Taylor: Frontier History, Museums and Nature
Accommodation in Taylor
Taylor brings together the history of the American West, Texas frontier history, and outdoor experiences. Museums and cultural attractions take center stage in Abilene; at Abilene State Park, woodlands, prairies, and a lake shape the visitor experience. There are also animal encounters at the zoo and a historic village in Buffalo Gap. When planning your trip, it’s worth first considering whether you’re most interested in museums, nature, or activities involving animals.
Museums and History in Abilene
Frontier Texas is an interactive museum about the history of the American West and also a visitor center in downtown Abilene. It uses state-of-the-art technology and displays the oldest documented map of Taylor County. Frontier Texas also serves as the official visitor center for Abilene and the Texas Forts Trail Region. If you’re interested in the region’s history, it offers an introduction that combines a museum and visitor center.
The Grace Museum is housed in a 1909 building that was originally built as the Hotel Grace for travelers on the T&P Railway. Today, its history galleries feature changing exhibitions about the cultural and social history of Abilene and West Texas. The 12th Armored Division Memorial Museum primarily preserves archives, memorabilia, and firsthand accounts of the 12th Armored Division in World War II, along with selected items on loan and donated objects. Unique exhibitions are created at the National Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature in collaboration with award-winning illustrators. Abilene is also home to the historic Paramount Theatre.
A Self-Guided Visit to Buffalo Gap Historic Village
Buffalo Gap Historic Village preserves actual historic buildings surrounding the original Taylor County Courthouse. They represent roughly the last 50 years of Texas frontier history, from 1875 to 1925. One of the village’s log cabins is described as the oldest structure in Taylor County. The visit is self-guided: when you buy your ticket, you can get a map at the Admissions Office with additional information about the buildings and a suggested route. Each stop has explanatory signage, so you can explore the historic buildings with information on site.
Woodlands, Prairie, and Water at Abilene State Park
Southwest of Abilene, Abilene State Park covers 529.4 acres. Oak and juniper woodlands blend with prairies, creating diverse nature for wildlife viewing. Canoes or kayaks can be rented near Lake Abilene. The lake is free of wakes; boat motors may be operated only at idle speed. These rules provide a clear framework for your time on the water.
The park also has more than five miles of equestrian trails on the lakeside of the highway. Anyone who wants to use them must check in at headquarters and provide a negative Coggins test for their horses. Kirby Lake is also in Taylor County and is primarily used for fishing. This gives you different ways to enjoy the outdoors: wildlife viewing in the diverse natural surroundings, time by the lake, or fishing.
Animal Encounters, Dining, and Getting There
Abilene Zoo is home to more than 1,000 animals representing over 250 species from around the world. Offerings include up-close tours with kangaroos, sloths, giraffes, and anteaters. Twiga Terrace offers a giraffe-feeding experience, and you can also ride the Safari Express Train. If you’re traveling with children, these animal encounters can have a place of their own in your plans alongside museums and outdoor activities. The Children’s Art & Literacy Festival takes place annually in Abilene and promotes literacy and creativity.
In Buffalo Gap, Perini Ranch Steakhouse opened in 1983. It serves Certified Angus Beef steaks grilled over mesquite wood. For getting there, Abilene Regional Airport offers direct regional jet flights to Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW). The airport is served by American Airlines and charter services.
For more information on the local area, visit the pages for Abilene, Merkel, and Buffalo Gap.
For the broader travel overview: Texas.
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