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Outdoor Things to do in Abilene, TX
Abilene represents the best of West Texas living— genuine community, rich tradition, and Lone Star hospitality. Located just east of the city, Lexington Court is a short drive from the historic downtown and a wide range of dining and entertainment options. The community also sits next to Grover Nelson Park and other outdoor opportunities. Our team has put together a list of our favorite local hotspots so you can easily explore the city and surrounding areas.
Local Abilene Restaurants
Lytle Land & Cattle Company
Forget the hoity toity corporate steakhouses, Lytle Land & Cattle Company brings the chophouse back to its roots with a rustic experience that offers mesquite-fired beef slabs, seafood, and a full bar with live musical performances. The heart of the menu is “The Abilenian” a heavily marbled and high quality ribeye that will make any steak lover swoon. Lytle Land also serves farm raised quail, surf & turf, bacon wrapped shrimp, and signature burgers, while providing the perfect environment for special occasions and gatherings. Lytle Land & Cattle Company’s commitment to quality makes every visit memorable.
The Shed Market
Dixie Pig
Dixie Pig delivers the classic American diner experience by serving up all your favorite dishes. That’s not all— the Dixie Pig also lays claim to the prestigious title of being “Abilene’s Oldest Restaurant.” The restaurant first opened its doors on July 5th, 1931 making it one of west Texas’ most historic eateries. The classic sign out front stands tall in the Big Country sky, beckoning hungry patrons to stop in for a traditional breakfast spread of eggs, bacon, toast, and hashbrowns. They also offer a wide range of lunch items like chicken fried steak, lasagna, and more. This is your go-to when it comes to classic American diners in Abilene.
Belle's Chicken Dinner House
Located in the northwest corner of the city, Belle’s Chicken Dinner House specializes in hearty, family-style Southern comfort food. As the name suggests, chicken takes centerstage on the menu with options like fried chicken, chicken tenders, and chicken dumplings along with chicken fried steak and fried catfish. Meals are served with tasty sides like green beans, cut corn, mashed potatoes, and homemade rolls. Combine this downhome cuisine with excellent service and you’ve got the tried-and-true recipe behind Belle’s Chicken Dinner House.
Grain Theory
Grain Theory is the brainchild of three brew-obsessed founders: Matthew Cogburn, David Kasselman, and Jeramie Sivley. They pooled together their resources and know-how to create Grain Theory, Abilene’s premier craft brewery and taproom. Located downtown, the operation is focused on delivering aromatic and flavor-packed beer, along with adventurous brews that both honor and deviate from tradition. The result is a list of meticulously crafted beers that the whole city raves about. Try out these fan favorites: the “Duskmourn” dark chocolate American stout, the “Hope Creeper” quadruple IPA, and the “Desert Cruiser” Mexican lager.
Outdoor Activities in Abilene
Live Oak Golf Club is Abilene’s premier 18-hole championship course, providing a “Hill Country type” layout that is rare to find in West Texas. The course itself is a fun and easy play that provides an exciting experience for golfers of all skill levels. Designed by golfing legend and Abilene local Charles Coody, the intention behind the course was to build a friendly, public golf facility that maintains excellent conditions throughout the year. Visitors will enjoy the stunning fairways, mature oak trees, and pristine putting greens. Contact the Live Oak Golf Club to set up your next tee time.
Nature lovers unite! Located just 16 miles southwest of the city, Abilene State Park is an expansive 500+ acre outdoor area nestled beside Lake Abilene. It’s an easily accessible escape where visitors can reconnect with the outdoors through hiking, swimming, camping, birdwatching, stargazing, and more. The beauty of the West Texas landscape is on full display at Abilene State Park and hiking trails wind through terrain that’s dotted with native flora and fauna. If you’re needing a break from the city, Abilene State Park is the place to go.
One of Abilene’s most unique offerings is the Adamson-Spalding Storybook Garden, a magical outdoor space that’s filled with colorful sculptures based on famous children’s stories— this is where the most popular characters come to life. Visitors can explore a range of themed gardens that are perfectly maintained and filled with a wide range of trees, flowers, and water features. The best part about the Adamson-Spalding Storybook Garden is identifying characters from your favorite stories like Charlotte’s Web, Three Little Pigs. Goldilocks and the Three Bears, and much more.
Play Faire Park is your destination for miniature golf in Abilene. In fact, Play Faire is the oldest continuously running miniature golf course in Texas! Visitors can enjoy a lively game of putt-putt, race go-karts, and play arcade games. The fun doesn’t stop there though— Play Faire Park hosts a full calendar of live musical acts throughout the year. The venue can also host parties for birthdays, corporate gatherings, and other celebrations.
The motto at The Winery at Willow Creek is “No wine snobbery, just great wine.” The Winery’s down-to-earth approach to wine creates a welcoming environment for guests to sample a wide range of varietals and test their palates. The relaxed setting invites visitors to linger on the patio with glass in hand, savoring both the wine and landscape. The servers are The Winery are all passionate about Texas wine country and want to help you find the perfect bottle for your visit. Special events and live music often grace the patio, making this the perfect place for an entertaining getaway in Abilene.