SA TODAY Readers Affirm: America Likes Abilene
Abilene, Kan. — USA TODAY announced today that Abilene, Kansas, ranks #4 in the nation in its prestigious 2026 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards for Best Historic Small Town.
The national publication invited readers from across the country to vote for their favorite historic small towns, and Abilene once again earned a place among the very best destinations for history lovers.
This marks the eighth consecutive year Abilene has earned a Top 10 ranking in the national contest.
Nominations for the award were curated by a panel of subject matter experts and USA TODAY 10Best editors before being voted on by the public.
“We’ve worked hard to make sure Abilene stands out on a national stage,” said Julie Roller Weeks, Director of the Abilene Convention & Visitors Bureau. “This recognition reflects the strength of our brand and the momentum we’ve built by continuing to enhance and expand the visitor experience. We’re proud to showcase Kansas in this way.”
The top 10 winners for Best Historic Small Town 2026 are:
Granbury, Texas
Ruston, Louisiana
Ludington, Michigan
Abilene, Kansas
Mackinac Island, Michigan
Shepherdstown, West Virginia
Seneca Falls, New York
Worthington, Ohio
Newport, Kentucky
New Castle, Delaware
Located in the heart of America, Abilene offers visitors a chance to walk in the footsteps of legends. As the hometown of President Dwight D. Eisenhower and the destination at the end of the Chisholm Trail, Abilene invites travelers to explore Ike’s life and legacy at the Eisenhower Presidential Library, Museum & Boyhood Home.
Visitors can step back in time with a tour of the Historic Seelye Mansion, ride the rails with the Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad, experience the Wild West at Old Abilene Town, and enjoy a ride on the 1901 C.W. Parker Carousel at the Dickinson County Heritage Center.
Additional stops include the Greyhound Hall of Fame Museum, Great Plains Theatre, and photo-worthy attractions like the World’s Largest Belt Buckle, the World’s Largest “I Like Ike” Button, and a growing collection of public art throughout downtown.
This recognition continues to build on Abilene’s national momentum and reinforces its reputation as one of America’s favorite historic destinations.
To plan your visit to Abilene, Kansas, go to: www.AbileneKansas.org
