Christmas Lane, Photo courtesy of the Abilene Reporter-News

With the holidays right around the corner, it’s the best time to start planning a trip to visit your family! While I can’t help with the rise in gas prices, the screaming baby in the back seat or make your annoying mother-in-law any more tolerable, I can help make your trip to Abilene more than just an ordinary road trip. If you are looking for family fun, I am here to help!

First and foremost, don’t forget to make a stop at the 21^st Annual Christmas Lane, located at 2501 Maple Street. This lighted outdoor Christmas display consists of a multitude of booths lined along a winding path for your viewing pleasure.  People can tune their car radios to 101.3 FM to listen to Christmas music during the tour. Also, don’t forget to let your children stop and take a picture with Santa ($5) and or even get out and call the  North Pole with their last-minute Christmas wish (free). This is an ongoing Abilene tradition that can’t be missed. Dec. 6 through Dec. 24, 6-10 p.m.

If you have any last-minute shopping once you roll into town, don’t hesitate to pack up the kiddos and head on out to the Mall of Abilene to get you’re shopping done and even visit Santa. Let your kids give Santa those last minute requests and get their holiday photos made. Photos are provided by Cherry Hill Photo with various packages available.

In Abilene, not only will you find the streets full of holiday lights and decorations, but if you get tired of using gas to drive all over town to look at Christmas lights, you have the option to visit McMurry University for their annual light display, located at S. 14th St. and Sayles Blvd. Visitors can enjoy holiday songs synched to a spectacular light show. The show is held daily from 6-7 p.m. and again from 8-9 p.m. and the best part is that it is free!

Looking for something to do that isn’t Christmas themed? Don’t worry, Abilene has you covered there as well. With over 13 local attractions, there is definitely something to keep you busy while you are in town. From art, science, games, history and even animals there is a little something for everyone. So, don’t forget to check out our Top 10 Things Ya Gotta Do in Abilene or visit our website for visitor coupons and more information.

Happy holidays and have safe travels!

Photo courtesy of Keathley Roan

This summer, I had the opportunity to experience a reception at Frontier Texas! firsthand. I attended the wedding reception of Keathley King and Aaron Roan in July. It was an event that will be remembered and reminisced for years to come. The outside courtyard and pavilion gave the welcoming presence of summer, while serving as the main reception area.

Located outdoors in the courtyard area, at this particular wedding, there was enough space for three separate bars, three food areas, a dance floor, stage and seating for over five-hundred. The inside lobby, which enhanced the Texas culture and gave off a welcoming and romantic vibe; also served as a central location for guests to cool down, socialize and enjoy wedding cake.

Photo courtesy of Keathley Roan

This reception venue was enjoyed by all of the guests and in my opinion was one of my favorite weddings that I have ever attended. The idea to host the reception at Frontier Texas! was a great concept. The guests felt relaxed and comfortable because they were able to mingle both indoors and out, without feeling crowded and confined to a small place.

If you are looking for a venue that is unique and full of culture and history, I would recommend considering Frontier Texas!. If you are interested in renting Frontier Texas! for you next party or reception, contact Scott Clowdus at 325-437-2800. Frontier Texas! is located at 625 N. 1^st St. in Abilene, Texas. Don’t forget to stop by the Abilene Convention and Visitors Bureau to get assistance planning your event. We are located at 1101 N. 1^st St. in Abilene. For more information on photographers, wedding planners, caterers, florists, hotel rooms and more, contact me at the Abilene CVB: 325-676-2556.

Photo courtesy of Erin Woosley at eephotography

At this time last year, I was playing the role of the ultimate bridezilla! If you have never been involved in planning a wedding, consider yourself lucky! It was one of the most stressful times in my life. As a former bride, I understand just how hectic pulling it all off can be.

Feed the giraffes at the Abilene Zoo!

There is no doubt that spring is one of the busiest times of year, next to Christmas of course! Between filing taxes, planning vacations, looking at colleges, planning weddings, taking care of your family, working long hours, trying to get into shape before bikini season [groan] and of course—planning your next family reunion! There is barely time to take a moment to breath. This year, take some of the pressure off of yourself and let me assist you with some of the planning! Never fear: the Abilene Convention and Visitors Bureau is here to help with your next reunion. With our added dose of West Texas hospitality, we’re positive it will be one that family members will be talking about for years.

Abilene boasts a central location. We’re just 150 miles west of the Dallas/Ft. Worth metroplex. With our friendly reunion accommodations and attractions, special hotel rates and complimentary rooms, discount coupons and welcome bags, along with many other reunion incentives, selecting Abilene is a no- brainer when thinking about where to host your next reunion.  In a town of 120,000 friendly folks, your guests will feel right at home. Let the kiddos enjoy an afternoon at the National Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature or at the Children’s Museum inside the Grace Museum. Ladies, stroll through our historic downtown and explore some of the quaint little shops. You will surely find something you just can’t live without! One of my personal favorites is Relics, a wonderful store for home décor, furniture and accessories. If you shop on Saturday, you can enjoy a fresh, Texas margarita while you browse. You won’t want to miss The Arrangement and Under One Roof, just two of the many stores that are unique to Abilene. Guys, don’t forget to book your tee time at Diamondback Golf Course, a challenging and beautiful course designed and built by Charles Coody—the 1971 Masters Champion.
When the family is ready to reconvene, plan a visit to the Abilene Zoo, home to over 500 animals and over 160 species. Then, head down the road for some competitive family fun at PrimeTime Family Entertainment Center. With bowling, NASCAR simulators, laser tag, bumper cars, arcade games, a 36 hole miniature hold course, go-karts and batting cages, it is truly your source for family fun! Before you leave, be sure to stop by the nationally recognized museum, Frontier Texas!. It is one of the only multimedia facilities in the world that feature life-sized holographic figures to share the big picture of the Texas Frontier between 1780-1880.
From kiddo to teen, dad to grandma, there is something for everyone in Abilene, Texas! Don’t hesitate to call me today at 325-676-2556 to start planning!

1. Enjoy a Moonlight Dinner: For those of you that are seeking a simple and inexpensive way to impress that special someone—pack a blanket, picnic-style dinner and head to your favorite outdoor spot to watch the sunset. Locals recommended a local park or even out towards Buffalo Gap, Texas to dine and cuddle underneath the stars.
2. Little Italy: When searching for romance, you can never go wrong with Italian food! Little Italy, 1417 South Danville Drive, offers an intimate atmosphere, friendly service, good food and relaxed environment.
3. Abilene Seafood Tavern: If you’re looking for a unique atmosphere, visit Abilene Seafood Tavern, 1882 South Clack Street. It’s my personal favorite! This restaurant offers dim lighting and privacy—great for romance and conversation. Their specialty is seafood and steaks, with a fine selection of liquors and wines perfect for any romantic dinner. After dinner, you can step into the pub and enjoy live music seven days a week!
4. Cypress Street Station: Cypress Street, located at 158 Cypress St., is known as Abilene’s Landmark Restaurant and home to the Abilene Brewing Company— Abilene’s first brewpub. Located in downtown, this restaurant offers a romantic atmosphere, excellent food, outstanding service and an extensive drink menu including beer, wine and specialty drinks. There menu rages from beef, pork, chicken and seafood. If you want elegance and fine dining visit this downtown spot.
5. Lastly, if you really want to go all out (Valentine’s or not), spend your evening at a local hotel. You can continue the romance through the month of February at the MCM Elegante. For $109 per person, get a 2 room suite, a bottle of wine or champagne, complimentary beverages from 5:30- 7 p.m., a set of keepsake glasses and a cooked-to-order breakfast. This Valentine’s Day, the Hilton Garden Inn hosted a party—complete with dancing and the option of an overnight stay.