Contemporary art museum founded by Donald Judd, featuring large-scale installations.

A permanent art installation resembling a Prada store in the middle of the desert.

Watch for the mysterious Marfa Lights, unexplained phenomena that have puzzled visitors for decades.

A cultural arts space presenting exhibitions, performances, and public programs.

Hotel Saint George

Marfa's cultural centerpiece, this 1886 railroad hotel was transformed into a minimalist desert oasis. Features a pool, bookstore, library, and acclaimed restaurant. The perfect blend of historic charm and contemporary design. Rooms are simple but elegant with vintage rugs and desert views.

💡 The pool courtyard is Marfa's social hub - perfect for sunset drinks

El Cosmico

Stay in vintage trailers, safari tents, yurts, or teepees on 21 acres under the stars. Communal kitchen, outdoor showers, hammock grove, and wood-fired hot tub. This is glamping elevated to art. Book the Airstream for iconic desert experience.

💡 The wood-fired hot tub under the stars is unforgettable

The Thunderbird Hotel

Classic 1959 motor hotel reimagined with minimalist design. Each room unique with curated art, vintage finds, and modern amenities. Heated saltwater pool perfect for hot afternoons. Central location makes exploring on foot easy.

💡 Pool-view rooms let you watch Marfa life unfold

Lost Horse

Above one of Marfa's best bars and restaurants, these six rooms blend Old West charm with contemporary comfort. Exposed brick, vintage details, excellent beds. Can be noisy on weekends when the saloon is hopping, but that's part of the charm.

💡 Step downstairs for craft cocktails and elevated comfort food

The Hotel Paisano

Where Elizabeth Taylor, Rock Hudson, and James Dean stayed while filming 'Giant' in 1955. Spanish Colonial Revival architecture with period furnishings, modern comforts, and Old West atmosphere. Visit the Giant museum in the lobby.

💡 Stay in the James Dean Suite for Hollywood history

Airbnb & Vacation Rentals

Marfa has excellent vacation rentals ranging from adobe casitas to modernist compounds. Many feature outdoor spaces, full kitchens, and privacy. Ideal for longer stays or groups. Book early - the best properties fill up months ahead for peak season.

💡 Look for properties with outdoor spaces for stargazing

Capri

Inside Hotel Saint George, Capri serves refined Italian cuisine with desert ingredients. Wood-fired pizzas, handmade pastas, local vegetables. The wine list is exceptional. Reserve ahead for dinner, or enjoy the more casual lunch service by the pool.

Convenience West

Not a convenience store despite the name - this is Marfa's coolest restaurant. Creative comfort food, excellent cocktails, vintage decor, and a see-and-be-seen vibe. Try the burger or daily specials. Can get crowded - reservations recommended for dinner.

Cochineal

Marfa's longest-running upscale restaurant serving seasonal American cuisine with local ingredients. Chef-driven menu changes regularly. Intimate dining room with professional service. The tasting menu showcases the best of West Texas terroir.

Lost Horse Saloon

Bustling saloon serving creative takes on comfort classics - fried chicken, burgers, seasonal salads. Excellent craft cocktails and local beers. The bar scene gets lively weekend evenings. Great for solo dining at the bar or groups.

Mando's

Local favorite for authentic Mexican food and massive breakfast burritos. No frills, just consistently good food at fair prices. The migas are legendary. Cash only. Popular with ranchers and artists alike. Go early for breakfast on weekends.

Food Shark

Iconic food truck serving Mediterranean-inspired street food. The Marfalafel is legendary - chickpea fritters with tahini and hot sauce on pita. Limited hours, outdoor seating only. Worth the hunt. Check social media for current schedule.

Squeeze Marfa

Fresh juices, smoothies, breakfast bowls, and light lunch fare. Perfect for healthy options in a town heavy on comfort food. Excellent coffee too. Grab and go for provisions before heading to Chinati or Big Bend.

Do Your Thing Coffee

Specialty coffee roasted in Austin, excellent pastries, minimal space. The cortado is perfect. This is where locals start their day. Limited seating means takeaway is common. Opens early.

Prada Marfa

The iconic luxury boutique art installation 35 miles west on Highway 90. Best photographed in morning or late afternoon light. This is Marfa's most Instagrammed spot. Respect the art - don't climb on or damage it.

📸 Best time: Sunrise for golden light with no crowds, or late afternoon for dramatic desert light

Chinati Foundation

Donald Judd's 100 aluminum boxes catch changing desert light throughout the day. Photography is allowed outside but restricted inside buildings. The concrete artillery sheds with Judd's boxes are iconic.

📸 Best time: Late afternoon when the aluminum catches warm light

Highland Avenue

Marfa's main street with classic Texas storefronts, vintage neon signs, and El Paisano Hotel. Shoot from the middle of the street (carefully) for that classic small-town Texas feel.

📸 Best time: Blue hour when vintage signs light up, or early morning for empty streets

Desert Landscapes

The open desert around Marfa offers endless photographic opportunities. Drive Highway 90 west or Highway 67 north for classic Chihuahuan Desert vistas with distant mountains.

📸 Best time: Golden hour (first or last hour of sun) for warm light and long shadows

Marfa Lights Viewing Area

East of town on Highway 90, this spot offers views of the mysterious Marfa Lights and expansive desert sunsets. Even without lights, the sunsets are spectacular.

📸 Best time: Sunset for sky colors, stay after dark for potential light sightings

El Cosmico

The vintage trailers, teepees, and desert setting create a uniquely Marfa scene. Respect guests' privacy but the property is photogenic. Ask permission before photographing people or their accommodations.

📸 Best time: Late afternoon for warm light on the silver Airstreams

Big Bend National Park

One of America's least-visited national parks offers dramatic Chisos Mountains, Rio Grande canyons, and incredible desert landscapes. Plan a full day or overnight. Highlights include Santa Elena Canyon, Chisos Basin, and hot springs. Bring water, food, and gas - services are extremely limited.

Alpine, TX

Larger town (population 6,000) with full-service grocery stores, gas stations, and Sul Ross State University. The Museum of the Big Bend is excellent. Good for stocking up on supplies or breaking up the drive to/from Marfa.

Fort Davis & McDonald Observatory

Charming mountain town at 5,000 ft elevation with historic Fort Davis National Historic Site. McDonald Observatory offers daytime solar viewing and evening star parties. The observatory sits atop Mount Locke with incredible views. Book star parties in advance.

Davis Mountains Scenic Loop

Spectacular drive through the Davis Mountains via Highway 118 and Highway 166. Pass through Fort Davis, see dramatic mountain scenery, and visit Indian Lodge in Davis Mountains State Park. Pack a picnic.

Terlingua Ghost Town

Abandoned mercury mining town near Big Bend. Explore ruins, visit quirky bars and restaurants, and experience authentic West Texas. Combine with Big Bend visit. The Starlight Theatre serves good food in atmospheric ruins.

Balmorhea State Park

Spring-fed swimming pool (world's largest) maintaining 72-76°F year-round. Perfect for cooling off on hot summer days. The crystal-clear water is home to rare fish species. Arrive early on summer weekends as the pool reaches capacity.