Multi-Gen Travel: Why Grandparents Love Bringing Grandkids to Abilene, Kansas
There is something special about seeing a destination through a child’s eyes.
For grandparents, travel is not just about taking a trip. It is about making memories, sharing stories, and spending quality time together. That is exactly why more families are discovering the joy of multi-generational travel, and why Abilene, Kansas is the perfect place for grandparents and grandkids to reconnect.
Located right along I-70 in the Heart of America, Abilene offers the kind of experiences that feel harder to find these days: train rides, old-fashioned fun, hands-on history, sweet treats, walkable attractions, and moments that spark real conversation.
No complicated itineraries. No overwhelming crowds. Just time together.
Ride a Real Train Together
Ask almost any grandparent and they will tell you, train rides still feel magical.
At the Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad, families can climb aboard a historic train and enjoy a scenic ride through the Kansas countryside. Depending on the season, you might even experience a ride pulled by a historic steam engine, complete with the whistle echoing through town.
For grandparents, it often brings back memories of a different era. For grandkids, it feels like stepping into an adventure story.
And yes, you'll want to take plenty of photos!
Share Stories at the Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum
Abilene is the hometown of President Dwight D. Eisenhower, and grandparents often enjoy introducing grandchildren to an American story they remember from their childhood.
The Eisenhower Presidential Library, Museum & Boyhood Home makes history approachable for all ages. Walk through Ike’s childhood home, explore museum exhibits, and talk about leadership, service, family, and what America looked like generations ago.
Grandparents often find themselves saying, “When I was growing up…” and somehow, kids actually listen!
Step Into the Old West at Old Abilene Town
Cowboys, boardwalks, gunfight reenactments, can-can dancers, and western buildings make Old Abilene Town feel like stepping onto a movie set.
For grandparents, it can feel nostalgic. For grandkids, it feels exciting!
And for families traveling together, it creates the perfect chance to slow down, laugh together, and experience a little Old West fun.
Take a Spin on a 1901 Carousel
Few things bring generations together quite like a carousel!
At the Dickinson County Heritage Center, visitors can ride the historic 1901 C.W. Parker Carousel, one of the oldest operational Parker carousels in the world.
Grandparents love introducing grandchildren to something timeless, while kids simply love picking their favorite horse and enjoying the ride.
And while you are there, do not miss the telephone exhibit. Yes, kids, phones used to have cords!
Sometimes, the best travel memories are the simplest ones.
Sweet Treats and Small-Town Charm
One of the best parts of visiting a small town is slowing down enough to enjoy the little things.
Grab ice cream from Russell Stover. Browse boutiques and gift shops. Take a selfie at the World’s Largest Belt Buckle or giant I Like Ike Button. Walk through parks and gardens. Watch trains roll through downtown.
Abilene gives families room to breathe and time to simply enjoy being together.
Easy for Grandparents, Fun for Grandkids
One reason grandparents love Abilene is simple: it is easy.
Attractions are close together. Parking is convenient. The pace is relaxed. Families can experience a lot without exhausting younger travelers or grandparents.
Whether you are planning a summer road trip, a weekend getaway, or a memory-making adventure with the grandkids, Abilene offers something many destinations cannot:
Time together.
Because years from now, grandchildren may not remember every detail of the trip.
But they will remember riding the train with grandma, hearing grandpa’s stories, laughing at Old Abilene Town, and spending time together in a place that felt special.
Start planning your multi-generational getaway today at AbileneKansas.org.