Monahans TexasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Monahans, Texas.
1. Monahans Sandhills State Park
VAST SCENIC SAND DUNES
Monahans Sandhills State Park is a 4,000-acre natural wonder known for its towering sand dunes and striking desert landscapes. Visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities including sand surfing, hiking, equestrian trails, birding, and camping. The park's unique scenery often draws comparisons to far-away deserts and provides a memorable West Texas adventure.
2. Million Barrel Museum
UNIQUE OIL HISTORY SITE
The Million Barrel Museum preserves the story of Monahans' oil boom era, centered on the ruins of a massive 1930s oil tank built to store crude oil. Guests find historical exhibits about the local oil fields, vintage artifacts, and learn how the failed tank once became a water park for a day. The museum hosts annual community events such as a Fajita Cook-off and holiday celebrations.
3. Rudy Park
FAMILY-FRIENDLY CITY PARK
Rudy Park offers families and travelers a well-maintained space for relaxation, sports, and picnics. The park features playgrounds, shaded picnic tables, walking paths, and open areas perfect for group activities. Its convenient location makes it a favorite gathering spot for local community events.
4. Ward County Golf Course
WEST TEXAS GOLFING
Ward County Golf Course provides a laid-back, scenic place to play golf in the heart of Monahans. The course caters to golfers of all skill levels and offers a peaceful setting with mature trees and well-kept greens. Club facilities include a pro shop and opportunities for tournaments and group outings.
5. The Archway Club
CLASSIC LOCAL NIGHTLIFE
The Archway Club is a popular Monahans gathering place known for its laid-back atmosphere and friendly crowd. It offers live music, dancing, and a full-service bar, making it a go-to venue for socializing and entertainment. The club regularly features themed nights and special events.
6. Sunny Massage
RELAXING WELLNESS RETREAT
Sunny Massage is a welcoming spa offering various massage therapies and treatments for relaxation and stress relief. With personalized service and tranquil settings, visitors can unwind after a day of exploring or traveling. The facility is praised for its clean environment and attentive staff.
7. Hill Park
SCENIC OUTDOOR RECREATION
Hill Park is a favorite local destination for outdoor fun, featuring green spaces, shaded seating, and basketball courts. It's an ideal spot for casual gatherings, morning walks, or an afternoon picnic. The park's well-kept grounds also make it suitable for sports and children's play.
8. Tourist Court at TX-57
HISTORIC ROADSIDE LODGING
The Tourist Court on TX-57 west of Monahans showcases classic Mission Style architecture and represents West Texas' 1930s travel boom. Individual cottages once hosted road-trippers and oil field workers alike. The site retains its vintage charm and offers a glimpse into the region's historic hospitality industry.
9. Pyote Army Airfield
ABANDONED WWII AIRBASE
The Pyote Army Airfield, roughly 15 miles west of Monahans, was once a major WWII bomber training base with 8,000-foot runways suitable for B-17s and B-29s. Today, visitors can explore the remnants of this historic site and learn about its vital wartime role. The airfield's abandoned structures evoke the dramatic history of America's airpower development.
10. Meadows Amphitheater
COMMUNITY EVENT VENUE
Meadows Amphitheater is part of the Million Barrel Museum complex and utilizes the unique concrete tank structure for outdoor performances and festivals. The venue hosts concerts, craft shows, and annual holiday celebrations, fostering a strong local sense of community. Its unusual setting makes every event memorable for visitors and residents alike.
11. The Bankhead Highway
HISTORIC ROUTE THROUGH TOWN
The Bankhead Highway, an iconic transcontinental route, runs directly through Monahans and is lined with surviving amenities from the 1930s and 40s. Visitors can drive this historic highway to see period architecture and learn about early 20th-century travel. The route is a living testament to the town's transportation legacy.
12. Taqueria Jalisco Monahans
AUTHENTIC MEXICAN CUISINE
Taqueria Jalisco is a local favorite for delicious and authentic Mexican dishes, offering a vibrant atmosphere and friendly service. The menu features classics such as tacos, enchiladas, and homemade salsas. Diners appreciate the generous portions and affordable prices.
13. Main Street Cafe
CLASSIC AMERICAN COMFORT FOOD
Main Street Cafe serves up hearty American classics in a cozy setting, making it a popular spot for breakfast and lunch. Known for its home-cooked meals and welcoming staff, it has become a go-to diner for locals and travelers. Regulars recommend the daily specials and homemade pies.
14. West Winds Travel Plaza
CONVENIENT TRAVEL SHOPPING
West Winds Travel Plaza offers travelers a well-stocked convenience store, fuel, and a quick-service restaurant for a comfortable road trip stop. The plaza is known for its clean facilities and diverse selection of snacks and essentials. It's a popular place for travelers to refuel and rest on the long stretch of I-20.
15. Monahans Boot Shop
WESTERN APPAREL RETAILER
Monahans Boot Shop is a classic local store specializing in cowboy boots, hats, and Western wear. Shoppers can browse a wide selection of brands and authentic gear, reflecting the region's ranching heritage. Friendly service and quality merchandise have made it a trusted local business for decades.
16. Roy Orbison Museum
LEGENDARY MUSIC TRIBUTE
The Roy Orbison Museum in nearby Wink offers an in-depth look at the life and career of the world-famous musician who grew up in West Texas. Exhibits feature memorabilia, photographs, and stories about Orbison's rise to stardom. Music lovers visit to celebrate the iconic artist and his local roots.