Location: Abilene
Top Things to do in Abilene
The 7 Best Sights & Landmarks in Abilene, Texas (TX)
Abilene boasts a proud military history, having been home once to a U.S. Army base and later a U.S. Air Force base, which remains its primary employer. The city boasts numerous green spaces as well as an impressive zoo representing hundreds of species of animals. Look around and there is always something to do, with two annual rodeos, several outdoor festivals and conferences throughout the year.
Restaurants in Abilene
1. Paramount Theatre
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 176 reviews
Designed and built in 1930 by architect Davis Castle, the landmark Paramount Theatre in Abilene, Texas has a rich and significant history. A beautiful example of the nostalgic “atmospheric” movie theatre, it was built in an era when movie-going was meant to be a grand experience that transported you to another time and place. The theatre’s main auditorium space was designed to re-create a Spanish / Moorish courtyard at night, complete with projected clouds passing over a neon-lit night sky fitted with twinkling stars. The Paramount, restored in 1987 and renovated to accommodate live theatre, is now the home to a myriad of events, including film, ballet, opera, and concerts. For over 89 years it has stood the test of time as an entreatment showcase of West Texas.
Reviewed By 116milenec
I love the Paramount and have visited for numerous events/performances. Never been disappointed in this beautifully restored historic theater. They host live theater, live music, movies and a variety of special events. Very reasonably priced concessions located downstairs. A real gem for Abilene!
2. Jacob's Dream Sculpture
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 73 reviews
Jacob’s Dream, a 40-foot-tall bronze sculpture on the campus of Abilene Christian University, was commissioned and dedicated as part of the university’s Centennial Celebration in 2006. The sculpture features four 8-foot-tall angels ascending and descending a ladder reaching to heaven, illustrating the biblical account of Jacob’s dream from Genesis 28. It is surrounded by an arrangement of limestone blocks inscribed with scriptures and a limestone pool. Its sculptor, ACU art and design professor Jack Maxwell, included art students in the creation of the project.
Reviewed By T7190HDlisab - Texas, United States
A beautiful statue of Jacob’s dream from the Bible. It’s a beautifully artistic interpretation. Quiet, peaceful and meditative garden area of giant stone blocks with God’s names or scripture references with trees. A beautiful area! A great place for a photo!
3. The Texas State Veterans Cemetery at Abilene
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 18 reviews
Reviewed By dabsgram
I spend time here every Sunday morning visiting my husband. It is so peaceful and beautiful; it’s comforting to just be able to sit and visit. The cemetery is very well kept; the entire staff does a wonderful job.
4. Swenson House Historical Society
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 14 reviews
WE LOVE HOSTING GROUP TOURS! This is a must see while you are visiting Abilene or if you are just passing through & want to stop to take a break from the road. An escorted tour of the historic Swenson House Museum can be scheduled either by phone or through the website. Allow 60 minutes to enjoy the tour. The home is on the Register of Historical Places. Museum “docents” will be dressed in late 19th or early 20th century costumes and will show visitors through the home. The house is furnished with authentic Swenson family furniture and relics. We have the house extensively decorated in October for Halloween & December for Christmas, it is a must thing to do in Abilene!
Reviewed By JeffreyPerren
A recent visit to Abilene uncovered a real gem: Swenson House. This turn-of-the-century home was the residence of a family that not only helped bring the city to prominence but much of north Texas. Beyond historical interest, the architecture itself provides anyone who loves old homes with a stellar example to peruse. The dramatic stairway is the centerpiece but leads to rooms chock full of antique furniture, clothing, and artifacts. And, unlike most homes of this vintage, you can touch many items - like the genuine fox collar on one dress -- without a baleful stare from the docent. (Speaking of whom, that passionate representative of the Historical Society provides oodles of historical and restoration info tidbits. That always adds a lot to any exploration of one of these upscale houses from the past.) For lovers of Texas or architectural history, a 1-hour tour of Swenson House is well worth the out-of-the-way journey.
5. Fort Phantom Hill
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 120 reviews
Reviewed By lversyp - Abilene, United States
This is the remains of the Old Fort Phantom, along the Texas Forts Trail. There are not too many buildings still standing, but walking through the area, just knowing the remote area at the time the fort was established is awesome. Cool place to wander through.
6. Historic 1884 Jail House
Overall Ratings
3.0 based on 1 reviews
7. Taylor County Courthouse
Overall Ratings
3.0 based on 1 reviews
