Just when I thought my heart couldn’t love the state of Kansas any more, we were introduced to the town of Abilene, Kansas. I’m always on the hunt for a town that is hidden full of treasures and businesses to discover, and Abilene didn’t disappoint.
My photographer (don’t worry – he’s also my husband) and I were invited to spend the weekend exploring everything that Abilene has to offer, and we were blown away by its history and beauty.
Visiting throughout the year is highly recommended but exploring everything that Abilene during the holidays has to offer should absolutely be at the top of your list!
While we were hosted during our trip, all thoughts and opinions are 100% our own.
Abilene made its mark on the map as being known as a “cow town” back in the late 1800s. And while the history of the town can be seen driving throughout, Abilene has done a great job of finding a perfect blend of past history and current growth. I
t felt like there were businesses and discoveries waiting around every corner, and we couldn’t wait to experience each and every one.
Abilene, Kansas is known for its history, but also for the legacy and life of President Dwight D. Eisenhower. The town of Abilene shows great respect and honor to him and this famous quote from him shows that it was absolutely mutual.
“The proudest thing I can claim is that I am from Abilene.”
Our time spent visiting Abilene was spent soaking up everything that we could find to learn more about this wonderful town.
Seeyle Mansion Home Tour
This 25 room mansion is stunning. Our visit during the holiday timeframe left us in awe of all the amazing decorations that adorned every room. Guided tours of the Seeyle Mansion are available for individuals and groups and I highly recommend doing this when exploring everything that Abilene has to offer.
Terry Tietjens currently owns the home and is also one of the tour guides. He graciously spent his time telling us all about the home, and his love and passion for the property were evident in his eyes. He then led us into the parlor room, where he played Christmas music that we all sang along with. It was truly like something out of a movie, and I loved every second of it.
Taking a tour of the Seeyle Mansion was unreal. This whole was built and basically designed with so many items that the mother had discovered at the 1904 St. Louis Fair.
One of my favorites in the home? The private and sound-proof bowling alley in the basement! (While I didn’t get a strike, I did manage to get a few points!)
Did I mention that the Seeyle Mansion is completely decked out for the holidays? With over 700 Nutcrackers throughout and almost 70 (yes, 70!!!) Christmas trees, this mansion is full of holiday cheer on each and every floor!
Do you see the gold detail on the ceiling? The entire home had amazing and exquisite details like that. Learning about the history of the home was truly incredible—and to hear about it, you’ll just have to go and book your own tour yourself!
Warm up with a cup of soup or coffee at Amanda’s Bakery & Bistro
After exploring the Seeyle Mansion, we worked up a bit of an appetite and decided to check out a recommended little bistro in town. Amanda’s Bakery and Bistro offered delicious homemade food and coffee! I thoroughly enjoyed the French Onion Soup…perfect for a chilly day!
Jeffcoat Camera Shop – Explore a bit of photography history
Once we discovered that Abilene had a photography museum, the race was on to explore! This museum is free to enter and does an amazing job at capturing the photography of the Jeffcoat family and history.
Plus, you can take your time looking at old camera’s and other really cool pictures as this museum is completely self-guided as well.
With my husband being a photographer, this was a great addition to our exploration of Abilene, Kansas!
Did you know that photo editing and cropping has been around for a very, very, very long time?!
Find your perfect book at Rivendell Bookstore
I’m obsessed with books, so once I found out that Abilene had a bookstore, I knew it was a “must”. And aren’t gut instincts the best? From the second I entered, I was in love.
Every wall was lined with books, and there were fun things hidden at every turn.
At this bookstore, I even got my “blind date with a book”! The concept is that you pick a book that’s wrapped up with a few clues about what’s inside written on the outside wrapping. You then take it home, open it and hopefully introduce yourself to a book you may not have chosen. So cool!
Take the time to find some great antiques and collectibles in Abilene, Kansas
I’m always on the hunt for fun treasures and antiques, and luckily, Abilene is full of amazing antique stores to check out and explore. One of my favorites was Cedar Street Market because it was an amazing combination of old and new.
The owner, Connie, was an absolute pleasure to meet and talk to and her knowledge and passion for interior decorating came through in the offerings of items and products in her store.
Her store is open 7 days a week, and her and her helper (her puppy!) are always there to welcome you with a warm greeting and smile.
Explore the history of Abilene at the Dickinson County Heritage Museum
If you have time to visit the Dickinson County Heritage Museum, do so! You can even ride a real carousel which is awesome and fun! Learn all about the history of Dickinson County and Abilene and take a tour on how it all began. I fell in love with this snuggly guy and had to nestle up for a picture!
While there is a ton of history to explore inside, don’t forget to step out the back door and see all the unique and old cabins and stores that are literally in the backyard. So much history in one place!
Take a tour through the presidency and life of Dwight D. Eisenhower
Visiting a town where a past president grew up was something that I’d never experienced. We were able to tour the Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Museum and learn all about his life and legacy. I was so impressed with the organization and timeline that I intently read and soaked in as much information as possible.
Dwight D. Eisenhower was truly an amazing man and Abilene, Kansas does a great job of showcasing him and his accomplishments.
I’m a huge football fan, so I LOVED this photo of him showing his punting skills!
Enjoy an amazing play at Great Plains Theatre
I’m still thinking about the “Not Another Christmas Letter” play that we watched at the Great Plains Theatre. Who knew that this little gem was in Abilene, Kansas? It’s actually a professional theater that is home to many talented actors. Once the light dimmed, the only sounds coming from me were laughter, tears, and applause.
Those who were cast for this play were an absolute delight, and honestly, it’s one of the best plays I’ve ever seen. I loved its uniqueness, the script, and how homey the theatre was.
Enjoy some delicious food and pie at Mr. K’s Farmhouse Restaurant
Dining at Mr. K’s Farmhouse Restaurant was a true treat. Their Sunday menu was full of hearty comfort food and the place was packed full of hungry patrons. We may have splurged on a piece of pie, and cake, and I’m so glad that we did! The coconut cream pie had meringue whipped as high as the clouds and the Carrot Cake was delicious, bite after bite.
If you have the opportunity to dine at this farmhouse restaurant, arrive early and plan to be stuffed full of delicious, homemade food!
Visiting Abilene, Kansas is quite magical. We were also able to tour several homes while we were there because they were holding their Holiday Homes Tour. Several houses graciously opened their doors to let the outside public tour and admire their beautiful interiors.
Some homes had history, while others were more modern, but I can assure you that every resident of Abilene who participated had true reason to be proud of their homes.
Holiday time in Abilene is beautiful and the perfect time to plan your visit. We stayed at the local Holiday Inn Express during our time there, and it was great! Clean, friendly staff and a hot breakfast every single morning will have me returning on our next venture to this beautiful town!
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