If you’re visiting Marfa Texas, there are a couple of things you should do. First, take in the burgeoning arts scene. The town resembles a scene from a movie. In fact, it was used as the setting for the epic western Giant, which was shot outside the town. For a more relaxed atmosphere, head to the nearby Marfa Museum of Art. Then, check out the local art scene at the Chinati Foundation or Ballroom Marfa.
There are many local art galleries and boutiques, so you’ll definitely want to look for one that suits your tastes. However, you should also be aware that much of the town shuts down on Mondays and Tuesdays, so it’s a good idea to plan your trip in advance. Shops like Freda, Mirth, and Communitie have limited hours, so it’s best to plan your visit accordingly.
If you’re traveling with children, it’s best to plan your trip for January or February. While temperatures can get very cold in the evenings, they’re generally in the 60s and 70s during the day. There’s a slight risk of dehydration in the desert, so be prepared for this. A good rule of thumb is to wear layers, as the climate in Marfa is unpredictable. Also, don’t forget to carry plenty of water.
After dark, you’ll want to spend some time watching the Marfa Lights. There’s a permanent viewing platform on the interstate exiting the town, so you don’t have to worry about missing it. In the meantime, check out Prada Marfa, an art installation that opened in October 2005 as part of a pop architectural land project. It’s a must-see for anyone visiting Marfa.
Marfa is also home to the World Famous Lost Horse, an iconic watering hole. Live music, cowboy cuisine, and pool tables are some of the fun things to do in Marfa. The local art scene is also vibrant, so you can enjoy a concert or a show there. You can also check out the Judd Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the artist Donald Judd. Its collection features early works by Judd and his living quarters that reflect the wide diversity of Judd’s work.
If you’re an art enthusiast, you should definitely check out the Chinati Foundation, a contemporary art museum that opened to the public in 1986. Since then, the museum has evolved and has a growing collection of work by artists like Judd and Dan Flavin. Tours are usually 1.5 to 2.5 hours long. For art novices, it’s worth booking a guided tour to get a better sense of the town’s artistic culture.
If you’re a fan of Tex-Mex food, you should also visit Cochineal, a restaurant that opened in 2003. The chef-owners of Cochineal are both James Beard Award nominees. Their menu combines the food cultures of West Texas and Europe and elevates it to a higher level. For a delicious meal, don’t miss the elk osso buco and the venison meatballs.