National Center for Children's Illustrated Literature
A free museum celebrating the art of children's book illustration, featuring original works and interactive fun for families.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Free crafts & toddler-friendly
National Center for Children's Illustrated Literature
Best Time
Free crafts & toddler-friendly
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A free museum celebrating the art of children's book illustration, featuring original works and interactive fun for families.
"A really nice little (free) museum not to be missed!"
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy this gem without breaking the bank. Perfect for a budget-friendly outing. :moneywithwings:
🎨 Craft Time Fun
Join the free craft sessions, especially great for toddlers and young children. :paintbrush:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Original Illustrator Artwork
Main Exhibition Hall
See the actual art that brought beloved children's books to life. A true feast for the eyes!
Interactive Craft Area
Activity Room
Engage little ones with fun, free crafts inspired by children's literature. Messy fun guaranteed!
Children's Book Statues
Outdoor Plaza
Charming outdoor sculptures bring literary characters to life. Perfect for photos and a stroll.
Gift Shop Treasures
Bookstore
Find unique gifts, including signed editions from renowned children's authors and illustrators.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Admission & Family Fun
Explore Art & Literature
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy this gem without breaking the bank. Perfect for a budget-friendly outing. :moneywithwings:
🎨 Craft Time Fun
Join the free craft sessions, especially great for toddlers and young children. :paintbrush:
📚 Signed Editions Galore
The gift shop is a treasure trove for book lovers, featuring signed copies. :books:
🚶♀️ Outdoor Sculptures
Don't miss the delightful children's book character statues outside. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy this gem without breaking the bank. Perfect for a budget-friendly outing. :moneywithwings:
🎨 Craft Time Fun
Join the free craft sessions, especially great for toddlers and young children. :paintbrush:
📚 Signed Editions Galore
The gift shop is a treasure trove for book lovers, featuring signed copies. :books:
🚶♀️ Outdoor Sculptures
Don't miss the delightful children's book character statues outside. :camerawithflash:
👶 Toddler Paradise
Ideal for toddlers; may be less engaging for very young babies or older kids unless they love art. :baby:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the National Center for Children's Illustrated Literature for its free admission, engaging craft activities, and charming outdoor statues. It's a highly recommended spot for families with toddlers, offering a relaxed and inspiring environment. Some note it might be less captivating for older children unless they have a specific interest in art.
"Really love this place. I only have been here on Saturday mornings with my two year old. Not only is it free to get into but they do free crafts and if it’s open, a little museum featuring artists and authors and their books. They have a book/gift shop too that’s pretty big and has a lot of options. My toddler loves it and it gives us something to do Saturday mornings. Not to mention the staff are always very kind and pleasant. They have an area in the back too that has other activities for kids to do as well. Idk if it would be really crazy fun for little babies or older kids, unless they like art, but it’s pretty perfect for toddlers. It’s always clean too. I haven’t been to any of their events or anything though, but I imagine those are just as great too. Definitely recommend if you just need to burn off some toddler energy or if your child is into literature and art. If they do have special events i would recommend buying tickets in advance."
Jamila “Koi” Kelly
"Oh my gooodness this park and the sculpture walk was awesome. We were in town on a misty/rainy day. There were a few groups of people out enjoying the sculptures at the park and strolling the streets. Abilene downtown has a neat feel. There’s fun boutiques, hat shops and a Texas Novelty store. The Paramount Theater was playing “Its a Wonderful Life.” I mean… come on 🥰"
Kanina Cox
"A really nice little (free) museum not to be missed! It spotlights a children's book writer/artist with original art. The bookstore is wonderful too! There are also b/w photos of previous spotlighted writers. There are also really great children's book statues outside of the museum to enjoy. 👌"
Amy Jones
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The NCCIL is located in Downtown Abilene, Texas. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Many visitors enjoy exploring the downtown area on foot, as it's known as the Storybook Capital of America.
Yes, there is typically ample parking available in the downtown Abilene area, making it convenient to visit the NCCIL and other attractions.
Absolutely! Downtown Abilene is very walkable, and you can easily stroll to the NCCIL from places like the Abilene Public Library or local boutiques.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to the NCCIL is completely free! This makes it a fantastic option for families looking for affordable entertainment.
The museum is generally open on Saturdays and often during weekday afternoons. It's always a good idea to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
For general admission, no advance booking is required as it's free. However, if the NCCIL hosts special ticketed events, it's recommended to purchase tickets ahead of time.
Yes, the NCCIL frequently hosts special events, exhibitions, and programs, often featuring artists and authors. These can be a wonderful addition to your visit.
🎫 🎨 Onsite Experience
The museum showcases original artwork from renowned children's book illustrators, with rotating exhibitions. You can also see black and white photos of previous spotlighted writers.
Yes, the NCCIL offers free craft activities, especially popular with toddlers. There's also a dedicated area in the back with other activities for kids.
It's considered perfect for toddlers, offering a relaxed environment and engaging activities. While younger babies or older children might find it less captivating unless they have a strong interest in art, it's a hit with the toddler crowd.
Photography policies can vary by exhibition. It's best to check for any signage or ask staff if you're unsure about taking pictures of the artwork.
Outside the museum, you'll find really great children's book statues that are fun to discover and take photos with.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
Yes, there's a wonderful gift shop and bookstore that offers a wide selection of books, including many signed editions from featured artists and authors.
Downtown Abilene has several dining options, from casual cafes to restaurants, offering a variety of cuisines to suit your taste.
The NCCIL primarily focuses on its exhibitions and bookstore. Food and drink options are generally available at nearby restaurants and cafes in the downtown area.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While it's a hit for toddlers, older kids might enjoy it more if they have a keen interest in art or literature. The gift shop is also a great spot to find unique books, including signed editions, making it a perfect place to find a special souvenir.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
The museum's collection and its traveling exhibitions are a testament to the significant role illustration plays in children's literature. It's a chance to appreciate art that has shaped the imaginations of countless young readers. The gift shop also offers a curated selection of books and art-related items, perfect for adding to your collection.
📚 Bookworms & Collectors
Even if you're not looking to buy, browsing the selection of children's books and art-related materials is a pleasure. It's a place that truly honors the magic of books and the creators behind them, offering a unique connection to the literary world.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Children's Literature
These exhibitions offer a rare glimpse into the creative process, showcasing original sketches, paintings, and final artwork that have graced the pages of beloved stories.Visitors can expect to see a diverse range of artistic styles, from whimsical watercolors to bold graphic designs. The NCCIL's commitment extends beyond just displaying art; it aims to foster an appreciation for the visual storytelling that is so crucial in children's literature. The museum's collection and exhibitions highlight how illustrators translate words into captivating visual narratives, making books accessible and exciting for young readers.
Beyond the main exhibitions, the NCCIL often features interactive elements and educational components. These can include insights into the artists' lives and inspirations, as well as opportunities for visitors, especially children, to engage with art-making themselves. This dual focus on appreciation and participation makes the NCCIL a dynamic space for both art lovers and families.
A Family-Friendly Gem in Downtown Abilene
The relaxed atmosphere of the museum is another key factor contributing to its family appeal. Visitors can explore the exhibits at their own pace, without feeling rushed. This is especially beneficial when visiting with young children who may need more time to process their surroundings or simply enjoy the space. The presence of an additional activity area in the back further enhances the child-friendly nature of the venue.
While the museum is particularly well-suited for toddlers, its charm extends to all ages who appreciate art and stories. The outdoor children's book statues add an extra layer of fun, providing photo opportunities and a chance to interact with literary characters in a tangible way. It's a place where imagination can truly take flight, making it a memorable experience for the whole family.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit