12 Free Things to Do with Kids in Abilene, Kansas
Planning a family outing does not have to cost a dime. Abilene is filled with fun places where kids can explore, climb, discover history, and burn off a little energy along the way. Here are some favorite free adventures to try while you are in town.
1. Follow the Cowboy Art Trail
Saddle up for a scavenger hunt through downtown. Abilene’s Cowboy Art Trail features colorful cowboy boot sculptures scattered throughout the community. Each boot has its own design and story. Grab a map and see how many you can find.
2. Climb the World’s Largest Belt Buckle
Named the Best Roadside Attraction in the U.S. by TravelAwaits, this giant buckle is hard to miss. Kids love climbing to the top and posing for photos. It is a fun stop and the perfect place for a memorable family picture.
3. Visit Brown’s Park Waterfall
Tucked into a quiet neighborhood, Brown’s Park features a peaceful waterfall and green space. It is a nice place to pause, stretch your legs, have a picnic and enjoy a little nature.
4. Pay Your Respects to Ike and Mamie
Walk the peaceful grounds of the Eisenhower Presidential Library campus and visit the final resting place of President Dwight D. Eisenhower and First Lady Mamie Eisenhower. It is a meaningful stop that connects visitors to one of America’s most important leaders.
5. Explore the America 250 Exhibit
At the Eisenhower Presidential Library, Museum & Boyhood Home you can view a special traveling exhibition celebrating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
Declaration 1776: The Big Bang of Modern Democracy
Library Building Lobby
On display through December 31, 2026
This traveling exhibition from the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History explores the ideas behind the Declaration of Independence and the lasting impact of America’s founding document. Visitors can discover what is written in the Declaration and how its principles helped inspire movements for civil rights, women’s rights, and democratic government around the world.
The Kansas tour of the exhibit is presented by Humanities Kansas.
A special companion display titled Kansas 1776 adds local perspective. Created by the Kansas State Historical Society, this exhibit explores what life looked like on the land that would later become Kansas in 1776.
It is a fascinating way for visitors of all ages to connect the story of America’s founding with the history of Kansas and the heartland.
6. Walk the Boardwalk at Old Abilene Town
Step back in time and stroll the wooden boardwalks where the Wild West once roared to life. Even when the buildings are closed, the setting offers great photo opportunities and a glimpse into Abilene’s cattle town days.
7. Take the Abilene GeoTour Challenge
Grab a GPS or your phone and start searching. The Abilene GeoTour sends explorers across town looking for hidden geocaches while learning about local landmarks.
8. Walk or Bike the Iron Horse Trail
The Iron Horse Trail follows a former railroad corridor and offers a scenic path perfect for biking, walking, or pushing a stroller. It is a great way to enjoy the outdoors.
9. Say Hello to the Greyhound Greeters
Stop by the Greyhound Hall of Fame and meet the friendly greyhounds who greet visitors. These retired racing dogs are gentle, calm, and always happy to say hello.
10. Visit the Jeffcoat Photography Museum
Step inside this historic studio and see where generations of Abilene families had their portraits taken. The museum offers a fascinating look at early photography.
11. Take a Photo with the Harmon Mural
Downtown Abilene is full of public art. The Harmon mural invites visitors to step right into the scene for a fun interactive photo.
12. Play at the Park
Enjoy Eisenhower Park or Bicentennial Park. Bring a ball, enjoy the playgrounds, or simply relax in the open green space. You can also grab a paddle and play a game of pickleball at Eisenhower Park, a fun way for families to get active together.
Sometimes the best adventures are the simplest ones. In Abilene, kids can climb, explore, search for hidden treasures, and discover stories from the past all in one day. Grab the family, start exploring, and see how many of these free stops you can find around town.