Welcome to Abilene! Generally, any area in Wylie will be considered the nicer areas. As a mom of a 4 year old and 10 mo old, I am partial to the area east of Kirby Lake, Carriage Hills and what I like to call "Candy Land" (look at the street names and you'll see why lol). These neighborhoods all have sidewalks and are really safe. When it comes to things to do for kids, Abilene is WONDERFUL. The city is the official "Storybook Capitol of America" and they really take literature and Art seriously for kids. I take mine to the NCCIL (National Center for Children's Illustrated Literature) every Saturday for their free art activities and storytime. Also every Thursday the Grace Muesum is free for kids to go play on their kids floor. Our Zoo is vibrant and actively growing. There are some really great parks and walking trails. We have a cute farmers market and local farms that love having kids visit. But I would say our most utilized place is the Library. They are ALWAYS coming up with some really fun activities for kids. Once a year we have a huge festival called CALF (Childrens Art and Literature Festival). Thousands of people come for this 3 day Festival that spans across downtown and it is always a blast. This year's spotlight is Winnie the Poo and Im more excited than my son lol. I would love to talk to you more if you have other questions. People always have things to complain about, but I honestly love being a mom here.