17+ Best Things to do in Marfa Texas

The town of Marfa in Texas is a strange, but very cool place.

As we left the city of Austin behind after enjoying several days there exploring the city and its uniqueness, we headed out into the desert as we headed to Western Texas as part of our 3-month road trip around America.

Along the way, we decided to stop off in Marfa following the recommendation of a friend I’d made while living in France who was originally from the state.

We stopped off at Enchanted Rock State Park for a hike beforehand and then rolled into Marfa ready to get cultural and explore art galleries, browse the myriad of shops in Marfa and experience the mysterious Marfa Lights (said to be from another world).

If you’re doing a West Texas road trip and looking for places to stop, definitely add Marfa to that list. There are so many fun things to do in Marfa and it’s just got such a cool vibe too.

Despite being a small town, it doesn’t always feel like one. Though you shouldn’t expect to see any big shops chains and bear in mind that the restaurants tend to open and close as they please.

If you’re doing a southwest road trip it’s definitely worth stopping off and getting out for a wander.

Best things to do in Marfa Texas

Given that Marfa is known as a bit of an artist commune (and you’ll notice that as soon as you spot a few residents – they just have that kinda artsy dress sense if you know what I mean), art galleries and exhibitions feature heavily on this guide of what to do in Marfa Texas.

Below, is a map where I’ve included everything to do in Marfa so you can see where things are in relation. to each other. You can also use it as you’re wandering about.

Best things to do in Marfa map

1. The Chianti Foundation

If you’re visiting Marfa, one of the must-see spots is the Chinati Foundation. This place is so popular that their tours fill up fast, especially the sunrise tour. If you plan to visit, make sure to book in advance.

The Chinati Foundation displays the art of Donald Judd and other artists. While some exhibitions are only available through a guided tour, you can wander around the outdoor display of Judd’s 15 concrete works anytime you want.

Not everyone may appreciate the minimalist art here (like the concrete rectangles), but you should check it out and form your own opinion. Plus, the self-guided tour is free!

Whilst I wasn’t impressed by the art at the Chinati Foundation (it was just concrete rectangles??) that doesn’t mean you won’t be.

Founded by Donald Judd in 1986, the Chinati Foundation has grown from a small exhibition to an internationally recognized contemporary art museum with over 35 buildings. It’s an ideal spot for art lovers and budding artists.

• Opening hours: 8:15 am–4 pm Thurs to Sun and until 3 pm on Wed. Closed Mon + Tues
• Tickets: Self-guided tours free, guided tours start at $25 and should be reserved early

2. Stroll the streets

Marfa is a pretty picturesque place. The buildings are, for the most part, white and then there are cacti lining the streets too.

The town is small so you don’t need to (and it would be silly to) drive from place to place. Go on a walk!

3. Ayn Foundation

The Ayn Foundation is another must-visit spot in Marfa. It displays large-scale works by prominent international artists like Andy Warhol’s The Last Supper and Maria Zerres’ September Eleven.

This foundation started in 1993 and is committed to exhibiting comprehensive, large-scale projects by key international artists.

• Opening hours: 12 pm – 5 pm Friday and Saturday

4. Grab a coffee

We popped into Do Your Thing coffee for our morning caffeine fix before heading over to the Chianti Foundation.

It’s a proper local coffee shop with a laid-back vibe, great coffee, and even a fireplace for those cold desert mornings!

5. See the mysterious Marfa Lights

Every night people both residents and visitors to Marfa head 9 miles out of town on Highway 90 to the Marfa Lights viewing area.

They’re here to see the mysterious Marfa Lights; some orbs that appear to float and disappear on the horizon. Exactly what these Marfa Mystery lights are, no one knows.

I was surprised at just how many people were up in the viewing area!

And, whilst I’m still unconvinced these are anything more than the lights of US Border control as they patrol the desert and hills, it’s still worth going to see for yourself.

Take a blanket or jumper though – it gets chilly!

6. Presidio County Courthouse

Presidio County Courthouse is one of the main attractions in Marfa.

This building was listed on the National Register of Historic Places back in 1977 and is beautiful combining both Italianate and Second Empire architectural styles.

The courthouse’s pink exterior is the main draw and you can’t help but notice it as you walk down Highland Street. You also can’t miss the Lady Justice statue atop the central dome.

Go inside and climb the stairs to the top for a panoramic view of Marfa and don’t forget to check out the historic photos on display. The old furniture, wooden staircases, and creaky floors add to the charm.

Plus, across the street, you’ll find a pink fire station that’s worth a stop too!

7. Shop for Prada in the middle of the desert

If you’re in Marfa you simply can’t miss driving out into the desert and stopping off at this Prada shop. Sure it won’t be open (it never has been) but it makes for a pretty cool photo.

The Prada Marfa store was created by artists Elmgreen and Dragset. It’s said to fuel the ongoing dialogue about permanence, minimalism, and consumerism. I much preferred this to Judd’s work anyway!

The permanent installation was created in 2005 and actually houses items from the fall/winter 2005 collection.

Even though the ‘store’ isn’t technically in Marfa, it’s one of the most popular places to visit near Marfa and is often considered to be part of the town.

8. See the University of Texas McDonald Observatory

The McDonald Observatory is a great thing to do in Marfa at night. This center of astronomical research, education, and public outreach, in the Davis Mountains of West Texas, is under some of the darkest skies in America.

Every year, about 60,000 people visit to check out the exhibitions, learn more about the night sky and attend start parties.

These parties include a lecture under the stars in an outdoor amphitheater and easy access to the Rebecca Gale Telescope Park, equipped with various powerful telescopes including the wheelchair-accessible Wren-Marcario Accessible Telescope.

• Opening hours: 12 pm – 5 pm, Tuesday – Saturday
• Entrance fees: $3 for adults (general admission)

9. Stardust Motel Sign

The Stardust Motel might be long gone, but its neon sign lives on, creating a photogenic relic from the past on the outskirts of Marfa.

There’s something nostalgic about this solitary sign, flickering sporadically in the night. It’s a charming echo from a time gone by, making it a cool spot to visit and snap some unique photos.

You never know when the lights will be on, so it’s a bit of a game of chance!

10. Visit the Ballroom Marfa

Ballroom Marfa stands as an icon of Marfa’s vibrant art scene. Housed in a converted 1927 dance hall, this contemporary art venue is a center for the arts in town.

Throughout the year, it hosts a variety of art exhibitions, film screenings, and music performances, with both emerging and well-known artists from around the world.

Since it’s a large space you can sometimes find some pretty big installations here.

Though admission is free, consider making a $5 donation to support their ongoing cultural programs.

11. Marfa and Presidio County Museum

The Marfa and Presidio County Museum is in a beautiful adobe home from the 1880s and is the best place to go to learn about the history of the area.

The museum covers topics like ranching, local military history, geology, early settlers, Native Americans, and much more.

• Opening hours: Monday – Saturday 1 pm – 5 pm

12. Judd Foundation

The Judd Foundation honors the legacy of American artist Donald Judd by providing public access to his permanently installed living and working spaces in Marfa.

Here you’ll find studios showcasing early works by Judd, libraries filled with a collection of books, and living quarters that stand as a testament to his life and artistic journey.

Guided tours are recommended to fully appreciate the collection and cost $30 per adult.

• Opening hours: 11 am – 6 pm daily, closed Wednesday

13. Drive out to Big Bend National Park

If time permits, consider taking a trip to Big Bend National Park. Though we didn’t manage to visit during our trip, the park is said to be incredibly beautiful with diverse ecological systems.

It’s a great place for active travelers and adventurers for hiking and stargazing and it’s only 1.5 hours away from Marfa. If you’re heading that way as part of a longer USA trip, then be sure to stop there for a few days.

14. Building 98

Building 98, once a US Army base bachelor officer quarter, is now one of the best places to visit in Marfa, TX.

It holds a special place in the town’s history and is known for the World War II murals painted by German prisoners of war. These murals from 1945, offer a glimpse into both Marfa’s artistic and military past and it’s definitely unique and very interesting.

• Opening hours: Appointment only, through the International Woman’s Foundation

15. Palace Theater 

The Palace Theater is another beautiful building in Marfa.

This one has vibrant green and yellow tiles against its white brick and is super cool to see as you wander around the town.

Once the heart of the town’s cultural scene, this historic theater was a popular venue for operas and movies until its closure in 1970. The Hollywood production team for the movie “Giant” used the theater to view their footage too!

Though it no longer hosts performances, it remains a charming landmark that reminds visitors of Marfa’s lively past.

16. Davis Mountains State Park

A short 20-minute drive from Marfa, you’ll find Davis Mountains State Park.

This 2,709-acre state park is in the beautiful Davis Mountains range and is a great place for hiking and, backpacking, mountain biking, camping, or taking a scenic drive through the mountains.

17. Take a day trip to Alpine

Alpine is a student town near Marfa that has a more youthful, less minimalist vibe.

There are plenty of things to do in Alpine near Marfa such as visiting the Museum of Big Bend and catching an Alpine Cowboys game at Kokernot Field and Park.

There are also a bunch of local food trucks, vintage shops, and murals to explore. I recommend Harry’s Tinaja or Ritchey Wine Saloon and Beer Garden.

Best restaurants in Marfa

If you want to eat your way around Marfa then make sure you visit over the weekend as you’ll find a lot of these places close up shop during the week.

Stop worrying about where to eat in Marfa with this list!

Marfa Buritto

You have to order in Spanish and pay in cash at this Spanish kitchen, but it is SO worth it! You’ll be treated to an authentic Tex-Mex plate packed full of food for just $7.

Oh, and the photos of Matthew McConaughey everywhere (a frequent visitor) are too hilarious not to love!

• Opening hours: 7 am – 2 pm, Tues-Sat

Boyz 2 Men Tacos 

*Now permanently closed.

Comedy with your breakfast tacos. You’ll understand when you get ready to order.

Pizza Foundation 

Some of the best pizza you will ever have. Trust me.

Planet Marfa’s Beer Garden 

Planet Marfa has a cool beer garden with a tepee and a vintage school bus where you can hang out too. If you need a beer garden in the middle of the desert, this is the place.

Lost Horse Saloon

*Currently closed (2023)

This local watering hole is a popular hangout spot. The rustic, Western-style decor is the perfect backdrop for drinks and live music.

Frama at Tumbleweed Laundry

If you’re looking for a place to get good coffee, a scoop of ice cream, and do your laundry, this is the place to go in Marfa.

• Opening hours: 7 am to 9 pm

Cochineal Marfa

This one is a bit pricier than some of the other places in Marfa but for the heightened price you’ll get gourmet New American cuisine.

Enjoy dishes like pan-seared duck, Texas ribeye, and a melt-in-your-mouth chocolate soufflé.

They only order enough food for their estimated guests, so reservations are essential to enjoy Cochineal in Marfa.

The Water Stop

The Water Stop in Marfa is a great place to eat for burgers, Mexican food, and even pasta. Even the fussiest of eaters will find something to enjoy here!

Margaret’s in Marfa

This has fast become one of the best restaurants in Marfa and is a popular place. They don’t take reservations so you may need to wait, but it’s worth i!

The food here is excellent and the portions are generous which is just what you need. Plus, they have great service.

Where to shop in Marfa

Don’t miss out on these popular Marfa stores.

Marfa Book Company

Bibliophiles will love this expertly curated bookstore, with an attached coffee shop and garden. Browse the varied selection, view exhibitions from visiting artists, or bring home pottery by local artisans.

Cactus Liquors

This is a super cute liquor and plant shop with a carefully curated selection of liquor and gorgeous house plants.

Moonlight Gemstone

If you’re looking to pick up a gift or souvenir, check out Moonlight Gemstone. They specialize in West Texas Agates but carry a wide variety of choices.  You can also get custom gemstone cutting done here.

Cobra Rock Boot Company

The handmade cowboy boots at Cobra Rock can come with up to an eight month waiting list. Each boot, made from American full-grain leather, takes at least two and a half weeks to make. You can also put your name on the waitlist online too.

As you walk into this store, you’re immediately greeted by the smell of leather. You can browse items by other small independent designers, see the machines they use to make the boots, or order your own.

Marfa Brand Soap Co.

Marfa Brands makes soaps with fans from all over the world hand pouring 150 bars at a time with combinations like Rosemary Peppermint, Bergamot Grapefruit with Lemon Peel and Earl Grey Tea, and Oak Moss with Kelp and Sea Salt.

Wrong Marfa

Wrong Marfa is a gallery and shop that sells mostly locally made wares. It’s housed within a former church and frequently hosts special events and exhibits

Awarded the Most Beautiful Independent Store in Texas by Architectural Digest, this shop is an eclectic collection of local items, carved wooden pieces, and artsy wares. 

Freda

Freda is a lifestyle shop perfect for finding envy-inducing souvenirs for friends. You’ll find clothes, housewares, art, and a wide selection of jewelry from established and up-and-coming brands.

Where to stay in Marfa

When it comes to where to stay in Marfa, you have some pretty good options for Marfa Hotels and accommodations. Here are some of the best based on previous reviews.

• El Cosmico: Glamping in Marfa with teepees, yurts, and RVs. This is one of the coolest places to stay in Marfa for sure.
• Hotel Saint George: Great hotel with a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, and bar.
• The Hotel Paisano: Right in Marfa, this is one of the best hotels in Marfa and it has a restaurant and a bar, and an outdoor swimming pool.

What to know before visiting Marfa Tx

• Don’t forget to visit Marfa on the weekend! Many places are closed from Sunday evening until Thursday.
• Be ready to change your plans. Sometimes shops and restaurants close early or even run out of food. They often take breaks and close when they need to.
• The nearest big airport is in El Paso, which is about a 3-hour drive away.
• Mobile phone service can be unreliable.
• If you’re planning to visit Marfa during a busy holiday weekend, make sure to book your accommodations early. The town is becoming a popular travel spot.
• Marfa has desert-like weather. It can be hot during the day and cool at night, so bring clothes for both warm and cold weather, especially if you’re visiting the Marfa Texas lights. In winter, it can even snow, making driving difficult.

How to get to Marfa Texas

Getting to Marfa, Texas, a remote town located in the high desert of the Trans-Pecos, can be quite an adventure. Below are the various ways you can reach Marfa:

Flights to Marfa

The closest major airports to Marfa are El Paso International Airport (ELP) and Midland International Air and Space Port (MAF), each about a three-hour drive away. From these airports, you can rent a car and drive to Marfa.

• El Paso International Airport: Many major airlines like American Airlines, Delta, and Southwest service this airport. Upon arrival, car rental services are available from companies such as Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz, National, and Thrifty.
• Midland International Air and Space Port: It’s served by airlines such as Southwest, American Airlines, and United. Rental cars are available from companies like Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, and National.

Skyscanner is what I use to find cheap flights.

Driving to Marfa

If you prefer a road trip, Marfa is accessible via several major highways. Here are general directions from a few major cities:

• From El Paso: Take I-10 E and US-90 E to Marfa. This is approximately a three-hour drive.
• From Midland: Take I-20 W and US-67 S to Marfa. This is about a three-hour drive as well.
• From Austin: Take I-10 W to US-67 S in Fort Stockton, then take US-67 S to Marfa. This journey is about six hours.

Public Transport to Marfa

Marfa isn’t readily accessible by public transportation. The nearest Amtrak station is in Alpine, Texas, about 30 minutes away by car. From there, you can rent a car or take a taxi (though availability may be limited) to Marfa.

Note: Since Marfa is quite remote and public transportation within the city is scarce, it is highly recommended to have a car to get around.

I use comparison sites like DiscoverCars and RentalCars to book my car rentals as it’s easy to check prices and compare the best deals!

FAQs about things to do in Marfa Texas

Final thoughts on the best things to do in Marfa Tx

Marfa is a unique destination and the town is one of the top places to see in Texas. There are plenty of things to do in Marfa such as viewing minimalist art, learning about the town’s history, and admiring the stunning desert landscapes.

Be sure to check out the art installations like the Prada Marfa, explore the McDonald Observatory, and enjoy browsing the cool shops and restaurants around the town.

Whether you’re making a special trip just to Marfa, or are exploring more of Western Texas, I’m sure you’ll love exploring Marfa.

When it’s time to leave, how about checking out San Antonio or the city of Austin to the East? Or, head to El Paso and then up to Albuquerque in New Mexico, visiting White Sands National Park and more super cool American destinations nearby.

Last Updated on July 24, 2023 by Hannah