End of an Era: Iconic Texas Park Closes After 70 Years in Abilene

It's a sad day in the Key City. After more than seven decades of fun, music, and memories in Texas, Abilene’s oldest miniature golf course is closing up for good.

Abilene’s Beloved Play Faire Park to Close After This Weekend

Man, this one hurts. Abilene’s iconic Play Faire Park,  the neon-lit, music-filled mini-golf paradise that’s been part of our weekends for decades, is closing its doors after this weekend.

The final days are set for Friday, October 10, and Saturday, October 11, with a Farewell Fest inviting the community to come out for one last round, one last tune, and one last memory under the lights.

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The closure comes after a legal dispute between longtime operators Chris and Melanie England and the property’s landlord, Charlie Wolf. I'm not sure exactly what that dispute is, but I know that this one definitely stings the Abilene community.

A Farewell to a Local Legend

For 70 years, Play Faire Park wasn’t just a place to putt a few balls. It was where first dates turned into anniversaries, kids’ laughter mixed with guitar strings, and Abilene’s creative spirit had room to roam. Staff member Rico summed it up perfectly online: after a long fight to keep the park open, “you win some and you lose some.”

Before closing for good, the Play Faire crew, Doc, Mel, Felix, Rico, and the gang, are throwing one last hurrah. The Farewell Fest is happening tonight, Friday, October 10, and Saturday, October 11, and everyone’s invited to play one last round or strum one last song in honor of the park’s incredible run.

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So, if you get a chance, swing by Play Faire Park tonight or tomorrow to show some love before an iconic piece of Abilene history vanishes forever.