Many people visiting scenic Abilene, Texas are surprised to learn that it has the National Recognition as the Storybook Capital of America, but once you are walking or driving through Downtown Abilene, the purpose of that moniker become clear, and the streets are full of fun and selfie worthy statues of beloved Children’s stories! Where else can you help the Lorax speak for the trees, brainstorm with the 3 Little Pigs or take a walk down Santa Calls Way?
A visit to Abilene will excite your child and encourage their love of reading, and may unlock your inner Childhood Guardian as well! Check out all the fun storybook sights, and all the other fun things that make Abilene a great place to enjoy your Fun in the Texas Sun!
Since the late 2000’s, 3D sculptures have brought to life some of the favorite characters from Children’s Literature around Downtown Abilene, which currently has more Storytime Sculptures than anyplace in America!
In 2015, Abilene was officially named the Storybook Capital of Texas!
In 2019, 25 engraved benches were added to Downtown, each bearing a quote from a beloved book.
What Started It All? In 2000 the City of Abilene opened the The National Center of Children’s Illustrated Literature, which promotes original art from beloved Children’s Literature. They offer weekly activities for families, as well as Nationally renown authors and illustrators for book readings and signings! Oscar-winning author William Joyce is a repeat visitor, and much of his work, Guardians of Childhood, is celebrated in Downtown Abilene.
The Annual Children’s Art and Literacy Festival began in 2012, and takes place each June, with a parade and events around Downtown!
The Storybook Sculpture Garden is open daily and FREE.
The Dr. Seuss Sculpture Garden in Everman Park was opened in 2013.
The Storybook Art Adventure Trail was installed in 2019.
The really amazing art work was created by local Sculptor, Steve Neves.
More To Do in Abilene
Learn more about Downtown Abilene, and the great shops, restaurants and more!
Frontier Texas is a unique Visitors Center and Museum of Texas and the West.
The Abilene Zoo is a fun zoo with plenty of great animals, and you can feed the giraffes!
Abilene State Park offers hiking, fishing, camping and more!
Eat
The Beehive was voted by Texas Monthly as the Best Country Steakhouse in Texas.
The Flipping Egg is a fun way to start your day!
Stay
The upscale Sayles Ranch Guesthouses.
Abilene Cultural Affairs Council
1101 N. First Street, Abilene
Click HERE to visit their website.
Keep Having Fun in the Texas Sun!
Michelle
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