If you’re planning a family road trip that combines wildlife, wide-open spaces, and easygoing fun, Abilene, Texas should be on your map. This West Texas city may be small, but it’s big on family-friendly attractions—especially for nature lovers, animal enthusiasts, and parents seeking affordable outdoor adventures.
Abilene’s top parks and zoo offer everything from giraffe feedings to nature trails and retro swimming holes. Best of all, these spots are close together, easy to reach by car, and perfect for a weekend road trip packed with fresh air, smiles, and memory-making.
Why Abilene Is Perfect for a Family Road Trip
Abilene is one of the most family-friendly road trip destinations in West Texas. With light traffic, well-kept parks, and a charming downtown, it’s a stress-free base for families. The city’s top attractions—like its zoo, historic parks, and nature centers—are all within a short drive of each other, making it ideal for back-to-back activities without long hauls.
Whether you’re coming from Dallas, Fort Worth, or Midland, a weekend road trip to Abilene delivers nature, education, and entertainment with minimal planning required. It’s a city where kids can learn through play and parents can unwind under shady trees or enjoy scenic drives between stops.
Best Parks and Zoos in Abilene for a Family Road Trip
1. Abilene Zoo
A must-visit on any family road trip to Abilene, this 16-acre zoo is home to over 600 animals and features a shaded layout perfect for young explorers. Kids love feeding giraffes, riding the Safari Express train, and visiting the Discovery Center.
Address: 2070 Zoo Ln, Abilene, TX 79602
Hours: Daily, 9 AM–5 PM
Approx Cost: $9.50 adults, $6.50 kids
Famous For: Giraffe feeding, train rides, and kid-friendly exhibits
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Visit early morning to see the animals when they’re most active and avoid midday heat.
2. Abilene State Park
Located just 20 minutes south of the city, this scenic park is perfect for camping road trips or nature walks with kids. It features a spring-fed swimming pool, hiking trails, and shaded picnic areas beneath massive oak trees.
Address: 150 Park Rd 32, Tuscola, TX 79562
Hours: Daily, 8 AM–5 PM
Approx Cost: $5 per adult; kids under 12 free
Famous For: Shady trails, retro pool, and family-friendly campsites
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring swimsuits and water shoes—kids love splashing in the historic CCC-built pool.
3. Nelson Splash Pad at Nelson Park
Located next to the Abilene Zoo, this free splash pad is perfect for cooling off after a day of walking. With colorful fountains, misting arches, and shaded benches, it’s a great bonus stop on any family road trip itinerary.
Address: 2070 Zoo Ln, Abilene, TX 79602
Hours: Seasonal (spring–fall), 10 AM–7 PM
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Free, safe water play for toddlers and young kids
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Pack a change of clothes—this is a splash-heavy zone!
4. Grover Nelson Park
One of Abilene’s largest and most beautiful city parks, it surrounds the zoo and features playgrounds, picnic shelters, duck ponds, and walking trails—ideal for low-key family road trips and stroller-friendly outings.
Address: 2070 Zoo Ln, Abilene, TX 79602
Hours: Daily, sunrise to sunset
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Shaded green space, wildlife ponds, and wide-open play areas
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring bread for the ducks and plan a picnic under the trees.
5. Redbud Park
This large suburban park on Abilene’s south side includes wide-open playgrounds, a splash pad, walking trails, and picnic areas—great for family road trips that include kids of all ages.
Address: 3125 S 32nd St, Abilene, TX 79605
Hours: Daily, sunrise to sunset
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Inclusive playgrounds and seasonal splash pad
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring scooters or bikes—there’s a paved trail that loops the park.
6. Festival Gardens at Nelson Park
A quieter part of Nelson Park, these gardens offer families a peaceful place to take a break. Shady paths, benches, and a duck pond make this a perfect rest stop on your family road trip.
Address: 2070 Zoo Ln, Abilene, TX 79602
Hours: Daily, 8 AM–sunset
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Quiet garden paths and pond views
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Ideal for stroller walks or quiet reflection between activities.
7. Kirby Lake Park
For road trippers who want lake views and birdwatching, Kirby Lake offers fishing piers, nature trails, and shady pavilions. It’s a perfect off-the-beaten-path stop for active families.
Address: 5655 Maple St, Abilene, TX 79602
Hours: Daily, 6 AM–10 PM
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Lakeside picnics and wildlife watching
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Visit early morning for the best wildlife spotting and avoid windy afternoons.
Where to Eat During Your Family Road Trip
1. Belle’s Chicken Dinner House
A favorite for families, this comfort food restaurant serves big portions of fried chicken, mashed potatoes, and peach cobbler in a warm, rustic setting.
Address: 2002 N Clack St, Abilene, TX 79603
Hours: Thurs–Sun, 11 AM–9 PM
Approx Cost: $10–$20 per person
Famous For: Family-style Southern meals and friendly service
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Get there early—it fills up fast on weekends.
2. Hickory Street Café
Known for sandwiches, soups, and pies, this downtown café is great for lighter lunches and indoor dining between road trip stops.
Address: 644 Hickory St, Abilene, TX 79601
Hours: Mon–Fri, 11 AM–2 PM
Approx Cost: $8–$15 per person
Famous For: Homemade pies and laid-back atmosphere
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Save room for dessert—try the chocolate pecan pie!
3. Larry’s Better Burger
A retro-style drive-in perfect for a nostalgic road trip meal. Kids love the old-school burgers and shakes.
Address: 1233 N Treadaway Blvd, Abilene, TX 79601
Hours: Mon–Sat, 10:30 AM–6 PM
Approx Cost: $6–$12 per person
Famous For: Classic Texas burgers and vintage vibes
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Grab your food to go and head to nearby Grover Nelson Park for a picnic.
Best Family-Friendly Places to Stay in Abilene
1. TownePlace Suites Abilene Northeast
Spacious suites with kitchens, free breakfast, and a pool—perfect for family road trip stays.
Address: 2141 Scottish Rd, Abilene, TX 79601
Hours: Check-in 3 PM; Check-out 11 AM
Approx Cost: $125–$175 per night
Famous For: Family-friendly amenities and great location
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Request a first-floor suite near the pool for easy access.
2. Abilene KOA Holiday
Great for road trip families with RVs, tents, or who want a cabin stay with a rustic touch.
Address: 4851 W Stamford St, Abilene, TX 79603
Hours: Check-in 2 PM; Check-out 11 AM
Approx Cost: $40–$120 per night
Famous For: Kid-friendly campground and pet-friendly cabins
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Book a deluxe cabin with a porch swing and grill.
3. Home2 Suites by Hilton
Modern, clean, and close to parks and downtown—ideal for road trippers looking for comfort and space.
Address: 2102 E Overland Trail, Abilene, TX 79601
Hours: Check-in 3 PM; Check-out 12 PM
Approx Cost: $110–$160 per night
Famous For: Family suites and breakfast included
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Great for longer road trip stays with in-room kitchenettes.
Packing Tips for a Family Road Trip to Abilene
- Stroller or wagon for zoo and park walking
- Reusable water bottles and snacks
- Sun hats, sunscreen, and bug spray
- Swimsuits for splash pads or state park pool
- Picnic blanket or folding chairs
- Extra clothes for kids
- Coloring books or road trip games
- Hand sanitizer and wipes
- Phone charger or power bank
- Cooler with drinks for the drive
Local Tips & Seasonal Advice
Spring & Fall: Ideal for road trips—mild temps and active animals
Summer: Start early to beat the heat and take splash pad breaks
Weekdays: Less crowded at zoo and parks
Bundle Stops: Nelson Park, Zoo, Splash Pad, and Grover Park are walkable
Park Restrooms: Most have them, but bring backups for kids just in case
Event Watch: Look for seasonal zoo events, like Boo at the Zoo or Zoo Lights
Road Trip Playlist: Add kid-friendly tunes to keep spirits high on the drive
Final Thoughts: Road Trip Memories Made in Abilene
There’s something magical about a road trip that brings the whole family together—and Abilene delivers that magic in a relaxed, friendly, and affordable way. With animals to meet, parks to explore, and meals to share, it’s the kind of destination where memories are made without needing theme parks or long lines.
So gas up the car, pack the kids, and hit the road. Abilene is waiting with open skies, shady trails, and the kind of road trip joy only Texas can offer.
