12 Must-See Spots in Downtown Abilene
Once you’re at Oplin House, it’s hard to leave. But visitors may want to venture out on a day trip or two. If that’s the case, downtown Abilene has you covered. Amazing coffee, swoon-worthy shopping, compelling museums and incredible food beckon visitors to these downtown streets. Here’s how we’d spend a day in Abilene:
702 N 2nd St, Abilene
We recommend you begin your downtown excursion with a stop at Front Porch Coffee. This coffee shop and bakery boasts a menu to satisfy all ages and appetites and sits at the corner of North 2nd and Plum Streets, anchoring the southeast corner of Downtown.
626 N 1st St, Abilene
Once caffeinated, peruse the Abilene Farmers Market. Hours are seasonal on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays and shoppers can expect to find a range of locally-produced goods from fruits and vegetables to soaps and jams.
703 N 3rd St, Abilene
Tucked just behind Front Porch, treasures await at Antique Station. We love this antique stop because you can typically find things unique to the region like letter jackets from local high schools and authentic arrowheads found nearby.
625 N 1st St, Abilene
Frontier Texas! is an ideal destination for families. Although we have to caution some of the museum exhibits might be scary for kids under 8, the museum is an exciting spot to discover the history of the area in an engaging, interactive way. Holograms tell the stories of settlers and Native Americans who first discovered and settled in the area.
Pro tip: Most Saturdays at noon, the museum hosts a live shootout in its courtyard. Free to the public, actors recreate the story of an 1884 saloon shootout that occurred just across the street in Downtown Abilene.
202 Pine St Suite 201, Abilene
If that shootout made you hungry, head to this two-story pub with plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. Pub food is accompanied by an extensive list of beers made both locally and internationally.
102 Cypress St, Abilene
If interested in learning about the history of the area, The Grace Museum is another great destination. Each floor boasts new reasons for visitors to peruse, from local and international art galleries to exhibits about the history of Abilene and an extensive children’s area where kids can practice art, play pretend and explore science.
202 Pine St Ste# 105
For dessert, head to Roll Shack for a treat. Choose your base (dairy free base is available!) and toppings and enjoy it rolled into a cup or served as a dessert taco.
827 N 2nd St, Abilene
Continuing west, shoppers are lucky to stumble into Lone Star Dry Goods. Anchored by a collection of men’s clothing, the store boasts unique merchandise ranging from specialty coffees and spices to coolers, outdoor gear and even a cigar collection. Customize a hat before you leave for a one-of-a-kind souvenir of your time in Abilene.
Pro tip: Show your receipt next door at the shop’s Ice House bar for a free beer.
202 Cedar St.
Even if you aren’t a card-carrying member, kids will be mesmerized with a stop at this Downtown library. The dreamy mid-century design of the building enchants parents while kids enjoy storytimes and activities.
233 Cypress St, Abilene
If you need an afternoon pick-me-up, a latte or a royal breve at Monk’s is a safe bet. It’s a staple among local students, so expect a comfy, quirky interior and extremely friendly baristas.
189 Pine St, Abilene
The boutique scene is strong in downtown Abilene. This particular boutique named for the owner’s grandmothers stocks a curated collection of women’s clothing and accessories. Be sure to snap a photo at the Instagrammable mural in front of the store.
Pro tip: Abilene is full of sweet boutiques bursting with clothes and accessories. Check out our Downtown Boutique Crawl blog for more great shopping options.
1056 N 2nd St, Abilene
The pizza here is unbelievable, but it really only scratches the surface of what makes this eatery special. Salads, appetizers and drinks are exceptional and they regularly host special events featuring international fare. Expect a wait on weekend nights but it’s well worth it.
Sound like fun? Oplin House is waiting!
