The intrepid and hardy West Texans who settled Abilene TX set to improving their new town. Churches and colleges popped up, culture clubs emerged, and wholesalers opened stores.
Today, the city’s economy is still largely based on agriculture and manufacturing but also has an impressive presence in government, education and healthcare. Abilene is the center of commerce, transportation, and medical services for a 19 county region called The Big Country.
Downtown Abilene
With a diverse mix of one-of-a-kind eateries, bars, breweries, clubs and cultural attractions, downtown Abilene offers the functionality and accessibility of a big city while still retaining the cozy small town charm. You can dance the night, explore art galleries, and visit museums within walking distance.
Known as the Official Storybook Capital of America, Abilene has a vast collection of sculptural characters from children’s books throughout the downtown area. Snap a selfie with some of your favorite characters as you enjoy the eye-catching scenery.
Swenson House & Gardens
Imagine a wide-open prairie with a lone two-story house rising above the surrounding land. This vision comes true when you visit the historic Swenson House, located in Abilene.
The Swenson House Historical Society owns the house built in 1910. It is located on a city-block. The society hosts a variety of events and tours the property year-round. These events include the Christmas at the Swenson Tour, mother-daughter teas and Rock the Swenson a summer music and food event.
Payne is proud of the house’s heritage and enjoys the privileges that come with being a board member. But she says there’s always more work to do. For example, a recent hail storm damaged the roof. The house also needs to be fitted with new railings, which cost around $12,000.
Paramount Theatre
The Paramount Theatre in Abilene, Texas is a beautiful old movie theater. The theater has 1,187 seats and a Spanish style decor. Operas, musical performances and films are held there. It also maintains balcony tiers and lobbies. The venue also hosts Chameleon Performing Arts Company.
This historic theatre is at the heart of a vibrant and surprising downtown. It is the only theatre of this grandeur between El Paso, Texas and Fort Worth. Local philanthropist Horace O. Wooten built it for the screening of first-run films and stage shows.
The sound system is excellent and the venue is beautiful. The ceiling mural is best viewed from the balcony. You can also take photos, but be sure to turn off the flash.
Mill Wine Bar & Event Center
This place is a must for wine lovers. It has a very cozy atmosphere and offers some tasty food as well as drinks. The staff is also friendly and helpful. They’re also available to help you choose the best drink for your palate. There are many choices on the menu, such as ribeye or salmon. Sangria and house wine are also available.
This rustic-chic bar serves wines, craft beer and appetizers as well as desserts. A vintage mill dominates the space. The place is also a popular spot for events and weddings. You can order a meal from their food truck or dine in their dining room. There are also outside shelters with fire pits to sit around and relax.
Frontier Texas
Abilene, Texas, is the hub for commercial, retail, transportation, and medical services in a region of 19 counties known as Big Country, or Texas Midwest. Three private universities, and a military installation, anchor the region. It is home to the Abilene Reporter-News and offers an array of lodging, dining, cultural and convention opportunities rarely found in a city of its size.
It was founded by land speculators and ranchers to serve as an inventory shipping point for the Texas and Pacific Railroad. The town is named after Abilene Kansas, which is the endpoint of Chisholm Trail. Claiborne Merchant is considered the father of Abilene and suggested the name.
Frontier Texas is the Western Heritage Center of the city. It recreates a fort from early Texas and tells tales about West Texans using holographic figures. Downtown is home to several educational museums and urban parks, as well as a vibrant public arts scene.