Museums
8 children's museums, science centers, and interactive exhibits rated and reviewed by families.
Frontier Texas! brings Wild West history to life through larger-than-life holograms, interactive exhibits, and immersive storytelling that captivates kids and adults alike. This award-winning museum uses cutting-edge technology to introduce families to real frontier characters and the dramatic stories of Texas settlement in an entertaining, educational way.
Buffalo Gap Historic Village offers families an immersive journey back to the Old West with 20+ restored buildings including a courthouse, schoolhouse, jail, and blacksmith shop. Kids can watch live demonstrations of pioneer crafts, explore authentic artifacts in multiple museums, and experience what life was really like in 1870s Texas. The interactive nature of this living history village makes learning about the frontier era hands-on and memorable for children.
The National Center for Children's Illustrated Literature in Abilene offers a unique museum experience celebrating the art of children's book illustration. This free admission gallery features rotating exhibits showcasing original artwork from beloved picture books, along with interactive activities that bring stories to life and inspire young artists to create their own masterpieces.
The Dyess Museum in Abilene offers families a unique opportunity to explore military history at a fully restored WWII Air Force base. Kids can see vintage aircraft, restored barracks, and authentic military equipment while learning about the brave men and women who served. The free admission and compact layout make it perfect for an educational outing without overwhelming younger children.
The Grace Museum offers a welcoming space where kids can explore both art and local history through interactive exhibits and hands-on activities. With rotating displays, dedicated art studios, and programs designed specifically for young visitors, this affordable museum makes culture accessible and fun for the whole family.
The Western Heritage Classic in Abilene brings the Old West to life with hands-on exhibits that let kids experience authentic ranching and cowboy culture. This family-friendly museum showcases local history through interactive displays, vintage ranch equipment, and fascinating artifacts that transport families back to the frontier days of Texas.
The Discovery Center combines hands-on science exploration with a unique bookstore experience in one convenient location. Kids can engage with interactive exhibits that make learning fun, catch an exciting planetarium show, and browse educational books all in one afternoon visit in Abilene.
Abilene Regional Airport offers a surprisingly engaging aviation experience for families beyond just catching flights. This working airport features educational displays showcasing aviation history, aircraft exhibits, and interactive elements that let young aviation enthusiasts get up close with the world of flight. It's an budget-friendly outing that combines real-world airport excitement with hands-on learning opportunities.