Marfa TexasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Marfa, Texas.
1. The Marfa Mystery Lights
UNEXPLAINED NATURAL PHENOMENON
The Marfa Mystery Lights are an unexplained natural phenomenon viewed from a dedicated viewing area nine miles east of town. Visitors from around the globe travel to witness these mysterious lights that appear in various shapes, colors, and movements unlike anything seen elsewhere. First documented in the 19th century, the source of these strange lights remains unexplained to this day.
2. Chinati Hot Springs
NATURAL DESERT OASIS
Chinati Hot Springs offers visitors a chance to relax in natural mineral waters in the remote Chihuahuan Desert. The springs feature both indoor and outdoor soaking tubs filled with healing mineral water that maintains a temperature of about 109°F year-round. This hidden gem provides a peaceful retreat surrounded by stunning desert landscapes and starlit skies.
3. Judd Foundation
MINIMALIST ART HAVEN
The Judd Foundation preserves the living and working spaces of influential minimalist artist Donald Judd in downtown Marfa. Visitors can tour Judd's former home, studios, and personal art collection through guided visits of this remarkable cultural institution. The foundation maintains the spaces exactly as Judd left them, offering an intimate glimpse into the artist's life and creative process.
4. Presidio County Courthouse
HISTORIC SECOND EMPIRE ARCHITECTURE
The Presidio County Courthouse stands as an architectural masterpiece in the center of Marfa, built in 1886 in the Second Empire style. Its distinctive pink stucco exterior and central clock tower make it one of the most photographed buildings in West Texas. Visitors can explore the beautifully restored interior and climb to the top for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
5. Ballroom Marfa
CONTEMPORARY ART SPACE
Ballroom Marfa is a dynamic contemporary art space housed in a converted 1927 dancehall that showcases cutting-edge exhibitions, music, and film. The non-profit cultural arts foundation commissions new works and presents programs that connect diverse perspectives and issues. Visitors experience thought-provoking contemporary art in this unique venue that has helped establish Marfa's reputation as an arts destination.
6. Marfa and Presidio County Museum
LOCAL HISTORY COLLECTION
The Marfa and Presidio County Museum preserves the rich history of the region through artifacts, photographs, and exhibits housed in the historic Humphris-Humphreys House. Visitors can explore rooms filled with period furnishings and displays chronicling the area's ranching heritage, military presence, and cultural development. The museum provides fascinating insights into local history from the pioneer days through modern times.
7. The Marfa Spirit Co.
CRAFT DISTILLERY EXPERIENCE
The Marfa Spirit Co. offers visitors a taste of West Texas through its craft distillery and tasting room experience. The company produces small-batch spirits including sotol, a traditional desert spirit made from the Desert Spoon plant native to the Chihuahuan Desert. Guests can enjoy guided tastings, craft cocktails, and learn about the distillation process in this unique Marfa establishment.
8. Fort D.A. Russell
MILITARY HISTORY SITE
Fort D.A. Russell served as a military outpost from 1911 to 1946 before being transformed into an art installation space by Donald Judd. The former cavalry post now houses large-scale art installations as part of the Chinati Foundation's permanent collection. Visitors can explore the converted military buildings while experiencing the intersection of history and contemporary art in this unique setting.
9. The Chinati Foundation
LARGE-SCALE ART INSTALLATION
The Chinati Foundation is a contemporary art museum established by artist Donald Judd featuring permanent large-scale installations in converted military buildings. The 340-acre museum campus showcases works by Judd himself, along with pieces by Dan Flavin, John Chamberlain, and other notable artists. Visitors can experience minimalist art in dialogue with the surrounding landscape through guided tours of this internationally renowned art destination.
10. Hotel Paisano
HISTORIC HOLLYWOOD LANDMARK
The Hotel Paisano is a historic Spanish-style hotel that served as headquarters for the cast and crew of the 1956 film "Giant" starring James Dean, Elizabeth Taylor, and Rock Hudson. Built in 1930, this beautifully restored landmark offers boutique accommodations, dining, and shopping in the heart of downtown Marfa. Visitors can explore the hotel's "Giant" memorabilia collection while enjoying the elegant architecture and Old West atmosphere.
11. Marfa Burrito
AUTHENTIC MEXICAN FOOD
Marfa Burrito offers authentic, homemade Mexican food from a small, unassuming house that has become a culinary destination in this arts town. Owner Ramona Tejada prepares simple yet delicious hand-rolled burritos filled with traditional ingredients that attract both locals and celebrities alike. The cash-only eatery provides a genuine taste of border cuisine in an unpretentious setting that represents the authentic side of Marfa.
12. Planet Marfa
QUIRKY OUTDOOR BAR
Planet Marfa is a one-of-a-kind outdoor beer garden featuring eclectic decor including a teepee, school bus, and ping pong tables. The laid-back venue offers cold beers, simple drinks, and a relaxed atmosphere under the stars in the desert air. Visitors enjoy this quirky local hangout spot that perfectly captures Marfa's unique blend of Western tradition and artistic whimsy.
13. Cochineal
FARM-TO-TABLE FINE DINING
Cochineal serves sophisticated farm-to-table cuisine in a minimalist setting that reflects Marfa's artistic sensibilities. The restaurant emphasizes seasonal ingredients, many grown in its own garden, to create elevated dishes with global influences. Diners enjoy thoughtfully prepared food and craft cocktails in an intimate space that has become a culinary destination in this remote desert town.
14. Garza Marfa
HANDCRAFTED FURNITURE AND TEXTILES
Garza Marfa creates beautifully designed furniture and textiles that blend traditional craftsmanship with contemporary southwestern aesthetics. Founded by husband-and-wife team Jamey Garza and Constance Holt-Garza, the store showcases their signature leather and steel chairs alongside vibrant textiles and home goods. Visitors can browse and purchase these handcrafted pieces that reflect the unique design sensibility that has made Marfa famous in creative circles.
15. Marfa Book Company
INDEPENDENT BOOKSTORE AND GALLERY
Marfa Book Company serves as both an independent bookstore and art gallery in the heart of downtown Marfa. The thoughtfully curated selection includes art books, literature, poetry, and works reflecting the region's culture and history. Visitors can browse the excellent book collection, attend readings and events, or explore the rotating art exhibitions in this cultural hub that embodies Marfa's intellectual and creative spirit.