Things to Do

The Swenson House was built in 1910 by W.G. and Shirley Swenson on 58 acres. Today the grounds cover a two-acre city block. In 1928, the Swensons completed a major remodeling of the home, adding brick veneer, a grape arbor and many Spanish Colonial Revival architectural features. The Swenson home is unique because so many of the original features have been preserved. 

A magnificent setting for weddings, receptions, parties, teas, meetings and other gatherings. The home is on the Register of Historical Places.

Tues.-Sat.: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Creating lasting home decor by taking old unwanted items and creating new customized decor to fit your own personal style!

Private Golf Course: 18-hole; 6,310 yards. Abilene Country Club's 4th of July Invitational, one of oldest golf tournaments in the state, has been held since 1926. Out-of town members of other USGA member clubs are welcome.

Private Tennis Courts: 8-lighted tennis courts (4-covered and 4-outdoor)

Private Golf Course: 18-hole; 7,017 yards.  Ranked one of the best courses in Texas by the Dallas Morning News. From 1979 to 1990 the club hosted both PGA and Senior PGA Tours. A golf pro and staff provide lessons and a pro shop is available to meet your sporting needs. Out-of town members of other USGA member clubs are welcome. Formerly Fairway Oaks.
Private Tennis Courts: 9-lighted courts, (3-covered and 6-outdoor)

The Abilene Philharmonic, a professional orchestra, has been offering both classical and pops performances for nearly 60 years. The orchestra draws an audience from more than 50 Texas cities each year for its concerts at the Abilene Convention Center. It also educates 6,000 area students yearly. Call for a concert schedule and ticket prices.

This scenic park covers 1,612 acres along Elm Creek. Once a resting place for the Comanche Indians, visitors now find:

• Modern camping and recreational facilities
• Hiking and nature trails
• Picnic sites, game area and children’s playground
• Large swimming pool and a children’s pool - Open Memorial Day to Labor Day [Wed. - Sun, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.]
• Photo opportunities and wildlife observation
• Bicycle riding, fishing pond and lake

Entry Fees: $5-Ages 13 and over; $3-Texas residents Ages 65+ (Texas residents with Parkland Pass)

Camping Details: 41-wheeled camper/tent sites; 36-group trailer sites; 12-water only tent sites; 3 full hook-ups; 8-screened shelters; 2-air conditioned recreation halls; and 3-yurts. Prices vary per type of site.

The Abilene Zoo is partnering with the City of Abilene, Abilene-Taylor County Public Health and following guidelines set forth by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Texas Department of State Health Services to do their part in helping flatten the curve. 

Beginning Tuesday, March 17, 2020 through May 1, 2020, the Abilene Zoo will be closed. If they are able to introduce limited hours of operation or limited access to zoo amenities, the changes will be announced via abilenetx.gov. All rentals, parties, and reservations of zoo facilities between these dates will be canceled. Contact the Abilene Zoo at 325-437-4902 for rescheduling or refunds. 

The Abilene Zoo boasts:

• Over 1,000 animals representing 250 species, including: lions, black rhinos, monkeys, bears, reptiles, birds and amphibians
• Exhibits include: Giraffe Safari, the Wetlands Boardwalk, Reptile House, Pampass Exhibit, Elm Creek Backyard and the Caribbean Cove
• Adventure Center: Home to educational children's programs, camps and the Zoo store
• Safari Express Train and Watering Hole concession stand

Inspired by the 21st Amendment, Amendment 21 is a premier whisk(e)y bar located in Abilene's historic SoDA district. Built in 1919, we brought life back to the old Nichols Battery Company building where you can now find two unique post-prohibition rooms and a large patio with a view of the Taylor County Courthouse and the Enterprise Tower next door. 

Tues.-Sat.: 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Furniture, glassware, china, jewelry, advertising memorabilia, primitives and special collections. Services include estate sales and appraisals.

Florist and unique gift shop with items that range from elegant to whimsical, clothing, shoes, home décor, china and much more!