Buffalo Gap, Texas offers a perfect blend of history and natural beauty. Located in the Taylor County of the Lone Star state, Buffalo Gap is a small yet happening town that has something for everyone in the family.
It is a part of Abilene, the Storybook Capital of America – the town famous for its Storybook Garden, the Grace Museum, and bars in SoDA District!
The town is named after a gap in the 26 miles long Callahan Divide mountains that was used by migrating buffalo herds. The Gap was used for hunting buffaloes by the indigenous tribes and was later used by Texas cowboys to drive cattle north during the days of the Old West.
From exciting outdoor adventures to rich history and cultural heritage, this charming town is a hidden gem that you can’t afford to miss. Here is an ultimate guide to visiting Buffalo Gap, Texas.
Where is Buffalo Gap, Texas located?
Buffalo Gap is located just a short drive from the bustling city of Abilene.
This quaint town has a population of just over 450 people, but it boasts of a rich history that dates back to the early 1800s.
Buffalo Gap was once a bustling trading hub and a stop on the cattle drive.
You can still see the preserved Buffalo Gap Historic Village with its authentic 19th-century shops, buildings, and artifacts.
Things to do in Buffalo Gap, Texas
Visitors can easily explore Buffalo Gap and its attractions in one day.
The town is located in the Forts Trail region and is a must for Texas history lovers.
Here are the best things to do in Buffalo Gap on your trip.
Visit the Taylor County History Center
For history lovers, the Taylor County History Center is a must-visit.
It is also known as the Buffalo Gap Historic Village and is the main attraction of the area.
Located in Buffalo Gap, this open air museum features exciting exhibits that showcase the history and culture of the region.
The buildings, including the log cabin, blacksmith shop, and schoolhouse, have been restored to reflect their unique architectural styles, making it a perfect representation of the period.
Other structures include barbershop, doctor’s office, church, and a railroad depot.
You can take a self-guided tour with audio aids to see this attraction.
It is an amazing experience to see the historic structures and learn about their history.
See the exhibits at Taylor County Courthouse and Jail
The Taylor County Courthouse and Jail building at Buffalo Gap Historic Village deserves a special mention.
The two story sandstone building was built in 1879 and has been wonderfully preserved.
It is open for tours, and a must-see for those interested in the Wild West culture.
Inside you will find artifacts such as Indian arrowheads, pottery, period furnishings, vintage equipment, and more.
We recommend keeping aside 30 mins to an hour to see this small museum.
Go shopping or antiquing in Buffalo Gap TX
Buffalo Gap is an excellent place to go shopping for Western souvenirs or decor.
Popular attractions in Buffalo Gap include the Buffalo Gap Flea Market, which is home to a vast collection of antiques and collectibles that you can browse and purchase.
The Perini Ranch Country Market is a unique boutique that offers a wide range of gormet food, furnishings, and decor, as well as gifts and souvenirs.
Loco Buffalo is the place to go for Native American artifacts and jewelry.
Dine at Perini Ranch Steakhouse
No trip to Buffalo Gap is complete without a visit to the famous Perini Ranch Steakhouse, open since 1983.
This James Beard award winning restaurant is located inside a historic barn.
It serves some of the best steaks in Texas and offers an amazing selection of craft beers, wines, and cocktails.
Other items on the menu include salads, burgers, and seafood. We love their jalapeno poppers wrapped in cream cheese!
The atmosphere is rustic and cozy, making it perfect for a romantic dinner or a casual family meal.
There is also an outdoor seating area that gives you beautiful views of the countryside.
Also Read: 28 Best Restaurants in Abilene, Texas
Enjoy nature in Buffalo Gap
Buffalo Gap TX offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy nature and reconnect with your inner explorer.
Kayaking and canoeing are popular activities here, as well as biking, fishing, picnicking, and camping.
Guests can also enjoy horseback riding, birdwatching, and exploring the area’s many hiking trails.
Go hiking in Abilene State Park
Abilene State Park is one of the most popular attractions in Buffalo Gap.
The park is known for its natural beauty and offers a variety of recreational activities, including camping, fishing, biking, picnicking, and hiking.
It has over 16 miles of trails that range from easy to moderate difficulty.
The trails are well maintained and offer breathtaking views of the park’s landscape.
Overall, Buffalo Gap TX is a must-visit destination, offering something for everyone.
From exploring the rich history of the town, enjoying outdoor activities at the state park, to shopping for unique souvenirs, there are plenty of things to do in this charming town.
Take a break from the usual tourist spots and explore this hidden gem in the heart of Texas!
What are your favorite Buffalo Gap attractions? Let us know below.