West TexasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near West, Texas.
1. Prada Marfa
ICONIC DESERT ART INSTALLATION
Prada Marfa is a famous art installation located about 30 minutes outside of Marfa, Texas. The installation has become extremely popular on Instagram and is a must-visit photo opportunity for tourists. Visitors can experience this unique intersection of fashion and art in the desert landscape.
2. Ballroom Marfa
CONTEMPORARY ART GALLERY
Ballroom Marfa is a modern art gallery that showcases contemporary art exhibits in the heart of Marfa. Visitors can explore various galleries and exhibits within this cultural cornerstone of the artsy community. The venue represents Marfa's reputation as a hub for modern art and cultural experiences.
3. Hotel Paisano
HISTORIC CINEMATIC LODGING
Hotel Paisano is a centrally located historic hotel in Marfa with significant cultural importance. The hotel offers not just accommodation but also a glimpse into the region's rich history. Movie buffs particularly appreciate Hotel Paisano for its cinematic connections and historical significance.
4. Pizza Foundation
POPULAR LOCAL EATERY
Pizza Foundation is a popular restaurant in Marfa known for its delicious pizza and outdoor seating area. The eatery gets extremely busy, making advance orders recommended for visitors wanting to experience this local favorite. Its popularity among both locals and tourists makes it an essential culinary stop in Marfa.
5. Franklin Mountains State Park
URBAN MOUNTAIN WILDERNESS
Franklin Mountains State Park is one of the top places to visit in West Texas, offering dramatic mountain landscapes. The park provides extensive hiking trails and outdoor recreational opportunities within city limits. Visitors can experience stunning desert vistas and diverse ecosystems throughout this natural wonder.
6. Hueco Tanks State Park
ANCIENT ROCK ART SITE
Hueco Tanks State Park is a significant historical and recreational site featuring ancient pictographs and unique rock formations. The park is renowned for rock climbing, hiking, and viewing prehistoric rock art. Visitors can explore the historical significance of this area while enjoying its natural beauty.
7. Fort Davis National Historic Site
FRONTIER MILITARY HISTORY
Fort Davis National Historic Site preserves one of the best surviving examples of a frontier military post in the American Southwest. The historic site offers a glimpse into military life on the western frontier during the Indian Wars period. Visitors can explore restored buildings, exhibits, and learn about the Buffalo Soldiers who served at this remote outpost.
8. Palo Duro Canyon State Park
SECOND LARGEST CANYON
Palo Duro Canyon State Park features the second largest canyon in the country, spanning about 120 miles long and 20 miles wide with a depth of roughly 800 feet. The canyon walls gleam orange in bright sunshine, showcasing vibrant layers of rock that tell a 250-million-year geological story. Visitors can explore more than 30 miles of trails, including the popular Lighthouse trail leading to the park's iconic rock formation.
9. Caprock Canyons State Park
HOME OF TEXAS BISON
Caprock Canyons State Park is a beautiful natural area in West Texas known for its dramatic red rock formations and canyons. The park is home to the official Texas State Bison Herd, offering visitors a chance to see these magnificent animals in their natural habitat. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding on the park's extensive trail system.
10. River Walk
ICONIC RIVERSIDE PROMENADE
The River Walk is one of the most popular destinations in West Texas, featuring a network of walkways along the San Antonio River. Lined with restaurants, shops, and hotels, this vibrant area offers a unique blend of history and modern entertainment. Visitors can enjoy boat tours, dining, and shopping while experiencing the distinctive atmosphere of this below-street-level attraction.
11. The Alamo
HISTORIC TEXAS MISSION
The Alamo is a historic Spanish mission and fortress compound that played a pivotal role in Texas history. The site of the famous 1836 Battle of the Alamo, this landmark represents Texas' struggle for independence from Mexico. Visitors can explore the mission buildings, gardens, and exhibits that tell the story of this important chapter in American history.
12. San Antonio Zoo and Aquarium
WILDLIFE CONSERVATION CENTER
The San Antonio Zoo and Aquarium is a popular attraction featuring over 3,500 animals representing 750 species from around the world. The facility combines traditional zoo exhibits with aquatic displays, providing educational opportunities about wildlife conservation. Visitors can enjoy special experiences like feeding giraffes and exploring themed habitat zones throughout the zoo.
13. Six Flags Fiesta Texas
THRILLING THEME PARK
Six Flags Fiesta Texas is a major amusement park offering thrilling roller coasters, water rides, and family attractions. The park features live entertainment shows and seasonal events throughout the year. Visitors can experience heart-pounding rides and family-friendly attractions in this entertainment destination built within a former limestone quarry.
14. Wonder World Park
FIRST TEXAS SHOW CAVE
Wonder World Park is a unique theme park known as the first show cave in Texas, welcoming visitors for over 105 years. The attraction centers around tours of the Balcones Fault Line Cave, offering a glimpse into geological history. Beyond the cave, the park now features many other family-friendly attractions and entertainment options.
15. Woody's Classic Cars & Baseball Museum
VINTAGE AMERICANA COLLECTION
Woody's Classic Cars & Baseball Museum showcases an impressive collection of classic automobiles from every decade alongside baseball memorabilia. The museum features baseball relics dating back to the Ty Cobb era, offering a nostalgic journey through American cultural history. Visitors can experience this unique combination of automotive history and America's favorite pastime in one captivating location.