Marfa, Texas is a little gem in the West Texas desert, known for its artistic spirit and the famous Marfa Mystery Lights. People travel from all over the world hoping to catch a glimpse of the Marfa Lights. Some say that the strange orbs that twinkle, move around, disappear, and reappear in the distance are aliens. Others think it’s just car headlights, but honestly, no one really knows. It’s one of those things you just have to see for yourself and decide what you believe!
While Marfa started out as a ranching town and railroad water stop, everything changed in the 1970s when minimalist artist Donald Judd moved in from New York. He founded the Chinati Foundation and brought contemporary art into the desert landscape, turning Marfa into a creative hotspot.
Today, Marfa is a unique blend of art, mystery, and desert charm. Galleries and art installations are everywhere, including the famous Prada Marfa, an art installation made to look like a luxury store standing alone in the middle of nowhere.
The peaceful desert setting and the artsy vibe give Marfa a feel that’s totally its own and unlike any place that I’ve ever been to.
If you’re planning a trip to Marfa, get excited because this guide will help you make the most of it!
Know Before you Go
Marfa moves at a slower pace, so don’t be surprised if stores and restaurants close earlier than expected or if they aren’t open exactly when their hours say they should be. It’s part of the towns charm!
So, keep that in mind and visit with a “go with the flow” mentality. Have your planned list of things to do, and if a place you wanted to visit is closed, you’ll have an idea of what other place to pivot to, so it can take some stress off.
When to Visit
As I mentioned earlier, Marfa operates at a relaxed pace, with most shops and restaurants open from Thursday to Saturday. Many places tend to be closed on Sundays, Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays, so visiting over a weekend is ideal.
If you’re planning to visit earlier in the week, consider taking little day trips or just embracing the slower vibe and relaxing.
For the best experience, plan your trip in the spring or fall when the weather is just right for exploring Marfa and venturing out to nearby Big Bend National Park for some incredible hiking.
How to Get There
Getting to Marfa is an adventure in itself! Since Marfa is remote, driving is the best way to get there and it can be reached from major cities.
If you’re coming from Dallas like I was, it’s about an 8 hour drive, so be ready for a road trip! Check out my favorite road trip tips here to make the journey smoother and more fun.
Also, you can fly into Midland International or El Paso International Airport and then take a 3 hour drive to Marfa. Either way, the journey is part of the fun!
Getting Around
Since Marfa is remote, having a car is definitely your best bet for getting around. This will also give you the freedom to explore other cool spots nearby.
Where to Stay
Whether you’re after a charming historic hotel, a cozy vintage trailer, a unique teepee experience, or the comfort of an Airbnb, Marfa offers a variety of places to stay to match the vibe you’re seeking for your trip.
Many recommend “El Cosmico” for cute trailers and teepees. If you go, you’ll have to tell me about your experience!
Tips Before your Visit
- Many places tend to be closed on Sundays, Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays, so visiting over a weekend is ideal.
- There aren’t a ton of grocery stores in Marfa so consider stocking up on water and snacks before you arrive in Marfa.
- Marfa is dry so stay hydrated.
- Cellphone service can be unreliable so take this time to enjoy a break from your devices!
Art Experiences
Prada Marfa: If you’re looking for Marfa’s most iconic photo op, this is it. Technically located about 30 minutes west in the tiny town of Valentine, Prada Marfa isn’t a real store, but an art installation by artists Elmgreen & Dragset. It’s free to visit, quirky, and totally worth the drive.
Chinati Foundation: The Chinati Foundation is a huge deal in Marfa. Founded by artist Donald Judd in 1986, it’s basically turned the town into a must-visit spot for contemporary art lovers.
Ballroom Marfa: A free art gallery that has become one of the coolest spots in town for art shows and live performance event housed in a 1920s ballroom.
The “Giant” Marfa Murals (one is pictured above): You can’t miss these huge murals by artist John Cerney along the roadside. They’re inspired by the 1956 movie Giant, which was partly filmed in Marfa. The murals feature Elizabeth Taylor and James Dean, two of the film’s stars. They’re a fun and historic part of Marfa’s vibe!
Nature & Desert Magic
Catch the Marfa Mystery Lights: Just outside of town, you’ll find a viewing platform where you can try to spot the famous Marfa Mystery Lights. These flashing, floating orbs have baffled visitors for years, and it’s definitely worth checking out if you’re in the area! (The earliest reports of these lights date back to the 80s.)
Day Trip to Big Bend National Park: About a 2–2.5 hour drive from Marfa, Big Bend National Park is an absolute must-see if you’re in West Texas. It’d be a real shame to make it this far without experiencing the beauty of the park and all its amazing hiking trails!
Other Must-Do Activities in Marfa, Texas
Snap a photo of the Marfa Central Fire Station (aka the pink fire station): This iconic spot is hard to miss, and its pink color makes for a fun photo op!
Visit the Presidio County Courthouse (yep, it’s also pink!): This beautiful historic building is another Marfa landmark that adds to the town’s unique charm.
Explore Marfa’s unique shops: Some of my favorites include Raba Marfa, Communitie Marfa, and the Marfa Book Company.
Check out Hotel Paisano: This historic hotel is a must-see, especially if you’re a fan of classic cinema. James Dean and Elizabeth Taylor stayed here while filming Giant! It’s charming and a piece of Marfa’s movie history.
Food & Drink Recommendations:
- Bordo – The best sandwiches of my life. No exaggeration.
- Margaret’s – Classic American comfort food.
- The Water Stop – Easygoing vibes, great for a relaxed dinner.
- The Sentinel Marfa – Newspaper meets café. A wonderful spot for coffee and breakfast tacos.
- Aster’s Café & Bakery – A tiny and cozy spot. I didn’t get a chance to try their pastries, as I was hoping for more gluten-free options during my visit, but my friend couldn’t stop raving about their blueberry scones!
- Mutual Friends – Good coffee and located right next to the iconic “Greetings from Marfa” mural.
- Marfa Spirit Co. – Amazing sotol cocktails.
Leave a Reply