Abilene Zoo

A museum that tries to encapsulate life as it was on the Western frontier around Abilene, with a museum, gift shop, visitor center, and theater showing "Blood and Treasure on the Frontier." Out front you'll find a buffalo statue and grounds for the Abilene farmer's market.

Expansive and well-maintained campus. Unique and beautiful architecture mixes with a large number of artworks. A 1.86 mile walking trail encircles the campus. Various theatrical, musical and athletic events occur throughout the year.

3 museums under one roof: an art museum, a history museum and an interactive children's museum spread out over the three floors of the beautiful former Grace Hotel built in 1909.

Beautiful art-deco theater built in 1930 by H.O. Wooten whose namesake skyscraper looms overhead. The Paramount plays host to a slew of theatrical and musical productions, and to screenings of classic and contemporary films. The 2,000-seat auditorium is built to look like an outdoor Spanish courtyard, complete with twinkling stars and drifting clouds on the ceiling.

A small but wonderful museum showcasing the works of children's authors and illustrators. The NCCIL ("nickel") has played host to everyone from the Berenstain Bears to the works of Eric Carle. Exhibits are rotational and admission is free. One block from the Grace Museum.

Founded in 1923, McMurry is a small, tightly knit community of students and educators in Abilene's bustling south side.