Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
National Center for Children's Illustrated Literature
( 325-673-4586;
www.nccil.org
;
102 Cedar St; 10am-4pm Tue-Sat; )
This small museum
has a permanent exhibition of works by William Joyce and other well-known children's
book illustrators. The real attractions are the constant special exhibits, which highlight the
works of individual artists.
MUSEUM
Center for Contemporary Arts
GALLERY
This gallery features ex-
(
325-677-8389; Grissom Bldg, 220 Cypress St;
11am-5pm Tue-Sat)
hibits by noted artists and is home to 10 working studios.
Paramount Theatre
( 325-676-9620;
www.paramount-abilene.org
;
352 Cypress St; admission free for self-guided tours; noon-5pm
Mon-Fri)
Stars twinkle and clouds drift across the velvet blue ceiling of this magical movie
and performing-arts palace. You can tour the beautifully restored Paramount or take in a
movie, concert or other performance many nights.
HISTORIC BUILDING
Festivals & Events
Western Heritage Classic
(
www.westernheritageclassic.com
;
2nd weekend in May)
A big rodeo featuring working cowboys
from ranches across the USA, complete with campfire cook-offs, a Western art show and
dances.
RODEO
Sleeping
It's chain city in Abilene. Exits 285, 286 and 288 off I-20 are dotted with motels. Older in-
die operations south of the center on South 1st St are mostly dubious.
For camping, Abilene State Park is the best choice.
Antilley Inn
( 325-695-3330;
www.antilleyinn.com
; 6550 US 83/84; r $40-80; )
The Antilley offers great
value. It's an updated motel, with stories of rooms and outside walkways. The rooms have
fridges and microwaves and a modest continental breakfast is set out each morning.
MOTEL
$
Whitten Inn Expo
MOTEL
$