The Eisenhower Presidential Center is the reason most travellers stop in Abilene, and it deserves the time. The complex occupies a green campus on the south side of town and contains five separate buildings: the modest white Boyhood Home where Dwight grew up with his five brothers between 1898 and 1911; the Museum with permanent galleries on his military and presidential careers (including a complete cross-section of his D-Day planning); the limestone Library that holds his presidential papers; the Place of Meditation chapel where he, his wife Mamie and their infant son David are buried; and a visitor centre at the entrance.
The museum is exceptionally well done — better than most presidential libraries — with sections on the Kansas frontier childhood, West Point years, the European campaign, NATO, and the post-war presidency. Mamie's gowns and the Eisenhowers' personal effects are on display, and short films run continuously. Allow at least three hours for the whole complex; entry is modest and the grounds are free to walk. Open daily except major holidays.