Looking for Western heritage, family attractions, and small-city charm? Head to Abilene! Located in west-central Texas, Abilene blends cowboy culture with vibrant arts, historic districts, and great food. Whether you're exploring museums, cheering on rodeos, or following a storybook trail, Abilene is a family-friendly getaway in Texas.
Abilene, TX Highlights:
- For Families: Visit the Abilene Zoo – Home to hundreds of animals, a giraffe-feeding station, train rides, and shaded picnic spots.
- For Literature Fans: Explore the Storybook Sculpture Trail – Bronze statues of beloved children’s book characters throughout downtown.
- For History Buffs: Tour Frontier Texas! – Immersive museum showcasing the Old West with holograms and interactive exhibits.
- For Art Lovers: Discover The Grace Museum – Art, history, and rotating exhibitions in a beautifully restored historic building.
- For Outdoor Enthusiasts: Hike at Abilene State Park – Camp, swim, and hike under oaks and near Buffalo Wallow Pond.
Best Time to Visit Abilene, TX
The best time to visit Abilene is in spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) when the weather is mild and ideal for festivals, parks, and sightseeing. Summers can be very hot, while winters are cool and quiet with festive charm downtown.
How to Get to Abilene, TX
- By Plane: Abilene Regional Airport (ABI) offers daily regional flights with quick access to the city center.
- By Car: Abilene is located along I-20, about 2.5 hours west of Fort Worth and 3 hours east of Midland.
- By Bus: Greyhound and other regional bus services operate from Abilene to other Texas cities.
Where to Stay in Abilene, TX
- Recommended for Families: Courtyard by Marriott Abilene Southwest – Close to the zoo and mall, with modern amenities and a pool.
- For Budget Travelers: Whitten Inn University – Affordable, clean, and conveniently located near I-20 and Abilene Christian University.
- For a Local Experience: Sayles Ranch Guesthouses – Boutique, Western-themed cottages in a historic neighborhood.
Best Things to Do in Abilene, TX
1. 12th Armored Division Memorial Museum
The 12th Armored Division Memorial Museum is dedicated to the members of the 12th Armored Division "Hellcats," who helped bring victory to the Allies in World War II. The museum features three floors of remarkable exhibits that include objects, items, and artifacts from the war, uniforms, weapons, photographs, dioramas, and vehicles as well as a haunting Holocaust memorial, all of which bring to life the story of the great men and women who comprised the 12th and their extreme sacrifices in the face of adversity. The museum has a gift shop that sells an array of collectibles, clothing, books, and children's toys inspired by the division.
1289 N. 2nd Street, Abilene, TX 79601, Phone: 325-677-6515
2. Abilene Zoological Gardens
Home to more than 1,000 animals from around the globe, Abilene Zoological Gardens, also known as Abilene Zoo, is a place of wonderment, fun, and excitement for animal lovers of all ages. Spanning 16 acres, the zoo has a variety of diverse habitats, including a giraffe habitat where visitors can pet and feed the giraffes, a herpatarium (reptile house) with more than 80 species of reptiles and amphibians, and the Elm Creek Backyard, which houses cougars, bobcats, and armadillos. Other attractions include a tropical aviary, a wetlands boardwalk, and an adventure center complex with a gift shop and classrooms.
2070 Zoo Lane, Abilene, TX 79602, Phone: 325-676-6085
3. The Grace Museum
The Grace Museum is an art gallery in Abilene that is dedicated to showcasing art and artifacts from Abilene, Taylor County, and West Texas. Founded in 1937 by the Art League of the Abilene Woman's Club and housed in what used to be the elegant Grace Hotel, the Grace Museum houses five art galleries featuring changing art exhibitions from the permanent collection, much of which was acquired in the 1930s and 1940s. It also has an interactive gallery for children and families, a history gallery with permanent and rotating exhibits, featuring an array of historical artifacts, an education center, and an art library.
102 Cypress Street, Abilene, TX 79601, Phone: 325-673-4587
4. Discovery Center Creation Emporium
The Discovery Center is a creation museum/emporium committed to providing historical and scientific evidence for the truthfulness of God's word and how it relates to the issues of establishment and evolution. The second mission of the center is to expose the myth of evolution as anti-science and atheistic in nature. The center aims to do this through a variety of tours, classes, workshops, teaching seminars, and sponsoring special events. The Discovery Center also produces a daily radio program called 'A Discovery Minute' and is the physical headquarters of Overflow Ministries, an organization established by Tommy and Carolyn Walden for the purpose of teaching the Gospel.
810 Butternut St. Abilene, TX 79602, Phone: 325-673-5050
What to do if you are traveling with kids:
5. Fort Phantom Hill
Located in what is known today as Jones County, Fort Phantom Hill is one Texas' most famous historical sites. Originally known as the "Post on the Clear Fork of the Brazos," the fort was a base for both the Confederate and US armies and was active from 1852 until the late 1890s as a second line to protect the westward-moving frontier of Texas settlement. Today, much of the old fort remains for visitors to discover and explore the rich history of this remarkable place and it features three original stone buildings, including a guardhouse made from stone, a stone powder magazine, and a semi-intact commissary as well as the original fort's stone foundations.
10818 FM 600, Abilene, TX 79601, Phone: 325-677-1309, Fax: 325-677-1399
6. Frontier Texas!
Frontier Texas! is a 14,000-square-foot museum dedicated to showcasing the history of the American West. Located in downtown Abilene, the historical museum showcases the life and times of the settlers of the Old West through an array of fascinating exhibits, including a card game shootout, display attacks by Indian and wolves, a prairie thunderstorm, and stampeding buffalo. The museum also features depictions of Comanche warriors, buffalo hunters, and pioneers in the theater called the 'Century of Adventure.' Frontier Texas! also serves as a visitor information center for the Texas Forts Trail and features a gift shop.
625 N 1st St, Abilene, TX 79601, Phone: 325-437-2800
Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:
7. Morgan Jones Planetarium
One of only a handful of planetariums in Texas, the Morgan Jones Planetarium is a family-friendly planetarium where space lovers can explore the night sky and learn more about the stars and the planets, learn about various space shuttles and stations, discover the Gemini program, and view cosmic castaways. Exhibits in the foyer of the planetarium include large telescopes, chunky moon rocks, and a real space suit. The planetarium offers a full schedule of shows for both adults and children throughout the year in the immense "star room."
3911 South 1st, Abilene, TX 79605, Phone: 325-676-7711
8. National Center for Children's Illustrated Literature (NCCIL)
The National Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature (NCCIL) is an American museum dedicated to illustrations in children's literature. Established in 2000, the center is designed to celebrate the best original art published in children's literature by collaborating with award-winning artists to produce a range of exhibitions that showcase their distinctive artwork. In addition to this unique artistic partnership, the center also offers opportunities to meet visiting artists during exhibition opening events, docent-led school tours for elementary classrooms, free art-based activities for the whole family, book signings by exhibiting artists, and annual summer camps.
102 Cedar - Abilene, TX 79601, Phone: 325-673-4586
9. Paramount Theatre
Built in 1930 by H. O. Wooten, the Paramount Theater is a beautifully restored building that stands as a nostalgic glimpse into the cinematic and theatrical past of the nation. Elegant and grand, the building was lovingly restored to its former glory in 1986 and features a magnificent domed ceiling with moving clouds and glittering stars and a Spanish-Moorish interior with 1,199 split-aisle seats. One of the showcase theaters of the Southwest, the Paramount Theater hosts a variety of events, including films, musical productions, live theater performances and opera, concerts, dance, and private parties. Performing artists and groups include the Abilene Ballet Theatre, the Chameleon Performing Arts Company, the Abilene Opera Association, and the Classical Chorus of Abilene.
Paramount Theatre 352 Cypress St. Abilene, TX 79601, Phone: 325-676-9620
Where to Eat in Abilene, TX
- Recommended for Families: Belle’s Chicken Dinner House – Southern comfort food served family-style with fried chicken, mashed potatoes, and cobbler.
- For BBQ Lovers: Stillwater Barbeque – Slow-smoked brisket, ribs, and sausage served in a rustic setting.
- For a Casual Meal: The Beehive Restaurant – Local favorite steakhouse with Texas-sized portions and Old West flair.
If you are interested in local events:
- For Art & Culture: Children’s Art & Literacy Festival (CALF) (June) – A multi-day celebration of picture books with parades, costumes, and readings.
- For Western Fans: Western Heritage Classic (May) – Ranch rodeos, horse competitions, and cowboy culture at the Expo Center.
- For Holiday Cheer: City Sidewalks (December) – Downtown comes alive with lights, caroling, and community celebrations.
Day Trip Itineraries Within 30 Minutes of Abilene, Texas:
- For Nature: Abilene State Park (30 min) – Camp, hike, or fish in one of Texas’ oldest state parks nestled among pecan trees and wildlife.
- For Lakeside Fun: Lake Fort Phantom Hill (20–25 min) – Great for boating, jet skiing, and fishing just north of the city.
- For History: Fort Phantom Hill Historic Site (30 min) – Explore the ruins of a mid-1800s military post with interpretive signage.
- For Local Wine: The Winery at Willow Creek (10–15 min) – Sample Texas wines in a cozy tasting room with live music weekends.
- For Small-Town Charm: Buffalo Gap Historic Village (25 min) – Step into the Old West with preserved buildings, artifacts, and reenactments.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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What makes Abilene, Texas unique?
- Abilene is known for its historic sites, Wild West mysteries, and places inspired by classic children's stories.
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What is Abilene’s special designation?
- Abilene is recognized as the "Official Storybook Capital of Texas", celebrating beloved literary characters.
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How does Abilene embrace its Western heritage?
- The city offers fun activities, adventures, and excursions that highlight its Western history and frontier spirit.
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Is Abilene a family-friendly destination?
- Yes! Abilene features a variety of attractions and activities for the whole family to enjoy.
At a Glance:
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers.
Grace Museum Loft – A unique stay in the heart of downtown.
Visit the Abilene Zoo – Enjoy interactive exhibits and a variety of animals.
Summer (June-August) – Hot and great for indoor attractions.
Courtyard by Marriott Abilene – A comfortable stay with modern amenities.
Explore Frontier Texas! – An interactive museum showcasing Old West history.
Fall (September-November) – Cooler weather and fun seasonal events.
Sayles Ranch Guesthouses – A charming and rustic retreat.
Attend the West Texas Fair & Rodeo – Experience rodeo events, live music, and local food.
Plan Your Trip