If you’re looking for a quiet, secluded spot in the West Texas desert, consider a trip to Marfa, Texas. Tucked away in Presidio County, this town is surrounded by the Chihuahuan Desert, but it’s far less developed than other Texan destinations. Despite its proximity to the rest of the state, Marfa is a mystical and art-filled haven. Its rich history is rooted in the town’s long-standing history as a refuge for artists and writers from the region.
In the late 1800s, Marfa was little more than a watering hole for various commercial railways. Most of the local population consisted of tumbleweeds and cattle ranchers. Today, however, this quaint town has become a hotspot for foodies, celebrities, musicians, and artists. You may even see Beyonce or other famous folks arriving in a private jet. Whether you want to spend a night in the country or a weekend exploring the town’s art scene, there are many things to do in Marfa.
You can spend your entire day wandering the streets of Marfa. You’ll be able to visit many of the town’s art galleries, including the Marfa Contemporary, located in an old petrol station. If you’re looking for a piece of art, try a Prada-inspired installation, designed by Elmgreen & Dragset. Alternatively, visit the Marfa Book Company and buy local artworks.
If you’re looking for a place to stay in Marfa, Texas, you can choose an Airbnb in a desert-chic area. You can stay in a teepee or queen-sized camper, or rent a trailer. The town also has many vintage hotels, including Hotel Paisano and Thunderbird Motel. The latter is an excellent option for couples. The atmosphere is laidback and relaxing.
If you’re looking for something a little more unusual, spectral lights may be what you’re looking for. These mysterious lights, known as the Marfa Lights, are reportedly visible on clear nights. They’re often colored and move around the area, sometimes disappearing and reappearing. A viewing station has even been built near the lights, where you can catch a glimpse of these eerie, but mysterious, lights.
During your trip to Marfa, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Chinati Foundation, an ultra-minimalist art museum founded by Donald Judd. This museum is housed in former military camp buildings, and features site-specific artwork by Dan Flavin. To see the full effect of the exhibitions, book a tour guided by a knowledgeable guide to the museum. If you’re new to art, it’s a good idea to reserve a tour with the Chinati Foundation.
If you’re looking for a place to dine while visiting Marfa, you should consider a stay at the Hotel Saint George. It opened in March 2016 and features a chic, contemporary design. The hotel also houses the Marfa Book Company. It also features a bar and restaurant called LaVenture. The Saint George can be found at 105 S. Highland Ave. Another good option is the Thunderbird, located at 601 W. San Antonio St.. This historic motel offers comfortable rooms decorated in locally-designed furnishings. The Thunderbird also has a pool, a vinyl collection, and handmade textiles and other items.