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23 Coolest Things to Do in Marfa Texas

Visiting Marfa, Texas? Don’t miss these things to do.

As I entered the bright white building, I heard the quiet whirring of small machines. I weaved through the museum doing my best to interpret and experience the art but couldn’t shake a feeling of familiarity. Then it hit me, I’ve seen this same artist before in NYC! Who would have guessed we would find a slice of the big apple in the small town of Marfa.

25 Best Things to Do in Marfa TXPin

A big thank you to Travel Texas for hosting our trip. All opinions are always our own. This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. Read our full disclosure for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Last Updated: February 29, 2024

23 COOLEST THINGS TO DO IN MARFA TX

We ended our West Texas Road Trip in Marfa. Before visiting, we knew very little of the area other than hearing about the artsy community and seeing Prada Marfa and El Cosmico on instagram.

Marfa truly surprised us and felt like an anomoly. It’s quaint and charming and has small town vibes, but it’s also is completely different from any small town we’ve previously seen.

We found it hard to describe, and it almost felt like the twilight zone. We expected to find eclectic desert art and instead found an art scene as sophisticated as NYC. Sometimes it felt like a small town in West Texas, and other times it felt like a neighborhood in Brooklyn.

If you’re planning a trip out to Marfa, we’ve put together a guide to help you plan your trip.

What You Need to Know Before You Visit Marfa

  • Like a lot of the small towns in West Texas, hours are limited. Visit between Thursday to Sunday for the best experience, but even then there’s no guarantee that all businesses will be open.
  • Be flexible with your schedule. Even with posted hours, some stores and restaurants may close. Some even run out of food and close once the food is out. They’ve adopted a siesta mentality and close whenever they feel like it.
  • The closest major airport is in El Paso (about 3 hours away). Take advantage of your location and see other surrounding sites in West Texas. Here is our road trip guide.
  • Renting a car is the best way to get around town. When we talked to locals and asked about Uber, they said there are only 1-2 drivers locally.
  • Talk to locals to find out what else is going on around town. We heard about a free concert from a bartender which was the perfect way to end the night.
  • Cell phone coverage can be spotty. We have T-mobile and it worked in most cases but as soon as we were out of the main area, we lost signal.
  • If you plan on visiting during a holiday weekend, book early. This has become a popular destination.
  • Marfa is in a desert climate. it gets hot during the day but chilly at night. Have layers ready. During the winter, it can snow and gets dangerous to drive.

25 Things to Do in Marfa TX

1. Marfa Mystery Lights

US-90, Marfa, TX 79843, map

The Marfa Lights have mystified people for generations. The glowing orbs appear in the desert outside Marfa and have been described as white, blue, yellow, and red. The first mention of the lights comes from Robert Reed Ellison in 1883 and you can see them from an official viewing platform, although you can’t predict when they will appear.

Local Tip: Ask locals their theory on the lights. It’s fun to hear what everyone thinks.

2. BallRoom Marfa

108 E San Antonio St, Marfa, TX 79843, map

Hours: Wednesday to Saturday 11 AM – 6 PM

Ballroom Marfa is one of the iconic contemporary art spaces in Marfa. They curate art from well-known and emerging artists from all over the world. During our visit, we saw an artist that was also on display at MOMA PS1 while we lived in NYC. They also host music acts in their space. Visit their site for their upcoming schedule.

Local Tip: Admission is free but a $5 donation is suggested to help fund its programs.

See More: 25 Fun Things to do Indoors in NYC

Ballroom Marfa + 25 Cool Things to Do in Marfa TexasPin

3. Judd Foundation

104 S Highland Ave, Marfa, TX 79843, map

Donald Judd is attributed with bringing the NYC art scene to Marfa, Texas. The foundation maintains and preserves Judd’s pieces, workspaces, libraries, and archives. You can take a guided to tour to visit different properties in Marfa.

Local Tip: Advance reservations for guided visits are required, so be sure to book your spot before visiting.

4. Chinati Foundation

1 Cavalry Row, Marfa, TX 79843, map

Hours: Wednesday to Sunday 9 AM – 5 PM

The Chinati Foundation is a contemporary art museum founded by Donald Judd. They specialize in large-scale installations spread over the 340 acres of land where Fort D.A. Russell used to be. Public tours are a great way to get more insight into the pieces or you can explore on your own.

Local Tip: They offer special events like Sunrise at Chinati where they open at daybreak to appreciate some of the exhibits in morning light.

Chinati Foundation Marfa TexasPin

5. Ayn Foundation

107 – 109 Highland St, Marfa, TX 79843, map

The Ayn Foundation focuses on large-scale products by major international artists. It currently includes Andy Warhol’s The Last Supper and Maria Zerres’ September Eleven.

6. Marfa Book Company

105 S Highland Ave, Marfa, TX 79843, map

MBCo has been around for almost twenty years and functions as a bookstore, publisher, and performance space. Stop by to check out their unique selection of books or visit during their talks, readings, or performances.

7. Freda

207 S Highland Ave, Marfa, TX 79843, map

This shop is a local favorite where you’ll find jewelry, found objects, vintage clothing and more. A record playing in the corner sets the mood while you shop.

8. Cobra Rock Boot Company

107 S Dean St, Marfa, TX 79843, map

If you love handcrafted artisan products, then you need to see the boots made by Cobra Rock. As you walk in, you are 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.

Local Tip: In most cases, the boots will take time to finish so they will ship them to you once they are done. You can also preorder them before your visit.

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9. Moonlight Gemstones

1001 W San Antonio St, Marfa, TX 79843, map

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.  They also do custom gemstone cutting. and create custom silver jewelry.

10. Wrong Store

110 W Dallas St, Marfa, TX 79843, map

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. 

11. Marfa Brands

213 S Dean St, Marfa, TX 79843, map

What started as a hobby, Marfa Brands makes soaps with fans from all over the world. Hand pouring 150 bars at a time, you’ll find combinations like Rosemary Peppermint, Bergamot Grapefruit with Lemon Peel and Earl Grey Tea, and Oak Moss with Kelp and Sea Salt.

Local Tip: They are usually busy making soap in the factory during the week. If you want to peruse the store, visit during the weekend. Otherwise, they also carry their soap at The Get Go, Mano, Freda, and El Cosmico.

Marfa Brand SoapPin

12. Prada Marfa

14880 US-90, Valentine, TX 79854, map

This is probably the most popular photo of Marfa, even though it’s not technically in Marfa. The permanent installation was created in 2005 and actually houses items from the fall/winter 2005 collection.

Local Tip: The installation is 45 northwest of Marfa near Valentine.

13. Marfa Museum THrift Store

610 W San Antonio St, Marfa, TX 79843, map

Fans of thrifting can  stop by to see if they can find any treasures in this artsy and ecclectic town.

14. Building 98

Bonnie St, Marfa, TX 79843, map

Once a US army base bachelor offer quarter, it is now known for the WWII German POW murals. The western murals were completed in 1945 and show Marfa’s history in the arts.

Local Tip: You can only visit by appointment only through the International Woman’s Foundation (432.386.3212)

15. Marfa Holocaust and Historic Model Ship Museum

901 E Oak St Marfa, TX 79843, map

Find historic artifacts, documents, and books about the Aliyah Bet (Jewish “illegal immigration” ships). What makes it really special is the collection of over 140 handmade, plank-on-frame ship models.

16. El Cosmico →

802 S Highland Ave, Marfa, TX 79843, map

El Cosmico has your choice of teepees, yurts, and RVs, and looks like it’s made for the gram.

Local Tip: No matter which glamping unit you’re staying in, you’ll probably want to take photos in front of the other accommodations. Just remember that there are probably guests in those as well, so always remember to be respectful.

17. Planet Marfa

200 S Abbot St, Marfa, TX 79843, map

Planet Marfa is a great place to unwind after a long day. The quirky beer garden features a tepee and vintage school bus where you can hang out too.

Local Tip: If you’re looking for more local events, talk to the bar tenders. They have great suggestions!

Planet Marfa + 25 Fun Things to Do in Marfa TexasPin

18. The Get Go

208 S Dean St, Marfa, TX 79843, map

The Get Go is an independent grocery store opened in 2007. It features local products, organic and alternative ingredients, and more. Not only can you pick up supplies if everything else is closed, it’s also a great way to get a glimpse of local life in Marfa.

See More: 13 Secrets to Traveling like a Local

19. Frama at Tumbleweed Laundry

120 N Austin St, Marfa, TX 79843, map

If you’re looking for a place to get good coffee, a scoop of ice cream, and do your laundry, come to this coffee shop and laundromat pairing. 

Local Tip: It’s currently closed, but we jsut stopped by for the really cute ‘Greetings from Marfa’ mural outside. If you visit, let us know if the mural is still there.

See More: All the Best Stops on the Ultimate West Coast Road Trip

Greetings from Marfa Texas Mural in front of Frama CoffeePin

20. Marfa and Presidio County Museum

110 W San Antonio St, Marfa, TX 79843, map

Located in a historic adobe home built in the 1880s, this museum has a little bit of everything Marfa and Presidio County. It coveres ranching, local military, geology, settlers, Native Americans, and more.

21. Presidio County Courthouse

300 Highland St, Marfa, TX 79843, map

The Presidio County Courthouse was added tot he National Register of Historic Places in 1977. It’s a beautiful building in the heart of the city and you can even check ou the interior.

Local Tip: Be sure to check out the pink Fire Station across the street too!

22. Stardust Motel Sign

US-90, Marfa, TX 79843, map

The Stardust Motel sign sits on its own just outside of town. There’s no trace of the motel itself, but the light still flickers from time to time.

Local Tip: Unfortunately, you can’t predict when the lights will be on and will have to hope you get lucky. It wasn’t on when we stopped by and also when we passed it in the morning on the way out of town.

Stardust Motel + What to Do in Marfa TexasPin

23. House Bar (Casita Bar)

Ranch Rd 2810, Marfa, TX 79843, map

Step into the 80s at one of the most unique bars we’ve ever been to. It was converted from an old home, and the decor is next level here. They host shows and we only found out about it because we asked the folks at Planet Marfa.

Note: Casita Bar is currently closed but may reopen. It was such a unique experience we’ll leave it on here and check in to see if they re-open.

Casita Bar + 25 Fun Things to Do in Marfa TexasPin

Bonus: Tiny Target

US-90, Alpine, TX 79830, map

In early 2016, an anonymous artist painted a bullseye and the word Target on an old railroad structure. This is also outside of Marfa (about 45 mins east), but is often associated with Marfa.

Note: Tiny Target has been demolished. What tiny store do you think will pop up next?

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map of Things to Do in Marfa TX

More Things to DO in Marfa TX

  • Cast + Crew – Closed
  • Chinati Hot Springs (Presidio, TX)
  • Etherington Fine Art – Closed
  • Exhibitions 2D
  • Faith Alive Cowboy Church Radio Station
  • Garza Marfa
  • Ice Plant Museum
  • Julie Speed Studio
  • Marfa Activity Center
  • Marfa Contemporary – Closed
  • Marfa Fim Festival (late spring)
  • Marfa Gliders
  • Marfa Maid Dairy
  • Marfa Municipal Golf Course
  • Marfa Myths Music Festival
  • Marfa Visitor Center
  • Mirth – Closed
  • Mystery Blimp (on US-90, 15 miles outside Marfa)
  • Palace Theater
  • Private Marfa History Tours
  • Rule Gallery

Best Restaurants in Marfa TX

If You’ve Already Tried the Above: Bar St George (Bar, $), Jett’s Grill (American, $), LaVenture (Seafood, $​$)

Permanently Closed: Comida Futura, Do Your Thing Coffee, FAT Lyles, Food Shark, Frama, Lost Horse Saloon, Maiya’s, Mando’s, Marpho, Memo’s Cafe, Museum of Electronic Wonders & Late Night Grilled Cheese Parlour, Pizza Foundation, Squeeze Marfa, Stellina

Where to Stay in Marfa Texas

Hotel Paisano – We stayed at Hotel Paisano during our visit to Marfa. It’s centrally located the hotel is full of history. You’ll find GIANT memorabilia throughout the lobby and hallways too.

What’s Nearby

Planning Checklist

Have you been before? Any other things to do in Marfa TX we’re missing?

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Esther + Jacob

Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.

Follow on Instagram (E + J), YouTube, TikTok, and Pinterest.

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