There’s nothing quite like the moment your feet leave the ground and the world opens up below you. At Lytle Aviation, you can book a discovery flight and experience that freedom for yourself. You’ll take the controls under expert guidance and see Abilene from a bird’s-eye view, an unforgettable thrill for anyone who’s ever looked up at the sky and wondered what it’s like to soar.

Hidden just outside of Abilene in Buffalo Gap, Perini Ranch is a legend in Texas dining. From its mesquite-grilled steaks to the rustic, open-air setting, every visit feels like a celebration. Sink your teeth into a peppered tenderloin or the famed ribeye, and you’ll understand why this place belongs on every food lover’s bucket list.

Get face-to-face with one of the world’s most majestic animals in a surprisingly personal way. At the Abilene Zoo, giraffe feeding sessions bring you inches away from long lashes, gentle eyes, and 18-inch purple tongues. It’s a sweet and magical moment.

Throw some clay, let go of perfection, and discover the joy of creating something from your own two hands. Salt and Light Pottery offers workshops and classes where you can shape, glaze, and fire your own pieces. Whether you’re new to the wheel or already a crafty pro, this is a deeply satisfying way to reconnect with your creative side.

Learn the craft of cocktail-making in one of Abilene’s sleekest nightlife spots. At KAO Lounge, their mixology classes offer a behind-the-bar experience where you’ll master techniques, flavors, and even a signature drink of your own. Cheers to a night of hands-on fun that might just turn you into the next home bar hero.

For book lovers, nothing beats the chance to meet the minds behind the stories you love. At local spots like Seven & One Books and Texas Star Trading Co., author signings and special events connect readers with storytellers. Bring your favorite book and walk away with a signed copy and a great conversation.

During the Children’s Art & Literacy Festival (CALF), magic comes to life through storybook art. One of the highlights is a hands-on drawing class with celebrated illustrators. Whether you’re a beginner or a lifelong doodler, learning from a nationally recognized artist in the Storybook Capital of America is an experience you won’t soon forget.

Tucked into the peaceful atmosphere of Rest Wellness Center and Day Spa is something truly one-of-a-kind. A Bee Room that is one of only seven in the country, and the only one in Texas. This immersive therapy experience lets you unwind to the soothing hum of live bees in a carefully sealed hive, promoting relaxation, mindfulness, and natural healing. It’s a buzz-worthy escape unlike anything else.

Imagine dining alongside the creative genius behind your favorite children’s book. At the National Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature (NCCIL), that dream becomes reality. Special events allow guests to share a meal with featured illustrators, offering intimate conversations, artistic insights, and a side of inspiration with every bite.

Whether you’ve never picked up a club or you're ready to refine your swing, Abilene’s golf courses offer beautiful views and friendly instruction. Places like Live Oak or Maxwell Municipal Golf Course provide the perfect backdrop to start your golfing journey, or take your skills to the next level.

Don’t just make plans, make memories! From flying high to finding calm, Abilene offers once-in-a-lifetime experiences, so go ahead and check a few things off your list!