Things to Do in Odessa & Midland
From an astronomically accurate Stonehenge to indoor go-kart racing in Midland, here is a local guide to exploring Odessa, Midland, and the Permian Basin — plus where to eat, day trips worth the drive, and where to stay.
Find Your Stay Call 432-631-2545Odessa and neighboring Midland sit in the heart of West Texas and the Permian Basin — twin cities with big skies, deep oilfield roots, and a surprising number of one-of-a-kind attractions. Whether you are here for work, a family visit, or just passing through, these are the places worth your time.
Top Attractions in Odessa
Genuinely unique stops you will not find anywhere else in Texas. Tap any card for directions.
Stonehenge Replica
A full-size, astronomically accurate replica of England's Stonehenge stands on the UTPB campus — free to visit and especially striking at sunrise or sunset.
Odessa Meteor Crater
One of the largest meteor craters in the United States at roughly 550 feet across, with a small museum and easy walking trails on the city's south side.
Presidential Archives and Leadership Library
On the UTPB campus, this museum traces the history of the American presidency through artifacts, documents, and rotating exhibits.
Globe of the Great Southwest
A replica of Shakespeare's Globe Theatre hosting plays and performances year-round — a rare piece of Elizabethan England in West Texas.
Ellen Noël Art Museum
A Smithsonian-affiliated art museum of the Permian Basin, with rotating exhibitions and a sensory garden — free and open to the public.
Chris Kyle Memorial
A granite-and-limestone plaza honoring the decorated Navy SEAL and "American Sniper" Chris Kyle, an Odessa native — a quiet, moving tribute.
Also worth a look: Jack Ben Rabbit, the eight-foot "World's Largest Jackrabbit" statue downtown, and Ratliff Stadium, the "Friday Night Lights" high-school football landmark.
Where to Eat
West Texas does comfort food right. Local strengths across Odessa and Midland:
In Midland & Beyond
From Midland's go-karts to desert stargazing, the best of West Texas is a short drive away. Tap any card for directions.
Cinergy Tall City, Midland
Midland's new 98,000-square-foot entertainment center — a three-level indoor go-kart speedway, dine-in theaters, boutique bowling, escape rooms, and 80-plus arcade games. Ideal for families and rainy days.
Midland Museums
Twenty minutes east, Midland is home to the Permian Basin Petroleum Museum and the George W. Bush Childhood Home, plus more dining and shopping.
Monahans Sandhills
About 40 minutes southwest, nearly 4,000 acres of rolling sand dunes where you can rent a disk and go sand surfing. A one-of-a-kind Texas state park.
Balmorhea State Park
About two hours out, the world's largest spring-fed swimming pool — crystal-clear, cool year-round, and deep enough for scuba diving.
McDonald Observatory
In the Davis Mountains, one of the darkest night skies in North America. Book a "star party" for unforgettable stargazing through research telescopes.
Marfa
About two and a half hours south, a tiny high-desert town famous for its art installations, Prada Marfa, and the mysterious Marfa Lights.
Seasonal in West Texas
Come winter, McKinney Park transforms into Starbright Village — a drive-through holiday light display that is a West Texas tradition. Spring and fall bring rodeos, festivals, and Friday-night football under the lights.
Where to Stay
Make yourself at home with Basin Stays — fully furnished short- and long-term rentals in Odessa, minutes from Midland and everything above. Ideal for oilfield crews, travel nurses, corporate and monthly stays, and families. Book direct for the best rate, and pay no hotel occupancy tax on stays of 30 nights or more.
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