If you’re looking for classic Texas charm with a creative twist, I know you’ll have a blast in Abilene. I’ve wandered its streets and felt how cowboy heritage meets colorful art at every turn. You’ll move from frontier history to fairytale sculptures and discover that this West Texas city loves surprising you.
Best Time to Visit
Whenever friends ask me, I steer them toward the spring (March–May) or fall (September–November). You’ll enjoy mild breezes and sunny days, perfect for strolling museums or lounging in the parks. I avoid midsummer here so you can explore without the sizzling heat.
How to Get There
- By Car: I usually drive straight down I-20. You’ll roll into Abilene about 2.5 hours west of Fort Worth or 3 hours east of Midland.
- By Plane: When I’m short on time, I fly into Abilene Regional Airport (ABI). You’ll catch quick daily connections from DFW and be in town within minutes.
- By Bus: If you’d rather relax en route, I suggest Greyhound. You’ll ride in from major Texas cities and arrive right in the heart of the action.
Where to Stay
- DoubleTree by Hilton Abilene Downtown – I love its fresh style and walkable downtown location; you’ll step outside ready for art walks and coffee runs.
- Sayles Ranch Guesthouses – When you crave cozy Texas flair, I send you here. You’ll settle into themed cottages that ooze personality and warm hospitality.
- Courtyard by Marriott Abilene Southwest – I book this one when I need convenience. You’ll be close to shopping, dining, and the major highways for day-trip adventures.
Best Things to Do in Abilene, TX
Honor WWII Heroes at the 12th Armored Division Memorial Museum -
Step Into a Fairytale World at the Adamson-Spalding Storybook Garden -
Meet Wild Friends and Family Fun at the Abilene Zoo -
Travel Through Time at the Buffalo Gap Historic Village -
Explore Ruins and Legends at Fort Phantom Hill -
Experience the Old West Come to Life at Frontier Texas -
Stargaze and Learn at the Morgan Jones Planetarium -
Celebrate Imagination at the National Center for Children's Illustrated Literature -
If You Love Art, History, and Culture in One Place, Then Visit The Grace Museum -
In Summary...
(and if you want to revisit my photo journey)- • Honor WWII Heroes at the 12th Armored Division Memorial Museum
- • Step Into a Fairytale World at the Adamson-Spalding Storybook Garden
- • Meet Wild Friends and Family Fun at the Abilene Zoo
- • Travel Through Time at the Buffalo Gap Historic Village
- • Explore Ruins and Legends at Fort Phantom Hill
- • Experience the Old West Come to Life at Frontier Texas
- • Stargaze and Learn at the Morgan Jones Planetarium
- • Celebrate Imagination at the National Center for Children's Illustrated Literature
- • If You Love Art, History, and Culture in One Place, Then Visit The Grace Museum