Abbott, Texas Travel Guide

Abbott is an easy town to miss as you buzz up and down I-35. This tiny burg, located sough of Hillsboro, is home to only about 300 residents. But what makes this tiny town unique is that one of those few residents is often Willie Nelson.

Born in Abbott, Nelson was raised by his grandmother in town, singing in the church choir at the Abbott Methodist Church (photo, above).

That church seemed doomed for closure in 2006 until Nelson and his sister, Bobbie, purchased the building. Today it continues much as it has for years. And, for that matter, so does Abbott. The pace is very quiet here.

As Nelson said in his autobiography, The Facts of Life, "They say you can't go back. Maybe they can't, but I can. Thank you, Abbott, for never changing."

Dining:

Turkey Shop Smokin' Cafe. This longtime I-35 favorite reopened in 2006 with a menu that includes (of course) smoked turkey as well as Czech sausage, smoked chicken and burgers. And save room for the pies! 212 S. Hickory St. (on the east side of I-35).

Attractions:

Don't look for much in terms of attractions in Abbott itself but just north of Abbott you'll find Willie's Place (the former Carl's Corner). Located on the west side of I-35 in the community of Carl's Corner (close to Hillsboro), the venue (currently undergoing renovation) includes a 1000-seat theater and gas station selling Bio Willie products.

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