Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad
How about a free train ride for the family? It’s possible this summer, as the Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad joins other popular tourism attractions across Kansas as a participant in the “Sunflower Summer” program.
As of May 24, school-aged Kansas kids and their parents can ride the A&SV’s Flint Hills Express free of charge.
According to Julie Roller Weeks, the Director of the Abilene Conventions and Visitor’s Bureau, Sunflower Summer is an initiative to encourage Kansas families with school-aged children to discover and appreciate the wonders of Kansas while supporting the state’s tourism economy.
The program is sponsored by Kansas Tourism, a division of the Kansas Department of Commerce. In addition to the A&SV, the Dickinson County Heritage Center and the Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum are participating in the program.
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“This is an excellent way for families with school aged kids to spend a day in Abilene, taking in the colorful history of our town for little to no cost,” said Roller Weeks, who added that the program offers a way for area families to “staycation” in Abilene. “This opportunity allows us to welcome Kansas families to our area and provide them with an unforgettable experience.”
Roller Weeks said that eligible Kansas families can download the Sunflower Summer App at SunflowerSummer.org to claim tickets to participating venues. The 2024 Sunflower Summer season will run from May 24 to August 11.
“We’re really happy to participate in this program and support our museum partners here in town,” said Ross Boelling, President and Manager of the Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad. “We were recently named the state’s official heritage railroad, and we hope Sunflower Summer introduces our railroad to families across the state.”
Boelling specified that the free train rides are specifically for the A&SV’s Flint Hills Express runs and are not applicable for the railroad’s Smoky Valley Limited dinner trains or special charters.
To learn more about the A&SV's mission and for ticket information check out its website.