Abilene City Guide

Food includes Texas BBQ, Tex-Mex, and some international options like Mexican and Italian. Vegetarian and vegan choices are increasing but remain limited. Late-night food is mostly fast food and diners.

Nightlife is modest, with bars, pubs, and a few live music venues. It's mostly casual rather than club-focused.

Growing coffee scene with local shops and national chains offering varied quality.

Tipping is expected. In restaurants and for rides, 15-20% is typical. Other services usually get 15-20% or a few dollars.

SIM cards are sold at carrier stores (AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile) and electronics retailers like Best Buy. AT&T and Verizon offer best coverage. Valid ID is usually required for post-paid plans.

Generally clean streets and good sanitation services.

Some 24-hour pharmacies and convenience stores. Emergency rooms operate 24/7. After-hours food mostly fast food drive-thrus.

Major supermarkets like H-E-B, United, Walmart, and Albertsons offer standard and some international products. Hours are typically 7 AM to 10 or 11 PM, open Sundays and some holidays.

Most businesses accept cards, including restaurants, shops, and hotels. Cash is handy for small vendors or tips.

ATMs are common at banks like Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo, and in grocery and convenience stores. Out-of-network fees usually range from $2.50 to $5.00.

Local schools are mainly part of Abilene Independent School District. Instruction is in English. No international schools are prominent.

Limited digital nomad community. Opportunities mostly through local business groups or universities.

Several parks with trails and open spaces for walking and running.

Safe and popular running routes exist in parks like Red Bud Park and along Cedar Creek Waterway.

Gyms offer equipment, classes, and personal training options.

Public tennis courts are available at parks and schools; booking varies by location.

Padel courts are not commonly available.

Yoga studios offer various styles with drop-in classes, such as The Yoga Barre and Abilene Yoga House.

Offers Taekwondo, Karate, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu at gyms like Abilene Martial Arts and Gracie Barra Abilene.

No skiing facilities or terrain in or near Abilene.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing are available at nearby lakes with some equipment rentals.

No surfing options as Abilene is landlocked.

No diving spots; the city is landlocked.

Good quality public and private hospitals like Hendrick Medical Center and Abilene Regional Medical Center with English-speaking staff. Pharmacies such as CVS and Walgreens offer OTC meds and some have extended hours.

Tap water meets all federal and state safety standards and is safe to drink.

Good facilities including parks with playgrounds, kid-friendly restaurants, and attractions like Abilene Zoo and Frontier Texas!.

Generally conservative city with limited visible LGBTQ+ venues. Legal protections exist at state level, and acceptance is growing.

Many pet-friendly hotels and some restaurants. Veterinary and pet supply stores like PetSmart are common. There’s also a dog park.