You'll also see an excellent collection of plants of the American Southwest, compared to plants of similar regions in Africa. The Discovery Center is a series of indoor habitats including aquariums, a tropical aviary, and the Terrestrial Trail exhibiting mongooses, lemurs, and ring tails. Like most other attractions in Abilene, the zoo features low entrance fees. Nelson Park, including a playground and picnic area, is located next to the zoo. Dyess Linear Air Park is located on the base, with an exhibit of 31 aircraft ranging in vintage from World War II to Operation Desert Storm.
Entrance is free, with temporary passes available at the base's main gate.
Abilene State Park offers camping opportunities, plus a chance to see part of the official Texas Longhorn herd, which is divided among a half-dozen parks. The park, located 16 miles southwest of town, beyond Buffalo Gap, is set on brushy prairie land, with wooded valleys containing streams and groves of juniper, mesquite, cedar, native pecan, live oaks and hackberry. You'll also see Texas red oak trees, along with red bud, and lots of wildflowers in spring. To get there, drive south from Abilene on FM 89, through Buffalo Gap, and then on Park Road 32 to the park entrance. The park is located in a range of low hills called the Callaghan Divide, and covers 621 acres.