Marfa Lights, Texas: A Traveler’s Guide

Marfa, Texas, is a small town located in the western part of the state, known for its remote location, beautiful landscapes, and mysterious Marfa Lights. These lights have been observed for over a century and remain a mystery to this day, making them a must-see attraction for any traveler visiting the area. This guide will explore some of the best outdoor activities, must-see places, and an unusual tip for travelers visiting Marfa.

Outdoor activities

Get outside and enjoy the natural wonders of Marfa, Texas with various outdoor activities. Discover the area's stunning scenery and enjoy remarkable stargazing.

Hiking

Hiking in Big Bend Ranch State Park

The park is just a short drive from Marfa and offers some of the most stunning views. With over 300,000 acres of rugged terrain, there are plenty of hiking trails to explore. One of the most popular trails is the Sierra del Carmen, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

 

Stargazing at the McDonald Observatory

The McDonald Observatory is located just a short drive from Marfa and offers some of the best stargazing opportunities in the area. Visitors can tour the observatory, attend a star party, or even take a guided night sky tour.

Stargazing

Must See Places

Explore the top attractions in Marfa, Texas - from historic museums to breathtaking landmarks. Don't miss out on these must-visit destinations during your trip.

Chinati Foundation

The Chinati Foundation

The Chinati Foundation is an art museum located in Marfa that features the work of minimalist artist Donald Judd. The museum is housed in an old army fort and features a collection of Judd’s work, including sculptures and large-scale installations.

The Marfa Mystery Lights Viewing Area

The Marfa Mystery Lights Viewing Area is located just outside town and offers visitors the best chance to observe the mysterious Marfa Lights. The viewing area is open year-round and is completely free to visit.

Marfa Mystery Lights Viewing Area

Unusual Tip

Uncover the hidden gems visiting Marfa, Texas. This unusual tip will let you turn your travel into an unforgettable experience.

Prada Marfa

Visit the Prada Marfa

The Prada Marfa is an art installation located just outside of Marfa that features a replica of a Prada store. The store is not actually open for business and features only a few select items, but it is still a unique and exciting place to visit.

Hidden Wonders

These two places are unique and off-beat places that you can add to your Marfa itinerary to have a whole experience of the town. The Ballroom Marfa will give you a glimpse of the contemporary art scene in Marfa, and the Tumbleweed Museum will provide you with an unusual experience you may not find elsewhere.

The Ballroom Marfa

The Ballroom Marfa is a non-profit contemporary art space that hosts exhibitions, performances, and film screenings. The space is housed in a historic building and has been a staple in the Marfa art scene for over a decade.

Ballroom Marfa
Marfa Tumbleweed Museum

The Marfa Tumbleweed Museum

The Marfa Tumbleweed Museum is a unique and quirky attraction that showcases the history and cultural significance of tumbleweeds in the area. The museum features a collection of tumbleweeds that have been shaped into different forms, such as animals and other objects. It is a fun and unusual stop for visitors of all ages.

Marfa Tumbleweed Museum

Accommodation Suggestions

These four suggestions range from budget-friendly to luxury options catering to different travelers' budgets and preferences.

Budget:

The Thunderbird Hotel is a budget-friendly option located in the heart of Marfa. The hotel features simple yet comfortable rooms that come equipped with all the essentials. Prices for rooms start at around $70 per night.

Mid-range:

Hotel Paisano is a historic hotel located in the heart of Marfa. The hotel was built in the 1930s and restored to its original charm. Rooms range from standard to deluxe; some even feature private balconies with town views. Prices for rooms start at around $100 per night.

Budget
Mid-range
Previous slide
Next slide
Luxury
Unique
Previous slide
Next slide

Luxury:

Casa de Marfa is a luxury vacation rental located just outside of Marfa. The property features a large main house and a separate guest house, both of which are fully furnished and decorated with a stylish, modern aesthetic. Prices for the entire property start at around $500 per night.

Unique:

El Cosmico is a unique camping and glamping experience located just outside of Marfa. The property features a variety of accommodations, including yurts, tents, and vintage trailers. Prices for accommodations start at around $50 per night.

Luxury
Unique
Previous slide
Next slide

In conclusion, Marfa, Texas, offers a unique and exciting experience for travelers, with a range of outdoor activities, must-see places, and an unusual tip to make your visit even more enjoyable. Whether you are interested in hiking, stargazing, art, or want to catch a glimpse of the mysterious Marfa Lights, this small town has something for everyone.

Feeling Inspired? Start tracking your travels now