Posted in Kansas December 22, 2016 by

The Small Town In Kansas You’ve Never Heard Of But Should Definitely Visit

If you are a Kansan, there is about a 98% chance that you are familiar with the small town in today’s article. However, if you are not fortunate enough to be from here, you may have never heard of the central town of Abilene and just why you should check it out. If you have some out-of-state friends who are coming to visit, be sure to share this amazing town with them:

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
With a population of nearly 7,000, Abilene, Kansas may not sound like it would have much in terms of attractions, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for with a fascinating history, charming downtown area, and unique fun for everyone.
Flickr/Kansas Tourism
Named for a passage in Luke 3:1, Abilene was founded as a stage coach stop in 1857 and became an important stop along the Kansas Pacific Railway in 1867.
Flickr/Kansas Tourism
Between 1867 to 1871, Abilene became known as one of the wildest towns in the west, as the growing town was now the last stop along the famed Chisholm Trail.
Wikimedia Commons
During this time, hundreds of thousands of cattle made their way to and from Abilene.
Even with its notoriety as one of the wildest towns in the west, the railroad industry continued to boom in Abilene, with the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway building a line from Abilene to Superior, Nebraska in 1887.
Flickr/fundriving
When you visit Abilene today, there are some spots that are not to be missed, including the Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum, and Boyhood Home (pictured)...
Flickr/Mark Goebel
President Eisenhower's family moved to Abilene from Denison, Texas in 1892.
...10-mile excursion train ride on the Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad...
Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad
...and delicious Brookville Hotel.
Yelp
Hungry? You have come to the right place, as the good folks at the Brookville serve an unforgettable family-style fried chicken dinner!
In addition to all of these iconic locations, Abilene is also home to a Five Star Museum District, Old Abilene Town, and even different centers for the arts.
Flickr/Kansas Tourism
Pictured is the Great Plains Theatre.
Whether you are wanting to peruse museums, shop through one-of-a-kind boutiques, or just pig out on some really good food, you are sure to find something to love in this small Kansas town!
Flickr/Kansas Tourism

For more of our favorite small towns, check out The 10 Most Beautiful, Charming Small Towns In Kansas!