21 Fabulous Things To Do in Abilene, Texas

Frontier Texas!

Frontier Texas is a living history museum that brings the Old West to life. You can explore a replica frontier town, ride a mechanical bull, and pan for gold.

The museum also has a ropes course and zip line for those who want to test their bravery. For a more relaxing experience, visit the National Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature.

This museum features artwork from children’s books and offersguided tours and art classes for kids. If you’re a fan of the performing arts, catch a show at the Abilene Community Theatre.

This historic theatre hosts plays, musicals, and other live performances throughout the year. No matter what your interests are, Abilene has something for everyone!

Abilene Zoo

The Abilene Zoo is one of the best things to do in Abilene, Texas. The zoo has a wide variety of animals, including lions, tigers, and bears.

The zoo also has a petting zoo, where you can interact with some of the animals. In addition, the zoo offers educational programs and exhibits.

The Abilene Zoo is a great place to learn about different animals and their habitats. The zoo also offers a wide variety of activities for kids, making it a great place to take the family.

If you’re looking for an enjoyable and educational experience, be sure to check out the Abilene Zoo!

Jacob’s Dream Sculpture

One of the best things to do in Abilene is visit the Jacob’s Dream Sculpture. The sculpture is located in front of the Grace Museum and depicts Jacobs dreaming of a ladder going up to heaven.

The sculpture is made of bronze and is very realistic. It is a popular spot for photos and has become a symbol of Abilene. Another great thing to do in Abilene is visit the 12th Armored Division Memorial Museum.

The museum is located on the site of a former World War II prison camp and tells the story of the division that liberated the camp.

The museum has artifacts, photos, and documents from the war, as well as personal stories from soldiers who were there. The museum is a great way to learn about Abilene’s history and the role it played in World War II.

Fort Phantom Hill

One of the best things to do in Abilene is to visit Fort Phantom Hill. Fort Phantom Hill is a former military fort that was once an important outpost on the Texas frontier.

Today, it is a beautiful park that is great for hiking, picnicking, and simply enjoying the outdoors. But what makes Fort Phantom Hill truly unique is its history.

The fort was built in the 1850s and was an active military installation until 1867. It played an important role in the American Civil War and saw many famous battles.

Today, visitors can tour the fort and learn about its rich history. Fort Phantom Hill is a great place to visit if you are interested in history or simply want to enjoy the outdoors. It is one of the best things to do in Abilene, Texas.

Grace Museum

Graace Museum is dedicated to the history and culture of Abilene, and it features a wide variety of exhibits.

You can learn about the city’s founding fathers, explore its cowboy culture, or see how it has changed over the years. The museum also has a number of interactive exhibits, so you can get a hands-on look at the city’s history.

In addition, the museum offers a variety of educational programs for all ages.

12th Armored Division Memorial Museum

The 12th Armored Division Memorial Museum is one of the best things to do in Abilene, Texas.

The museum is dedicated to preserving the history of the 12th Armored Division of the US Army, which served during World War II.

The museum features a variety of exhibits that tell the story of the division’s experiences during the war. Visitors can see original artifacts, photos, and documents from the division’s time in service.

The museum also houses a research library that contains a wealth of information about the division’s history.

The 12th Armored Division Memorial Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in American history or military history.

Dr. Suess Park

One of the most popular destinations for families is Dr. Seuss Park, which features a number of larger-than-life statues of beloved literary characters.

Visitors can pose for photos with the Cat in the Hat, Horton the Elephant, and other favorites from Dr. Seuss books.

The park also has a playground and picnic areas, making it the perfect place to spend a day with the kids. 

Paramount Theatre

Built in 1930, the Paramount Theatre is one of Abilene’s most beloved landmarks. The theatre originally served as a vaudeville house and movie palace, and today it continues to entertain audiences with a variety of live performances.

From musicals and comedy shows to lectures and film screenings, there’s always something going on at the Paramount.

The theatre also hosts a number of special events throughout the year, including a New Year’s Eve party and an annual Halloween screening of The Rocky Horror Picture Show.

Adamson-Spalding Storybook Garden

The Adamson-Spalding Storybook Garden in Abilene, Texas is a must-see for any nature lover. This enchanting garden features a variety of storybook-themed sculptures that bring to life the classic tales of childhood.

Visitors can stroll through the grounds and imagine themselves in scenes from their favorite stories. The garden also features a variety of native plant life, making it a perfect place to explore the local flora and fauna.

In addition, the garden hosts a variety of educational programs throughout the year, making it a great resource for families and children.

National Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature

The National Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature is one of the best things to do in Abilene, Texas.

The center is dedicated to preserving and promoting the art of children’s literature, and it houses an impressive collection of original illustrations from some of the world’s best-loved books.

Visitors to the center can view rotating exhibitions of artwork, attend educational programs, and even participate in hands-on workshops led by professional artists.

Buffalo Gap Historic Village

Abilene, Texas is home to Buffalo Gap Historic Village, a must-see for any history buff or anyone interested in the Old West.

The Village is a living history museum that recreates life in the late 19th century, and it’s filled with authentic buildings, furnishings, and artifacts.

Visitors can explore the village on their own or take a guided tour. Either way, they’re sure to learn a lot about frontier life and have a great time doing it.

Other popular things to do in Abilene include visiting the Taylor County Historical Museum, attending a rodeo at the Taylor County Expo Center, and hiking or biking in one of the city’s many parks.

Abilene State Park

Abilene State Park is a beautiful oasis in the middle of Texas. The park offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy, including hiking, biking, fishing, and bird watching.

There are also several miles of trails to explore, and the views from the top of the lookout tower are simply breathtaking. In addition to its natural beauty, Abilene State Park is also home to a variety of historical sites.

Visitors can explore the ruins of Fort Phantom Hill, an abandoned military fort that was once an important stop on the Texas frontier. There is also a museum on site that chronicles the history of the area.

Fort Phantom Hill

Fort Phantom Hill is one of the best things to do in Abilene, Texas. The fort was established in 1851 as a military outpost.

It was named after the nearby phantom hills, which were said to be used by Native Americans as lookout points.

Today, the fort is open to the public and is a popular tourist destination. Visitors can explore the well-preserved buildings and grounds, and learn about the fort’s history.

The fort also offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. In addition, Fort Phantom Hill is home to a variety of wildlife, making it a perfect place for nature lovers to explore.

Grover Nelson Park

Abilene’s Grover Nelson Park is a great place to enjoy the outdoors. The park features a playground, picnic tables, and a walking trail.

Visitors can also bring their own bikes to ride on the trails. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including ducks, geese, and turtles. In addition, the park’s pond is stocked with fish, making it a great spot for fishing.

The best time to visit Grover Nelson Park is in the spring or fall when the weather is milder. However, the park is open year-round and offers a variety of activities for everyone to enjoy.

The Texas State Veteran’s Cemetery at Abilene

Abilene, Texas is home to the Texas State Veteran’s Cemetery. The cemetery is a beautiful and peaceful place, and it is a great spot to visit if you are looking for a place to reflect on the sacrifices of our nation’s veterans.

The cemetery is also home to a number of interesting attractions, including a memorial to the Vietnam War and a monument to the Battle of the Alamo.

If you are interested in learning more about the history of our country, the veteran’s cemetery is definitely worth a visit.

The Discovery Center

The Discovery Center in Abilene, Texas is a hands-on museum that is perfect for kids of all ages.

With exhibits on everything from fossils to farming, the Discovery Center has something for everyone. One of the most popular exhibits is the dinosaurs, where kids can learn all about these fascinating creatures.

The Discovery Center also has a planetarium, which offers stunning views of the night sky. And don’t forget to check out the onsite store, where you can buy souvenirs and gifts.

Taylor County History Center

The Taylor County History Center in Abilene, Texas is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of the American West.

The museum chronicles the settling of the region through a series of interactive exhibits, and also houses an extensive collection of artifacts from the early days of Taylor County.

Visitors can step back in time and see how early settlers lived, worked, and played. The museum also features a number of special exhibits that change periodically.

Recent exhibits have included a look at the Texas Rangers, the history of ranching in the West, and the effect of the oil boom on Taylor County.

No matter what your interest, you’re sure to find something of interest at the Taylor County History Center.

Center for Contemporary Arts

The Center for Contemporary Arts in Abilene, Texas is a unique venue that showcases the work of local and regional artists. The center features both temporary and permanent exhibitions, as well as a variety of educational programs.

One of the highlights of the center is the permanent collection of artworks by noted Texas artist Robert Rauschenberg. The collection includes several important examples of Rauschenberg’s “Combines” – artworks that combine painting and sculpture. In addition to the permanent collection, the center also hosts a variety of traveling exhibitions.

These exhibitions provide an opportunity for visitors to see the work of emerging and established artists from around the world. The center is also home to a cafe, a gift shop, and a sculpture garden.

The Center for Contemporary Arts is an important cultural resource for the city of Abilene and the region.

Dyess AFB Memorial Museum and Linear Air Park

The Dyess AFB Memorial Museum is dedicated to preserving the history of the base and honoring the men and women who served there.

The museum houses a collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of the base from its establishment in 1942 to the present day.

Visitors can also learn about the role of the base during World War II, the Cold War, and the Gulf War. In addition to the museum, the Dyess AFB Linear Air Park is home to a series of outdoor exhibits that showcase the history of aviation on the base.

The park includes a replica of the first aircraft to be stationed at Dyess, as well as a variety of military aircraft from different eras.

The Dyess AFB Memorial Museum and Linear Air Park are both excellent places to learn about the history of this important military installation.

Morgan Jones Planetarium

The Morgan Jones Planetarium in Abilene, Texas is a great place to learn about astronomy and the night sky.

The planetarium offers a variety of educational programs and shows that are suitable for all ages. Visitors can also enjoy the many exhibits on display, which include telescopes, astronomical artwork, and interactive games.

The planetarium is open to the public Tuesday through Saturday, and admission is free for all visitors.

Amy Graves Ryan Fine Arts Gallery

The Amy Graves Ryan Fine Arts Gallery in Abilene, Texas is a hidden gem. The gallery specializes in contemporary art, and features both local and national artists.

The gallery also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including artist talks, workshops, and opening receptions. In addition to the exhibitions, the gallery has a well-stocked gift shop that sells books, jewelry, and other items.

The Amy Graves Ryan Fine Arts Gallery is a unique destination that is definitely worth a visit.

Restaurants

Perini Ranch Steakhouse

If you’re looking for a truly unique dining experience, you’ll want to check out Perini Ranch Steakhouse in Abilene, Texas. This family-owned restaurant has been serving up mouth-watering steaks since 1967, and they’re just as delicious today as they were 50 years ago. The secret to their success is simple: they only use the freshest ingredients and cook their steaks to perfection. Whether you like your steak rare, medium, or well-done, Perini Ranch Steakhouse will not disappoint. And if you can’t make it to Texas, don’t worry – they ship their steaks nationwide so you can enjoy the Perini Ranch experience from anywhere in the country.

La Popular Bakery & Cafe

La Popular Bakery & Cafe is a popular spot in Abilene, Texas for both locals and visitors alike. The bakery is known for its delicious pastries and baked goods, but it also offers a variety of savory lunch and dinner options. The cafe has a cozy, rustic atmosphere that makes it the perfect place to relax and enjoy a meal with family or friends. In addition to its excellent food, La Popular Bakery & Cafe is also known for its friendly staff and attentive service. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a leisurely meal, La Popular Bakery & Cafe is sure to please.

TaMolly’s Mexican Kitchen

TaMolly’s Mexican Kitchen is a family-friendly restaurant that serves up traditional Mexican favorites. The menu features all of your favorite dishes, including enchiladas, tacos, burritos, and quesadillas. There are also a variety of tasty sides, like refried beans and rice. And of course, no meal at TaMolly’s would be complete without a delicious margarita! The restaurant has a casual atmosphere, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy a meal with friends and family. So next time you’re in Abilene, be sure to stop by TaMolly’s Mexican Kitchen for a delicious taste of Mexico!

Accomodations

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Abilene Texas worth visiting?

Absolutely! Abilene is a hidden gem, and there’s plenty to see and do in this charming city. Whether you’re interested in exploring the local arts scene, indulging in some delicious Texas barbecue, or simply want to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery, Abilene is the perfect destination for you.

What is special about Abilene Texas?

There are many things that make Abilene special, but some of the most notable include its rich history, its vibrant arts scene, and its delicious food. Abilene is also home to a variety of unique shops and businesses, so there’s always something new to discover.

What does Abilene Texas have to offer?

Abilene has something for everyone. If you’re interested in the arts, you’ll find plenty of galleries and museums to explore. If you love good food, you’ll be spoiled for choice with all of the excellent restaurants in town. And if you’re just looking for a place to relax and enjoy the scenery, Abilene’s beautiful parks and trails are perfect for you. Whatever your interests, Abilene has something to offer.

Is Abilene Texas a good place to live?

Absolutely! Abilene is a great place to live, work, and raise a family. The city has a low cost of living, plenty of job opportunities, and a wide variety of things to do. If you’re looking for a place to call home, Abilene is an excellent choice.