Abilene Convention & Visitors Bureau
ABILENE - Summer travel is in full bloom in Abilene, thanks to Kansas Tourism's popular Sunflower Summer program. With nearly 2,000 admissions recorded so far, Kansas families are discovering why Abilene continues to earn national accolades as one of the Best Historic Small Towns in America.
The Sunflower Summer program, which began July 12, provides free admission for Kansas students and a parent to participating attractions. Abilene is proud to offer six must-see experiences this season:
- Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad
- Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum
- Historic Seelye Mansion
- Dickinson County Heritage Center
- Old Abilene Town
- Great Plains Theatre
To help families make the most of their visit, Visit Abilene Kansas released a two-day itinerary featuring the town’s award-winning attractions, historic sites, and family-friendly charm—all while keeping costs low.
"Many families are feeling the financial pinch this summer, and the Sunflower Summer program allows them to still have fun and meaningful family experiences at no cost," said Julie Roller Weeks, Director of the Abilene Convention & Visitors Bureau.
Highlights of the Itinerary Include:
Saturday:
- Ride the Flint Hills Express on the Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad
- Tour the Historic Seelye Mansion
- Explore hands-on history at the Dickinson County Heritage Center, including a ride on the 1901 C.W. Parker Carousel
- Enjoy a live performance at Great Plains Theatre (select dates only)
Sunday:
- Walk in Ike’s footsteps at the Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum
- Step into the Old West at Old Abilene Town
- End on a sweet note with a visit to Russell Stover Chocolates
"With so much to see and do for families, Abilene is the perfect place to enjoy Sunflower Summer," added Roller Weeks. "We love seeing families exploring our attractions, riding the rails, and creating memories together. Students who visit Abilene’s sites will undoubtedly have plenty to write about in their back-to-school 'what I did this summer' essays."
The Sunflower Summer program runs through August 3, 2025, or until funds are depleted.
For full details, download the Sunflower Summer app and plan your adventure at www.AbileneKansas.org/SunflowerSummer.