Visit Like A Local

Tips and tricks for visiting our five-star community:

1. Plan ahead

Many restaurants are closed on Mondays, so schedule your visit accordingly.

2. Don't be alarmed

From April to October, Dickinson County Emergency Management tests its tornado sirens. The tornado siren sounds at Noon on Tuesdays. 

3. Trains

A cowtown at the end of the Chisholm Trail, hundreds of thousands of head of cattle were shipped from Abilene to markets. The Union Pacific, BNSF Railway, and Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad tracks still run through Abilene. It's quite possible you might be stopped by a train during your visit. It's also quite possible you will hear the sound of train whistles. See if you can differentiate between a diesel engine's whistle and a steam engine's whistle! 

4. Parade

The Central Kansas Free Fair parade is top-notch! Held the first Thursday in August, locals place their chairs out early in the morning to reserve their spots.

5. Support

We support our local athletes! During your visit, you might notice white sheets with witty sayings cheering on student-athletes lining Buckeye and 3rd Streets. 

6. Church bells

Abilene is home to many churches. During your visit, you may hear their bells sounding and playing beautiful music. 

7. Christmas Tree Lane

During the holiday season, tiny cedar trees line Buckeye and 3rd Streets. The trees are placed there by the City of Abilene, and residents decorate them in their own unique styles.

8. American Flags

During your visit, you will notice American flags lining Buckeye and 3rd Streets. These flags fly from mid-March until after Veterans Day. The flags are made possibly by yearly donations from residents, businesses, visitors, and fans.