Make the Most of Sunflower Summer: A Two-Day Itinerary in Abilene, Kansas
Looking for an affordable family getaway filled with history, hands-on fun, scenic views, and sweet treats? Abilene, Kansas is your go-to destination this Sunflower Summer! Thanks to the Sunflower Summer program, Kansas families receive FREE admission to many of Abilene’s top attractions—including the Eisenhower Presidential Library & Museum, the Flint Hills Express train ride, Seelye Mansion, Heritage Center, Old Abilene Town, and more.
This two-day itinerary is designed to help you experience the best of Abilene while making lasting memories—all at no cost for Kansas students and their families. Plan your adventure, pack your camera, and get ready to discover why Abilene is proudly known as one of America’s Best Small Towns!
Day 1: Saturday – All Aboard for Adventure!
8:15 a.m. – Arrive at the Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad Depot (200 SE 5th)
Get in line early to pick up your Sunflower Summer Flint Hills Express tickets (available starting one hour before departure, first-come, first-served). If the 9:30 a.m. train fills up, you’ll be waitlisted for the 1:00 p.m. ride.
9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. – Ride the Flint Hills Express Excursion Train
Enjoy a scenic 2.5-hour ride with a 30-minute stop in Enterprise. Choose between air-conditioned and open-air cars. Be sure to bring water and use the restroom before boarding—there are no restrooms on the train.
12:15 p.m. – Lunch Downtown
Try Tossed n Sauced Pizza for fresh, local pizza and salads or Amanda’s Bakery & Bistro for soups, sandwiches, and sweet treats.
1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. – Tour the Historic Seelye Mansion
Explore one of Kansas’ finest historic homes—perfect for families and curious minds of all ages.
3:00 – 5:00 p.m. – Visit the Dickinson County Heritage Center
Step back in time with hands-on exhibits, pioneer artifacts, and a ride on the 1901 C.W. Parker Carousel.
Optional Treat: Cool down after your visit with a scoop from Midwest Creamery & Q.
Dinner + Evening Fun
Dine at Legacy Kansas, home of the famous Brookville Hotel fried chicken and Munson’s Prime steaks. Then take a sunset stroll through Eisenhower Park, admire the blooming gardens, and snap a photo “wearing” with the World’s Largest Belt Buckle.
7:30 p.m. (select dates) – Catch a performance of Tuck Everlasting at Great Plains Theatre
Live theatre magic for the whole family (showing July 18 & 25 only).
Stay the Night
Choose from cozy bed & breakfasts, charming Airbnbs, or one of Abilene’s comfortable hotels or motels.
Day 2: Sunday – Step Back in Time
9:00 a.m. – Grab Breakfast
Swing by Scooter’s Coffee or pick up a quick bite at one of Abilene’s fast food options.
10:00 a.m. – Noon – Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum
Discover the legacy of the 34th President through immersive exhibits at the Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum, and a stop at the gift shop.
Noon – 1:00 p.m. – Lunch at Joe Snuffy’s Old Fashioned Grill
A local favorite! Enjoy breakfast all day, burgers, salads, or hearty lunch specials.
1:00 – 3:00 p.m. – Explore Old Abilene Town
Step into the Old West with historic storefronts, photo ops, and museum-style displays. Open Noon–4:00 p.m.
3:00 – 5:00 p.m. – Ride the 2:00 p.m. Flint Hills Express (if you missed it Saturday)
Relive the adventure with a scenic ride to Enterprise and back. Arrive early to grab your Sunflower Summer tickets.
Before You Go:
Don’t miss a stop at Russell Stover Chocolates for sweet souvenirs. Be sure to check out the back room for special deals!