14 Best Things to Do in Abilene, Texas

Abilene, Texas is located in the heart of West Texas, near the geographic center of the state.

It belongs to the Panhandle region of Texas along with Lubbock, Amarillo, and Palo Duro Canyon.

It’s about two hundred miles west of Dallas and one hundred and eighty miles east of El Paso.

Read also: Complete guide to the 7 regions of Texas

This is a great place for visitors who want to explore nature, located in a beautiful area with rolling hills and great wildlife.

This charming town is home to several unique attractions, including Frontier Texas!, Storybook Garden, and the historic village of Buffalo Gap.

Abilene also has a vibrant city center with a variety of shops, restaurants and art galleries.

Here is a complete guide to visiting Abilene, Texas.

Things to do in Abilene, Texas

Abilene, Texas is an exciting place with something for everyone.

People come to the city to enjoy the great weather all year round and the rich western heritage.

Abilene is known for its fine arts scene, including art galleries, museums, and concert venues.

Here are the best things to do in Abilene, Texas.

Take a step back in time in Frontier Texas!

Frontier Texas in Abilene, Texas is an amazing museum full of interactive exhibits, stories, and artifacts that take visitors back to the days of the Wild West.

The museum allows visitors to explore the trials and triumphs of the old era of cattle driving, displaying hundreds of artifacts depicting everyday life on the plains.

Visitors can also experience the rugged Texas frontier, including a replica prison cell, blacksmith shop, old fortress living quarters, and an immersive audio-visual show featuring Texas heroes.

Frontier Texas also offers exciting educational activities such as live shooting demonstrations from seasoned performing cowboys.

This unique museum gives you the opportunity to take your children back in time and embark on an unforgettable adventure in the Wild West!

Read also: 23 most interesting museums to visit in Texas

See historic buildings at the Taylor County Historic Center.

The Taylor County Historic Center in Abilene, Texas is a great place to learn more about the area’s unique history.

Formerly known as Buffalo Gap Historic Village, it is now home to many historic buildings, including the original Taylor County Courthouse.

Visitors can view all the wonderful exhibits, such as a replica of an early 1900s working ranch, an authentic log cabin, and a traditional Methodist church built in 1884.

The museum also displays various exhibits and artifacts from the city’s past.

You can also visit other amazing historical buildings, including a fire station and a forge.

Take the kids to Abilene Zoo.

Abilene Zoo is home to a variety of exotic animals including lions and tigers, zebras, alligators and more.

This popular family attraction offers visitors the opportunity to experience the wonders of nature.

The zoo also has special exhibits such as the night exhibit, which features some of the amazing nocturnal creatures in the wild.

Visitors can also take part in educational activities such as animal talks and interactive learning with zookeepers.

Abilene Zoo is a great place to explore the natural world and get up close and personal with some of its most adorable inhabitants.

See artwork at the Grace Museum.

The Grace Museum in Abilene is a must for art lovers.

The museum and its five art galleries have a treasure trove of Western paintings, historical artifacts, photographs, and even books.

The museum also houses a sculpture garden where you can admire life-size sculptures, including Native American figures and wildlife.

This art museum has a storied history.

Formerly the Abilene Fine Arts Museum, it was moved to the historic Grace Hotel and renamed the Grace Museum.

Visit the National Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature.

One of the most unique things to do in the historic downtown area of ​​Abilene, Texas!

The National Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature (NCCIL) is a vibrant arts center dedicated to the creative work of emerging and established artists specializing in children’s books.

The museum features over 500 original works of art from around the world, including many iconic works by renowned illustrators.

Visitors can learn more about the artists and their stories through interactive displays and films.

This is a great place to explore the world of children’s literature with your little ones!

See also: 29 interesting and fun things to do in Texas with kids

Stroll through the Cultural District

In the heart of Abilene city you will find the Cultural District.

This vibrant area of ​​the city offers a unique combination of art, culture, music and entertainment.

The area is home to the Center for Contemporary Art, which hosts various exhibitions featuring the work of local and international artists.

You can also listen to live music at the historic Paramount Theater or pop into one of the many specialty shops along the streets.

The Cultural District is a great place to experience Abilene’s diverse culture and enjoy great arts and entertainment.

Visit the historic Phantom Hill Fort

Fort Phantom Hill is a historic site located in Taylor County, Texas.

It was originally built as an army outpost in 1851 and was used to protect settlers from Native American raids.

Today it is a popular destination for visitors wishing to learn more about Abilene’s rich history.

The fort has been preserved and restored to its original state, with educational exhibitions and interpretive programs.

Visitors can also explore the grounds and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

Tubing down the Clear Fork of the Brazos River.

The Clear Fork of the Brazos River is a popular destination for outdoor adventurers seeking entertainment in Abilene.

The river is great for tubing, kayaking and fishing, and offers breathtaking views of the countryside.

If you’re looking to take a day trip, there are plenty of campsites along the river, as well as nearby small towns with plenty of restaurants and shops.

Be enchanted by the Storybook Garden

The Adamson Spaulding Storybook Garden is a magical place for kids of all ages.

Nestled in the heart of Abilene, this enchanting garden was created to bring classic children’s stories to life.

The garden features lush landscaping, delightful sculptures and interactive displays that will take visitors into the world of their favorite fairy tale characters.

This is a great place to spend a day with the kids to have fun and learn.

Learn more about the universe at the Morgan Jones Planetarium.

The Morgan Jones Planetarium is one of Abilene’s most unique attractions.

The Planetarium offers visitors the opportunity to explore the wonders of our universe through interactive exhibits, educational programs, and immersive shows.

Experience cutting-edge technology as you take in breathtaking views of the night sky, learn about the planets, and explore distant galaxies.

The Morgan Jones Planetarium is a truly unique experience for anyone interested in space exploration!

Support Local Artists at the Contemporary Art Center

The Center for Contemporary Art is a dynamic arts center dedicated to supporting local and regional artists.

The gallery features a variety of works by emerging and established artists, including paintings, sculptures, photographs and multimedia installations.

The center also offers educational programs and workshops that give visitors the opportunity to learn more about the creative process.

Support local artists and discover amazing art at the Contemporary Art Center!

Watch a show at the Paramount Theater

The Paramount Theater is a historic venue located in downtown Abilene.

Originally built as a cinema in the 1930s, it has since been restored to its original glory and now plays host to many live performances, concerts and theatrical productions.

Listen to live music or watch a performance at one of the local theaters and experience authentic Abilene culture.

Abilene Performing Arts Company and Abilene Ballet Theater have performed here.

Take a photo with the famous sculpture “The Dream of Jacob”

The Dream of Jacob sculpture is a cult monument located on the grounds of Abilene Christian University.

The sculpture depicts the biblical story of Jacob’s dream and is a symbol of faith, hope and courage.

It is a popular place for visitors to take pictures and admire its stunning beauty.

So don’t forget to take some pictures with this breathtaking piece of art when you visit Abilene.

Enjoy the trails at Abilene State Park

Abilene State Park is a great place for nature lovers.

The park has several trails that wind through picturesque scenery and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

Visitors can also go fishing, bird watching and camping at designated areas.

Take a leisurely stroll or adventure and explore the trails in Abilene State Park!

Also Read: 28 Best State Parks in Texas

What is your favorite thing to do in Abilene? Let us know below!