If you’ve ever driven through the far west, then you’ve probably been to Marfa Texas, a high desert boomtown renowned for its arts scene. This town is a mecca for road trippers, overlanders, and van lifers. It’s not just a great place to relax and recharge – it also offers a unique aesthetic. In fact, some of the town’s most notable structures and buildings were inspired by works by Wes Anderson.
The town is home to a spectacular natural phenomenon called the Marfa Lights, which have remained mysterious for 135 years. You can catch the Marfa Lights from the nearby Prada Marfa, an art installation that was completed in October 2005 as part of an ambitious pop architectural land project. A visit to this site will provide you with a glimpse into the ancient history of the town, and help you get a better appreciation for the diverse landscape and unique culture.
Marfa is a small, quaint city in the Chihuahuan desert of west Texas. Although only 2,000 people live in the town, it offers plenty to do. Marfa is a seven-hour drive from Austin, but is best combined with a visit to the nearby Big Bend National Park. The town’s reputation has increased thanks to celebrities such as Beyonce, but it’s not accessible by air. The nearest airport is in El Paso, TX, which requires crossing the border. The driving time is over six hours, and depending on the amount of traffic in each city, may take longer or shorter.
Another interesting attraction in Marfa is the Chinati Foundation. Founded by Donald Judd in the late 1970s, the foundation houses many permanent art installations. There’s also a two-mile self-guided tour of the outside exhibits. You can even visit Judd’s home and studio. If you’re a fan of contemporary art, you should also visit the Chinati Weekend, which takes place in October.
The Presidio County Courthouse is one of the town’s most prominent landmarks. Built in 1886, this historic building combines Italianate and Second Empire architecture. Its interior and exterior have been beautifully restored. The dome is topped with a statue of Lady Justice. There are several historical photos on display and creaky floors. It’s a unique place to visit and explore. And if you have the time, be sure to check out the Marfa Mystery Lights Viewing Center and participate in its annual light festival.
For drinks, try one of the many craft distilleries in the area. If you’re a fan of Mexican cocktails, try sotol, a drink crafted from the plant sotol. The beverage is distilled from agave sap and is not as strong as many of its alcoholic counterparts. It is also made with a local spirit known as agave, so you’ll be pleasantly surprised with its flavor.
Another must-see attraction in Marfa is the Guadalupe Mountains National Park, which is just 137 miles from Marfa. It’s an accessible location and features the world’s largest Permian fossil reef. The park also boasts hiking trails and animals. If you’re looking for a more adventurous activity, you might want to consider attending the McDonald Observatory in nearby Carlsbad. You can also take a day trip to the Ford Davis Art Museum if you’re not in a rush.