Visit Abilene, Texas

09/12/2026

Texas has a way of keeping you coming back for more. 🤠

After visiting all 50 states, travel writer Brian Cicioni says Texas is his favorite state to return to, and Abilene made the list of stops worth exploring.

Fall is the perfect time to make your way to Abilene and discover our Storybook Gardens, taste some of Texas’ Top 50 BBQ at Jay’s BBQ Shack, and enjoy a steakhouse experience at Perini Ranch that feels like stepping back in time.

See why Texas keeps calling Brian back, and find Abilene along the way! 👇

This state keeps finding new ways to surprise me—and fall is the best time to visit.

09/11/2026

Frontier Friday! 🦬

Enjoy the flair of rugged West Texas days on the prairie during the West Texas Fair & Rodeo. Start your weekend with the West Texas Fair & Rodeo Parade downtown at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 12, then head to the fair to explore the midway, shop for Western antiques and goods, watch the pig races and tractor pulls, and cap off the day at the rodeo.

There’s plenty of tradition to enjoy through Sept. 19!

What's your favorite part of the West Texas Fair and Rodeo? Let us know in the comments. 👇

09/10/2026

The West Texas Fair & Rodeo is officially here! 🤠
The West Texas Fair & Rodeo kicks off tonight with the Lone Star Region College Rodeo, and the midway will be open! If you’re ready to get the fair started, tonight is a great chance to get a sneak peek at the midway and enjoy the thrills of the carnival rides before the full fair action gets underway tomorrow.

📍Taylor County Expo Center | 1700 State Highway 36

09/09/2026

Fall is in the air! 🍂 From pumpkin patches and Boo at the Zoo to the Abilene Beer Summit, there’s plenty to look forward to this fall in Abilene.

Whether you’re looking for family-friendly fun, a new fall tradition or a reason to get out and enjoy the season, there’s something on the calendar for you. Check out the blog for more fall events happening around Abilene and start planning your season!

Discover fall in Abilene with pumpkin patches, seasonal coffee, festivals, and West Texas charm. Experience the Storybook Capital of America this autumn.

09/04/2026

Frontier Friday!🦬
Step inside a Spanish Moorish courtyard at the historic Paramount Abilene in Downtown. This three story theatre is known for its stunning details, including the stars and clouds that seem to drift across the ceiling. Originally opened in 1930 and fully restored in 1987, this beautiful theatre continues to capture the charm and character of another era.

09/03/2026

One week until the dust starts flying! 🐎
The West Texas Fair and Rodeo is just ONE WEEK away! Get ready for wild rides, western traditions, fair food, and the excitement of the midway.

Gates open September 10 - 19, 2026

09/02/2026

Have you eaten at Sweet Thyme Kitchen?🍴🥪

This adorable little restaurant is serving up delicious lunches and tasty sweet treats! Next time you’re looking for a place to eat downtown, consider stopping in at Sweet Thyme Kitchen!

Have you tried it? Let us know your favorite thing to order! 👇

09/01/2026

September is officially here, and fall is on its way! 🍂

Enjoy wild nights at the West Texas Fair & Rodeo, explore the Shire at Hobbit Day Festival, and get a behind the scenes look at the museum world at the National Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature. From rodeo thrills to live music and everything in between, there’s plenty to discover in Abilene this month.

🍁 Ready to start planning? Check out our guide to things to do in Abilene this September!

Discover events and things to do in Abilene, from museums and concerts to family festivals, concerts and performances, and hand on activities

08/28/2026

Frontier Friday! 🦬
Step onto the Texas Plains as you explore Fort Phantom Hill! Located just north of Abilene, this historic site is home to the remains of buildings from the fort’s active years in the 1850s.

Bring plenty of water, pack a lunch, and take your time exploring this unique piece of West Texas history. 🌵

📍9000 West Lake Road, Abilene, Texas

08/27/2026

Let's ride! 🐎🤠
The West Texas Fair & Rodeo is coming to town September 10–19, 2026! From bronc busting to mutton busting, the excitement is everywhere as the dust starts to fly and the action kicks off in the arena.

What’s your favorite part of the West Texas Fair & Rodeo? Let us know in the comments! 👇