On Saturday, enjoy bouncy houses, line dancing, cancan dancer and gunfighter performances, a mechanical bull and other cowboy events. Note: The longhorns will be returning! Learn more
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Smoky Valley Limited - Labor Day Brisket Dinner from Lucinda's Katering!
Saying goodbye to summer on Labor Day Weekend:
A beef brisket dinner on the Smoky Valley Limited!
Labor Day is the last of the summer holidays! And the A&SV’s Smoky Valley Limited presents the first of two great summer cookout trains. On Saturday, August 31, the Smoky Valley Limited and chef Lucinda Kohman of Lucinda’s Katering in Abilene present homegrown Kansas beef brisket, cheesy potatoes, and seasoned green beans, with tossed salad, rolls and butter, and for dessert, another Kansas tradition: apple pie. Iced tea and water will accompany the meal. Enjoy this great meal as you dine in air conditioned comfort while riding through the Smoky Hill River Valley in our antique passenger coaches. Your two-hour dining adventure begins at 6:00 p.m. when our train leaves Abilene’s 1887 Rock Island Depot. Reserve your seats today! Learn more
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Smoky Valley Limited - Build Your Own Burger! Munson Beef from Legacy Kansas
Summer’s final cookout Labor Day Weekend!
Build your own burger on the Smoky Valley Limited
The Labor Day holiday is summer’s last hurrah and the last big cookout weekend. That’s why the A&SV Smoky Valley Limited is featuring our second Labor Day event, an old-fashioned cookout bash featuring the best of Kansas beef! Scott Sears of Legacy Kansas in Abilene presents “build your own burger” where you create your burger made of homegrown Muson beef cooked to your specifications, joined by the traditional Legacy Kansas side dishes: sweet and sour coleslaw, mashed potatoes and gravy, homemade biscuits, creamed corn and a chocolate brownie drenched in whipped topping for dessert! Complimentary iced tea and water will be served, and for a little extra, enjoy a cold beer or glass of wine with your meal. Our two-hour climate controlled adventure features a round trip from Abilene to Enterprise, with a 30-minute layover at Enterprise’s Hoffman Grist Mill and country store. Sneak in one last Labor Day family outing! Enjoy good food and ride the rails of Kansas history on the Smoky Valley Limited! Learn more
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Smoky Valley Limited: Celebrating Fall with Brookville Fried Chicken (Legacy Kansas)
Celebrating Fall’s arrival with a great night out and good food:
Legacy Kansas Brookville Chicken on the Smoky Valley Limited!
Fall is just around the corner, and with the arrival of football season and Kansas fall celebrations comes the need for some great comfort food. And what’s more comforting than a great Kansas tradition: Brookville Hotel fried chicken from Legacy Kansas? Our train leaves Abilene’s historic Rock Island Depot at 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 7, for a two-hour train adventure, where you ride in air-conditioned comfort in our antique passenger coaches through the river valley. All this while you enjoy Bookville Hotel fried chicken, with mashed potatoes with cream gravy, cream-style corn, coleslaw, and homemade biscuits, topped off with a rich, chocolaty brownie with whipped cream. Iced tea and coffee accompany the meal and for an extra charge, enjoy beer or wine with your meal!
Ride the historic rails of the Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad and welcome fall in style with us on the A&SV Smoky Valley Limited! Learn more
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Smoky Valley Limited: A Taste of Italy... Kansas Style (Broadway Station)
A taste of Italy…Kansas style!
It’s Italian night on the Smoky Valley Limited!
As someone once said, “Life is a combination of magic and pasta.” And if you’re a lover of Italian food, you’ll love Italian food night at the A&SV Smoky Valley Limited on Saturday, September 14. Chef LeAnn Urbanek of Broadway Station in Herington is offering a choice of rich, cheesy lasagna or creamy chicken Alfredo, with tossed salad and breadsticks, three bean salad, and apple crisp for dessert. Iced tea and water will be served, and for a special treat, you can buy a glass of fine wine to go with your meal. Our train leaves Abilene’s 1887 Rock Island Depot at 6:00 p.m. for a two-hour journey across the farmlands of the Smoky Hill River Valley to Enterprise, where you tour a historic 1880s milling operation and have a chance to buy our home ground flour. Ride the rails of Kansas history and join us on the Limited for a taste of Italy, Kansas style! Learn more
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7th Annual Oktoberfest
Join the Oktoberfest party, returning to downtown Abilene in 2024! Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere with authentic German music, captivating dancers, and mouthwatering cuisine that will transport you straight to the heart of Bavaria. Learn more
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4th Annual Wild West Gravel Fest
*Tentative Date* Wild West Gravel Fest is a gravel bike ride through Dickinson County. Races distances vary, with the longest being more than 100 miles! Learn more
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Smoky Valley Limited: Kansas Barbeque (Kites)
The best thing about the Flint Hills?
Good ol’ Kansas barbeque on the Smoky Valley Limited!
Someone once said that “barbeque is happiness.” And Kansans love their barbeque! Good barbeque is no stranger here in the Flint Hills, and the A&SV Smoky Valley Limited is proud to feature some of Kansas’ best from Kites of Aggieville Manhattan. On Saturday, September 21, the Limited leaves Abilene’s historic Rock Island Depot with a barbeque lover’s delight. Chef Scott Sieben is offering a platter of barbeque chicken, brisket and pulled pork, with coleslaw, baked beans, and cornbread with honey. And to top it all off? Bread pudding with honey bourbon sauce. Iced tea and coffee is available, and for an extra price, you can purchase beer or wine with your meal. Enjoy some of Kansas’ best signature food on the Limited as our two-hour train adventure takes you through the Smoky Hill River Valley in air conditioned comfort. The train leaves the depot at 6:00 p.m.
Ride the rails of Kansas history and join us on September 21 for a taste of Kansas! Learn more
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Oktoberfest Dinner Train
“Ich Liebe Oktoberfest!” (I love Oktoberfest!) Celebrate Oktoberfest on the Smoky Valley Limited!
Oktoberfest originally began in Bavaria, Germany, as an agricultural exhibition much like our modern-day county fairs in Kansas. Heavily promoted by brewing companies, the holiday grew across Germany, and of course, found its way to the United States. Today, Oktoberfest is celebrated in so many communities across Kansas, thanks to the heavy German settlement in so many regions of the state. On Saturday, September 28, join us on the A&SV’s Smoky Valley Limited for our annual salute to Oktoberfest. Schatzi’s Schnitzel Haus of Riley is serving a classic German meal with your choice of schnitzel (breaded pork chop) or German beef goulash, with German sauerkraut with bacon, semmelknodel (bread dumplings) with mushroom sauce, and for dessert, homemade apfelstrudel (apple strudel). Iced tea and water accompany the meal. And it wouldn’t be Oktoberfest without German beer, and Chef Manfred is serving Paulaner beer directly from Munich! German music, German food, and lots of fun on a two-hour train ride through the Smoky Hill River Valley on a beautiful fall evening. Our train leaves our 1887 Rock Island Depot at 6:00 p.m.
This year, to celebrate Oktoberfest, take the train! “Prost” (cheers) on the Smoky Valley Limited! Learn more
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Honky Tonk Angels at Great Plains Theatre
When three gutsy gals from different backgrounds take charge of their lives, they decide to follow their honky tonk dreams all the way to the city of Nashville. Combining 30 classic country tunes (including “Stand By Your Man,” “9 to 5,” “Harper Valley PTA” and more!) Honky Tonk Angels is a hilarious, foot-stomping good time. Learn more
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46th Annual Heritage Day
The annual Heritage Day Festival features living history with blacksmith and antique agriculture demonstrations, steam engine carousel rides, an antique tractor show, a classic car show, model trains, vendor fair and much more. Learn more
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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.
Everyone ages 2 and older requires a ticket. 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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Haunted Walk at Old Abilene Town
Halloween just isn't complete without a haunted house! Come enjoy the scary, haunted walk through Old Abilene Town. Learn more
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Smoky Valley Limited: A Date Night On The Train (Broadway Station)
The perfect date night experience:
Elegant dining on the A&SV Smoky Valley Limited
Before the bustle of the holiday season gets here, how about a special night out with good food, a glass of wine, and a friendly family setting? On Saturday, November 3, the Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad’s Smoky Valley Limited presents a date night dining experience that’s truly a cut above, prepared by our newest caterer, Broadway Station in Herington. Enjoy your choice of succulent prime rib or smothered chicken, delicious and packed with flavor. Add a baked potato, green beans, a tossed salad, dinner rolls, and for dessert. Peach cobbler. Iced tea and water will be served, or you can kick it up a notch with a glass of fine wine. Your two-hour rail adventure begins at 6:00 p.m. at our 1887 Rock Island Depot, taking you through the Smoky Hill River Valley to Enterprise, where our late 1880s Hoffman Grist Mill sells locally produced flour. Ride the rails of Kansas history and enjoy a special date night on the Smoky Valley Limited! Learn more
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Smoky Valley Limited: A Pre-Thanksgiving Treat - German Style (Schatzi's Schnitzel Haus)
Time to slip in a great German meal:
A pre-Thanksgiving train on the A&SV Smoky Valley Limited
Before the barrage of turkey and leftovers begins at your house, join us on the Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad for one last pre-Thanksgiving culinary escape! We’re proud to feature Chef Manfred of Schatzi’s Schnitzel Haus in Riley, who presents your choice of two German fall dishes: schnitzel (breaded pork chop) or German beef goulash, with German sauerkraut with bacon, semmelknodel (bread dumplings) with mushroom sauce, and for dessert, homemade apfelstrudel (apple strudel). Iced tea and water accompany the meal. And for an extra charge, Schatzi’s has German beer! Our German pre-Thanksgiving train leaves Abilene’s historic Rock Island Depot at 6:00 p.m. where you ride in climate-controlled antique passenger coaches and enjoy a two-hour trip on the rails. 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.Take the pledge!
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The Cowtown Santa Express
The Abilene and Smoky Valley’s Cowtown Santa Express
Discover the magic of the holiday season on the rails! The Abilene and Smoky Valley’s Cowtown Santa Express sparkles with the glow of the Christmas season, as our antique passenger coaches sparkle with holiday lights and the warm smiles of kids of all ages as our annual Christmas tradition returns to the rails of the A&SV. Last year, over three thousand people rode the Express to usher in the holiday season, and this year, you can discover the magic of Christmas on the rails for yourself! Cookies and hot chocolate, the music of the season, and of course Santa himself, as he makes his 2024 holiday debut on the train. Trains begin Thanksgiving weekend and run through December 23. It’s Kansas’ best Christmas celebration!
The Cowtown Santa Express on the Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad!
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The Cowtown Santa Express
The Abilene and Smoky Valley’s Cowtown Santa Express
Discover the magic of the holiday season on the rails! The Abilene and Smoky Valley’s Cowtown Santa Express sparkles with the glow of the Christmas season, as our antique passenger coaches sparkle with holiday lights and the warm smiles of kids of all ages as our annual Christmas tradition returns to the rails of the A&SV. Last year, over three thousand people rode the Express to usher in the holiday season, and this year, you can discover the magic of Christmas on the rails for yourself! Cookies and hot chocolate, the music of the season, and of course Santa himself, as he makes his 2024 holiday debut on the train. Trains begin Thanksgiving weekend and run through December 23. It’s Kansas’ best Christmas celebration!
The Cowtown Santa Express on the Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad!
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Forever Plaid: Plaid Tidings at Great Plains Theatre
Forever Plaid: Plaid Tidings is a brand new show that offers the best of Forever Plaid, tied up in a nifty package with a big Christmas bow on top! Filled with Christmas standards that have all been "Plaid-erized," our boys are back to do their Christmas Special.
At first, Francis, Jinx, Smudge and Sparky aren't sure why they've returned to Earth for another posthumous performance, but a phone call from the heavenly Rosemary Clooney lets them know that they're needed to put a little harmony into a discordant world. Sprinkled among the Christmas offerings are audience favorites, like their riotous three-minute-and-eleven-second version of The Ed Sullivan Show – this time, featuring the Rockettes, the Chipmunks and The Vienna Boys Choir, as well as a Plaid Caribbean Christmas that puts the "Day-O" in Excelsis!
This truly "heaven-sent" holiday treat will lift audiences' spirits and fill them with nostalgia for a bygone era of classic music sung in perfect harmony. With only four actors and a combo needed, Forever Plaid: Plaid Tidings is the perfect holiday show for theatres looking to draw large crowds while using limited resources. Learn more
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47th Homes for the Holidays Tour
Experience the magic of the holiday season in Abilene, Kansas, at the 47th Homes for the Holidays Tour! Immerse yourself in the festive charm of our historic community as we open the doors to beautifully adorned homes and a historic church, all showcasing the rich heritage of Abilene.
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Cowtown Christmas
Visit Abilene December 7-8, 2024, for the Heritage Homes Association's Homes 47th Annual for the Holidays tour, enjoy an Old Fashioned Christmas at the Dickinson County Historical Society and a Cowboy Christmas at Old Abilene Town, tour the Historic Seelye Mansion and see more than 60 beautifully decorated Christmas Trees, ride the rails with the Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad's Cowtown Santa Express, see the live holiday production at Great Plains Theatre, take an evening cruise and see Griswold-style decorations during the Cowtown Christmas Light Showdown, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to see Santa, and remember to shop small all season long at Abilene’s small businesses!
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Old Fashioned Christmas
Come enjoy an Old Fashioned Christmas at the Dickinson County Heritage Center's lighted village with a live nativity in the barn, rides on the 1901 wooden carousel, a prairie Christmas in the authentic log cabin, live Christmas music, a craft for kids in the one-room schoolhouse, German foods in the historic Burkland Grocery Store and much more. Learn more
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Smoky Valley Limited: Goodbye 2024
Saying goodbye to 2024:
A classic Italian dinner on the Smoky Valley Limited
Join us on the Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad as we present the first of three great end-of-year dinner trains on the Smoky Valley Limited. On Sunday, December 29, Lucinda’s Katering of Abilene presents a classic Italian meal: cheesy, meaty lasagna, with bread sticks and Italian seasoned green beans, tossed salad, with tiramisu for dessert. Iced tea and water will accompany the meal. Your two-hour journey across the Smoky Hill River Valley begins at 6:00 p.m., leaving Abilene’s historic 1887 Rock Island Depot and riding in our climate-controlled antique Chicago and Enterprise passenger coaches. Reserve your seats today for a taste of Italy and Kansas railroad history on the A&SV’s Smoky Valley Limited!
Happy Silvester?
A taste of Germany on the Smoky Valley Limited
Germans observe the arrival of the new year much as we do in America, with fireworks, music, and, of course, great food. But New Year’s Eve is called “Silvester” (so named to honor Pope Silvester I). While we may not have fireworks popping or bands playing, the Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad’s Smoky Valley Limited is saying goodbye to 2024 with the second of three New Year’s dinner trains on Monday, December 30. Our Silvester dinner is prepared by Executive Chef Manfred of Schatzi’s Schnitzel Haus in Riley. Feast on your choice of schnitzel (breaded pork chop) or German beef goulash, with German sauerkraut with bacon, semmelknodel (bread dumplings) with mushroom sauce, and for dessert, homemade apfelstrudel (apple strudel). Iced tea and water accompany the meal. And for an extra charge, Schatzi’s has German beer! Ride in our climate-controlled antique passenger coaches as we remember 2024 and the many blessings the year gave us. The Smoky Valley Limited leaves our historic Rock Island Depot in Abilene at 6:00 p.m.
Join us for our Kansas version of Silvester, and as the Germans say, “ein frohes neues Jahr” (Happy New Year)!
Our third New Year’s celebration on the train:
Ringing in 2025 on the Smoky Valley Limited
The Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad’s Smoky Valley Limited has a great idea for New Year’s Eve. Have dinner with us before you begin your celebration of the arrival of 2025! Scott Sieben of Kites in Aggieville Manhattan is preparing your choice of smoked peppercorn chicken breast or succulent roast pork loin, with Yukon gold potatoes, mixed vegetables, assorted dinner rolls with butter, and for dessert, cheesecake. Iced tea and water will accompany the meal, but for an extra cost, popular beers and wines will be available, as well as champagne. The Limited will leave our historic Rock Island Depot at 6:00 p.m. and return by 8:30 to allow you to go on to your New Year’s Eve celebration.
Make your holiday season complete as you ride the rails of Kansas history on the Smoky Valley Limited!
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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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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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