Road Trips : Texas : Marfa, TX
559mi 9h
Marfa was established in 1881 as water stop of Texas and New Orleans Railroad. Today it is a trading point for many large ranches in surrounding mountains. Superb climate makes Marfa a popular tourist center. In season, hunters are attracted by plentiful mule deer and pronghorn antelope.
Check out the El Paisano Hotel. In 1955, it served as base of operations for filmmaker George Stevens while filming the movie “Giant.”
Strong thermal updrafts and legendary soaring conditions make this an outstanding location for glider rides. Marfa Gliders: 800/667-9464. www.flygliders.com.
Marfa Chamber of Commerce: 432/729-4942. www.marfacc.com.
Marfa was established in 1881 as water stop of Texas and New Orleans Railroad. Today it is a trading point for many large ranches in surrounding mountains. Superb climate makes Marfa a popular tourist center. In season, hunters are attracted by plentiful mule deer and pronghorn antelope.
Check out the El Paisano Hotel. In 1955, it served as base of operations for filmmaker George Stevens while filming the movie “Giant.”
Strong thermal updrafts and legendary soaring conditions make this an outstanding location for glider rides. Marfa Gliders: 800/667-9464. www.flygliders.com.
Marfa Chamber of Commerce: 432/729-4942. www.marfacc.com.
Attractions
Chianti Hot Springs
Call 432.229.4165 to make a reservation
An oasis nestled deep in the Chinati Mountains of West Texas, The Chinati Hot Springs offers its visitors a one-of-a-kind experience. Opened in the 1930’s by the Kingston family and once owned by renowned minimalist artist Donald Judd, the natural spring has provided healing waters to the indigenous people of the area for thousands of years. Today, the Springs offer a peaceful atmosphere for people to relieve themselves of the stresses of everyday life and discover the restorative waters that have made this area so magical.
In order to fully enjoy the relaxation of the waters, The Chinati Hot Springs offers a variety of activities to keep the mind and body active as well. There are trails for hiking, mountain biking, or exploring the natural beauty of the unspoiled lands of deep canyons, cottonwood lined creek beds, distinctive geology and stunning sunsets. Many forms of wildlife are attracted to this oasis, and among them are many species of rare birds, which offer enjoyment year-round. Or you can just kick back, soak and enjoy your surroundings.
Marfa Lights
View this mysterious phenomenon any time after sunset at the Marfa Lights Viewing Area, nine miles east of Marfa on Highway 90. The Marfa Mystery Lights are viewable year round. The Marfa Lights Viewing Area was designed by the Marfa High School Gifted and Talented students with the help of Texas Department of Transportation.
McDonald Observatory
McDonald Observatory welcomes guests to its astronomical facilities, 6,791 feet above sea level atop Mt. Locke in the heart of the beautiful Davis Mountains of west Texas. The Frank N. Bash Visitors Center is open 10:00 A.M. to 5:30 P.M. (additional hours on Star Party nights) every day except Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. Visitors traveling east on Interstate 10 from El Paso may take Highway 118 south at Kent for the 39-mile scenic drive to the observatory. Remember that the Observatory is on Central Time (El Paso is on Mountain Time - one hour earlier than the Observatory).
Call 432.229.4165 to make a reservation
An oasis nestled deep in the Chinati Mountains of West Texas, The Chinati Hot Springs offers its visitors a one-of-a-kind experience. Opened in the 1930’s by the Kingston family and once owned by renowned minimalist artist Donald Judd, the natural spring has provided healing waters to the indigenous people of the area for thousands of years. Today, the Springs offer a peaceful atmosphere for people to relieve themselves of the stresses of everyday life and discover the restorative waters that have made this area so magical.
In order to fully enjoy the relaxation of the waters, The Chinati Hot Springs offers a variety of activities to keep the mind and body active as well. There are trails for hiking, mountain biking, or exploring the natural beauty of the unspoiled lands of deep canyons, cottonwood lined creek beds, distinctive geology and stunning sunsets. Many forms of wildlife are attracted to this oasis, and among them are many species of rare birds, which offer enjoyment year-round. Or you can just kick back, soak and enjoy your surroundings.
Marfa Lights
View this mysterious phenomenon any time after sunset at the Marfa Lights Viewing Area, nine miles east of Marfa on Highway 90. The Marfa Mystery Lights are viewable year round. The Marfa Lights Viewing Area was designed by the Marfa High School Gifted and Talented students with the help of Texas Department of Transportation.
McDonald Observatory
McDonald Observatory welcomes guests to its astronomical facilities, 6,791 feet above sea level atop Mt. Locke in the heart of the beautiful Davis Mountains of west Texas. The Frank N. Bash Visitors Center is open 10:00 A.M. to 5:30 P.M. (additional hours on Star Party nights) every day except Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. Visitors traveling east on Interstate 10 from El Paso may take Highway 118 south at Kent for the 39-mile scenic drive to the observatory. Remember that the Observatory is on Central Time (El Paso is on Mountain Time - one hour earlier than the Observatory).
Accommodations
Dining
Related Destinations
Resources
Dining
Back To