Anson TexasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Anson, Texas.
1. Anson-Jones Museum
HISTORIC COUNTY HERITAGE
The Anson-Jones Museum stands as a premier cultural attraction in Anson, preserving the rich history of Jones County. Visitors can explore exhibits highlighting local pioneers, agricultural development, and the area's transformation through various historical periods. The museum offers an intimate glimpse into the daily lives of early settlers through its collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents.
2. Moreland Seballos Memorial Park
COMMUNITY GATHERING SPACE
Moreland Seballos Memorial Park serves as a beloved recreational area for Anson residents and visitors alike. The park features playground equipment, picnic areas, and open green spaces perfect for family outings and community events. Its peaceful atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for relaxation or active recreation in the heart of Anson.
3. Anson Opera House
HISTORIC PERFORMANCE VENUE
Built in 1907 by AW Johnson and Dr. D. Williams, the Anson Opera House stands as a Texas Historic Landmark with remarkable architectural significance. The venue has hosted countless performances and community events throughout its storied history, serving as a cultural cornerstone for the region. Today, visitors can admire its historic charm and occasionally attend special events held in this beautifully preserved space.
4. Anson Golf Course
PUBLIC GOLFING EXPERIENCE
Anson Golf Course is a public 9-hole course owned by the City of Anson and operated by the local Golf Club. The course offers affordable golfing opportunities for players of all skill levels in a relaxed, small-town setting. Golfers appreciate the well-maintained greens and friendly atmosphere that characterizes this community amenity.
5. Fort Phantom Hill
HISTORIC FRONTIER FORT
Fort Phantom Hill serves as a fascinating historical site established in the early 1850s as part of the frontier defense system during Texas settlement. The preserved ruins feature stone chimneys, a powder magazine, and guardhouse remains that transport visitors back to the frontier era. As a basepoint for the Texas Forts Trail, it offers visitors a 650-mile highway tour connecting historic military outposts throughout the region.
6. Jones County Courthouse
HISTORIC GOVERNMENT BUILDING
The Jones County Courthouse stands as an architectural landmark in downtown Anson, showcasing impressive design elements typical of Texas courthouses. Built to serve as the center of county government, this historic structure continues to function while preserving its historical significance. Visitors can appreciate both the exterior grandeur and interior details that reflect the civic pride of earlier generations.
7. Lake Fort Phantom Hill
PREMIER FISHING DESTINATION
Lake Fort Phantom Hill attracts anglers from throughout the region with its reputation for excellent fishing opportunities. The lake spans approximately 4,246 acres and is known for populations of largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, and other game fish. Beyond fishing, visitors enjoy boating, swimming, and shoreline picnicking in this scenic outdoor recreation area.
8. Hubbard Creek Reservoir
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
Hubbard Creek Reservoir offers a wealth of water-based activities within a short drive from Anson. The 15,250-acre lake provides excellent opportunities for fishing, boating, water skiing, and swimming in a picturesque setting. Campsites and picnic areas along the shoreline make it perfect for day trips or extended outdoor adventures.
9. Abilene Zoo
WEST TEXAS WILDLIFE EXPERIENCE
The Abilene Zoo houses the largest collection of animals in West Texas, providing an educational and entertaining experience for visitors of all ages. Open 362 days a year, the zoo features diverse exhibits showcasing both native Texas wildlife and exotic species from around the world. Visitors can enjoy up-close animal encounters, feeding opportunities, and special seasonal events throughout the year.
10. Play Faire Park
NOSTALGIC FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT
Play Faire Park offers a delightful blend of nostalgic games and activities perfect for creating family memories near Anson. Visitors can enjoy childhood favorites like hopscotch, hula hoop, and tetherball, alongside two mini-golf courses designed for players of all ages. The on-site marketplace provides unique shopping opportunities, making it a complete entertainment destination worth the short drive.
11. Abilene State Park
NATURAL BEAUTY RETREAT
Abilene State Park showcases the rugged beauty of western Texas with its scenic landscapes of mesquite trees and limestone cliffs. Nature enthusiasts can explore hiking trails while birdwatchers will appreciate the diverse avian population, including painted buntings and migratory songbirds. The park's facilities include picnic areas and campsites perfect for overnight stays or day visits from nearby Anson.
12. Texas Forts Trail
HISTORIC FRONTIER JOURNEY
The Texas Forts Trail offers a 650-mile scenic highway tour connecting historic military outposts throughout West Central Texas. With Fort Phantom Hill serving as a basepoint near Anson, travelers can explore a series of frontier forts that played crucial roles in Texas settlement and westward expansion. The trail provides a fascinating journey through Texas history, combining beautiful drives with educational stops at preserved historical sites.
13. Anson Farmers Market
LOCAL AGRICULTURAL BOUNTY
The Anson Farmers Market connects local producers directly with community members and visitors seeking fresh, locally-grown produce. Vendors offer seasonal fruits, vegetables, homemade goods, and handcrafted items reflecting the agricultural heritage of the region. The market creates a vibrant community gathering space while supporting local farmers and artisans.
14. Beehive Restaurant & Saloon
CLASSIC TEXAS DINING
The Beehive Restaurant & Saloon delivers an authentic Texas dining experience within a reasonable drive from Anson. Known for hearty steaks, Tex-Mex favorites, and homestyle cooking, this establishment has been serving hungry patrons for generations. The historic atmosphere and friendly service make it a destination worth visiting for those seeking traditional Texas cuisine.
15. Frontier Texas!
INTERACTIVE HISTORY EXPERIENCE
Frontier Texas! brings the Old West to life through interactive exhibits and holographic theater presentations depicting life on the Texas frontier. Visitors encounter historical figures who share stories about buffalo hunters, settlers, soldiers, and Native Americans who shaped the region's development. The museum serves as both an educational resource and the official visitor center for Abilene and the Texas Forts Trail Region.