west texas road trip from dallas

Ultimate West Texas Road Trip Itinerary

If you’re in the mood for adventure and a subtle whiff of vast, pristine plains, then a West Texas road trip is right up your alley.

There are so many interesting sites to explore and charming towns with their own unique character in this part of Texas.

Also Read: 25 Best Things to do in West Texas

Start with Del Rio, the backdoor to Big Sky Country.. and explore the natural attractions at Lake Amistad.

From there make your way west to visit the ghost town of Langtry where Wild West legend Judge Roy Bean once held court.

Stop by Marfa to witness the stunning desert landscape and way out-of-this-world art installations before heading north to glamp under the stars in Big Bend National Park.

This would be a great place to pause for some outdoor activities like hiking or river rafting down the Rio Grande.

Be sure to see the fossils in Big Bend and imagine this area being a hunting grounds for beasts like the T-Rex and Deinosuchus!

Return to civilization throughout your journey for delicious regional eats like enchiladas, flavorful salsas, and some desert sotol.

Soak in the history and culture. Learn about oil industry at Midland . Dance to some good ol’ country tunes while taking in all that West Texas has to offer!

Here is an ultimate guide to planning a West Texas road trip.

West Texas Road Trip: Essential stops

Taking a road trip through West Texas is an adventure for anyone seeking some outdoor fun.

From the rugged deserts of El Paso to the unique beauty of Big Bend National Park, the area offers a variety of attractions.

Throughout the trip, travelers can explore diverse ecosystems and wide-open spaces with opportunities for activities such as camping, fishing, and horseback riding.

There are many charming towns that provide various cultural experiences while providing access to nature trails and lakes.

Here are the best places to stop on a West Texas road trip.

Del Rio is located on the northern banks of the Rio Grande in southwestern Texas.

It is the county seat of Val Verde County.

The city was founded in 1850s, and named after the nearby Rio Grande.

It is one of the most underrated places to visit West Texas.

Today, Del Rio is known for its scenic beauty, bustling economy, and rich cultural heritage.

Visitors to Del Rio can enjoy a variety of activities, including shopping, dining, and exploring the city’s many parks and museums.

Some of the popular attractions in Del Rio include the Val Verde Winery, murals in Del Rio near Casa de la Cultura, and the Whitehead Memorial Museum.

The Laughlin Heritage Foundation Museum is also a great trip for aviation and military enthusiasts.

Read our post on Best Things to do in Del Rio, Texas for more information.

Lake Amistad National Recreation Area

Situated on the borders of Texas and Mexico, Lake Amistad National Recreation Area is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and swimming.

The lake itself is fed by the Rio Grande river and is known for its clear blue waters and scenic views.

Visitors to the area can enjoy hiking, camping, and picnicking in addition to water activities.

The recreation area also offers a variety of educational programs about the local ecosystem and wildlife.

One of our favorite trails in the area include the Diablo East Trails System.

Here you will find a couple of easy nature trails that offer great views of the lake, picnic tables, boat ramp, as well as a scenic drive.

Seminole Canyon State Historical Park

Located in southwest Texas, Seminole Canyon State Historical Park is home to a wealth of history and culture.

The canyon itself was formed by the Pecos River and is surrounded by steep cliffs.

This unique landscape has served as a home for humans for over 10,000 years.

Early inhabitants of the canyon include the Hunter-Gatherers, who left behind evidence of their lives in the form of rock art.

Visitors can take a guided tour of the Fate Bell Shelter to see the ancient rock art.

The park has many other trails and historic sites and is an excellent stop on your West Texas road trip.

Pecos River High Bridge Scenic Overlook

The Pecos High Bridge Scenic Overlook is one of the most popular attractions in Comstock, Texas.

The overlook provides breathtaking views of the Pecos River, steep canyon, and the Southern Pacific Railroad Bridge.

The overlook is open daily from sunrise to sunset and is accessible via a short paved trail.

Parking as well as picnic tables are available at the overlook.

The small town of Langtry is made famous by an iconic West Texas figure: Judge Roy Bean!

Judge Roy Bean named the town after the British actress Lillie Langtry, after being enamored with her.

Today, visitors can tour the Judge Roy Bean Visitor Center, which tells the story of the town’s legendary former resident.

On a visit, you can see his artifacts as well as historical buildings including the saloon where he dispensed justice.

The Visitor Center contains many important items used by him on a daily basis as well as preserves his house in a good condition.

There is also a large cactus garden and botanical garden at the Visitor Centre with several hiking trails and native plants.

If you have the time, make a pitstop in Sanderson, Texas on Highway 90.

Charming town of Sanderson is known as the Cactus Capital of Texas.

You can take a stroll along the Cactus trail where you can see a variety of different cacti that grow in this region.

It is the perfect place to enjoy peace and quiet of West Texas desert landscape.

Marathon , Texas is a small town located in the heart of the Big Bend region.

It is known as the eastern gateway to Big Bend National Park and is perfect for staying while you explore the park.

The town is surrounded by the beautiful mountains, pristine desert landscape, and the occasional springs.

Marathon is also home to the Gage Hotel, which is one of the most iconic hotels in West Texas.

Other attractions in Marathon, Texas include Gage Gardens, art galleries, and the history museum.

Big Bend National Park

For most visitors, Big Bend is #1 of West Texas attractions!

Big Bend National Park is one of the most beautiful national parks in America.

Located in West Texas, the park is home to a variety of landscapes, including mountains, deserts, and canyons.

Visitors can explore the park by hiking, camping, and birdwatching.

The park also contains a number of historical sites, such as pioneer farmsteads and adobe ruins.

In addition to its natural beauty, the park is also known for its dark skies.

On clear nights, stargazers can see thousands of stars, as well as the Milky Way galaxy.

Big Bend Fossil Exhibit

Start your trip to the national park from Marathon by visiting the Persimmon Gap Visitor Center.

From there, head to one of Big Bend’s highlights: Fossil Discovery Exhibit.

The Big Bend Fossil Discovery Exhibit is a unique display of the area’s rich paleontological history.

The exhibit features a wide variety of fossils, including some that are over 500 million years old as well as touchable casts of fossils.

Visitors can see fossils of ancient fish, amphibians, reptiles, and even early dinosaurs that once lived here. 

In addition, the exhibit provides information about the park’s geology and how the fossils were formed.

Rio Grande Village

Rio Grande Village Unit of Big Bend is located in the far east side of the park.

The road here is very scenic and even has a famous tunnel.

The area is home to a number of hiking trails including the family friendly Rio Grande Nature Trail.

This trail takes you right up to the river.

It is fascinating to see the border of USA and Mexico up close.

You can even stand in the river water as you see Mexican lands across the banks.

Boquillas Canyon trail take you deep into the canyon while you can make a day trip to Mexico at the Boquillas crossing.

The popular Hot Springs Trail is also great for families: see historic ruins and soak in the hot springs.

Chisos Mountains

The Chisos Mountains are a mountain range located in the Big Bend National Park in Texas.

The range is home to the tallest mountain in Texas, Emory Peak, which stands at an elevation of 7,825 feet.

The Chisos Mountains are a popular destination for hikers and campers, as they offer stunning views of the surrounding desert landscape.

The mountains are also home to a variety of wildlife, including black bears, deer, and cougars.

You will find several popular trails here including the strenuous Window Trail and Lost Mine Trail.

Little legs can easily do the paved, about a mile long roundtrip Window View Trail to enjoy amazing views.

Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive

The Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive is one of the most popular attractions in Big Bend National Park.

The road winds through canyons, mountains and desert landscapes, providing stunning views of the park’s unique geology.

Along the way, visitors can stop at overlooks to enjoy panoramic vistas or take short hikes to explore narrower canyons and arroyos.

The drive takes about three hours to complete, and provides an unforgettable experience.

Santa Elena Canyon Trail

For many visitors to Big Bend region and West Texas, Santa Elena Canyon trail is the highlight of their visit.

The trailhead is located at the end of the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive, and the trail follows the Rio Grande for approximately one mile before ending at a beautiful overlook of Santa Elena Canyon.

The canyon, with its sheer walls and the river flowing through, is a sight to behold.

The trail is relatively flat and easy to hike, making it a great choice for families with young children or for those looking for a leisurely stroll.

However, the heat can be intense during the summer months, so be sure to bring plenty of water and start hiking early in the day.

During flooding, the creek crossings on the trail can be too deep and you’ll be in for a hearty scramble up the mountainside.

Ghost town of Terlingua

Terlingua was once a thriving mining town, and its abandoned buildings now stand as a testament to its early prosperity.

In the early 1900s, Terlingua was a bustling hub of activity, with two mines producing cinnabar, the ore used to produce mercury.

However, by the 1940s, both mines had been closed and Terlingua had become a ghost town. 

Today, Terlingua is a popular destination for tourists visiting the Big Bend region.

Visitors can explore the abandoned mines and buildings, wander through the cemetery, and even camp out into the desert.

Many glamping options such as yurts and tikis are located in Terlingua, making it another great base to explore Big Bend National Park.

If you’re looking for a remote and scenic stop on your West Texas road trip, Lajitas, Texas is the perfect destination.

Situated on the edge of Big Bend National Park, Lajitas offers stunning views of the Chihuahuan Desert.

The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including javelina, deer, and quail.

Visitors to Lajitas can enjoy hiking, camping, and horseback riding in the nearby Big Bend National Park.

They can also relax in the luxurious Lajitas Resort, which offers a golf course, spa, and restaurants.

Big Bend Ranch State Park

Located in far west Texas, Big Bend Ranch State Park is a true hidden gem.

It is the largest state park in Texas.

The park is home to a diverse array of plants and animals, as well as stunning geological features.

Visitors can camp, hike, bike, and horseback ride through the park.

Popular attractions in Big Bend Ranch State Park include Sauceda Historic District, Fort Leaton, and the scenic River Road.

Big Bend Ranch State Park River Road

Big Bend Ranch State Park’s River Road is the best kept secret in far West Texas!

The road follows the course of the Rio Grande, offering stunning views of the river and the surrounding mountains.

Along the way, there are several turnouts and pull-offs where visitors can stop to enjoy the view or take a short hike.

Hike the Closed Canyon Trail for an adventure through a narrow slot canyon while you keep watch for mountain lions!

Enjoy a picnic at the Contrabando movie set and see the beautiful hoodoos.

The around 115 miles long road connects Lajitas and Terlingua with Presidio and takes about half a day to see at a leisurely pace.

Fort Leaton State Historic Site

Fort Leaton State Historic Site is located in West Texas, near the Mexico border.

The fort was built by Ben Leaton, a trader who operated a store and trading post at the site.

The fort served as a base for Leaton’s trading operations and was also used as a refuge from hostile Indians.

Today, it is a state historic site that includes a museum with artifacts from the fort’s past.

Visitors can also explore the buildings and grounds of the fort on a self guided tour, which provide a glimpse into what life was like for the settlers who once called it home.

Presidio is a sleepy border town located on the Rio Grande, across the river from Mexico.

It is a gateway community for Big Bend Ranch State Park and the surrounding area.

While there is not a lot to do in Presidio, it is worth a quick stop to see the murals and the beautiful Santa Teresa Church.

Shafter is a ghost town on the way from Alpine to Presidio.

The town was named after General William Shafter, who led American troops during the Spanish-American War.

Visitors can explore the abandoned buildings, mines in Shafter Historic District, and take a stroll down Cibolo Creek.

Alpine, located in the Chihuahuan Desert, is known for its beautiful hiking trails and scenic views.

In addition to its natural beauty, Alpine is also home to a number of historical landmarks, such as the Sul Ross State University and the Museum of the Big Bend.

The town has a lively cultural scene and you will find plenty of art galleries, street art, and shopping on Main Street.

Marfa is a small town in the high desert of West Texas.

It’s home to art galleries, artists’ studios, and a vibrant arts scene spearheaded by minimalist artist Donald Judd and his Chinati foundation in the 1970s.

It’s also home to the mysterious Marfa Lights, strange flickering lights that have been seen in the night sky for centuries.

Some say the lights are a natural phenomenon, while others believe they’re ghosts or aliens.

No one knows for sure, but the mystery of the Marfa Lights adds to the town’s allure.

Marfa is also a popular destination for stargazing.

The clear night skies and lack of light pollution make it an ideal spot for watching the stars.

Located in the Davis Mountains of West Texas, Fort Davis is a small town with a rich history.

Founded in 1854, the town was named after then-Secretary of War Jefferson Davis.

It served as an important outpost during the Indian Wars, and later became a stop on the Butterfield Overland Mail route.

Today, Fort Davis is home to a number of historical landmarks, including the Fort Davis National Historic Site.

The fort has been beautifully preserved, and its buildings and grounds provide a fascinating glimpse into life on the Texas Frontier. 

The town is also known for its picturesque setting, nestled among the majestic peaks of the Davis Mountains.

Davis Mountains State Park

Davis Mountains State Park is a unique and beautiful spot.

With its elevation, the park offers cooler temperatures than much of the surrounding area, making it a popular spot for camping, hiking, and picnicking.

The highlight of the park, however, is its scenic drive.

Winding through mountains and canyons, the drive offers stunning views of the landscape.

Along the way, there are several overlooks where visitors can pull off and enjoy the view. 

McDonald Observatory

McDonald Observatory is one of the best places to learn more about the incredible West Texas sky.

The Observatory is operated by the University of Texas at Austin and has several prominent telescopes: the Hobby-Eberly Telescope, the Otto Struve Telescope, and the Harlan J. Smith Telescope.

The Observatory is also home to a variety of research programs, including the Dark Energy Survey and exoplanet studies.

In addition to its research programs, the Observatory offers public tours and educational programs for all ages.

Visitors can take part in stargazing nights, learn about the history of astronomy, and even see firsthand how researchers use the telescopes to study the universe.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Guadalupe Mountains National Park is located in West Texas and is home to the Guadalupe Peak, the highest point in Texas.

The landscape of the park is diverse, with canyons, desert plains, woodlands, and even gypsum dunes.

There are also a variety of animals that call the park home, including deer, coyotes, and snakes.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park is a popular destination for hikers.

The popular Guadalupe Peak trail is one of the best hiking trails in Texas .

The park also offers opportunities for camping, horseback riding, and bird watching.

El Paso , located on the border with Mexico, has a rich history and culture.

The city is known for its beautiful scenery, with mountains, desert landscapes, and the Rio Grande river.

El Paso is also home to a thriving arts scene, with numerous galleries, museums, and performance venues. 

Fort Stockton

Fort Stockton is the county seat of Pecos County and a sleepy little town.

Despite its size, there are plenty of things to do in Fort Stockton.

One popular attraction is the Annie Riggs Memorial Museum, which is devoted to the history of the town and the surrounding area.

Another must: See the historic Fort Stockton, established to protect the San Antonio El Paso mail route.

The Fort Stockton Visitor Center is also worth a stop to learn about the history of the Comanche Springs.

Best Time to Visit West Texas

The best time of year for a visit to West Texas has to be springtime.

During this season, the landscape is lush and blooming with wildflowers that cover the hillsides and create a unique display of vibrant colors.

The temperature is also no longer scorching as it sometimes gets during summer months.

Also, many animals come out of hibernation or migrate during this time so you are likely to catch glimpses of amazing wildlife throughout your journey.

Late fall through mid winter is another great time to visit.

The average temperatures in November reach highs of around 78 degrees Fahrenheit and lows below 53, providing a pleasant ambiance as you explore.

Not only should you pack sunscreen and a hat for your trip for when you spend time outdoors, but don’t forget to bring layers so that you can bundle up at night.

Summers in West Texas are extremely hot and dry and we would not recommend planning a trip then.

A West Texas road trip is an unforgettable experience.

From the dramatic views of the Davis Mountains to the desolate beauty of Big Bend National Park, you will find adventure, solitude, and memorable moments on this drive.

Make sure to include stops at iconic locations like Marfa and Marathon for a few nights of camping under starlit skies.

Along the way, explore forgotten ghost towns in sprawling deserts and hike canyons flush with cacti.

What are your favorite places to visit in West Texas? When are you planning a West Texas road trip? Let us know below.

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West Texas Road Trip from Dallas

West Texas is truly a different world. From the MILES (and miles) of roads with no service to the small western towns to the AMAZING hikes and mountains, you will feel as though you have stepped back in time. I am excited to share the ULTIMATE West Texas Road trip itinerary from Dallas. And for all my fellow 9-5ers with limited time off…this West Texas road trip can be done with a long weekend (4 days).

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Table of Contents

How to get to “West Texas”

Everything is bigger in Texas and the state itself is no exception. West Texas is best known for Big Bend National Park (but, there are many other cool things to do…keep reading!) The park covers over 800,000 acres-bigger than the whole state of Rhode Island. The Big Bend region is FAR from any major airport but completely worth the drive.

Distance from Airports to Alpine (where we stayed Nights 1 and 2) :

• Midland/Odessa: 160 miles
• El Paso: 220 miles
• San Antonio: 376 miles
• Austin: 407 miles
• Dallas : 489 miles

Tip!! Once you have arrived at your desired airport you will then have to rent a car or an RV/campervan to make it to West Texas. If wanting an RV or camper, I recommend using Weelerz search engine as it will find you the best deal AND give you a variety of options and price points (RV, campervan, travel trailers). It is basically the Airbnb of RV’s!

When is the best time to visit?

If you have ever visited Texas, you are well aware that it gets HOT, but winters also bring brisk air and sometimes snow. With this being said, I recommend visiting in the early spring or fall months. November-April are the busiest months, but in my experience, it was NOWHERE near as busy as other National Parks (we visited at the end of February).

Below are the average temperatures in Big Bend National Park.

• Summer  (June-August): 85/66
• Fall  (September-November): 72/53
• Winter  (December-February): 61/41
• Spring  (March-May): 77/55

Where to Stay in West Texas?

Our main intention when visiting West Texas was to visit Big Bend National and State Park. BUT, if you do not want to camp or rent an RV , there are not a lot of accommodations close to the park. We stayed in Alpine for two nights, and then glamped closer to the park on the last night at Ocotillos Village.

If looking for a hotel, your options will most likely be in the following small towns….

Alpine (106 miles):

• Antelope Lodge- This is where we stayed the first two nights. It worked out perfectly as you have your own private room and bathroom in a double occupancy cottage. We were able to leave Thor (our dog) there one day to visit Big Bend.
• Holland Hotel – Located in the city’s center, this historic hotel is full of West Texas charm.

Marfa (131 miles):

• The Lincoln Marfa – Private apartments in the city’s center. Located near local restaurants and museums. Some rooms are pet-friendly and each comes with a complete kitchen and wifi.
• Riata Inn- A budget-friendly, yet charming hotel with an outdoor pool and close to all the Marfa action.

West Texas Road Trip from Dallas Itinerary: 4 Days

Day 1: dallas to alpine.

Stop 1: Monahan’s Sandhill State Park (382 miles)

I definitely didn’t know Texas had its own sand dunes. BUT, this state park is super underrated. It is right on the route from Dallas to Big Bend and the perfect pit stop.

After arriving, you will see a small visitors center, a large parking lot, and picnic tables. We of course took off to find the best sand dunes. Be prepared though, it was WINDY.

We did not rent sleds, but they are avaible in the visitors center!

Stop 2: Fort Davis State Park (118 miles)

A true hidden gem and perfect pit stop to watch the sunset. Fort Davis State Park is home to seven hiking trails, a national historic site, and a charming downtown. We grabbed a bite to eat at the Fort Davis Drug Store and headed out to watch the sunset on the top of Skyline Drive.

Tip: If you have extra time you can hike up to sunset point via the Old CCC trail (3.3 miles). We were running short on time, so we drove to the top and hiked a bit at the top.

Where we stayed : Antelope Lodge in Alpine.

Day 2: Big Bend National Park

Side note: Day 2 was all about Big Bend National Park. Dogs are not allowed at this national park, so we knew we had to find an accommodation where he would be safe to stay in his kennel (which is why we choose the Alpine location above).

Stop 1: Lost Mine Trail (106 miles)

We left Alpine around 5 am and heading out towards the park. There is NO WHERE to stop for breakfast on the way (all the gas stations were even closed) so be sure to pack a snack for the ride.

We arrived at the Lost Mine trailhead right at sunrise and found a VERY SMALL parking lot on the side of the road (maybe 12 cars). We pulled into the last parking spot and headed on our way.

Trail Details:

• Distance: 4.9 miles
• Elevation: 1,135 ft
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Dogs Allowed?: No

Tip: Pack a picnic snack and take a break at the top. You are met with BEAUTIFUL 360 degree views!

Stop 2: Balanced Rock Trail (11 miles/30+ minutes)

Before heading towards Balanced Rock Trailhead, we backtracked a bit to stop at the Panther Junction Gas Station to fill up and get breakfast (it opens at 8 am). They had a great assortment of snacks and sandwiches and a microwave to warm up your food. It was only about 12 minutes from the Lost Mine Trailhead.

After snacking, we headed towards Balanced Rock Trail. This trailhead is found only 9 miles away from the gas station, BUT its down a 6+ mile rough dirt road so it takes much longer than 10 minutes. We parked in the Grapevine Hills Trailhead parking lot and took off to find the Balanced Rock.

It is an easy and flat trail until the end where it is a bit of rock scramble to the top. Nothing too hard though!

• Distance: 1.9 miles
• Elevation: 232 ft
• Difficulty: Easy

Stop 3: Santa Elena Canyon (46 miles, 1hr20+ minutes)

This hike is definitely the most popular hike in the park, but for good reason. A West Texas road trip would not be complete without stopping here.

Bordering the USA and Mexico border, you will be greeted with BEAUTIFUL views of the Santa Elena Canyon. There is a large parking lot and a bathroom at the beginning of the trail. We saw people canoeing and paddleboarding and we of course had to walk through the river a bit (so be sure to pack your Keen Sandals!)

• Distance: 1.5 miles
• Elevation: 610 ft.

Where we stayed: Antelope Lodge in Alpine (123 miles from Santa Elena Canyon)

Tip: If traveling without a dog, it would definitely be easier to find somewhere closer to the parks or camp!

Day 3: Big Bend State Park

Stop 1: Hancock Hill , Alpine (5.3 miles)

Although Alpine is oftentimes just a town to lay your head at night, we found a super unique trail just down the road from our hotel.

To reach the trail head, you can park in the college parking lot and head up the hill. Once you reach the top be sure to find the bicylce tree and vacant old-school desk. Can you imagine carrying this desk up the mountain?! You will be also greeted with amazing views of the city!

• Distance: 1.8 miles
• Elevation: 301 ft
• Difficulty: Easy/Moderate
• Dogs Allowed?: Yes!

Tip: There are A LOT of side trails that may be easy to get confused on. The “Hancock Hill Desk” is actually pinned on Google Maps so you can easily follow the trail/directions on there!

Stop 2: Big Bend Hoodoos Trail- Big Bend Ranch State Park (115 miles)

Our main intention today was to take Thor on a couple of dog-friendly hikes. Although Big Bend National Park is not dog-friendly, there is a state park right next door with 2 (awesome) dog-friendly hikes.

The trailhead has a decent sized parking lot and is easily accessible. The trail is pretty flat and goes directly to the Hoodoos and Balanced Rock. there is also river access and an overlook trail.

• Distance: 1.1 miles
• Elevation: 91 ft.

Stop 3: Closed Canyon Trail- Big Bend Ranch State Park (4.3 miles)

This is a seriously underrated trail. It turned out to be my favorite of the West Texas Road Trip. Aside from the fact that we barely saw any other hikers, you are also hiking through a slot canyon almost the entire time!

• Elevation: 396 ft

Stop 4: Terlingua Ghost Town (32 miles)

Just down the street from your glamping tent (see below), you will find the ruins of the Chisos Mining Company. You can take a free self-guided tour around the ghost town, through the cemetery, and then end your day with a meal at the historic Starlight Theatre. We also grabbed a bite to eat and enjoyed live music at the High Sierra Bar and Grill. (Tip: They just have wine and beer, but this wine margarita was actually delicious!)

Where we stayed : Ocotillos Village (see picture below). Read ALL ABOUT this unique Stargazing Airbnb here!

Other things to do on West Texas road trip from Dallas

We of course did not have time to experiences all the things to do in West Texas, so if you have more time than we did (or want to switch some things around)…here are some ideas!

• Marfa Lights: For decades, visitors and locals have reported viewing mysterious lights in the dark West Texas Sky. There is even a viewing center dedicated to catching a glimpse of this phenomenon.
• Prada Marfa: Okay, you cannot actually shop here, but it makes for a good photo op.
• Art Museums: There are several unique art galleries and museums throughout this small town. Read more about Marfa’s Art scene here!
• Museum of Big Bend: Come learn about the unique history and culture of the Big Bend region. Admission is only 5 dollars and it is located on the Sul Ross State University campus.
• Boquillas Crossing Port of Entry : Grab your passport and take a rowboat across the river to do some shopping/eating in Mexico. UPDATE: The port is currently closed due to COVID regulations.
• Horseback Ride: Lagitas Stables offer several different rides through this BEAUTIFUL region.
• Canoe/Paddle the river: Check out Far Flung Big Bend rentals for half-day and multi-day river tour options.

Tip: If you have even more time, extend your trip to include a day in Fort Worth, Guadalupe Mountains National Park, , Hueco Tanks State Historic Site, and/or spend some time exploring Dallas!

4-day West Texas Road Trip from Dallas Recap

• Stop 1: Dallas to Monahans Sandhills
• Stop 2: Monahans Sandhills to Fort Davis State Park
• Night 1 Accommodation: Antelope Lodge
• Stop 1: Lost Mine Trail
• Stop 2: Balanced Rock Trail
• Stop 3: Santa Elena Canyon
• Night 2 Accommodation: Antelope Lodge
• Stop 1: Hancock Trail
• Stop 2: Hoodoos Big Bend Trail
• Stop 3: Closed Canyon Trail
• Stop 4: Terlingua Ghost Town
• Night 3 Accommodation: Ocotillos Village
• Drive back to Dallas (see ideas above to extend trip)

Be sure to follow me on Instagram or in our private Facebook group for more itineraries, USA road trip stops, and to ask any questions you may have!

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• In the City / Outdoors / Texas

It only took a few hours of driving with no radio for our group to bond over inappropriate jokes. In the midst of one our laughing fits, we saw a blur of a building, when we yelled “PRADA!” in unison.

We spent five days exploring the best things to do in West Texas. It was enough to touch on the hot spots, but like most of our trips, it helped us feel out what we want to do when we revisit. Since we love our parks, we were most excited to explore Big Bend National Park. What we didn’t know was how much we would fall in love with the other areas of West Texas.

A big thank you to Travel Texas for hosting our trip and sponsoring this post. All opinions are always our own. This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. Read our full disclosure  for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Last Updated: Jun 24, 2019

All the Best Stops on the Ultimate West Texas Road Trip

Whether you’re into the great outdoors, art scene, food, or history & culture, there’s something for everyone.

1. El Paso →

We started and ended our trip on the very west tip of Texas in El Paso. El Paso is located in one of the largest deserts in North America, the Chihuahuan Desert, and the city sits right along the border with its neighboring international city, Juarez. There are so many Spanish speaking folks in El Paso that you might want to brush up on your Spanish. We had one cab driver that only spoke Spanish, which made for a fun and scenic ride.

Recommended Length of Stay: 3-5 days

Fun Fact: El Paso is also known as Sun City, because it’s one of the sunniest cities in the US (and the world ) with roughly 300 sunny days a year.

Things to Eat, See, and Do in El Paso

• El Paso Museum of Art – This is a free museum that carries a collection from the surrounding area featuring artists from both El Paso and Juarez. They have special exhibitions and a permanent collection.
• Hueco Tanks State Park – Located about 45 minutes outside of El Paso is a giant playground for climbers. Even if you don’t climb, it’s a unique and beautiful landscape to hike through.
• Scenic Drive Overlook has a great view over both El Paso and Ciudad Juarez.

Where to Stay: Stanton House is a brand new, chic hotel. They have a great rooftop that gives you a view across the border, an art gallery inside, and beautiful rooms to make you feel at home. Click here  to see more reviews and best prices for all hotels in the area.

More: 15 Best Things to Do in El Paso Texas

2. Fort Davis

Fort Davis is set amongst the Davis Mountains, which is a sky island. The term refers to the fact that it’s an isolated mountain range surrounded by desert. With the highest elevation above sea level and cooler weather in Texas, it’s a favorite getaway amongst locals.

Recommended Length of Stay: 2-3 days

Local Tip: According to Tyler Priest, the local Texas Parks and Wildlife ranger, the hills and mountains are so green and lush that the landscape looks like Ireland during the rainy months.

Things to Eat, See, and Do in Fort Davis

• Davis Mountains State Park – Don’t miss the views from Skyline Drive. There are a few spots to check out – the peak is ideal for sunset and the end of the road is a great spot for sunrise.
• McDonald Observatory – Gaze up at the stars from one of the darkest skies in the US. They have daily tours and hold Star Parties too.
• Fort Davis National Historic Site – One of the best surviving examples of an Indian Wars’ frontier military post. Keep an eye out for the resident horses and goat that freely roam in the area.
• Davis Mountain Scenic Loop – This 75-mile drive takes you through some of the best scenery in west Texas. It takes roughly two hours.
• Fort Davis Drug Store & Hotel – serves food, drinks, and sells small supplies.
• Stone Village Market – A local market frequented by the residents and tourists. They also serve sandwiches made to order.
• Herbert’s Caboose Ice Cream Shop – An ice cream shop built into an old caboose.

Where to Stay: Indian Lodge – This picturesque hotel is tucked right into the mountains of Davis Mountains State Park. The white buildings beautifully contrast against the backdrop. There is a lot of history in this hotel and makes for a great home base. Click here to see more reviews and best prices for all hotels in the area.

3. Big Bend

Big Bend is made up of small communities, like Terlingua Ghost Town, Lajitas, and Study Butte, and is known for Big Bend National Park and State Park. It’s named after the huge curve/bend in the Rio Grande and sits at the southern border of the state.

Local Tip: Have plenty of snacks and supplies ready if you plan on staying out late. Most stores and restaurants close really early. I’m used to having dinner at 8-9 pm some nights, but if you want to eat, you need to try to get in before 7.

Things to Eat, See, and Do in Big Bend

• Grapevine Hills Trail / Balanced Rock – This 2.2 mi round trip hike takes you to our favorite landscape in the park. There’s 6 miles of dirt road to the trailhead, and we were able to take a huge van and small sedan but had to take it slow. Also, watch out for the rainbow colored greater earless lizards on the trail.
• Langford Hot Springs – A short 0.5 mile round trip hike takes you to a historic hot springs located at the Rio Grande.
• Santa Elena Canyon – See one of the most iconic spots in the park. You can even get a backcountry use permit to paddle upstream and back.
• Chisos Basin Loop – Gives you a great mini-tour of the Chisos Mountains. Do the loop counter-clockwise to get the best views.
• Big Bend Ranch State Park – The rugged volcanic landscape sits just west of Big Bend National Park.
• Terlingua Ghost Town – Home to the world’s first Chili Cook Off, and they still hold the event every year. You can explore a historic church, a beautiful cemetery, and meet the locals (and ghosts) that frequent the area.
• Stand Up Paddle Boarding at the Lajitas Golf Resort – This resort has an 18-hole golf course and 4-star hotel, but it’s also where the local guides can take you SUPing along the Rio Grande.
• Starlight Theatre Restaurant & Saloon – One of the liveliest spots in town, they have live music and a wide selection of food. Get yourself a marg and thank me later.
• Taqueria el Milagro – We stumbled across this spot when everything else was closed. They graciously stayed open later for us and had AMAZING tacos.
• Expresso Y Poco Mas – Local coffee and breakfast spot.
• La Kiva Restaurant & Bar – We were supposed to eat here, but they closed early.

Where to Stay: Perry Mansion. We all got extremely excited when we pulled up to Perry Mansion. It just reopened after a renovation and only has 7 rooms. Great for a big group if you want the place all to yourself. Click to see best prices for hotels .

More: 11 Amazing Things to Do in Big Bend National Park

We didn’t know much about Marfa besides the Prada art installation, which we learned isn’t actually in the town of Marfa. When we heard it was an artsy community we pictured desert art, like Salvation Mountain , but instead we found a slice of NYC in West Texas.

We recommend visiting between Thursday to Sunday for the best experience. A lot of restaurants and attractions have limited hours, and some of them only open over the weekend. It’s always good to double check hours while you’re planning your trip but keep in mind that some spots still can close when they decide to.

Note: Most people know about the Prada Marfa art installation, but did you know there is also a tiny Target? It’s actually 45 minutes away just past the neighboring town of Alpine.

Things to Eat, See, and Do in Marfa

• Ballroom Marfa  – Their current show features contemporary artists we first saw at MoMa PS1 in NYC.
• Presidio County Courthouse & The Central Fire Station – Beautiful and picturesque buildings right next to each other.
• Chinati Foundation – We didn’t make it here on this trip, but you can see amazing contemporary art pieces here. From what we can gather from photos, it looks like a combination of Noguchi Museum and Storm King.
• The Marfa Lights – At night you can spot mysterious lights that dance in the darkness south of US 90 between Alpine & Marfa. No one knows what they really are, and there are plenty of theories out there. Ask the locals to see what you can find out.
• Prada Marfa – This is the most popular photo of Marfa on Instagram. This art installation is about 30 minutes from the city.
• Pizza Foundation – Yummy pizza with indoor and outdoor seating. It gets busy on the weekends so call in early to put your order in.
• Planet Marfa – Amazing local bar with a teepee and school bus on the property. Great place to meet locals and end the night.

Where to Stay:  Hotel Paisano – This historic hotel is centrally located and has GIANT memorabilia all over the place. Click here  to see more reviews and best prices for all hotels in the area.

More: 25 Coolest Things to Do in Marfa TX

Map of West Texas

Essential Tips

• Once you drive out to the smaller towns and regions, keep in mind that restaurants and shops close early and don’t necessarily keep their hours. If you plan on being out after sunset shooting, have a plan for your meals.
• West Texas varies in temperatures since the elevation changes so much. During our May trip, we saw highs in the 90s and lows in the 40-50s, so always pack layers.
• Regardless of where you are, you’ll be doing some walking so bring comfortable walking shoes. Here are our suggestions for best sandals for travel .
• Water & sunscreen are a must. Sunglasses and a hat help too.
• Outside of El Paso, WIFI and cell service are limited. Even places that have wifi are really spotty. Prepare to unplug.
• If you’re in an older car, bring an aux cable so you can listen to music in the car. You’re going to have trouble finding it on the road. Also, if you need some tunes, check out our ultimate cross country road trip playlist .

What to Pack for Your West Texas Road Trip

Best places to stay in west texas.

• El Paso:   Stanton House
• Fort Davis: Indian Lodge
• Terlingua / Big Bend:  Perry Mansion
• Marfa: Hotel Paisano or El Cosmico if you want to glamp in a teepee, yurt or RV. I personally would save glamping for fall / spring weather.

More Resources

• Rand McNally Road Atlas – when you’re out of service, it’s always good to have a map. We’ve been using the Road Atlas ever since we were kids and still use them today on our road trips.
• Matt Wilder’s Hueco Tanks Bouldering Guidebook
• Lonely Planet: Texas Travel Guide
• Official Guide to Texas State Parks and Historic Sites

Have you been to any of these destinations in West Texas? Are we missing any must-visit spots?

Did you enjoy this post? Pin it for later

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“Discovery consists not of seeking new lands but in seeing with new eyes ” – M. Proust

Esther + Jacob

Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, which is one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found both near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.

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13 Unique Places to Visit on a West Texas Road Trip

• Post author By Melissa
• Post date April 17, 2024
• 14 Comments on 13 Unique Places to Visit on a West Texas Road Trip

West Texas is perhaps one of the most desolate places in the United States. You can drive for hours and still not reach any sizable city. But a West Texas road trip can also be an intriguing and unique experience. 

You’ll see the terrain turn from barren deserts to lovely mountains (yes, West Texas has mountains) and then back again. You’ll drive through the tiniest of towns and wonder what people who live there actually do. And while it may sound like there isn’t much worth driving hours for, there are actually a lot of interesting places to visit in West Texas.

This travel guide includes the best things to do on a West Texas road trip and the 13 best places to visit .

Tips for planning the perfect West Texas road trip

Growing up in West Texas I took for granted the uniqueness of this region. It truly is one of the best places in Texas to visit . West Texas is not only desolate though, but also BIG. So, during your West Texas road trip, take time to appreciate the wide openness and enjoy getting away from the busyness of life.

You are truly venturing where the WIFI is weak (or non-existent) and where you will feel very off the grid .

If you’re planning a West Texas road trip, here are some tips that will make your vacation more enjoyable.

Table of Contents

Fill up your gas tank every chance you get

Because of the desolation of the region make sure you have enough gas or petrol in your car’s fuel tank. In this area of the world, I don’t like to let the meter get below a quarter of a tank. It may be a while before you come across another gas station.

While there are a lot of things to see in West Texas, gas stations aren’t one of them. They are few and far between, so if you are planning a West Texas road trip, top off the gas tank every chance you get.

Expect moments with no phone service

Also, have plenty of music or audio books downloaded because your radio won’t work out here, unless you have satellite radio. In fact, there will be numerous long stretches of road where you will have no phone service, no radio, and no other cars in sight. 

Despite the lack of phone service or even radio, a West Texas road trip is undoubtedly one of the most memorable and fun Texas road trips .

Spend a night in one of the larger West Texas cities, like El Paso or Midland

Depending on where you are coming from and how you are getting to West Texas, the closest airports are in Midland-Odessa or El Paso.

If flying into Midland-Odessa, it may be worth spending a day exploring, as there are several fun things to do in Midland , as well. Likewise, El Paso is a large city, and you’ll find plenty to do there to pass the time for a day.

Plan for the weather

West Texas is known for its extreme weather conditions, so it’s crucial to pack accordingly. Summers can be scorching hot, with temperatures exceeding 100°F (38°C). Winters, on the other hand, are mild, but the nights in the desert can be surprisingly cold. 

Check the forecast and pack versatile clothing, including layers, sunscreen, a hat, sturdy footwear, and plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Things to do on a West Texas road trip

West Texas, with its vast landscapes and rugged charm, offers a captivating experience for adventurers seeking a taste of the wild frontier. This region is brimming with natural beauty and hidden gems waiting to be discovered, making it worthy of your Texas bucket list .

On any West Texas road trip there are a few things everyone must do and see. Here are our top 13 things to do and places to visit in West Texas.

Go for a Hike in Big Bend National Park

No visit to West Texas is complete without exploring the remarkable Big Bend National Park. 

Big Bend National Park may be one of the lesser visited national parks in the United States. Simply because of its remote location along the West Texas-Mexico border, you won’t find a ton of tourists in the park. Big Bend is beautiful. Its breathtaking vistas rival many of the popular national parks you’ll see on a northern Arizona and southern Utah road trip .

Although it can often feel as hot as the surface of the sun in Big Bend, it is a wonderful place to hike, tune in with nature, and search for native wildlife.

One of the more popular hikes takes you through Saint Elena Canyon cliffs that tower 1,500 feet above you. 

Another popular hike, the Window Trail lets you witness the stunning Chisos Mountains through the frame of a natural window. The hike is roughly 5 ½ miles long and involves a challenging climb out of Oak Creek Canyon on the return trip. 

Looking for a shorter hike in Big Bend? Check out Closed Canyon. This 1.5-mile trail takes you through a slot canyon, similar to the narrow slot canyons famously found in Utah .

Plan to camp out at least one night if you want to do one of these stunning hikes.

Cross the Mexican Border in a Rowboat to Visit a Rural Village

While you’re in Big Bend National Park you can actually cross the Rio Grande River and venture into Mexico for lunch. 

Doing so will require a short ride on a rowboat and a mile-long journey on a donkey to get to the rural village of Boquillas del Carmen . This is one of the most unique travel experiences we’ve ever had, and the Mexican food was definitely worth the trip! 

Don’t forget to bring your passport!  Although the Boquillas Crossing isn’t your typical border crossing, it is still a legal one, and the same rules apply.

Visit a Ghost Town

Just outside of Big Bend National Park , you’ll find an abandoned mining town that went bust.

Terlingua is now a ghost town with decaying buildings, old mining shafts, and a cemetery that has a creepy, haunted feeling. There are still a few dozen residents who live in Terlingua. They basically cater to the tourists who stop through on their way to or from Big Bend. 

You’ll find some restaurants, a trading post, and even a hotel and some unique glamping yurts. Just don’t expect to find any chains like McDonald’s or Holiday Inn in Terlingua. It is a great place to stay if you want to feel completely off the beaten path, star-gaze, and tap into the serenity of solitude.

Visit an Old Military Post in Fort Davis

Fort Davis is an interesting look at military life in the Southwest back in the 1800s. This well-preserved military post serves as a reminder of the significant role the military troops played in the Anglo settlement of the western frontier. 

Originally established in 1854, Fort Davis served as a crucial outpost along the San Antonio-El Paso Road, providing protection for settlers during a time of westward expansion. The military’s primary purpose at Fort Davis was to defend the region from Indians and Mexican soldiers in the area. 

At Fort Davis, you can take a self-guided tour of the five restored buildings and explore the ruins of about 100 more. The fort’s restored buildings include barracks, officers’ quarters, and the hospital.

The fort’s museum showcases exhibits that delve into the area’s Native American history, Buffalo Soldiers, and the challenges faced by those stationed at this remote outpost.

Experience the Quirkiness of the Artistic Enclave of Marfa, Texas

Marfa, Texas has become somewhat of a hub for quirky artistry. One of the best small towns in America to visit , this tiny town has risen to fame over the past few years. 

Marfa has attracted celebrities like Beyonce and Matthew McConaughey who have come to see what this West Texas gem is all about. 

Known for its outdoor, minimalist art installations, visitors to Marfa should plan to check out the Chinati Foundation , a contemporary art museum featuring large-scale installations by the likes of Donald Judd.

Also not to be missed, outside of Marfa on Highway 90, you’ll find a massive mural of James Dean and Elizabeth Taylor. Created by artist John Cerney, the mural is a tribute to the 1956 movie “Giant” which was filmed in West Texas.

You can also have a meal and enjoy some live music and refreshing drinks in the beer garden at Planet Marfa . In Marfa, you’ll feel inspired by the creatives and artists who live and visit this eclectic town.

Watch Mystery ‘Ghost Lights’ Dance Across the Horizon

About 10 miles outside the town of Marfa, Texas you’ll find a small observatory overlooking, well, nothing. Only empty deserts surround the building as far as the eye can see. 

But at night, people will gather on the back observation deck of the building in hopes of catching a glimpse of an unexplained phenomenon – the Marfa lights . Ask anyone who grew up in West Texas about Marfa and they will tell you about the ‘Marfa lights’. 

After nightfall, strange glowing orbs appear off in the distance. The lights move around, even dance a little. The enigmatic Marfa Lights have fascinated visitors for decades. Head to the Marfa Lights Viewing Area on U.S. Highway 67 to witness these elusive phenomena.

Whether they are atmospheric reflections, car headlights, or something truly unexplained, observing the dancing lights in the desert is an otherworldly experience that will leave you in awe.

To my knowledge and in all my research, I’ve yet to find a true scientific explanation for the lights. While there are plenty of speculations, everything from UFOs to natural gas clouds, no one really knows why these ghost lights appear.

 Swim in the World’s Largest Spring-fed Swimming Pool

The small town of Balmorhea, Texas is home to the world’s largest spring-fed swimming pool. 

The Balmorhea State Park is the perfect place to cool off on a hot West Texas day. The pool is home to various types of fish and has a constant flow of natural spring water feeding into it. In fact, more than 15 million gallons of water flow through the pool each day. 

The water is crystal clear and cold. Reaching depths of 25 feet, it’s also a popular place for scuba diving in West Texas. Be sure to pack your snorkel gear, and swim among the fish in this incredible and amazing place to go in West Texas!

Climb the Tallest Peak in Texas

West Texas not only has mountains, but it is also home to the highest mountain in the state. The summit of Guadalupe Peak is 8,751 feet above sea level. It’s a challenging hike mainly because of the hot, arid desert climate, but a rewarding one. 

Located in Guadalupe National Park , if you plan to hike Guadalupe Peak , make sure you bring plenty of water. You will go through water much faster than you expect because of the extreme heat and dry climate.

If visiting both Big Bend and Guadalupe National Parks, you may want to buy a national park pass , as well, which will cover admission into both national parks.

Sleep in a teepee

If a teepee, yurt, or a vintage trailer sound like your kind of lodging, then you’ll love El Cosmico in Marfa.

This one-of-a-kind desert retreat is like a whimsical glamping destination blended with a hippie commune. It offers a truly unique experience for travelers seeking a blend of nature, art, and unconventional accommodations.

While you’ll have to share a communal bathroom with other teepee dwellers, the accommodations are far from basic. With Bohemian décor, electricity, and brick floors, you won’t feel like you’re roughing it in the desert here. 

The other communal spaces foster a sense of community, with outdoor hammocks and communal kitchens that encourage conversation with other travelers and fellow adventurers staying at the property.

Terlingua also has unique teepee accommodations as well as yurts and bubble accommodations located at Basecamp Terlingua .

Take a picture in the middle of nowhere

Far West Texas is the perfect place to unleash your inner “Instagram model” and take the cliché middle of the road photo. 

After driving for miles, and miles , and miles without seeing a single other car on the road, we decided to pull over for an impromptu photo shoot. 

Nothing defines West Texas more in my opinion than a sleepy road without any traffic for as far as the eye can see framed with the expansive blue skies above. I have been gone from West Texas for half my life, but this view always makes me feel ‘home’ again.

Do a little window shopping at the Prada store outside of Marfa

While you’re still in “Instagram model” mode, head 30 minutes west of Marfa to the town of Valentine . You won’t find much there except a tiny replica of a Prada storefront .

Yes, in the middle of the far West Texas desert, you’ll find car after car pulling over on the side of the road so visitors can strike their best pose. 

The storefront is just another quirky art installation in this part of Texas, made famous by celebrities and fashion influencers set on capturing the perfect photo. 

Created by artists Elmgreen and Dragset in 2005, this permanently sealed storefront resembles a genuine Prada boutique, complete with pristine window displays showcasing luxury goods. However, upon closer inspection, visitors realize that the store is non-functional.

So, you won’t find anything to actually buy. You’ll have to get your Texas souvenirs elsewhere, but go ahead, dress up, take a picture, and #doitforthegram at this iconic West Texas landmark.

Go Sandboarding on natural West Texas sand dunes

Monahans Sandhills State Park offers a mesmerizing landscape that beacons photographers and adventure seekers alike. 

Spanning over 200 square miles, this natural desert oasis consists of rolling sand dunes that shift and reshape with the strong West Texas winds. The golden-hued dunes stretch as far as the eye can see, inviting adventure seekers to explore their sandy slopes on sleds and sand boards.

It is one of the most unique places to visit in West Texas and provides an otherworldly experience that captures the spirit of Texas wilderness at its finest.

Watch a glorious West Texas sunset

Perhaps one of my favorite things to do on a West Texas road trip is actually one of the simplest. 

At sunset, stop and appreciate the beauty of Mother Nature. Sunsets in West Texas are truly special. It’s like God turns the West Texas sky into a brilliant canvas of orange, pink, purple, and blue.

Photos never do it justice, but when the sun starts to set in West Texas, stop what you are doing and appreciate the moment.

Why you should take a West Texas road trip

Texas has so many micro-cultures. From the metropolitan vibes of Dallas and the cowboy culture of Fort Worth to the hipster atmosphere of Austin and the Latin influence in San Antonio, the state is as diverse as it is large. 

But to truly understand the entire state, you can’t skip the vast and often excluded area of West Texas. It has a unique culture in itself, one that truly has to be experienced to appreciate it.

Have a question about any of these places to visit in West Texas? We’d love to hear from you and answer any questions you might have while planning your West Texas road trip. Leave your comments below.

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14 comments on “13 Unique Places to Visit on a West Texas Road Trip”

Great article and pictures on West Texas! I have traveled to Midland to visit family and sure wish I’d read your experiences before now. NEXT TIME I’ll be heading farther West in Texas. It seems like its own country, so diverse and something wonderful no matter what your idea of Paradise happens to be.

My family is in Midland, too. I finally ventured further west only recently. Definitely put it on your travel list!

Great Suggestions & Im looking forward to going. I’ve lived in Texas my whole Life & never Been to any of those places

I lived a couple hours away from them for much of my life and never visited some of them until adulthood, so don’t feel bad. 🙂

Oh mygosh ALL of these things are my style of travel! From the nature to the unique experiences to the teepee lodging! I love this so much!

Looks like you need to plan a trip soon! 🙂

Found this very interesting. I’d love to visit Big Bend NP, and crossing the Rio Grande into Mexico is another interesting option. Great post.

Definitely check it out sometime. It is a beautiful part of the country, and the Boquillas crossing into Mexico is a must!

I love this post! I grew up in Dallas and West TX is one of my parents’ favorite places so many childhood trips there, and then as an adult I took my husband. Hopefully sometime soon we’ll take our kids. Love al your recommendations- Big Bend, Balmorrhea especially! I’d add Fort Davis too- there’s Davis Mountains State Park with a really neat 1930’s era lodge plus the actual fort and the town.

Yes, Fort Davis is great, too! Love their adorable downtown area. Great suggestion!

I drove past that Prada place this summer on our way to Fort Davis. We didn’t stop because I didn’t see it until we were whizzing past. I did a double-take in the rear view mirror though. Did that say Prada?!?! Haha! I’m definitely planning to stop if we ever go that way again. The drive from Fort Davis back towards I-10 heading east was very scenic as well.

I grew up in a small West Texas town, Kermit. I now live in Southeast Texas and I miss my old stomping grounds. My husband and I raised 2 boys in Midland and we make it back there to see family. Home will always be West Texas. The beautiful sunsets, see for miles and the wonderful places mentioned. Once a West Texas Girl always a West Texas Girl.

I come from West Texas, the Ft. Stockton area. My Great-grandmother, Annie Riggs owned the Riggs Hotel which is now the Annie Riggs Musuem. I lived in that area until I was 6 years old and revisited my Grandfather Barney Riggs Jr. and Grandmother Rosemary Riggs in the 50’s when they lived in the Hotel to keep it safe. When one visits the area, they step back in time and realize how rough the area was then and how tough West Texans had to be. It has a beauty all it’s own and anyone that visits should read your information so they can truly appreciate the beauty of the land.

In March of 1989 we took at trip to Fort Stockton, then Alpine, Fort Davis, and then camped in Big Bend National Park. It was AWESOME! All the places you mentioned are cool. Alpine needs to be added to the list. Hope to go back again.

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Epic West Texas Road Trip Itinerary: 17 Unmissable Things to Do

Planning a West Texas road trip itinerary? Here are 17 things you just can’t miss!

As the second-largest state in the United States , you can bet that there are some fantastic road trips in Texas .

One of my personal favourites is a West Texas road trip , a journey that takes you far away from the bright lights of Texas’s big cities, but is definitely worth the miles.

There are so, so many incredible and interesting things to do in West Texas . In this blog post I’m highlighting my recommendations.

We spent about five days road tripping this part of Texas. But if you want to see everything I’ve included on this list, I’d recommend at least a week to explore the wide, open spaces of this beautiful part of Texas.

West Texas is truly beautiful , in a stark, desolate and fascinating way, and I hope you love it as much as I do.

This blog post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you book or buy something through one of these links, I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you).

What's in this article (Click to view)

Map of West Texas

Here’s a map showing everything listed in this blog post, so you can sketch out your West Texas itinerary. Also check out my road trip packing list so you don’t forget anything.

Things to do in West Texas

A road trip is on most people’s travel USA bucket list , and a road trip through West Texas is up there with the best of them.

Plan your own West Texas road trip using this list of recommended things to see and do in West Texas. I’ve personally done most of these things (and I’ll tell you which ones I haven’t).

Remember, however, that you want to plan a trip to this region on a weekend to get the most out of it. Many places are closed during the week, especially on Mondays and Tuesdays.

1. Hang out in front of a Prada store

People are drawn to the quirky town of Marfa in far West Texas for many reasons. One of the most popular has to be the Prada store .

Alongside a long stretch of road with nothing but the sprawling landscape for miles, this art installation resembles a Prada store. In the window, shoes and handbags are displayed – but, of course, nothing is for sale.

This is a popular spot for some selfie snapping, and it’s one of the essential things to do in Marfa . Note that it’s actually a about 40-minute drive from Marfa, in the small town of Valentine.

2. See the Marfa Mystery Lights

Marfa has an aura of mystery . The wide, open spaces. The quiet nature of the town.

And there’s nothing more mysterious than the Marfa Mystery Lights . When it’s dark, these lights often flash in the distance, causing people to wonder what they are.

Some believe they’re just car headlights. Or maybe campfires burning. Others are sure they’re UFOs.

You’ll need to go there for yourself to decide.

3. Explore Marfa’s art scene

The man who really put Marfa on the map and helped develop its reputation as a hub for artists is the minimalist artist Donald Judd .

You can check out his own collection of works at the Chinati Foundation . This contemporary art museum features permanent, largse-scale exhibitions from some 13 artists, most of which draw on a connection to the surrounding land.

Ballroom Marfa is in a converted dancehall and features regularly changing visual art, film and music exhibitions. It’s also free!

There are dozens of other galleries dotted throughout Marfa that showcase the town’s cultural standing.

4. Enjoy a star party

This part of West Texas is one of the darkest places to visit in the United States , which means you can spend the evening gazing up the sky and easily spot constellations.

About 40 minutes from Marfa is the McDonald Observatory , and every Tuesday, Friday and Saturday evening the facility hosts “Star Parties” . These parties involve night sky “tours” and an opportunity to take a peek through the huge telescopes with staff guiding you on what to look for.

You’re not always guaranteed a clear view of the sky, but the observatory will find other things to do if it’s overcast.

Unfortunately, this happened when we visited, but we still wandered around the facility, looking through telescopes and heading indoors to learn from experts through virtual sky tours.

It’s a fascinating way to learn about the huge stellar world above us.

5. Go glamping

West Texas is full of unique places to stay. One of the reasons Marfa actually came onto my radar was because of El Cosmico , a super-cool Marfa glamping spot .

Here, you’ll find a mix of teepees, safari tents, yurts and restored trailers. You can also bring your own tent, or have a snooze in the micro-home Cosmic Kasita.

On our visit to Marfa, we stayed in the Royal Mansion trailer (which is now simply called “Large Trailer”). It had a comfy bed, a heater, and a stove and fridge so we could cook up our own breakfasts. We visited in winter and the outdoor shower was definitely only for the brave!

Marfa isn’t the only place in West Texas with glamping accommodation . Terlingua (which I’ll talk about later) also has some unique places to stay, including tipis and Airstreams.

6. Drive the River Road

There are two options for the drive between the remote, artsy town of Marfa and the expanses of Big Bend National Park: the US-90/SH-118 via Alpine, or the far more scenic Texas River Road (FM-170).

Make sure you choose the latter.

Leaving Marfa, you’ll drive through several blink-and-you’ll-miss-them towns. Many have crumbling, abandoned buildings, and some are former mining settlements that are now largely deserted.

The River Road starts after reaching Presidio, a border town, and ends in Study Butte. This 120-mile scenic route winds alongside the Rio Grande (surprisingly, actually not so  grande – it’s quite narrow in many parts), which in this part of Texas serves as the border between the United States and Mexico.

The road has several viewpoints which offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains, and, in one place, a picnic area with large teepees providing shade.

It’s a beautiful drive and worth the detour , which is only an extra 45 minutes compared to the US-90.

7. Meet a beer-guzzling goat who’s also the mayor

I told you that this part of Texas is quite quirky, and there’s nothing more so than Clay Henry .

Who’s Clay Henry? He was the town’s beer-guzzling mayor . He was also a goat. Yes, you read that right, the town elected a goat as mayor .

The original Mayor Clay Henry has long since passed and is now stuffed and on display in a nearby town following an altercation with his own son.

The “Clay Henry” you’ll now meet in a cage next to the Lajitas General Store is another relative (Grandson? Son? Great-grandson? I couldn’t quite figure it out.).

While we didn’t see this goat drink beer (and nor would I want to feed a goat beer), the love of cerveza apparently still runs in the family.

8. Go golfing in the desert

It’s quite a sight to be driving through dusty, brown landscape and then come upon the manicured green lawns of a golf course in the desert .

Named as one of Texas’s best golf courses, Black Jack’s Crossing at Lajitas Golf Resort is set among the dramatic mountains.

You can also stay here at Lajitas Golf Resort . We based ourselves here for day trips to Terlingua and Big Bend National Park because much of the accommodation was already booked up. It’s a huge resort with plenty of activities, a pool and onsite restaurants and bars.

9. Wander around a ghost town

Along the River Road is the town of Terlingua , with a population of 127 people at the last census.

At the end of the 19th century, the town was a thriving mercury mining town of 2,000 people. It was abandoned in the 40s and you can now wander through the famous Terlingua Ghost Town .

You can pick up a brochure at the Terlingua Trading Company that outlines the main sites to see, including the former jail, church, school and cemetery, all within walking distance.

10. Check out an old theatre

The Starlight Theatre is a former movie theatre that’s now a bar and restaurant. It sits next to the Terlinga Trading Company so you can’t miss it.

There’s often live music on the weekends, and it’s a great spot to grab lunch or dinner, or just have a beer.

11. See the great chili cook-off

As well as the ghost town, Terlingua is famous for its annual chili cook-offs . Yes, in a town of fewer than 130 people, there are actually two chili festivals.

These annual events attracts thousands ready to dip into big bowls of chili.

The Original Terlingua International Championship Chili Cookoff (often referred to as Tolbert’s Chili) and the Chili Appreciation Society International Terlingua ​International Chili Championship are both held the first weekend of November.

Unfortunately, I’ve never been to either event, but it’d definitely be worth scheduling a West Texas road trip around.

12. Dine in an underground cave

A short drive from Terlingua is the cave bar and restaurant, La Kiva .

Pizza, barbecue and cold beers are served up with a backdrop of live music. Come early as the place fills up quickly – we had to sit at the bar on our visit (which meant chatting to the interesting bartender!).

There are dinosaur bones embedded into the rock walls and there’s always an intriguing crowd of locals and visitors.

13. Go hiking in Big Bend National Park

Spread over 801,000 acres, it would take weeks to properly explore Big Bend National Park .

But you can still stop by for a day or two to explore.

This is one of only two national parks in Texas , and the grandeur here is often overwhelming.

The huge, open spaces that seemingly go on forever were so different to what I’ve seen in Utah’s national parks and even the Grand Canyon . It’s without a doubt one of the best places to visit in Texas .

Grab a map and the rangers’ recommendations at the visitor centre. If you only have a short time in the park, drive the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive , stopping at various viewpoints.

The Santa Elena Canyon trail (1.7 miles roundtrip) is a short, easy hike that ends at the huge canyon. Depending on the time of year, the Rio Grande may be calm and it’s hard to believe that this river carved these massive rock walls over millions of years.

Other popular hiking trails in Big Bend National Park are:

• Hot Springs Historic Trail (1 mile roundtrip, easy)
• Lost Mine Trail (4.8 miles, moderate)
• South Rim Trail (12-14.5 miles, strenuous)
• Window View Trail (0.3 miles, easy)
• Mule Ears Spring Trail (3.8 miles, moderate)

You can stay inside the park. Book ahead for the Chisos Mountain Lodge , or park your tent or RV at one of the camping grounds .

If you can’t stay inside the park, find accommodation at one of the towns around Big Bend including Lajitas, Terlingua or Alpine .

Come prepared with food, or stop for a meal at the Chisos Mountain Lodge, the only full-service dining option in the park. For snacks and packaged food, there are a number of convenience stores throughout the park.

To enter Big Bend National Park, a vehicle pass costs $30 and is valid for 7 days. If you visit several national parks in a year, I’d recommend getting the America the Beautiful pass which will save you a lot of money.

14. Cross the border by boat

If you time your trip to Big Bend National Park right, you can even slip over the border and spend an afternoon in the small Mexican town of Boquillas . It’s one of those unique things to do in Texas.

The crossing is by river and it costs $5 for a return trip in a small row boat. It’s open Wednesday through Sunday from 9am to 6pm (this sometimes changes to 8am to 5pm during December and January).

Once you arrive on the other side of the river, it’s about a mile to Boquillas. You can either walk there or take a horse, burro or a car for a small fee. Local guides are available.

In Boquillas, have lunch at one of the family-owned restaurants , or pick up some souvenirs. Many families depend heavily on the tourists that visit Boquillas so make sure to tip fairly.

You will need your passport . Unfortunately, we didn’t bring ours with us so we weren’t able to do this border crossing, something I still kick myself over.

15. Have a meal at the Gage Hotel

The Gage Hotel in the small town of Marathon is legendary, and worth stopping for lunch on your trip (or even stay the night). In fact, this hotel is one of the popular weekend getaways in Texas.

The hotel was built in 1927 and screams old western vibes and history. The hotel’s 12 Gage Restaurant is known for its Texan specialties.

If you do stay longer than just a meal, you can book one of the hotel’s 40+ rooms online here in the Historic Hotel or other accommodations.

16. Soak up the views

One of my favourite things about this West Texas road trip is the views .

I’d expected boring scenery but I was so very wrong.

Depending where you are in West Texas, you might be faced with expansive desert , the winding green Rio Grande , or the rocky peaks of the Chisos Mountains breaking up the flat landscape.

It’s also so quiet. At night, the silence is incredibly peaceful and it’s a chance to escape city life and slip into the wonders of nature.

17. Shop for unique souvenirs

Don’t leave West Texas without a souvenir to remember your trip by.

Marfa is full of cool shops selling bespoke boots, books and homemade soaps. Check out stores like Cobra Rock ,  Marfa Book Company ,  Marfa Thrift Store  and  Marfa Brands .

The store at El Cosmico sells some fun branded goods, and my husband picked up a koozie (stubby holder) and some stickers. There are also t-shirts, books, camping gear, patches and posters for sale in the store.

The Terlingua Trading Store is packed with quirky items that’ll make you giggle out loud.

West Texas road trip tips

Here are my tips and some extra info so that you can make the most of your West Texas road trip.

How to get to West Texas

You can start your road trip from one of Texas’s major cities – but be warned that you’ll be on the road a long time before you actually arrive. We started our trip from our home of Dallas and headed for Marfa first, a 9-hour drive.

From Austin to Marfa , it’s about 6.5 hours (429 miles), 8.5 hours from Houston to Marfa (597 miles) and 6 hours from San Antonio (404 miles).

Alternatively, if you’re coming from interstate, you can fly into El Paso , rent a car and then make the 4-hour drive to Marfa.

Best time to visit West Texas

The Texas summer can be felt even more strongly here, so I’d recommend visiting West Texas between April and June or August to October for more temperate weather. No matter the time of year, the desert surroundings means that it can still get chilly at night.

On our West Texas road trip, we visited in December and spent Christmas day in Marfa. The days were lovely and sunny (we got lucky) but just a few days after we left, it snowed, so that shows just how quickly it can change!

There are several cool festivals in West Texas , so plan your trip around one of them:

• CineMarfa Film Festival – in late June
• Agave Festival Marfa – June
• Trans-Pecos Festival of Music + Love – usually held each September
• Original Terlingua International Championship Chili Cookoff (often referred to as Tolbert’s Chili) – early November
• Chili Appreciation Society International Terlingua ​International Chili Championship – early November

Where to stay in West Texas

I’ve suggested a few places to stay in West Texas already throughout this post, but there are plenty of options also on Booking.com .

VRBO has many unique accommodation options, like casitas, trailers and other quirky places to stay. Check out some of these online here .

Travel tips

• Fuel stations can be few and far between, so make sure you fill up when you can .
• Bring plenty of snacks to keep your energy up on the long drives. Fuel stations sell snacks, but it’s only in the towns that you’ll be able to get meals.
• Check opening hours . In some of the smaller towns (especially Marfa), hours can be erratic.
• Bring a bit of cash , as we found that some restaurants and shops didn’t accept credit cards.
• Bring your passport with you if you want to visit Boquillas. If you’re a non-U.S. citizen (like us), you must have your passport on you at all times when you’re within 100 miles of the border. We learned this when passing through a checkpoint. We didn’t have our passports with us, but luckily the border patrol guard was a decent guy who let us go with a warning.
• Stay hydrated . West Texas is largely desert which can suck the moisture from your skin and hair, and you’ll probably feel thirstier than usual.
• Enjoy getting off the grid, because mobile phone coverage is spotty out this way.

Enjoy your trip to West Texas!

Did you find this article helpful? Consider buying me a coffee as a way to say thanks!

Any other things to do in West Texas that you’d add to this list? Would you like to do your own West Texas road trip? Drop me a comment below.

Related posts

Before you go… looking for more Texas travel inspiration? You might like these articles…

• The best things to do in Marfa on a weekend trip
• How to spend the perfect weekend in Dallas, Texas
• The best places to visit in Texas
• How to go tubing in New Braunfels, Texas
• The best things to do in New Braunfels
• Why you should visit Amarillo, Texas

USA TRIP ESSENTIALS

• Book flights to and around the USA online with Skyscanner . I like this site because it shows me which dates are cheaper.
• Find a great hotel in the USA. Check prices on Booking.com   and Expedia online.
• Check out the huge range of day tours throughout the USA on GetYourGuide or Viator . There’s something for everyone.
• A copy of the  Lonely Planet guide to the USA will be handy.
• One thing I always purchase is  travel insurance ! Travel Insurance Master allows you to compare across multiple policy providers, while SafetyWing is great for long-term travellers and digital nomads.

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About REBECCA

I'm a travel junkie who started dreaming about seeing the world from a very young age. I've visited more than 40 countries and have a Master of International Sustainable Tourism Management. A former expat, I've lived in Australia, Papua New Guinea, Argentina and the United States. I share travel resources, tips and stories based on my personal experiences, and my goal is to make travel planning just that bit easier.

8 thoughts on “Epic West Texas Road Trip Itinerary: 17 Unmissable Things to Do”

Doesn’t sound like it but can you recommend any luxury motorcoach resorts along the way? We are planning a trip out west from Florida and riding in a 70′ motor coach. We can dry camp but prefer luxury motor coach resorts where we can leave the coach and travel by our car to areas you have mentioned. Looks like very interesting experience you have had.

I wish I could Ed but I’m afraid I don’t have any recommendations! Sounds like a great trip, though!

I would like to do a road trip through Texas one of these days. Maybe I will go by Red Coach, but either way, I want to see Texas!

Great guide, I was planning on visiting this summer but will have to delay for a short while. Must go and see Clay Henry and crack a beer open!

I hope you get there soon! It’s really such a cool part of the US and I’d love to head back there. Say hi to Clay Henry for me!

You do not need proof of citizenship. They can ask, but you do not have to provide. Just be polite and say no thank you. The Border enforcement officer was NOT being nice. It’s the law. Just ask if you are under arrest, if they say no, then ask if you are free to go. Repeat. They cannot detain you if you are not under arrest. If you are driving, they can ask for license. No one else in the vehicle. They cannot arrest you for being near the border. This would NEVER work in California. Please know your rights

Your post clearly shows Texas should definitely be on the radar when searching for a US holiday destination and I bet less tourist crowds than southwest region like we did…will keep this in mind????

Definitely fewer visitors in this area! And because it’s so huge it feels even more like you have it all to yourself.

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The ULTIMATE West Texas Road Trip: Marfa and Big Bend

Last updated on March 11th, 2024

Ready to explore West Texas? This West Texas road trip itinerary includes where to stay, what to do, and where you must eat when in and around Marfa and Big Bend National Park! Although we lived in Texas for 16 years (Kathryn) and 28 years (Adam), neither of us ever made it to Marfa and Big Bend National Park and after going there during our Christmas Road Trip in 2018 (you can see all of the vlogs from our trip here ) we totally regret it!

We spent 3 days exploring West Texas and it completely exceeded our expectations! We enjoyed a slower pace of travel, went on hikes, saw tons of stars at night, were in awe of the mountains, and enjoyed some cool local restaurants. We’re excited to share this West Texas road trip itinerary. It is perfect if you have 3 days in Marfa and Big Bend and want to see the highlights. You could definitely spend more time in West Texas. But if you only have a long weekend or a few days to spare, we’ve gotcha covered! Want to explore more of Texas? Check out our Texas travel guides:

• A Weekend in Austin
• 2 Days in Houston
• 5 Things to do at Guadalupe Mountains National Park
• Hiking to Gorman Falls at Colorado Bend State Park
• Camping at Garner State Park
• Hiking the Lighthouse Trail at Palo Duro Canyon State Park

About Marfa

About big bend national park, when to visit west texas, getting to west texas, where to stay in west texas, west texas road trip itinerary, if you have extra time…, ready to explore west texas.

Marfa is a very small town in the middle of nowhere. It’s surrounded by a dry landscape and with a big arts scene and hip local shops. It has become more popular the last 5-10 years (or maybe it just became more known to us) with the rise of Instagram and as more celebrities, like Beyonce and Matthew McConaughey, visit the area. A couple things to note about Marfa is that things tend to move slower there. This is including the service, so be prepared to wait a bit. Also, not everything is open everyday of the week. We found that most things are open Wednesday/Thursday-weekend. But Mondays and Tuesdays can be rough, making it more of a weekend destination.

Big Bend National Park is 801,163 acres and the 15th largest US National Park. There are so many things that make this park awesome including the fact that it is on the US and Mexico Border (you can get within a stone’s throw of Mexico!) and it is home to 75 species of mammals, including bears (who knew Texas had bears?! Not us!). The landscape is unlike anywhere else in Texas and we were blown away by how beautiful it was. We only spent half a day in the park and were able to see two of the top sights, but we had to rush a bit and didn’t get to see everything, so we thought two days would be more appropriate for this guide to include the spots we went to and the spots we want to visit next time. Together, Marfa and Big Bend National Park make for one epic West Texas road trip!

America the Beautiful Pass:  If you’re a National Park enthusiast with a bucket list of parks to conquer throughout the year, consider snagging the  America the Beautiful Pass . Priced at just $80 for an annual pass, it unlocks access to over 2,000 federal recreation sites, including National Parks.

We visited Marfa and Big Bend at the end of December and it was perfect! The nights are a bit chilly. But the daytime temperatures were in the 60s and we had tons of sunshine, which made it feel warmer. We’d highly recommend visiting in fall and winter months! While spring is also another great time to visit weather-wise, it is the busiest time of the year to visit Big Bend, especially Spring Break, so the crowds may be a bit larger. But thankfully due to the park’s distance from major cities, it’s not as busy as some national parks. If you want to camp at the park during the spring, make sure to book in advance! Similar to most of Texas, West Texas can get very hot in the summer ! With highs in the 90’s (and likely in the 100s on the desert floor), it would be a bit brutal to visit Marfa and Big Bend during this time. There is less tree coverage and you’ll be fully exposed to the sun. The summertime is also when more storms and flash flooding happens. So keep that in mind if you decide to visit in the summer. It can cool things off a bit, but it could also make it more challenging to hike. As we mentioned above, Marfa tends to be closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, so we’d suggest visiting later in the week to make sure that you can get the full experience!

Marfa and Big Bend National Park are both located very close to the US and Mexico border and far from most major cities. The closest large city to either destination is El Paso , which is 194 miles (3 hours) from Marfa and 290 miles (4.5 hours) from Big Bend National Park. But don’t let the trek scare you, it’s worth the drive! If you’re not from Texas and you want to visit, then we suggest flying into El Paso , which has a handful of major airlines and nonstop flights. After landing, you will definitely need to rent a car to get around West Texas.

We stayed in Marfa, TX the entire time and drove the 2.5 hours to Big Bend and 2.5 hours back in one day, but if you plan to do two days in Big Bend like this guide suggests, we recommend staying even closer to Big Bend for part of the trip. We’re including suggestions of where to stay under each day if you want to minimize the amount of driving each day!

Curious how we get FREE flights and hotels? Check out our list of our favorite travel cards that have saved us thousands of dollars!

This 3 day itinerary for Marfa and Big Bend features all of our favorite spots from our trip to West Texas, including the top sights to see, where to eat, the best hikes, and more! If you’re looking for more ideas, then make sure to check out our “if you have extra time” section at the end of this guide!

Day 1: Marfa

• Grab breakfast at Marfa Burrito . This is a Marfa staple and Matthew McConaughey’s favorite spot. However, it’s cash only and you need to order in Spanish, so come prepared! It’s also closed on Sundays .  
• After stuffing your face with a burrito, go to Do Your Thing Coffee or The Sentinel for some caffeine !  
• Drive out to the Prada Marfa store (30 minutes from town), which isn’t a real Prada store, but a cool fake store in the middle of nowhere with actual Prada merchandise inside (although the bags have no bottoms and the shoes are all right footed to deter thieves). This is a must-visit Instagram spot in Marfa.  
• Head back to town and visit one of the art galleries in town. A few popular options are Chinati Foundation , Ballroom Marfa , and Judd Foundation . You can find the full list of options here . If you’re not super artsy and don’t want to pay to see art, then we recommend checking out the free 15 Untitled Works in Concrete at the Chinati Foundation. We just visited this and it was pretty cool!  
• Enjoy lunch at Food Shark , which is a Mediterranean food truck that also has an old school bus you can eat in! It’s only open Wednesday-Saturday and it’s cash only.  
• Spend the rest of the day walking around the shops in downtown Marfa. Some shops that we loved were: Se Vende (a 24/7 vending machine with cool stuff), The Get Go (awesome little grocery store), the Hotel Paisano stores , Cobra Rock Boot Company , Freda , Marfa Brand Soap Factory , Raba Marfa , and Ranch Candy .  
• Visit the  Marfa Courthouse   and get 360 degree views from the top!  
• For dinner , head to Convenience West BBQ (open Friday-Sunday) or Cochineal for something a little nicer.  
• If you want drinks after dinner, then we have heard awesome things about Planet Marfa , a cool outdoor beer garden (not open in the winter).  
• For a true Marfa experience , head to Marfa Lights Viewing Area at dark to try to see the Marfa Mystery Lights ! Some people swear they have seen them, others say that they don’t exist, and there is a bit of a debate of what they actually are, but regardless it’s pretty fun to try to see them. And worst case scenario, you get to see some AMAZING stars!

Where to stay: There are so many cool places to stay in Marfa! Like El Cosmico , which has tipis, trailers, and glamping tents. But if you need more space, want a kitchen, or want a hotel experience, here are a few other options for you:

• The Hotel Paisano
• Option #1 : 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom modern condo
• Option #2 : 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom Adobe house
• Option # 3 : 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom house

Day 2: Big Bend National Park

• Head to Big Bend National Park  bright and early! It’s a 2.5 hour drive to your first stop and you’ll want to beat the crowds!  
• Hike the  Lost Mine Trail , which is a 4.8 mile RT, 1,100 ft elevation gain hike with AMAZING views! We couldn’t believe we were in Texas!  
• After the Lost Mine Trail, head over to  The Window Trail , which is a 5.6 mile RT, ~1,000 ft elevation gain hike. Make sure to  pack a lunch  to enjoy on the hike!   We didn’t get the chance to do this hike, but it’s top of the list for next time! If you’re not up for a long second hike, then you can do  The Window View Trail , which is only 0.3 miles RT.  
• For  dinner , head to Terlingua and eat at  Starlight Theatre , which is a restaurant in an old theater and has live music!

Where to stay: There are a few options for lodging in this area. If you’d like to camp , then you can camp at the Chisos Basin Campground . If you prefer a hotel , you can stay at the Chisos Mountain Lodge or La Posada Milagro (in Terlingua), but our top pick would be renting an VRBO in Terlingua, a small town about 1 hour from the park. Some good VRBO options are:

• VRBO Option #1 : A 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom unit
• VRBO Option #2 : 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom house
• VRBO Option #3 : A 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom cabin
• VRBO Option #4 : A 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom house

Day 3: Big Bend National Park

• Start the day with coffee and breakfast burritos at Espresso….Y Poco Mas .  
• Drive down the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive and stop at different viewpoints along the way!  
• The Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive leads you to your next stop: Santa Elena Canyon ! This is a 1.7 mile hike that takes you to an awesome canyon with the Rio Grande River running through it. But the coolest part is that on one side of the river is Mexico and on the other is the US! You have to cross a river to get to the trail and it can be deep depending on recent rain.  
• Grab a late lunch at DB’s Rustic Iron BBQ in Terlingua! This is a great BBQ stand (closed Mondays and Sundays) and the owner is awesome!  
• Drive back home or to wherever your adventures take you next!

• Buns and Roses (Marfa)
• Cowdog (Alpine)
• Tri La Bite (Alpine)
• Taqueria el Milagro (Terlingua)
• Cedar Coffee Supply (Alpine)
• V6 Coffee Bar (Marathon)
• McDonald Observatory –If you’re in town on a Tuesday, Friday, or Saturday and want to see the stars, head to the McDonald Observatory for their Star Parties. We unfortunately couldn’t go due to the timing of our trip, but it looks amazing!  Make sure to get tickets in advance, as they sell out often. They are also open during the daytime everyday for other activities.
• Hot Springs (Big Bend)–We wish we had time to do this, but it was a bit far from everything else.
• South Rim Trail (Big Bend)–It says that this is 17+ miles and over a 3,600 ft elevation gain, so plan to spend most of the day here!
• Emory Peak Trail (Big Bend)–This 10.5 mile RT hike takes you to the highest point in Big Bend NP!
• Go canoeing or ATVing with Far Flung Outdoor Center

Pin this West Texas road trip guide to help plan your trip to Marfa and Big Bend!

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5 thoughts on “ the ultimate west texas road trip: marfa and big bend ”.

Great guide! I am so happy I got to experience West Texas with y’all! The VBRO we stayed in in Marfa was awesome…spacious and clean! Big Bend was unbelievable and Marfa was adorable!

The VRBO was awesome! The perfect place for Kona to run around too! 🙂 So glad we got to experience it all with you!

Oops…”VRBO” ?

I’d love to see the itinerary for your one-day trip from Marfa to Big Bend. With the little amount of time we’ll have in the area, we’ll probably have to do that too…

Hi Colin! We did Lost Mine, Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive, Santa Elena Canyon, and DB’s Rustic Iron BBQ all in one day!

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Your Ultimate West Texas Road Trip Itinerary: From Marfa to Marathon and More

Note: Two of the three trips to West Texas that informed this article were during August/September 2020. West Texas is an area that is very susceptible to hospital overwhelm. It’s incredibly important to check COVID-19 case numbers and recommended travel guidelines if considering coming to the area. If unsure, we recommend you wait to see it in its fullness and keep it safe for those who live there and make this a great place to visit!

The summer I moved to Dallas from Lubbock everything was hot. Interning at the local contemporary art museum, I loved gallery opening circuits followed by a concert in the alley of Club Dada. The hottest thing you could do was go to Marfa. The line between the two crowds in the Dallas art scene was whether or not you had just been to Marfa on someone’s private jet.

The 2009 recession a few months after leaving college, and I had to widen the scope of my career prospects from the arts community to literally anyone. My two J. Crew pencil skirts and microwave lunches were not the vision I had while loading my Uhaul filled with Lubbock,Texas’, finest thrift finds to go to the big city. On a total gut feeling, during my darkest Corporate America winter, I booked a trip to Marfa as a surprise Christmas gift for Markus. No longer a scene-ster trip for me, as I was so out of touch with that scene by then, but a journey to reclaim my curiosity.

The pull Donald Judd had to this area – bringing along with him the most iconic visionaries in art to the Wild West – is legitimate. There’s something grounding about knowing you can see forever and hear a pin drop. The other-worldly landscapes unchain you reality, in the best way.

I need to go about 50 more times to get it down to a science, and I intend to, but even now I can’t recommend it enough. Right after we returned for our second venture this August, one of our best friends, James, headed down. Since then, we spend nights on our front lawn unpacking everything we dreamed about and took in on our trips. I hope you go, and I hope you get a chance to enjoy some of our favorite parts! 

Media Prerequisites:

Part of the majesty of West Texas are its legends. Here’s from our favorite fables and insights into the area to take in before you go. Here’s some of our favorite ways to prep for a trip out West or reconnect to that special feeling of being there once we’re back.

Texas Monthly BoomTown Podcast – This podcast is full of history, stories, and characters in the region. From how West Texas oil was founded, to ranchers, and larger than life personalities that make up the delicate balance of life in the oil rich Permian Basin. This will definitely get you excited about your trip. 

“People live in cubicles and are the King of their Domain. Out here you ain’t King of Shit.” Parts Unknown

Anthony Bourdain, Parts Unknown – Season 12, Episode 5 This is a great primer on the area with, of course, some great tips on what to eat. It’s also good to watch after your trip to make you reminisce of the slow days in the desert. 

Marfa Public Radio – In an era of streaming services and syndicated radio, it’s refreshing to listen to a small, local, public radio station. Their schedule is like many NPR affiliates so you can catch shows like All Things Considered and Fresh Air – and also local shows like The Honky Tonk Happy Hour and Interdimensional Music. More than half of their programming is by local DJs, and if you take the plunge to move out West you can even propose and host a new program if you’re so inclined (like Lilly did at Texas Tech when KXT was still around). If you’re in Marfa or Fort Davis they’re on your radio dial at 93.5 FM (other frequencies if you’re in Alpine, Marathon, Presidio, or Midland/Odessa). If you’re not in one of those areas, you can listen to them online via your phone – assuming you’ve got cell service wherever you are.

“In a lifetime spent in traveling, here I came upon the greatest wonder. The mantle of God touches you; it is what Beethoven reached for in music; it is panorama without beginning or end. No fire can burn so bright, no projection can duplicate the colors that dance over the desert or the bare rock formations that form the backdrop. No words can tell you, and no painter hold it. It is only to be visited and looked at with awe. It will make you breathe deeply whenever you think of it, for you will have exhaled eternity.” – Ludwig Belemans, as quoted in Bowl of Red

Frank X Tolbert’s Bowl of Red – The reason why you may know of Terlingua and its fabled chili cook-offs, which have brought the best chefs, entertainers, foodies and general rebel-rousers to the desert for decades, is thanks to this book by Frank X. Tolbert, a Dallas journalist who wrote a weekly column in The Dallas Morning News on Texas history. Originally just an idea to promote his new book on what makes the best bowl of chili con carne, the festival is now a long-standing celebration of art, music, costumes and the simple pleasure of a bowl of red. If you want to try Frank’s recipe, it’s still available at Tolbert’s Chili Parlor in Grapevine, Texas, which is run by his children, whom I had the pleasure of meeting when I moved next door to the Tolbert’s family home in 1994.

No Country for Old Men – You want the cops and robbers of the border vibe, this book is it and it’s gripping. You’ll have an extra thrill driving through Border Patrol after reading this one. I’ve heard the movie is also good.

Lonesome Dove Audiobook – They’re how the West was won, but done. If you’re ever in a phase of life when you’re down and out and feeling like you need to hatch a plan, these guys show how it’s done. Give it about 9 hours (100 pages) to break in and then you won’t be able to stop. 

The Artist’s Studio: Donald Judd – #nerdalert This is pretty dry, but a rare filming of art talk with Donald Judd, the American artist responsible for the creative takeover of Marfa. The 14:00 minute mark begins a documentation of Judd’s move to the area in 1975 and his invitation to his fellow artist friends to stay, create and work in response to this expansive environment and subsequently bring you here.

We all had songs we wanted to soak in while driving through the spacious West Texas scenery. Check out our West Texas Road Trip Playlist on Spotify – featuring all Texas born artists!

Along the Way – Where to Stop on the Road to Nowhere

James: 

Laredo Taco Company – (attached to most Stripes gas stations): I saw this on Anthony Bourdain’s far west Texas episode on the last season of his show filmed in 2018. Homemade flour tortillas rolled out and cooked right in front of you, served up HUGE breakfast tacos for way less than anything you’ll get in Dallas. I got tacos here as I left Odessa my first morning, again in Marfa, and as I left San Angelo for my drive back to Dallas. They recently opened a location on Sylvan and 30 that I need to check out. My personal fave was potato, egg, and cheese, with a whole slice of bacon added (you must ask special for this bacon option). Only get two if you’re really hungry!

Lilly: 

Perini Ranch Steak House : It’s iconic, it was late and we were starving for good food. The prime rib was seasoned to perfection but a step more in the red direction than my typical medium rare preference. I would be more than happy to try it again. 

Monohans Sandhills State Park: A sand dune trip has been on my bucket list for years now, and it’s driven me crazy that Monohans has stayed just outside of my reach for the past few years. This time we were ending our trip with a bangin’ stop at Monohans Sand Dunes State Park. It is truly breathtaking. It is sandy as hell. I love this podcast that breaks down how memory is tied to sensory experiences. My family gets really animated every time Monohans comes up, it’s such a strong memory. Because of all the sand. That we still find places. Be warned, but do it for the mems. 

Balmorhea, Texas

The Calera Chapel , or Mission Mary – I had read about in the November 2019 issue of Texas Monthly. Immediately, I knew I had to visit this tiny adobe chapel and soon. It became almost an obsession, I had to come here! Much of my trip out to far west Texas centered around seeing this chapel. Located in the ghost town of Calera, it sits alone a few miles west of Balmorhea with the Davis Mountain off in the distance. It’s bright white paint shining in the west Texas sun as a beacon calling me. I burned some palo santo, lite a candle, dropped some cash in the money box, and sat. A couple fellow visitors stopped in for pictures and a few words, but mostly I spent about an hour here alone, praying. This place was perfect for setting my intentions for my week-long journey.  

Fort Davis, Texas

Markus: 

McDonald Observatory – It’s true that the stars at night are big and bright deep in the heart of Texas. Getting out of the city and into big sky country is so awesome when thousands of stars are so clearly visible. What makes it even more awesome is going to a place specifically made for looking at the night sky, especially when there are experts there to talk about everything there is to see. McDonald Observatory is that place and their star party is one of the coolest things I’ve ever gotten to do. It’s like what I remember our field trips to the planetarium in elementary school used to be – except these are actual real stars instead of tiny dots projected onto a ceiling.

You’ll get to see the stars of course and you’ll get a view through powerful telescopes specifically set up at certain objects in the night sky.  My favorite part of the night was the constellation tour that’s about 40 minutes long. Topics include history, science, and mythology and the absolute coolest part is the green laser pointer that they use to point right up at the stars – it looks like it goes on forever, millions of light years away.  Note that the observatory is at a high elevation (about 6,300’) so it’s helpful to be adjusted to the altitude or to take it slow. They discourage using phone screens or flashes as flashlights during the event since it interferes with the experience – so bring a red flashlight ( this one’s $10 ).  

Alpine, Texas

James:  

I’ve been interested in Alpine since the main character of the film Boyhood in 2014 chose to attend Sul Ross State University. What was it about this tiny university isolated from everything? I had to find out for myself. The landscapes had me questioning if I really was in my home state. Who knew Texas had these mountains? Big skies are something I’ve heard about in songs, but I never fully understood until I made it out here. I learned that this region of the state has the darkest skies in the continental United States. The darkness was eerie at times for this city dweller, but that Milky Way cheered me up. I met so many friendly and interesting people living here from all across Texas. This was a great choice for a home base for two nights as it’s 30 minutes to each Marfa and Marathon. 

Taste & See Bakery : I had one of the best carrot cakes ever with a caramel-y cream cheese icing eaten while drinking an iced tea on a sidewalk table on a Saturday afternoon. Grab some molasses ginger cookies for the next portion of your drive. I learned from their website that they use locally sourced eggs and grind their flour not far from town. There are a lot of nice wines and prepared foods for take away which seemed very popular with the locals.  

Hike up Hancock Hill behind Sul Ross State University for the best sunset in Texas.

Gallery on the Square and Catchlight Art Gallery : These galleries are filled with everything from photography, painting, ceramics, and wood sculptures all inspired from far west Texas. Local artists, many of whom were retired expats from Austin, Dallas, and Houston filled the galleries with their art and kindness. I spent two afternoons here chatting with different locals hearing their tales and legends about all the oddities of the area. Everyone had an opinion of which routes I should take, sites to see, or trails to hike in Big Bend. My eye was caught by a specific painting of the River Road from a Dallasite turned local art professor. After driving the River Road I knew this painting had to be mine to remind me of my time out here.

The Holland Hotel : My, I love the sound of a train. The only thing that makes it better is when it’s surrounded by sounds of nothing. I loved staying at this little hotel. The building was great. The room was tidy and cozy. The earplugs on the side of the bed are for the train tracks across the street. You’ll still hear it, but you’ll sleep like a baby.

Railroad Blues Honky Tonk : This is in the Texas Monthly Texas Bucket List, making it a must-stop for me. You’ll never forget visiting this place and listening to honky tonk on a picnic bench under the stars of a West Texas sky. It’s such an iconic American feeling that people write about it, which is exactly why you came here. 

Marfa, Texas

Chinati Foundation : The stark, minimalist nature of the art may leave you to wonder if you “get it,“ when the reality is the break from forcing understanding from every observation is the experience. The art history nerd in me loves to see the site-specific works by Judd’s crew such as Flavin and Oldenburg. The coup de grace are the airport hangers of metal boxes – something easy to mock but impossible to forget thanks to how each work relates to any current offering of sunlight from the surrounding swatch of sky. The best way to summarize the experience is the tale of how a Jesuit priest, after touring the property, turned to Judd and said, “You and I are in the same business.”

Donald Judd Home Tour : I love an artist home tour. What did Donald Judd’s morning look like? How did he build a personal space that incubated the mindset and visions he brought to the world? It’s a simple tour of a beautiful and interesting space.

Wrong Marfa : The best little gallery in Texas. I especially like the Dilly bar sculptures by Camp Bosworth.

Pizza Foundation : There’s nothing like a salad, pizza and frozen blueberry lemonade after a long day in the desert. This spot has all three. 

Markus:  

Angell Expeditions : As a future Jeep owner, I get a big smile on my face whenever I see a big burly Jeep Wrangler out on the road. The huge mud tires, the wide footprint, and the open-air roof take me right back to our incredible off-road tour with Angell Expeditions. We met Charlie Angell at the Paisano Hotel in Marfa and headed out toward the Big Bend area in his Jeep. It was my first time seeing this mountainous part of the state and I could’ve sworn we weren’t in Texas anymore. The views were incredible and there were tons of times on our day trip that we could see across the Rio Grande to Mexico. It was so cool being out in the middle of the rocks and boulders on steep roads where our city cars wouldn’t make it for five feet.  If you want to take photos and video on your phone, bring a drop-rated case like this one because it’s going to be a bumpy ride in the best way!

Chinati Hot Springs : As part of our Jeep tour, we stopped at Chinati Hot Springs for a few hours. It was unbelievable to see this hot spring out in the middle of the rocky desert area all around. The main attractions are the bathhouses and the large outdoor hot tub, which are both fed by the natural springs. In an era of so much technology, it was really satisfying to realize that Mother Nature was doing the heating for us, even on a cold mid-winter day. Donald Judd was a previous owner which adds a feeling of traveling back in time. They currently don’t allow day use of the springs, so if you’re going to stop by make sure you have a reservation.  CHS is a little over two hours southwest of Marfa by car, assuming you’ve got high clearance for the journey.

Valentine, Texas

Prada Marfa: Created in 2005 by artist duo Michael Elmgreen and Ingar Dragset, the installation was intended to be a nod to how consumerism eventually gentrifies even the most untouched or forgotten spaces of our country. The piece was originally designed to have no maintenance post-installation, but rather with time, natural elements and an expected dose of naughty vandalism fade itself back into the unforgettable West Texas sunset. However, both the popularity of the piece and the early vandalism it suffered were more than expected. 

The site now seems to be our collective’s first foray into Insta-tourism, with many of us more than willing to drive to a town with a population of 132 surrounded by little else to get a peek at the unshoppable Prada storefront – and of course, a commemorative photo. Don’t worry about Prada Marfa’s state when you roll up these days though. After many debates on who should be over maintenance of the property, the site was successfully leased by local arts non-profit Ballroom Marfa Foundation and is now a designated art museum site by Texas Department of Transportation. Just…don’t jump when you take your picture, ok? 

Marathon, Texas

12 Gage Restaurant at the Gage Hotel – Everything I read about far west Texas mentioned eating at this restaurant. Started with their signature prickly pear marg and then had a locally sourced pork chop served up with a chunky peach glaze over some delicious greens. The menu changes regularly and there is tons of outdoor seating on the patio. 

Tiny Target on the drive between Alpine and Marathon: Since I was on my way to Marathon for dinner I decided to stop for the required pic, of course they were out of my favorite tobacco candles…read the reviews on Google, they are hilarious! 

Terlingua, Texas

DB’s Rustic Iron BBQ – Located on the side Hwy 170, this food truck has insanely cold Topo Chico for a late lunch after a morning of driving around and exploring Big Bend. The sliced brisket sandwich was packed with delicious smoked meat. Eating this sandwich, in this spot, on a warm afternoon in the desert should be added to every Texans’ bucket list.

Starlight Theater Restaurant – Always order a chili to-go, even if you’re staying for dinner. The famous prickly pear margs are the perfect remedy after a hot afternoon driving on the River Road. When was the last time you had grilled quail? I grew up with a father and grandpa who loved quail hunting, but it had been probably 2 decades since I’ve last eaten it. I decided that every Texan needs to eat grilled quail from time to time… and served over a giant salad topped with house-made creamy dill dressing, talk about a last supper in the desert to remember! The mix of people here adds to it’s deep charm; hipsters, geologists, bros, cowboys, and retired city-dwelling Texans on their annual trips.

Lilly:  

Porch Sitting – What if John Wayne was a lover instead of a fighter? You’d have the front porch sitters at The Terlingua Trading Company, the West’s finest outlaws and poets. So tough, so pure, it’s nothing to them to live on the edge of the world to stick it to the man. Grab one of the free range guitars and join them for wisdom, music and mayhem. 

Terlingua Trading Company – What would a gift shop in Terlingua, Texas, have to offer? I was impressed. A little set up of shops-in-shop, this little outpost had beautiful handmade gifts, silver, an incredible selection of books and quality kids section. It really reflects the spirit of the town and sends everyone home with a memorable item they’ll cherish.

Lajitas, Texas 

Maverick Ranch RV Park at Lajitas Golf Resort – If this is the RV park life, I’m a member of the club. The pool here was so fun – there is nothing like swimming in between canyons and, at one point, next to a Roadrunner. The night sky was next level. With resort privileges at Lajitas Golf Club for all Maverick RV Ranch guests, other places to park in this area didn’t compare. (If you want to know more about our RV rental with Outdoorsy – check it out!)

Lajitas Stables – In the early fall, my daughter and I took up Western riding lessons. We’ve both enjoyed the experience so much. As toasty as it was outside, we did a two hour trail ride at Lajitas Stables. This was my six-year-old’s first trail ride and she was so excited and had so many questions. She brought so much confidence to the stables, our guide had her lead with him the whole ride while they talked, riding side-by-side. The scenery of the outer rim of the park on horseback is so breathtaking. This was by far the best part of our trip.

Big Bend National Park 

Santa Elena Canyon Trail – Whenever I think of Big Bend, I think of all the incredible pictures I’ve seen of this canyon. It’s right on the border as one side of the canyon is Mexico and the other Texas. Driving up, it seems like a crack in the rock wall, but because you’ve seen those pics you can’t wait to get in there! I had been warned by a few locals that I may encounter naked Europeans swimming in the Rio Grande, but no such luck on this Tuesday morning. The water was a muddy brown as it had rained the week before, it was cold to the touch. This hike is about a mile and half, round trip, and so worth it. Once inside the canyon, it’s quiet, chilly, and magical. Bring a snack and plenty of water as there are many spots to sit and relax. If there aren’t many people, plan to stay a while and soak it all in. This was a fairly easy hike and something not to miss!

Fossil exhibit –  I will watch Jurassic Park, and all the sequels with no shame! So when I learned that Big Bend had been home to a diverse population of both sea and land dinosaurs my inner child was thrilled. This open air exhibit, open 24/7, had a couple sets of skeletons, with some you could actually touch like a T-Rex skull. A few locals told me that an expansion is supposed to be on the horizons in the next couple of years, with new dinosaurs coming!!! 

• Stop by and check out both the Panther Junction or Chisos Basin Visitor Centers for your official souvenirs. They had all the books, hoodies, tees, magnets, and postcards your tourist heart could desire. All profits from sales at these centers stay at Big Bend. Both have the nicer bathrooms!
• While the park is open 24 hours a day, Park Rangers are only able to collect entrance fees during regular business hours. It’s $30 per car for a 7 day pass. This money goes directly back into the operation and care of Big Bend, so I felt it especially important to pay the fee. 

“In a world we understood early to be characterized by venality and doubt and paralyzing ambiguities, [John Wayne] suggested another world, one which may or may not have existed ever but in any case existed no more; a place where a man could move free, could make his own code and live by it; a world in which, if a man did what he had to do, he could one day…go riding through the draw and find himself home free…there at the bend in the river, the cottonwoods shimmering in the early morning sun.” Joan Didion

Drive the River Road between Presidio and Terlingua – National Geographic calls it one of the most beautiful scenic drives in the country, and many locals told me the same when discussing my driving routes. Be sure to fill up on gas and get snacks before heading south from Marfa towards Presidio on Hwy 67 and then head east on 170 once you hit the border. After passing through the tiny town of Redford, the desert starts to rise up into mountains. Be prepared to stop at the several scenic overlooks for breathtaking views and photo opportunities. With no radio signal or cell service, take the opportunity to drive in silence, be with your thoughts, and gaze at the desert wonders. 

As you can see – there’s so much to do in the middle of nowhere! It’s hard to explain the mental shift all this space and wonder provides, but it’s undeniable, even more so the more you go back. What makes you want to check it out the most?

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The Best Of West Texas: A Road Trip From Dallas With Texas Shuttle

If you're looking for a road trip adventure through the vast and beautiful West Texas, look no further than a journey from Dallas with Texas Shuttle . This road trip will get you through a few of Lone Star State's most stunning landscapes and fascinating cities, with plenty of opportunities for adventure and exploration. Here's a guide to the best West Texas road trip stops with Texas Shuttle.

Lubbock: A Cultural Hub in the Heart of West Texas

Start your journey in Lubbock, a city known for its thriving arts and culture scene. Visit the Buddy Holly Center to learn about the life and legacy of the legendary rock 'n' roll musician, or explore the Texas Tech University campus to discover public art installations and museums dedicated to science, history, and the arts.

Amarillo: From Historic Route 66 to the Palo Duro Canyon

Next, head west to Amarillo, where you can detour along the historic Route 66 and visit the iconic Cadillac Ranch, a public art installation featuring a row of brightly painted vintage Cadillacs. Then, venture south to the Palo Duro Canyon State Park, where you can bike, hike, or ride horseback through the United States' second-largest canyon.

Marfa: A Quirky Artistic Oasis in the West Texas Desert

Continue your journey to Marfa, a small town in the West Texas desert that has become a hub for contemporary art and culture. Visit the Chinati Foundation to see large-scale art installations by Donald Judd and other artists, or take a stroll through the town's many art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants.

El Paso: A Gateway to the Mexican Border

Finally, arrive in El Paso, a city on the western edge of Texas and the border with Mexico. Explore the city's rich history and culture at the El Paso Museum of Art or the Magoffin Home State Historic Site, or take a day trip across the border to Ciudad Juarez to experience Mexican food, music, and art.

With its stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and unique attractions, a road trip through West Texas is a must-do adventure for any traveler. And with Texas Shuttle , you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride without worrying about the hassle of driving or navigating. Book your West Texas road trip with Texas Shuttle today and discover all the hidden gems this incredible region offers.

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• The Best Stops On A...

The Best Stops On A West Texas Road Trip

Traveling through West Texas you’ll feel as though you’re continuously driving through the middle of nowhere until you find a hidden gem. This, however, is the largest perk when heading out west. Here’s some of the best places to hit during a West Texas road trip.

The big texan steak ranch.

One of the prime examples of ‘everything is bigger in Texas’ is The Big Texan Steak Ranch . It’s both a restaurant and motel located in Amarillo, Texas. They focus largely on the sheer size of their food and take special pride in serving the largest, juiciest steaks. You can either watch or partake in the 72 oz. steak-dinner-in-one-hour challenge. If you can finish it within the time limit you get eat for free, and it’s been said only true cowboys can handle the challenge.

The Big Texan Steak Ranch, 7701 I-40, Amarillo, TX, USA

2. Fort Concho

Building, Museum

Fort Concho

In Midland, TX lies the historical Fort Concho . Constructed during the building of the Texas frontier and once the home of nearly 500 men, the fort closed in 1889 after the last of the soldiers left. The 23 original forts now take the proud label of National Historic Landmark and there’s even a museum showcasing the fort’s historical significance to Texas.

Fort Concho, 630 S Oakes St, San Angelo, TX, USA

3. Terlingua Ghost Town

Terlingua Ghost Town

Near Big Bend National Park sits one of Texas’ most popular ghost towns . Once a bustling mining town with a population of 2,000 people, Terlingua is now completely abandoned. You can still visit the disintegrating structures like the once agreeable hotel or the old Chisos Mining Company building. It’s both an eerie and interesting stop to make while in West Texas.

Terlingua Ghost Town, Terlingua, TX, USA

Terlingua Ghost Town © PunkToad/Flickr

Cadillac Ranch

Cadillac Ranch will only take up a small portion of your time but it’s well worth it. The destination is actually a public art installation. You can create your own art or sign your signature on the piece, take the requisite Instagram shot, and be on your way to the next adventure.

Cadillac Ranch, I-40 Frontage Rd, Amarillo, TX, USA

4. The Peasant Village Restaurant

The peasant village restaurant.

This is a great option for a more upscale food stop along the way. The Peasant Village Restaurant serves gourmet sandwiches for lunch and fine dining for dinner including racks of lamb, steak, and seafood. The restaurant is located in an old home complete with unique art pieces throughout, and the stop will make for a nice treat after a day of traveling.

The Peasant Village Restaurant, 23 S Park St, San Angelo, TX, USA

5. Gage Hotel

6. Big Bend National Park

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

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Best Road Trips From Dallas

Top road trip destinations from dallas.

Perfect long weekend road trip for foodies and music lovers, Austin is famous for its live music scene and outdoor spaces like Zilker Park. The buzzing city is also home to world-class BBQ joints to farm-to-table bistros.

Visit the historic site of the Alamo, enjoy a peaceful stroll by the River Walk and have a scenic meal by the river - there is plenty to do in San Antonio, no matter what you are looking for in a road trip!

Whether you are looking to explore the Museum District's 19 museums or learn more about space exploration at the famous Space Center, Houston is the perfect place to visit for curious minds.

If you want the perfect combination of urban fun and a great outdoor adventure, Denver will deliver. This hip city has many up-and-coming breweries, amazing museums and the majestic Rocky Mountains as its backdrop!

Explore the wild heart of Yellowstone National Park, where you will find world-famous geysers, hot springs, and fascinating wildlife. Make sure to add majestic Old Faithful and stunning Grand Prismatic Spring to your list of things to see!

The Grand Canyon is one of the most awe-inspiring places on earth, and for good reason! Here, you will find plenty of stunning vistas and hiking trails for all fitness levels, and you will even get to see an unforgettable sunset.

Las Vegas needs little introduction; from its neon-lit Strip, glamorous casinos, and amazing shows where you can watch your favorite artists perform to world-class dining, welcome to the world's entertainment capital!

The party never stops in New Orleans! Time your road trip with the legendary Mardi Gras celebrations and explore the French Quarter or plan for a quieter adventure in the Garden District admiring the beautiful architecture.

Nashville is the quintessential destination for any music lover. During your visit, make sure to spend some time at the Grand Ole Opry and the Country Music Hall of Fame and catch a gig or two during your visit to Music City.

Prepare to be amazed by some of Texas' most stunning landscapes in Big Bend National Park. Bring your hiking boots and set off on a trail or simply enjoy the scenery of Rio Grande's dramatic canyons, and enjoy star-filled nights.

Sitting on the shores of the Pacific Ocean, Los Angeles is famously home to the iconic Hollywood sign, sunny beaches, many museums and eclectic neighborhoods that make the city a melting pot of cultures and cuisines.

Welcome to the city that never sleeps! Big Apple is an amazing destination for some retail therapy, visiting world-class museums, dining at Michelin-starred restaurants and spending some time at Times Square, Central Park, and the Statue of Liberty.

There is so much to explore in Atlanta, from the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site to the expansive Georgia Aquarium and the beautiful Atlanta Botanical Garden, where you can see the Earth Goddess, pictured above.

Amarillo, the gateway to the Texas Panhandle, offers a slice of classic Americana with attractions like the Cadillac Ranch. The charming city sits on the historic Route 66 and is only a stone's throw from the majestic Palo Duro Canyon.

Waco is home to the famous Magnolia Market at the Silos, the brainchild of Joanna and Chip Gaines of HGTV's popular reality series "Fixer Upper". This charming Texan city is perfect for a day trip or a laid-back weekend getaway.

If you are looking for a beachy road trip, then San Diego is the destination to add to your list! Home to stunning shorelines, this sunny Cali city is home to San Diego Zoo and historic Old Town. Make sure to check out the popular breweries while there!

Windy City is the perfect place to head to if you are looking to do some museum-hopping. While here, don't miss the views from the Willis Tower Skydeck or the art at Millennium Park, and sample some delicious deep-dish pizza.

Looking for a magical destination? Orlando is the perfect destination for families and adventurers alike. Home to world-famous theme parks like Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Studios, Orlando offers endless fun and excitement for all ages.

Known as the "World's Luckiest Fishing Village," Destin is home to an amazing array of marine wildlife, white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. You can expect to find world-class fishing, challenging golf courses, and the freshest seafood in Destin.

Reconnect with nature at Lake Ouachita, and unwind at the healing waters of Hot Springs in Arkansas. Enjoy crystal-clear waters, secluded islands, and thermal baths for a relaxing retreat. Make sure to check out the famous Bathhouse Row.

A relatively short road trip to the shore of Gulf of Mexico will take you to Corpus Christi for a blissful beach getaway. Enjoy the soft sands of Padre Island, explore the Texas State Aquarium, and have fun with watersports if feeling adventurous!

If you are looking for a peaceful experience away from the hustle and bustle of the city, Broken Bow is nestled near Beavers Bend State Park; a paradise for fishing and even camping by the river. Nearby, you will also find restaurants by Broken Bow Lake.

Branson is a family-friendly destination known for its live music shows, beautiful Ozark Mountains scenery, and fun attractions like Silver Dollar City, an 1880s-style theme park. The area is especially stunning during spring and fall, so you might want to plan accordingly!

Possibly home to some of the most quirky attractions on our list, Tulsa is known for its rich art deco heritage and beautiful green spaces like the Gathering Place. Make sure to visit the Philbrook Museum of Art and Gilcrease Museum during your stay here.

Discovering Texas | Family Road Trips West of Dallas

After living abroad, Ireland & Scotland , I moved back to my home state, Texas, and realized that I really needed to explore my own state more. I think often on people getting the itch to get on a plane and explore the “exotic” world while overlooking their own unique backyard, their hometown, city, state or country where they live. Discovering Texas | Family Road Trips West of Dallas is Part One in a series of posts, Discovering Texas and Family Road Trips from Dallas .

In this post, I’ve listed details about our family road trip traveling West of Dallas, Texas. All posts for the Discovering Texas series will include itineraries, historical stops, offbeat roadside stops, heritage stops, museums, other stops of possible interest, and pictures. *At the time of this trip, my boys were 5, 3, and 3 yrs old.

Part One: Discovering Texas | Family Road Trips West of Dallas:

Our itinerary from dallas, tx to west texas:.

#1 Dallas to Monahans Sandhills State Park. (5 hr drive) #2 Short Stop in Merkel, TX before reaching the Monahans. (3 hr drive) #3 Merkel, TX to Monahans. (2 hr drive) Then to Odessa (1 hr drive), TX to see The World’s Largest Jackrabbit. #4 Odessa, Tx to the Museum of the Southwest in Midland, TX (25 minutes). #5 After Midland, we drove north to Amarillo and Palo Duro Canyon with a fun stop in Lubbock . Part Two: Discovering Texas | Family Road Trips from Dallas .

Walking and Sand Surfing in the Texas Desert

#1 monahans sandhills.

For our family road trip west of Dallas, we headed straight for the Monahans Sandhills . Years ago, when I first discovered the Monahans I was extremely surprised to discover a little desert aka a “TX-sized-sandbox” that is miles upon miles of beautiful sand dunes. Actually, these dunes extend about 200 miles from south of Monahans, west, and north into New Mexico. Some dunes can be up to 50 Feet Tall!!

Honestly, I was so shocked when I first saw the Monahans that I felt as if it was a mirage. This place is fun for adults and children.

Click here for a Monahans Sandhills Facility Map.

#2 Short Roadside Stop in Merkel, TX .

More information about this stop will be posted shortly.

#3 World’s Largest Jack Rabbit:

(802 North Sam Houston, Odessa, 79761) Jack Ben Rabbit is an 8-foot statue located downtown at North Sam Houston and 8th Street.

#4 Museum of the Southwest:

(1705 W Missouri Ave, Midland, TX) We spent the whole day and into the night at the Museum of the Southwest. In addition to the Mini-City Children’s Museum, we walked through the Sculpture Garden, watched a few shows at the Planetarium, and attended a late night Star Party with astronomers. More information about this museum, along with pictures, will be posted shortly.

Other Possible Roadside Stops to make from Dallas to the Monahans Sandhills:

#1 mary’s café:.

(119 Grant Ave, Strawn, TX 76475) I’ve been told that this Cafe cooks up and serves all the hallmarks of a Southern kitchen.

#2 Petroleum Museum:

(1500 W Interstate 20, Midland, TX, 79701-2041) Several exhibits dedicated to the petroleum industry and its impact on our daily lives. The Chevron Energy City is specifically geared towards children ages 6-9yrs of age. This interactive city teaches children about various forms of energy and how they can conserve energy in their everyday lives. The Petroleum museum also has a mineral gallery with over 90 global mineral specimens.

#3 American Airpower Heritage Museum:

(9600 Wright Dr) This museum houses the world’s largest collection of WWII aircraft in flying condition. The collection shown rotates regularly, showing just 20+ of the planes at a time. The rest of the planes are housed in the nearby hanger.

#4 Meteor Crater:

(3100 Meteor Crater Road, Odessa, 79761) The Odessa Meteor Crater , an interpretive center full of science fact alongside a giant hole in the ground. As a matter of fact, this is the second-largest landmark of its kind in the US. The biggest US crater is in Winslow, Arizona and is considerably larger than the Odessa Meteor Crater.

#5 Million Barrel Museum – Giant Oil Tank:

(400 Museum Blvd, Monahans, TX) A quirky but historical stop. There is a huge hole in the ground which once held a million barrels. There is also the Rattlesnake Bomber Base museum at this location, a historic 1909 house, and two decommissioned railroad cars. For snake lovers, the Bomber Base Museum was named “ for the numerous rattlesnake dens that were uncovered during construction .”

Discovering Texas | Family Road Trips West of Dallas is Part One in a series of posts. Part Two in the series, 13 Best Family-Friendly Attractions in Lubbock, Texas.

Enjoy some more wisdom:

5 thoughts on “Discovering Texas | Family Road Trips West of Dallas”

Haven’t been to texas in about 25 years! I travelled to the Houston area with my parents as a kid because my dad has a lot of extended family there. It’s such a neat state!

Texas has been on my travel bucket list for my family for ages! My kids love educational and historical trips so much so they would really enjoy some of these sites!

I’ve tried sand surfing with my family and I can definitely say that it is a good activity for all family! Texas is a great place!)

It really is a fun family activity for all. Totally agree! Thanks for the feedback!!

I just came here in texas a year ago. Been very busy at work and found my self really bore. I am starting to go to different places during my day off and explore texas but it’s way better if with accompany

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21 Amazing Road Trips From Dallas (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: February 4, 2024

If you’re searching for some awesome ideas for road trips from Dallas, here’s everything you need to know about 21 of our top recommendations!

If you’re looking to explore the landscapes and culture around Texas and the American South, road trips are the best way to do so.

You can take your time cruising through the countryside, stopping at unique locations, chatting with locals, and seeing the beauty of America with your own eyes.

If you’re staying in Dallas , there are some amazing road tip options for you.

Venture down to Texas Hill Country and see beautiful places like Dripping Springs or take on the Texas wine trail. Or continue further south and try out the San Antonio River Walk.

You can also try some longer road trips from Dallas! Head east to New Orleans and explore the French Quarter or try a ghost tour. Tour interesting museums in Oklahoma City, soak in hot springs in Arkansas, or explore canyons in New Mexico.

These road trips from Dallas will help you explore the area and have some amazing travel experiences!

Table of Contents

Caddo Lake State Park

Turner falls park, davy crockett national forest, texas hill country, san antonio, oklahoma city, hot springs, colorado bend state park, big bend national park, new orleans, carlsbad caverns national park, lake charles, palo duro canyon, corpus christi, 21 epic road trips from dallas, texas.

Whether you want to explore the wilderness in the best Texas state parks, or you want to take on a lengthy journey into a neighboring state, here are some of the best road trips from Dallas!

1-Day Road Trips

These road trips from Dallas are around 3 hours one way or less. So any of these can easily be done in a day. Of course, you can stretch them out into weekend road trips, but they are super convenient for a quick and easy day road trip.

Find more nearby attractions on our list of the best things to do in Dallas !

• Driving distance : 95 miles
• Driving time from Dallas: 1.5 hours

Drive just over an hour south of Dallas into Waco, a historic town situated along the banks of the winding Brazos River. The journey unfolds amidst endless fields of bluebonnets and rolling hills, offering a picturesque tableau of central Texas. En route, pit stops in quaint towns reveal hidden gems like roadside diners serving up classic Texas barbecue and charming antique shops.

Once you arrive in Waco check out the famous Magnolia Market, a landmark that draws visitors into a realm of artisanal shops, delectable eateries, and a vibrant marketplace.

Waco’s narrative extends beyond its popular attractions; it resonates through the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum, showcasing the state’s storied law enforcement history, and the scenic Cameron Park, inviting residents and visitors alike to explore its winding trails and picturesque landscapes along the Brazos River.

Waco, with its welcoming spirit and diverse offerings, invites exploration, making it a captivating destination in the heart of the Lone Star State.

• Driving distance : 202 miles
• Driving time from Dallas: 3 hours

You can visit the state’s capital city on a day road trip from Dallas! Austin is around 3 hours south of Dallas. You pass right through Waco on the way, so you could even combine the two into one road trip and just visit Waco on your way to Austin.

Once you arrive in Austin, there is a huge range of amazing things to do. Renowned for its live music scene, the city’s streets resonate with the vibrant sounds of blues, country, and indie rock, especially along the historic Sixth Street.

Beyond the melodies, Austin embraces a dynamic blend of technology, creativity, and natural beauty. The Colorado River winds through the city, offering outdoor enthusiasts opportunities for kayaking and paddleboarding, while the lush Zilker Park hosts festivals and outdoor concerts.

With its iconic bat colony under the Congress Avenue Bridge and a thriving cultural scene, Austin stands as a bastion of creativity and innovation in the heart of Texas. Also, be sure to check out the impressive architecture of the Texas State Capitol Building!

Check out other fun activities in the area with these day trips from Austin .

• Driving distance : 169 miles
• Driving time from Dallas: 2.5 hours

Caddo Lake State Park , located near the Louisiana border in East Texas, is one of the top state parks in the area. This park encompasses the enchanting Caddo Lake, a sprawling maze of bayous, sloughs, and giant cypress trees draped with Spanish moss. The drive here from Dallas is truly stunning.

Visitors can navigate the lake’s meandering waterways by canoe or kayak, immersing themselves in the serene beauty of towering cypress trees and vibrant water lilies.

With its tranquil atmosphere and diverse ecosystems, Caddo Lake State Park stands as a testament to the natural wonders of East Texas, inviting guests to connect with the untamed beauty of this unique and enchanting landscape.

• Driving distance : 32 miles
• Driving time from Dallas: 45 minutes

Though it’s under an hour’s drive from Dallas to Fort Worth , it’s still one of the most popular road trips from Dallas. You’ll just head west out of Dallas and enter a city rich in Western heritage and modern allure. Fort Worth has a captivating blend of cowboy spirit and urban sophistication.

Nestled in the heart of North Texas, “Cowtown” embraces its historical roots with the iconic Stockyards National Historic District, where cattle drives, rodeos, and the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo pay homage to the city’s cowboy legacy.

Beyond the rugged charm of the Stockyards, Fort Worth boasts a vibrant cultural scene, with world-class museums like the Kimbell Art Museum and the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth.

The Sundance Square downtown offers a dynamic urban experience, featuring lively restaurants, boutiques, and a bustling entertainment district. Tour the city by electric bike to get out in the fresh air and cover lots of ground!

• Driving distance : 128 miles
• Driving time from Dallas: 2 hours and 15 minutes

Another one of the most beautiful road trips from Dallas that you can complete in a day is Turner Falls State Park. Located in the Arbuckle Mountains of southern Oklahoma, this state park is a natural oasis that captivates visitors with its breathtaking beauty.

The park’s centerpiece is the stunning Turner Falls, a 77-foot cascading waterfall that plunges into a clear, natural swimming pool, creating a serene and picturesque setting. The surrounding landscape features rugged cliffs, lush greenery, and meandering hiking trails that beckon exploration.

Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy swimming in the cool waters, hiking through scenic terrain, and even exploring the historic Collings Castle perched atop the hills.

Turner Falls State Park is not just a destination for adventure seekers but also a serene retreat, offering a perfect blend of natural wonders and recreational activities amidst the tranquil beauty of the Arbuckle Mountains.

• Driving distance : 142 miles

Those looking for outdoor adventure can embark on a road trip from Dallas to Davy Crockett National Forest . As you leave the cityscape behind, the road unfolds beneath a canopy of towering pine trees, guiding you through small towns and picturesque countryside.

As you approach Davy Crockett National Forest, you’ll find a sprawling expanse of wilderness that invites exploration. The forest is home to hiking trails, serene lakes, and dense woodlands, providing a retreat into nature’s embrace.

The road trip not only promises a change in scenery but also a shift in pace, offering a tranquil escape into the natural beauty of Davy Crockett National Forest.

Weekend Road Trips

Here are some more road trips from Dallas that make an ideal weekend getaway. Ranging from 3-5 hours, these destinations are located a bit too far to drive there and back in one day.

So if you have time to spare for a weekend trip, try one of these exciting road trips from Dallas!

Need more inspiration for the Lone Star State? Here are the best things to do in Texas !

• Driving distance : 313 miles
• Driving time from Dallas: 5 hours

One of the absolute best weekend road trips from Dallas is Texas Hill Country. Characterized by its limestone hills, clear-flowing rivers, and expansive wildflower-covered meadows, Texas Hill Country is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and seekers of tranquility.

Quaint towns like Fredericksburg and Wimberley beckon with their historic charm, artisan shops, and wineries, contributing to the region’s reputation as a premier destination for wine lovers.

Aside from touring vineyards in Texas wine country, you can also have a blast exploring nature in Texas Hill Country. The Guadalupe and Frio Rivers wind through the countryside, offering opportunities for tubing and water recreation, while the iconic bluebonnets carpet the hillsides in spring.

Dripping Springs is a charming town in Hill Country celebrated for its scenic beauty, artisanal spirit, and outdoor allure. Home to the iconic Hamilton Pool Preserve, this community invites visitors to explore its natural wonders, indulge in local wineries and breweries, and savor the small-town hospitality that defines the essence of Dripping Springs.

• Driving distance : 292 miles
• Driving time from Dallas: 4 hours and 25 minutes

San Antonio is a super popular weekend getaway from Dallas. Driving south through Texas, you can stop in Waco and Austin on the way down to San Antonio.

Famous for the iconic Alamo, a symbol of Texas’ fight for independence, San Antonio is packed with cool attractions to entertain you for the weekend. The city’s downtown River Walk meanders along the San Antonio River, offering a picturesque setting for dining, shopping, and strolling.

The historic Market Square bustles with colorful shops and lively entertainment, showcasing the city’s Hispanic influences. San Antonio’s cultural tapestry is further enriched by the vibrant arts scene, culinary delights, and annual celebrations like Fiesta, making it a destination where tradition and innovation seamlessly coexist.

Natural Bridge Caverns is a nearby natural wonder home to some of the most impressive caves in the state. You can book a guided tour of this incredible location while you’re visiting San Antonio.

• Driving distance : 205 miles
• Driving time from Dallas: 3 hours and 15 minutes

Embarking on a road trip from Dallas to Oklahoma City unveils a journey through the heartland of America, weaving together diverse landscapes and a tapestry of cultural experiences. As you cross the Red River into Oklahoma, the scenery transforms into wide-open spaces and glimpses of the state’s iconic wind turbines.

En route to Oklahoma City, the landscape unfolds to showcase the resilience of Route 66, with nostalgic roadside attractions and charming diners punctuating the journey.

Arriving in the state capital, the skyline of Oklahoma City, dominated by the sleek Devon Tower, signals the transition from the open road to an urban adventure filled with history, modernity, and a warm Oklahoma welcome.

Highlights of the city include the enlightening Oklahoma City National Memorial, the lively Bricktown Historic District, and the beautiful Myriad Botanical Gardens. Or check out the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum for an insight into the history of the Wild West.

Related: Check out these great day trips from Dallas .

• Driving distance : 286 miles

Another one of the best weekend road trips from Dallas is Hot Springs, Arkansas . Nestled in the Ouachita Mountains, Hot Springs, Arkansas, is a charming city renowned for its natural thermal springs and rich spa culture.

The historic Bathhouse Row, lining Central Avenue, showcases the city’s illustrious past with elegant bathhouses that have drawn visitors seeking relaxation for over a century.

Hot Springs National Park, the oldest in the nation, preserves these thermal waters and offers scenic hiking trails through the lush mountainside. Beyond the healing waters of Hot Springs National Park, the vibrant downtown area features art galleries, boutiques, and a diverse culinary scene.

The city’s unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and therapeutic waters makes Hot Springs a timeless destination, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the soothing embrace of this Arkansas gem.

Find more fun things to do in Hot Springs, Arkansas .

• Driving distance : 239 miles
• Driving time from Dallas: 4 hours

Houston is one of the easiest road trip from Dallas to make in a weekend. It’s only 4 hours and you can stick to Highway 45 for most of the way.

When you arrive in Houston, you can easily fill a whole weekend getaway with fun attractions. Renowned for its Space Center Houston, a testament to the city’s crucial role in space exploration, and the iconic NASA astronaut training facilities, the city embodies a forward-thinking ethos.

The Museum District boasts world-class institutions like the Houston Museum of Natural Science and the Museum of Fine Arts , reflecting the city’s commitment to arts and education.

As the fourth-largest city in the United States, Houston’s skyline, dominated by the distinctive architecture of downtown, symbolizes its position as an economic powerhouse. Yet, amid the urban hustle, the city’s sprawling parks, vibrant neighborhoods, and diverse communities showcase Houston’s unique blend of progress and southern charm.

• Driving distance : 291 miles
• Driving time from Dallas: 4 hours and 45 minutes

Try a weekend getaway to the seaside with a road trip to Galveston ! The drive takes you through the expansive plains and historic towns, gradually transitioning to the coastal terrain as you approach Galveston.

Known for its rich maritime history, Galveston offers a charming blend of Victorian architecture, sun-soaked beaches, and a lively waterfront. The drive itself, winding through rural landscapes and coastal plains, offers a glimpse into the varied geography of the Lone Star State.

Once in Galveston, visitors can explore attractions like the historic Pleasure Pier , enjoy fresh seafood along the waterfront, or simply relax on the island’s sandy shores. Galveston’s unique blend of history, seaside charm, and vibrant culture make it a captivating destination for those seeking both coastal relaxation and a dose of Texan maritime heritage.

Need more ideas? Check out these 25 top things to do in Galveston !

• Driving distance : 186 miles

Embarking on a road trip from Dallas to Colorado Bend State Park unfolds as a scenic journey that transitions from the urban sprawl of Dallas to the rugged beauty of the Texas Hill Country.

As you leave the city behind, the drive meanders through picturesque landscapes, featuring rolling hills and charming small towns. Upon reaching Colorado Bend State Park, the adventure truly begins. This natural haven, situated along the Colorado River, captivates with its limestone cliffs, dense woodlands, and captivating Gorman Falls.

Hiking trails lead to hidden caves and breathtaking viewpoints, while the park’s remote location offers a serene escape into the heart of Texas wilderness.

Whether exploring the pristine Spicewood Springs, angling for fish in the river, or camping under a star-studded sky, Colorado Bend State Park presents an immersive experience that seamlessly blends the tranquility of nature with the thrill of outdoor exploration.

Longer Road Trips

If you’re willing to cover a bit more ground, there are some fun road trip ideas that let you explore more of Texas and beyond. These longer road trips from Dallas are around 5-10 hours one way. You’ll get to explore the remote regions of Texas and even venture into neighboring states like New Mexico and Louisiana.

• Driving distance : 533 miles
• Driving time from Dallas: 7 hours and 50 minutes

Embarking on the scenic drive from Dallas to Big Bend National Park is a journey that traverses the vastness of Texas, unfolding from the urban hustle to the rugged grandeur of the Chihuahuan Desert. The road trip takes you through changing landscapes, from the rolling hills and mesquite-dotted plains of West Texas to the stark beauty of the Big Bend region.

As you approach the park, the landscape transforms into a mesmerizing panorama of towering Chisos Mountains, deep canyons, and the meandering Rio Grande.

Inside Big Bend National Park, adventurers can explore a myriad of nature trails, soak in the views from the Santa Elena Canyon, and witness the breathtaking sunsets that paint the desert sky.

Encompassing a vast expanse of over 800,000 acres, Big Bend National Park is a rugged mosaic of towering mountain ranges, expansive desert landscapes, and deep canyons that carve through the terrain. The iconic Chisos Mountains, with peaks reaching over 7,800 feet, offer breathtaking vistas of the surrounding desert. You could easily spend a few days here as there is so much to do!

• Driving distance : 505 miles
• Driving time from Dallas: 7 hours and 40 minutes

One of the best road trip ideas in the American South is driving from Dallas to New Orleans . This road trip takes you south and east as you pass into the hearty state of Louisiana.

New Orleans, a city steeped in history and cultural richness, is a vibrant tapestry of music, cuisine, and architectural charm. Nestled along the banks of the Mississippi River, the city is renowned for its lively atmosphere, especially in the iconic French Quarter, where the melodies of jazz spill into the streets and the scent of Creole cuisine wafts through the air.

New Orleans’ unique Creole and Cajun influences are evident not only in its food but also in the distinctive architecture that lines the historic streets. From the lively energy of Bourbon Street to the timeless elegance of St. Charles Avenue, the city offers a diverse array of experiences.

Dive into the city’s history on a ghost tour where you can learn about the vampires and voodoo that supposedly thrives in New Orleans. Or sightsee on the water with a steamboat jazz cruise .

Whether savoring beignets at Café du Monde, immersing in the revelry of Mardi Gras, or exploring the historic Garden District, the Crescent City welcomes visitors with open arms, inviting them to be part of its lively and enduring spirit.

• Driving distance : 478 miles
• Driving time from Dallas: 7 hours and 15 minutes

The drive from Dallas to Carlsbad Caverns National Park is a scenic journey that unfolds through the expansive plains of West Texas, transitioning from open landscapes to the captivating subterranean world that lies beneath the Guadalupe Mountains. This is one of the coolest road trips from Dallas!

Carlsbad Caverns National Park, situated in the rugged mountains of southeastern New Mexico, is a natural wonder that beckons adventurers into an otherworldly realm of immense caverns and intricate rock formations.

The park’s centerpiece, the Big Room, is one of the largest cave chambers in North America, adorned with stunning stalactites and stalagmites. Descending into the depths of Carlsbad Caverns feels like entering an underground cathedral, where the silence is broken only by the echo of dripping water.

This unique location in New Mexico is easily reachable on a road trip from Dallas.

• Driving distance : 342 miles
• Driving time from Dallas: 5 hours and 25 minutes

Head southeast from Dallas on an epic road trip down to Lake Charles, Louisiana . Lake Charles is a city that harmoniously blends Southern charm with vibrant cultural influences.

Set against the backdrop of Lake Charles and the Calcasieu River, the city is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a taste of Cajun and Creole hospitality. The scenic boardwalk along the waterfront provides a picturesque setting to admire the sunset, while the Creole Nature Trail beckons with its diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife.

The city’s cultural scene thrives with Mardi Gras celebrations, live music in eclectic venues, and a culinary landscape that boasts delectable seafood and Creole delicacies. With its welcoming atmosphere and a mix of natural beauty, cultural richness, and lively entertainment, Lake Charles stands as a captivating destination in Louisiana.

Check out more fun things to do in Lake Charles !

• Driving distance : 635 miles
• Driving time from Dallas: 9 hours and 15 minutes

Embarking on a road trip to El Paso, Texas, is a journey that unfolds through vast landscapes and diverse terrains, showcasing the rugged beauty of the American Southwest. As you approach El Paso, the Franklin Mountains come into view, framing the city against a backdrop of arid grandeur.

The Sun City, as El Paso is often called, offers a unique blend of Texan and Mexican influences, evident in its rich cultural tapestry, flavorful cuisine, and vibrant local markets.

From the scenic vistas of Scenic Drive Overlook to the historic San Jacinto Plaza, El Paso invites travelers to explore its unique borderland identity, where the spirit of the Southwest and the warmth of Mexican hospitality converge in a captivating fusion.

• Driving distance : 380 miles
• Driving time from Dallas: 5 hours and 45 minutes

Another fun road trip from Dallas is heading up to Palo Duro Canyon. The drive takes you through rolling plains and small towns, up in the Texas Panhandle, gradually giving way to the striking red rock formations that define Palo Duro Canyon State Park. Known as the “Grand Canyon of Texas,” the canyon’s towering walls and vibrant hues create a breathtaking backdrop for exploration.

Upon arrival, hiking trails beckon adventurers to discover the rugged beauty of the second-largest canyon in the United States, while the iconic Lighthouse Rock formation stands as a testament to the geological wonders that await.

The road trip itself becomes a transition from the urban to the natural, promising a remarkable intersection of Texan landscapes and the captivating beauty of Palo Duro Canyon.

• Driving distance : 390 miles
• Driving time from Dallas: 5 hours and 40 minutes

Explore more of Louisiana with a road trip over to Lafayette , a city that pulsates with a vibrant blend of Cajun culture, Creole influences, and a rich musical heritage.

Known as the “Hub City,” Lafayette is a haven for those seeking the authentic flavors of Louisiana cuisine, lively Zydeco music, and warm Southern hospitality. Strolling through the historic downtown, visitors can explore a mix of eclectic shops, charming galleries, and culinary hotspots.

The city’s cultural calendar is marked by lively festivals, such as Festival International de Louisiane, celebrating the diversity of world music. Surrounded by bayous and wetlands, Lafayette serves as a gateway to the scenic beauty of the Atchafalaya Basin, offering a captivating intersection of cultural richness and natural wonders in the heart of Cajun Country.

Check out our complete guide to Lafayette, Louisiana .

• Driving distance : 411 miles
• Driving time from Dallas: 6 hours

Another one of the top road trips from Dallas is heading down to the Texas seaside. It’s only a 6-hour drive to Corpus Christi, a coastal city situated along the sparkling waters of the Gulf of Mexico. The city’s bayfront, dotted with palm trees and lined with a scenic seawall, offers a picturesque setting for outdoor activities and relaxation.

The USS Lexington, a historic aircraft carrier turned museum, stands as a testament to Corpus Christi’s naval heritage. From the Texas State Aquarium to the bustling downtown Marina Arts District, the city invites exploration. Corpus Christi is also a gateway to Padre Island National Seashore, home to miles of pristine sandy beaches and diverse coastal ecosystems.

With its blend of seaside allure, cultural attractions, and a laid-back coastal vibe, Corpus Christi beckons both water enthusiasts and those seeking a taste of Texas Gulf Coast charm.

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

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An Epic West Texas and New Mexico Road Trip Itinerary (12 Days)

April 24, 2021.

You might imagine the landscape of West Texas and Southern New Mexico to be full of endless roads and flat farmland. While that landscape is there, there are also incredible mountain ranges, boundless sand dunes, a massive cave system, and more!

The four national parks on this itinerary are some of the least visited national parks in the US, making this vacation perfect if you’re hoping to escape crowds. This epic 12 day itinerary will bring you to four national parks, five state parks and several hidden gems and tips along the way.

This Underrated USA road trip itinerary covers a visit to all of the national parks in Texas and New Mexico. Texas is home to Big Bend National Park and Guadalupe Mountains National Park, while New Mexico is home to White Sands National Park and Carlsbad Caverns.

Along the way, there are several Texas state parks and other incredible places to visit. This route includes recommendations of where to stay, the best hiking trails and what to eat along the way.

This post includes information on several hikes. If you are new to hiking, prepare by reading these beginner hiker tips . If you are looking for new hiking gear, read my recommendations in this ultimate day hike packing list .

Please make it a priority to Leave No Trace when exploring the outdoors. This includes leaving nothing behind, respecting wildlife, minimizing campfire impacts, respecting those around you, planning ahead and traveling on durable surfaces. For more details, read about the seven principles at lnt.org .

Table of Contents

Tips for a desert road trip, what to pack on a desert road trip, when to visit west texas and new mexico, start your road trip from el paso, el paso to terlingua, basecamp terlingua, tin valley retro rentals, willow house, the local chapter, where to eat dinner in terlingua, big bend mountain hiking - lost mine or window trail, big bend river hiking - santa elena canyon, hot springs trail or boquillas canyon trail, big bend desert hiking - grapevine hills trail, float on the rio grande, visit mexico from big bend, arrive in marfa, the lincoln marfa, hotel saint george, breakfast in marfa, prada marfa, lunch in marfa, art in marfa, enjoy a beer garden in marfa, dinner in marfa, see the mysterious marfa lights, davis mountains state park, lunch in fort davis, mcdonald observatory, where to stay in fort davis, fort davis historic site, monahans sandhills, day eight - hike guadalupe peak, devil’s hall and mckittrick canyon, carlsbad caverns national park, dinner in el paso, breakfast in el paso, franklin mountains state park.

• Keep your car full of gas by refilling whenever you can. Parts of this road trip are remote and you may be many miles from the next gas station.
• Bring plenty of water and food so that you are prepared if you cannot find restaurants or services when you’d like.
• This desert region can be extremely hot in the summer. Bring sunscreen and be prepared for heat.
• Download offline maps and/or bring a paper map for navigation without cell service.
• Be prepared for a time change. El Paso and all of New Mexico are in mountain time while the Guadalupe Mountains and Big Bend are in Central Time. My phone kept switching back and forth while hiking in the Guadalupe Mountains. This may be especially important for your timed entry into Carlsbad Caverns.
• If you are flying in and renting a car, be sure to book the rental car several months in advance. As of this writing, the US is experiencing a rental car shortage.

• Plenty of road trip snacks!
• A lot of water and water bottles to refill.
• Sun protection, including sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses.
• Sturdy hiking shoes and trekking poles if you prefer them for hiking.
• Paper maps. I recommend National Geographic’s ‘Trails Illustrated’ maps . There is at least one for each national park.
• A bathing suit. There are a few opportunities to swim along the way.
• Shoes you are willing to wear for crossing a river.
• Lots of layers. While you may experience high heat in the desert, the weather can change quickly in the mountains and get cold without warning.
• A sled for the sand dunes (you can rent them but it’s pricey).
• A passport, if you plan on crossing the border into Mexico.

Most of the places on this itinerary are accessible to visit year round. Consider your tolerance to high heat in the summer or possible snow in the winter as you decide when to visit.

I believe fall is the best time to visit because there is beautiful fall foliage in the Guadalupe Mountains and the weather is mild. Spring is also a great time for mild weather and for seeing wildflowers in Big Bend, but you may experience high winds in the Guadalupe Mountains.

As you can see below, Big Bend maintains a higher temperature than the Guadalupe Mountains due to its lower elevation.

Here are the average temperatures in the two Texas national parks throughout the year:

I visited Big Bend in June and it was very hot, but tolerable. I visited the Guadalupe Mountains and New Mexico in late April and had wonderful weather, however there were very high winds right before and after my trip.

Day One - El Paso to Big Bend

To begin this Texas National Park road trip, I recommend flying into El Paso, Texas and renting a car. El Paso is home to the closest major airport to all of the parks on this trip. Almost all of the major airlines in the United States fly at least one route into El Paso.

For reference if you are driving from somewhere else, El Paso is 6½ hours from Phoenix, 4 hours from Albuquerque and 9 hours from Dallas.

Before you leave El Paso, stop at a grocery store and stock up on plenty of food and water for the road. When you’re ready, begin your road trip by driving to the furthest destination and making your way backwards. The drive from El Paso to Big Bend National Park is about 5 hours. Make your way there and settle in to stay in Terlingua for the next 3 nights.

Where to Stay in Terlingua

Terlingua is located right outside of Big Bend National Park and has a number of unique accommodations for visitors. Terlingua is the perfect place for glamping, as there are incredible night skies and the peace and quiet of the desert is unmatched. These are the properties I recommend, but keep in mind that they book up quickly so you should book early if possible.

Basecamp Terlingua offers a number of different accommodation options but the one that drew me in was their clear bubbles. The clear domes are perfect for stargazing and include a comfortable bed, bathroom, fire pit and living space.

Keep in mind that the bubbles are inflatable so there are two zip-up doors as you enter. You can only have one door open at a time or it will deflate. There are walls outside of the bubble that are strategically placed giving you privacy from the other guests.

From the bubble, you’ll experience incredible views of the desert and Chisos Mountains in the distance. The best part is the star gazing outside of the clear dome on a clear night. If you want to stay here, book early. The bookings for the bubbles fill up quickly, especially on weekends. I booked my stay 11 months in advance.

Tin Valley Retro Rentals has a special place in my heart. The property offers multiple options for glamping; options include a vintage airstream with a painted toilet , a boat on land and a spinning cuddle bug raised above the ground.

White Tin Valley is located 40 minutes from the main entrance of Big Bend, it is right up against the mountains which makes for beautiful views. The property is also home to a burro named Sampson, friendly cats and pigs.

I stayed in the spinning cuddle bug and it was more comfortable than I could have imagined. There is a mattress and blankets, curtains on the windows and a charger for your phone. Next to the bug, there is a picnic table and fire pit. It’s incredible to gaze up at the night skies from this secluded place.

Some accommodations at Tin Valley have bathrooms and others do not. For the ones that don’t (like the spinning bug), there is an outhouse and outdoor shower nearby. With a 4 mile drive, guests can also use the pool and bathroom facilities at Terlingua Ranch Lodge.

Willow House is a gorgeous place to stay right outside of Big Bend. Concrete casitas face the Chisos Mountain Range with unobstructed views. The accommodation is meant to be a place where travelers connect and cook in a communal kitchen, sit around the fire and make new friends.

The Local Chapter is another beautiful accommodation comprised of yurts. This relaxing accommodation is adults only and right on the border of Big Bend National Park. The decor is absolutely stunning, which is unsurprising as these yurts were designed as a “retreat for the design-minded adventurer.”

The most iconic place to eat in Terlingua is the Starlight Theatre . This establishment is a restaurant and saloon with a lively atmosphere, live music and a large menu. They serve chili, burgers, tamales and more along with cold beer and cocktails.

It’s also worth walking around the “Terlingua Ghost Town” where you’ll find ruins of an old mining town. There is an abandoned mine shaft, a graveyard and shells of former buildings.

Depending on where you’re staying, it also might be nice to cook your own food or bring a picnic back to your accommodation to enjoy along with the expansive desert views. Cottonwood General Store has a variety of food options.

Day Two - Hike in Big Bend National Park

Visiting Big Bend is one of best things to do in West Texas. Spend the day hiking in the desert, mountains and river landscapes that make up this magical Texas National Park. Big Bend is over 800,000 acres of mountains and desert and follows a large bend in the Rio Grande River . The Rio Grande River is all that separates the US and Mexico in this region.

There are three distinct types of landscape that you can visit in Big Bend National Park. I recommend doing at least one hike in each part: the mountains, the desert and the river.

Keep in mind that everything in the park is quite spread out and there may be long driving times between each hike.

Start early to beat the heat with one of the mountain hikes, the Lost Mine Trail or the Window Trail . The Lost Mine Trail is 4.8 miles and is a steady climb up to amazing views. The trail has several switchbacks offering better and better views of the surrounding canyons.

When you reach the top, there are 360 views of the Chisos Mountains and the Sierra del Carmen in Mexico. The trail is also full of greenery with a pine forest, which is a nice contrast against the desert landscape. It is called the Lost Mine Trail for its view of the Lost Mine Peak, the second highest peak in Big Bend. There are only a few parking spots at this trail, so you’ll want to have a back up plan in case they are full.

Nearby, the Window Trail (5.2 miles) also offers beautiful views. It begins right next to the Chisos Basin Visitor Center and descends down to a window between rock faces. There is a mix of stone steps and some rock scrambling at the end.

If you do one hike in Big Bend, the Santa Elena trail is probably the most iconic. The trail is 1.5 miles with 610 feet in elevation gain. It begins with crossing the Terlingua Creek and continues with steps taking you up and back down the canyon.

At the end of the Santa Elena Trail, you’ll be only feet away from Mexico with canyon walls towering up around you. After rainfall, the Terlingua Creek can flood and be difficult to cross, so be sure to check current conditions.

The Hot Springs Trail is a 1.2 mile loop that follows the magnificent Rio Grande River. You can enjoy the views along this round trip hike, or just walk directly to the hot springs for 0.5 miles round trip.

There are 105 degree fahrenheit springs contained within the ruins of an old bathhouse. These waters are thought to be good for the body and soul. Note that if the Rio Grande floods, it can cover the hot spring in rocks, mud and debris.

The Boquillas Canyon Trail offers a great view of the Rio Grande and is located deep inside of the park. The trail is 1.4 miles and begins with a short ascend up a cliff and continues onto a sandy shore.

Boquillas is a great spot to take a dip in the Rio Grande if the water is at a good height during your visit. You’re likely to spot wild horses, colorful lizards along the way and tamales or gifts sold by local Mexicans along the way.

The Grapevine Hills Trail is an easy trail that gives you a great perspective on the desert landscape of Big Bend. It leads to a fascinating and giant balanced rock. The hike is 1.9 miles with little elevation gain and little shade. It is recommended to have 4-wheel drive to make it to the trailhead.

If you are just interested in visiting the Big Bend region, head over to my blog post on road tripping between Big Bend and Marfa .

Day Three - More Activities in Big Bend National Park

While you could easily spend days hiking in Big Bend, there are also some special excursions to check out that are unique to the region.

I recommend taking a river float trip on the Rio Grande River during your visit. Depending on where you take this trip, you can float through the tall canyon walls of Santa Elena, Colorado Canyon in Big Bend Ranch State Park or other spots. The Rio Grande has been low for many years, so there are not a lot of rapids. You may need to use a canoe instead of a raft when the water is especially low.

You have the option to bring your own float or canoe (be sure to obtain a permit) or go on a guided tour. Guided tours range from half days to multi-day trips with camping overnight. There are even guided tours lasting 3 weeks! I recommend Big Bend River Tours , the oldest river outfitter in the area for guided tours.

Another unique excursion that you should consider doing at Big Bend is crossing over to Mexico at the Boquillas border crossing . As of this writing, the border is closed due to Covid-19, but keep it in mind if you visit in the future! In order to cross the border, you’ll need a Passport or Passport Card.

To cross the river, you can pay $5 for a rowboat across the river or walk across if the water is low enough. When you arrive in Mexico, you can either walk a ½ mile or pay for a burro or vehicle ride to reach the town of Boquillas. Once in town, there are a couple of restaurants. My Airbnb host recommended Falcon’s for delicious tacos and tequila.

Other activities near Big Bend include horseback riding, Jeep tours and ATV tours.

Day Four - Travel from Big Bend to Marfa

Big bend ranch state park.

Big Bend Ranch State Park is a smaller and much less crowded park not far from Big Bend National Park. Just driving through the park makes for an incredible scenic drive right along the Rio Grande River. There are several viewpoints along the way to pull over and take in the views.

I highly recommend hiking the Closed Canyon trail, a trail that descends into a slot canyon. The trail is 1.4 miles and gets narrower as you go further inside. As you get far along the trail, you start to climb down large boulders. You can continue down the trail until it becomes impassable.

Another quick trail to stop at as you pass through the park is the Hoodoo Trail. The trail is 1.1 miles with little elevation. It includes an overlook of the Rio Grande River, views of Hoodoos, a balanced rock and plenty of desert plant life.

The drive from Big Bend Ranch to the town of Marfa is about an hour and a half. You’ll stay in Marfa for two nights.

Marfa is a small town known for its modern art and mysterious lights. The town is surrounded by the Davis Mountains to the north, the Chisos Mountains to the southeast and the Chinati Mountains to the Southwest, making it the highest incorporated city in Texas.

The small town was the film location of James Dean’s final movie, Giant, which included Elizabeth Taylor and Rock Hudson. In 1971, the minimalist artist Donald Judd moved from New York City to Marfa and built permanent installations of his art.

Today, you can visit the Chinati Foundation and see a unique collection of architecture and art. Ever since the opening of the Chinati Foundation in the 80’s, Marfa has developed an international reputation as a modern art destination. You can also visit a variety of art galleries in the town.

Where to Stay in Marfa

I stayed at El Cosmico , a destination for glamping, dutch tubs and bohemian vibes. They offer trailers, yurts, tepees, safari tents and the space to pitch your own tent. The trailers are all uniquely decorated and designed. There is one that mirrors the sky and the others range from bright yellow to silver to purple and more.

I was placed in the green and white trailer, one of the large trailers on the property. The tiny home had everything I could need, from comfortable robes, to a chemex for coffee and a soft bed. The trailer also came with an outdoor shower, which was a bit difficult to use comfortably, but still nice.

The Lincoln Marfa offers short term and long term stays in a building that used to be an apartment complex. The owners did a great job renovating the space to be well designed for guests. Each room is unique and full of Marfa-inspired details. There are a variety of room sizes available for different size groups and even options for bringing your pet.

Hotel Saint George is a luxury hotel in the heart of downtown Marfa. The original Saint George Hotel was built in 1886 and many elements from the original building have been salvaged. There are great amenities offered, like a beautiful pool and a nice restaurant.

Day Five - Spend A Day in Marfa

Keep in mind that a lot of restaurants and activities in Marfa have limited hours and are closed on weekdays and Sundays. Your best bet for experiencing the town to its fullest is to schedule your time in Marfa for a Saturday.

I recommend Marfa Burrito for a filling breakfast. The restaurant is located right across from El Cosmico and seems unassuming at first, but is truly a gem. All ingredients at Marfa Burrito are homemade: from the hand rolled tortillas to the fresh salsas.

They serve up giant burritos with your choice of egg & potato, egg & cheese, egg & chorizo and more. Keep in mind that they are typically closed on Sundays and are only open for breakfast and lunch.

For coffee in town, visit Frama. In addition to a variety of coffee options, they serve homemade ice cream and smoothies. On the porch area in front of Frama, there is a fun “Greetings from Marfa” mural that is perfect for photos!

You can’t visit Marfa without making the trip to Prada Marfa. This unique art installation is essentially a fully stocked Prada store in the middle of nowhere. It was built in 2005 by artists Elmgreen and Dragset. While you can make your own interpretation about the meaning behind this unique art piece, it is often interpreted as a criticism of consumerism.

The art piece is located 40 minutes west of Marfa and is particularly beautiful at sunrise and sunset. It’s fascinating to see this single building stand by itself, right along the road in with the vast desert behind it. You can also bring a lock to adorne on the fence behind the building.

Food Shark is a mediterranean restaurant in Marfa tha offers seating inside of a vintage school bus. Enjoy delicious hummus, falafel and more among retro fixtures and quirky places to sit. At this writing, the restaurant is only open Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at lunch time.

The Chinati Foundation is an iconic place to visit in Marfa. This contemporary art museum has a collection of artwork by famous artists such as Donald Judd, Robert Irwin and Dan Flavin. There are outdoor and indoor portions of the museum. At this writing, only the outdoor portion is open for touring.

There are several art galleries and shops to explore in Marfa. Wrong Marfa is a beautiful gallery and store that curates unique and handmade products. Other galleries include The Rule Gallery, the Martin Maria Studio and Marfa Open. Hours for most of the galleries are limited at this time due to Covid-19, so be sure to check websites for details.

Planet Marfa is a great place to enjoy a beer on an outdoor patio. The quirky space has a tepee, a tree house, a vintage school bus and more unique decor. They serve a small menu of beer, wine and a few bar food options like nachos.

For a delicious and nice bistro and wine garden, Al Campo Marfa is the perfect dinner spot. The restaurant is South American-inspired and has an extensive wine menu. Food options include a charcuterie board, tacos, queso and a beet salad.

The Marfa Lights are a mysterious phenomenon that occur out in the desert near Marfa. There is an impressive viewing area for the lights, complete with nice bathrooms, informational signs and plenty of space to spread out and bring a chair or blanket to sit on.

At around dusk, you may start to see lights in the distance. I saw them very clearly while visiting in June. They are essentially small bright lights in the distance that move across the horizon and then fade away. I am a believer that they come from the headlights of cars driving on Highway 67, but many believe they cannot be explained. See for yourself to decide.

Day Six - Davis Mountains and Nearby

Davis Mountains State Park is located 30 minutes north of Marfa and is known for a small range of desert mountains. The CCC-built park has several hiking trails, a wonderful bird watching area, horseback riding trails and a lodge with a refreshing swimming pool.

Spend the morning on the Skyline Drive Trail to ascend up to beautiful views of the Keesey Canyon. Combine this trail with the Old CCC Trail to create a 3.3 mile loop. Visit the Lookout Tower and Limpia Creek Vista for more views around the park.

Head to downtown Fort Davis for lunch and check out the Fort Davis Drug Store . This restaurant serves milkshakes, a selection of burgers, sandwiches, pizza and more, but are most known for their chicken fried steak.

The atmosphere feels as if you’ve stepped into a classic western diner with checkerboard curtains, a saloon-like exterior and an old-fashioned soda fountain. The restaurant originally opened in 1913 and moved to its current location in 1951. Grab a bite to eat and shop in the giftshop before hitting the road again.

McDonald Observatory is another wonderful place to stop near Fort Davis. The observatory is just 20 minutes from Davis Mountains State Park and is home to one of the largest optical telescopes in the world.

You can visit the observatory in the daytime and explore the exhibits and outdoor telescopes or in the evening to star gaze. Purchase admission to the nightly Star Party for live views through the telescope at night. At this writing, advance reservations are required for visiting McDonald Observatory.

The Indian Lodge in Davis Mountains State Park is a great place to stay. The white adobe building has a refreshing pool, a restaurant and 39 guest rooms of varying sizes. Make sure you book early because the rooms go quickly.

Other lodging options in Fort Davis include the Fort Davis Drug Store which offers 6 guest rooms above the classic restaurant, Davis Mountains Inn for a quaint bed and breakfast and Hotel Limpia which has been around since 1912.

Day Seven - Drive from Fort Davis to Carlsbad

One more stop worth making in Fort Davis is the Fort Davis Historic Site. The fort served as a frontier military outpost most active in the mid 1800’s. While visiting, you can learn in the visitor center, explore ruins from the fort and enjoy hiking trails. The Scenic Overlook Trail is 0.4 miles and offers an amazing view of the fort from above.

When you are finished exploring Fort Davis, make your way toward Carlsbad, New Mexico. The drive is about 3 hours. If you have enough time, consider making a detour to visit Monahans Sandhills State Park on the way.

This state park is another beautiful place to visit in West Texas! This will add about an hour to your drive. Monahans Sandhills is made up of white sand dunes. It seemingly pops up out of nowhere as you drive past the desert landscapes and oil pumps of west Texas.

The park is easy to see in an hour or two. Pack snacks and water and enjoy the views of the sand, or hike out into the dunes and try your hand at some fun photography. You can also rent sand disks from the park visitor center and enjoy sledding down the dunes. This park does not really compare in magnitude to White Sands National Park but it will give you a little taste of what’s to come.

Monahans Sandhills is a little over 2 hours from Carlsbad, which is where I recommend staying for the night. You’ll stay in Carlsbad, New Mexico for two nights and use it as a base for exploring Guadalupe Mountains National Park and Carlsbad Caverns National Park.

Carlsbad has several chain hotel options to fit any budget and offers the best lodging near Guadalupe Mountains National Park.

Wake up in Carlsbad and make your way down to the Pine Springs Visitor Center in Guadalupe Mountains National Park. It is about an hour drive between the two locations.

If you are an experienced hiker, I highly recommend the Guadalupe Peak Trail to hike to the tallest peak in Texas. The trailhead for the hike is located at the Pine Springs area of Guadalupe Mountains National Park and is 8.4 miles round trip with a 2,952 foot elevation gain. The entire hike is very steep but is highly rewarding. The top has incredible views of the surrounding area.

You can find more details on this hike in my Guadalupe Mountain blog post .

After spending the day doing this grueling hike, enjoy a relaxing evening back at your hotel in Carlsbad.

Day Nine - Devil’s Hall and Carlsbad Caverns

Start your day by heading back down to the Pine Springs Visitor Center to hike the Devil’s Hall Trail.

The Devil’s Hall Trail is 3.6 miles round trip with a 577 foot elevation gain. The first half of the hike is well maintained with a slight but steady incline.

After about a mile, you will enter into a wash where you’ll climb over a series of white boulders. After climbing through the wash, you’ll reach a natural staircase and then a natural hallway with 100 foot limestone walls. This hike is one of my favorites of the trip. It is not overly difficult and has an incredible landscape.

If you have more time in the Guadalupe Mountains, and especially if you are visiting in the fall, be sure to visit McKittrick Canyon . The fall leaves are incredible here. This area is for day use only and has a trail that goes deep into mountains (you can choose how far you’d like to go) and a very short nature loop trail right by the parking lot.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park is an incredible sight to behold. The national park is home to the largest single cave chamber in North America and you can explore it at your own pace. There are actually 119 caves at this national park, but the Big Room and Natural Entrance Trails are the most popular and the only areas you can explore without a guide.

To visit, be sure to make a reservation for your entry in advance. As you begin your self guided tour, you’ll be able to choose between entering through the natural entrance or taking the elevator. If you’re physically able, taking the natural entrance trail is a must. The trail enters the cave through a series of steep switchbacks which are equivalent to walking down the stairs in a 75-story building.

As you enter, you’ll likely see bats flying around. Further into the cave, the rock formations will become more and more interesting. The natural entrance trail is 1.25 miles of walking before it connects over to the Big Room trail. The Big Room trail is 1.25 mile loop and flat.

The room was called a “Grand Canyon with a roof over it” by comedian Will Rogers and I’d say that’s an accurate description. The room is full of giant stalagmites and stalactites, clumps of soda straw formations hanging from the ceiling, grottos with popcorn rock formations and more.

The paved trails have benches and railings throughout. Take your time and admire the beautiful formations. After a few hours on the self-guided tour, stay to watch the bats emerge from the cave entrance. The bats fly out of the entrance every night around dusk. There are seats available in the amphitheater to watch the occurrence and rangers will talk about the bats prior to the flight. This occurs from late-May to October.

Day Ten - Visit White Sands and Las Cruces

On day ten, make your way from Carlsbad to White Sands National Park. The drive to get there is 3 hours with beautiful views of Lincoln National Forest along the way.

White Sands National Park

When you arrive at White Sands there are several ways to experience the beauty of the park. Start with arriving at the visitor center, where you can see an exhibit (currently closed due to pandemic) and pick up needed items. This is the last place to fill up on water before entering the park.

Then, you can enjoy a scenic drive as you enter on Dunes Drive. The road is an 8 mile journey with stunning views. You’ll see the landscape change from sand dunes full of plant life to bright white tall dunes as far as you can see.

One of the quintessential activities in the park is sledding down the dunes. Sleds are available to purchase from the visitor center but bring your own if possible. While sledding, pick a very steep hill and use wax to pick up speed.

Another incredible way to explore the park is by hiking into the Sand Dunes. There are 5 established trails in the park with varying difficulties. One of the easiest trails is the Interdune Boardwalk trail, which is 0.4 miles long and wheelchair accessible. The hardest hike, Alkali Flat Trail , is 5 miles long with 52 feet in elevation change.

For more details on visiting White Sands, head over to my White Sands blog post .

After exploring White Sands, make your way over to Las Cruces, a historic town about an hour away. When you arrive, be sure to visit the Old Mesilla square, a beautiful park surrounded by an old church and a variety of restaurants and shops.

On the square, you can visit the Billy the Kid Gift Shop , located inside of an Old Courthouse, and shop for souvenirs. To eat and drink at the square, visit La Posta de Mesilla for delicious Mexican food with a beautiful ambience and Double Eagle for a steakhouse. Double Eagle is also a great place for a drink, it is known for being haunted!

Another great place to eat nearby is Andele . Andele is a huge restaurant and runs a very smooth curbside pickup. I tried their chile relleno and cheese enchiladas and they were delicious and full of flavor.

Not far from Old Mesilla Square, Caliche’s is the perfect place for dessert. Caliche’s has been open for 25 years and has retro vibes with neon signs. They serve a variety of options of sundaes, milkshakes, custard and more. I got the strawberry shortcake caliche and it was so creamy and delicious. It had a very long line so be sure to allow some extra time, but it’s worth the wait.

Stay for the night in Las Cruces (check out Hotel Enchanto ) or make the 45 minute drive down to El Paso for the next couple of nights.

Day Eleven - Hueco Tanks State Park

Spend the rest of your trip exploring El Paso and the surrounding area. Start with visiting Hueco Tanks State Park . Hueco Tanks is one of the most unique Texas State Parks I have visited.

It is a sacred place for the Kiowa, Mescalero Apache, Comanche, Tigua and the people of Isleta del Norte Pueblo and the park is home to many pictographs and petroglyphs. The park is home to the largest grouping of masks or face designs in North America with over 200 of them.

To visit, you must make a reservation in advance over the phone and watch a 15 minute orientation video when you arrive. There are four separate rock mountains inside of the park and only one is available for self guided exploration. The others can be visited with a ranger led tour.

For the self guided exploration of the North Mountain, only 70 people are allowed on the rock at a time. It is a popular place for rock climbing as well as hiking. Be sure to bring plenty of water and download All Trails maps if you’re hiking on the North Mountains.

I found it very easy to get lost with no unmarked trails. There are a few different areas of petroglyphs to discover on the mountain, such as the Kiva Cave on the park map. The cave is hard to find so download All Trails and ask for directions at the visitor center.

Also beware that I saw over a dozen barbary sheep while exploring the mountain, which are known to be aggressive.

Where to stay in El Paso

I recommend staying at the Indigo Hotel in El Paso for a central downtown location and great value. The hotel includes a rooftop pool and bar which are perfect for relaxing after a long day. The rooms each have a cute little succulent outside of the door and are full of cute decor and artwork.

Inside of the Indigo Hotel, Mamacitas is a great place to eat for dinner. They serve Tex-Mex and handcrafted cocktails. They also have an extensive breakfast menu.

If the Hotel Indigo isn’t your style, there is a large variety of other hotel and Airbnb options in and around El Paso depending on your budget and interests.

El Paso is known to have some of the best Mexican food in the USA based on its proximity to the Mexico border. Great places to eat for traditional Mexican food include L & J Cafe, a family-run Mexican restaurant that dates back to 1927 and Elotes Pepe Y Mas, a Mexican restaurant known for their churros.

For fine dining, visit Cafe Central. The restaurant was originally located in Ciudad Juárez, Mexico until Prohibition times when it migrated into El Paso. It has a beautiful New Orleans style courtyard and a finely crafted menu.

Day Twelve - Franklin Mountains State Park

Coffee Box is a unique and ecletic destination for breakfast and coffee in downtown El Paso. The shop is located inside of a renovated shipping container painted with a colorful mural. On top of their menu of classic coffees, they also serve fun flavors like a pistachio latte. They also have a wide selection of tea and food that includes muffins, bagels, cinnamon rolls and more.

The Franklin Mountains are a beautiful West Texas state park located entirely within the city limits of El Paso. The park offers a number of different trails of varying difficulty. You’ll need to start by checking in at the Franklin Mountains visitor center located on Tom Mays Road.

From there, you can drive deeper inside and hike to a cave, get a viewpoint of New Mexico from the Upper Sunset Loop and even go rock climbing. I enjoyed the Aztec Cave Trail , which is 1.2 miles with a 419 foot elevation gain. The trail is very steep with no shade, so be sure to bring plenty of water. At times, the rocks are loose and a bit slippery. When you reach the top, there is a large cave to explore.

In another unit of the park about 20 minutes away, you can hike the Thousand Steps trail (2.8 miles) for a great view of El Paso and the B-36 Crash trail (2.3 miles) to see plane wreckage.

If you have more time in El Paso, other popular attractions include the El Paso Museum of Art , the El Paso Mission Trail and the Centennial Museum and Chihuahuan Desert Gardens .

Enjoy your epic New Mexico and West Texas road trip and be sure to save this on Pinterest for future planning!

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Texas Travel 365

15 Best Road Trips from Dallas You Shouldn’t Miss!

January 24, 2022 //  by  Texas Travel 365 //   Leave a Comment

Texas, but especially Dallas, is a great location if you are looking to explore more of what the state (or even country) has to offer! Centrally located in the northern part of the state, there are so many cool and interesting destinations within driving distance! We have rounded up the best road trips from Dallas!

With Texas being such a large state, there are so many places within Texas to visit! Whether it’s a quick two hour trip to a new place or a more extensive drive, you can still find yourself exploring the many beautiful places Texas has to offer. From historical landmarks, to beautiful waterfalls, to the best food you can find, to amazing architecture, Texas has it all!

Since Texas is centrally located in the United States, there is a plethora of road trip destinations that are close enough to be driven, but far enough to be out of state. The United States has so much to see, and Dallas is a great jumping off point if you’re looking to drive!

Road trips are a chance to see more of the state or country, catch up on podcasts or an audiobook, and just take life a little slower! Keep reading for the road trip ideas from Dallas!

Dallas to San Antonio

The drive from Dallas to San Antonio is one of the best short road trips from Dallas. At only four hours, it makes the road trip between these two great Texan cities a must!

The Natural Bridge Caverns are about 35 minutes north of San Antonio on Interstate 35. Natural Bridge Caverns  is over two miles of caverns formed one drop of limestone filled water at a time. The first half mile of the caverns is developed for visitors, with the goals of cavern preservation and guest comfort!

About halfway between Dallas and San Antonio is Jacob’s Well Natural Area , 80 acres of wilderness to explore!

Once you arrive in San Antonio , there is no shortage of things to do, place to explore and food to eat! The River Walk is a must! Dallas to San Antonio is one of the great road trips from Dallas!

Dallas to Austin

One of the most driveable vacations from Dallas is definitely none other than Austin ! Austin has vibe all it’s own. The State Capitol is probably the biggest historical landmark, but there are more sprinkled all of the city. Known as the “Live Music Capital of the World”, you can always find a band or soloist performing at some concert hall or bar!

The drive from Dallas to Austin is only 3 hours! You could make it longer if you wanted to stop at any of the amazing places along the way. If you like flowers, you need to check out the Bluebonnet Trail. There you will find 40 miles of mapped driving trails through fields of bluebonnets, the Texas State Flower!

If you have interest in Czech culture, you must stop in West, Texas! Many immigrants settled there and their food and goods are still very prevalent today!

With so many things to do on the way to and in Austin, it is definitely one of the places near Dallas for a vacation!

Dallas to New Orleans

New Orleans is the perfect weekend getaway from Dallas! At seven hours, the distance is far enough to make an overnight trip a necessity, but we recommend turning it into a long weekend. After all, there is so much to do in the Big Easy.

New Orleans is one of the best driveable vacations from Dallas! One of the most historic cities in the United States, New Orleans is known for their jazz music on every corner and beautiful 18th century architecture. The perfect getaway for foodies, New Orleans is famous for their gumbo, po-boys, jambalaya, beignets, and so much more!

If you’re looking for more of the chilling side of New Orleans, there is rumored to be haunted hotels, cemeteries, and every other location you can imagine. There are a plethora of ghost tours that will take you to all the best spots! Additionally, there is a history of New Orleans Voodoo or Voodoo Catholicism, a religion connected to nature, spirits, and ancestors.

There is so much more to do! New Orleans is one of the most exciting road trips from Dallas!

The road trip from Dallas to Galveston is only four hours and it’s a must see! Galveston is a small island off the coast of Texas where many cruise ships dock. It’s sunny beaches and resorts make it a wonderful day trip (or even overnighter!) from Dallas!

Galveston restaurants are some of the best in East Texas! It’s location in the Gulf of Mexico provides some of the best seafood in all of Texas! If you’re there in the morning, their breakfast options are unparalleled!

Besides food, there is so much to do in Galveston ! From beautiful white sand beaches, to historical homes, ocean piers, beautiful architecture, and state parks, there is something for everyone in this short road trips from Dallas!

Lake Conroe

If you are looking for one of the prettiest lakes in Texas , you must make the trip from Dallas to Lake Conroe. Lake Conroe is one of the best places near Dallas for a vacation!

Lake Conroe is the perfect spot that has a little bit of everything. For some history, you can visit The Lone Star Monument & Flag Park where they display each of the flags used during Texas’ quest for independence. If you want to do some exploring outside, there is Lake Conroe (of course!), but there is also the Sam Houston National Forest or Moorhead’s Blueberry Farm to pick your own blueberries!

Lake Conroe has the perfect blend of city and nature! Less than three hours from Dallas, Lake Conroe is a great Texas road trip from Dallas!

Big Bend National Park

An eight hour road trip from Dallas will take you to Big Bend National Park, one of the best national parks in Texas! With hiking, camping, stargazing, and scenic drives, there is something for everyone at this Texas national park. 

Most popular for the Santa Elena Canyon, with its dramatic canyon walls scaling 1,500 feet. This beautiful canyon is accessed by a mile and half hike in.

There is a plethora of wildlife with over 70 species of mammals and an immense amount of plant life with wildflowers and cacti everywhere you look! 150 miles worth of hiking trails will take you all over this beautiful national park showing south Texas’ desert region! Dallas to Big Bend National Park is one of the best weekend road trips from Dallas.

Dripping Springs

A little over three hours from Dallas, Dripping Springs is one of the best road trip ideas from Dallas! With a small population of five-thousand people, Dripping Springs is known as “ The Gateway to Hill Country ” which is a sought after region that boasts state parks, hiking trails, waterfalls, swimming holes, as well as plenty of history, food, and drink.

Hamilton Pool Preserve is one of the most magnificent waterfall and swimming hole locations in all of Texas . The 50 foot waterfall cascades into the clear blue pool below marking one of the most picturesque locations in Dripping Springs.

You can also explore Milton Reimer’s Ranch Park, which is filled with hiking and mountain biking trails, birdwatching, and fishing. Perhaps the most unique activity is star gazing at the observatory! With high power telescopes and very little light pollution, Milton Reimer’s Ranch Park has the best view of stars, planets, and galaxies!

There are also historical sites, olive oil, and wine tasting in the region! Dripping Springs is one of the best scenic drives near Dallas!

Colorado Bend State Park

Colorado Bend State Park is one of the best state parks in Texas . A little over three hours from Dallas, this state park has everything an outdoor enthusiast could want! Colorado Bend State Park is one of the most popular Texas road trips from Dallas!

The camping at Colorado Bend State Park is one of the best places for camping in Texas ! There is camping, backpacking tent campsites, and drive-up campsites for every level of camper! You can also hike to Gorman Falls, one of the best waterfalls in Texas or swim in on of the luxurious swimming holes!

There is also hiking, fishing, caving, paddling and so much more to do! Colorado Bend State Park is one of the greatest road trips from Dallas!

Dallas to Santa Fe 

When you need a long weekend getaway, look no further than Santa Fe! Only 9 hours from Dallas, the Dallas to Santa Fe road trip should not be overlooked!

The capital of New Mexico, Santa Fe is known for its pueblo style architecture and for having a very artistic community. There are hundreds of galleries and art markets for you to explore!

The city was founded in 1610 and thankfully for us, there is a plethora of history everywhere you look! From state parks, to national monuments, to historic chapels, to museums, Santa Fe really has all aspects of history covered.

Santa Fe really is one of the best road trip ideas from Dallas! The weather is also pretty mild so anytime is a good time to go!

Texas Hill Country

About four hours from Dallas is perhaps Texas’ most sought after region: Texas Hill Country . Located in southern Texas, this region is filled with expansive green hills, fields of wildflowers and bluebonnets (the Texas state flower!), wineries, and so much more! Texas Hill Country is one of the best scenic drives near Dallas!

Dripping Springs is known as the Gateway to Texas Hill Country. There you can go to an olive oil or wine tasting, tour a historical farmstead, visit a memorial park, or check out Westcave Grotto! Venturing further into Texas Hill Country, there is so much more to see!

Cute small towns are scattered all over Texas Hill Country with each offering their own unique experience! Some towns have strong German or Czech influence thanks to the immigrants who settled there, bringing their culture, food, craftsmanship to the United States. Most places have antique shops and interesting places to stay . All places have delicious places to eat. Dallas to Texas Hill Country is a must on your list for places near Dallas for a vacation!

Hot Springs

Have you ever luxuriated in the warmth of a natural hot spring ? For old pros or if it’s your first time Comal Springs is the perfect road trip from Dallas!

About five hours from Dallas, Comal Springs is the largest springs in Texas! With seven main springs and several smaller springs located within Landa Park, these springs are the perfect weekend getaway!

The springs feed a large swimming hole where the water is cooler than the springs, but warm enough to be comfortable for a swim. Dallas to Comal Springs is one of the most fun road trip ideas from Dallas!

Mineral Wells

Less than two hours from Dallas you’ll find the town of Mineral Wells, one of the more kitschy short road trips from Dallas. The water in Mineral Wells was believed to have healing powers because people believed the lithium found in the waters could cure some mental health issues. For quickly, the town became a wellness destination with thousands of tourists flocking there in the early 20th century to be cured.

Nowadays, you can still relax in the “healing waters” but you can also hunt for fossils at the Mineral Wells Fossil Park where it’s possible to find rock and animal artifacts that are millions of years old and you can take the home!

Mineral Wells is fun, different little town to explore and makes for the perfect short road trip from Dallas!

Dallas to Turner Falls, Oklahoma

Two hours north of Dallas is Turner Falls in Oklahoma. Witnessing Oklahoma’s tallest waterfall is one of our best road trip ideas from Dallas!

At 77 feet, Turner Falls is a site to see! Although it alone is worth the two hour drive, the surrounding area is filled with hiking trails, swimming holes, caves to explore, and wildlife to see! If you get hungry, there are delicious restaurants one site at Davis Park. If you want to stay, there are cabins and camp grounds on site as well!

Bonus: on the drive back, swing by the WinStar World Casino and Resort, the largest casino in the United States! The road trip from Dallas to Turner Falls has it all!

Dallas to Carlsbad Caverns National Park, New Mexico

Hidden beneath the ground in the Chihuahuan Desert, are the Carlsbad Caverns, over 100 caves. The caves are what is left behind when sulfuric acid dissolves limestone. One of the coolest caverns in the United States, Carlsbad Caverns National Park is one of the perfect weekend road trips from Dallas!

The road trip is about seven and half hours, but the payout is incredibly worth it. These caverns are extensive and breathtaking. Unique to Carlsbad Caverns, visitors can hike in via the natural entrance or take the elevator from the visitor center to the show cave. Their limestone chamber named the Big Room is the largest cave room in North American and the thirty-first largest in the world!

Carlsbad Caverns National Park is a wonderful road trip from Dallas, perfect for a weekend getaway.

Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas

Standing as an accolade to the American Spas of the 20th century, Hot Springs National Park in Arkansas blends people’s contributions to nature with the natural wonders of the world. Hot Springs National Park is one of the great driveable vacations from Dallas!

Within the park, there are nine historic bathhouses that went through many phases of construction as their owners tried to figure out how to have a building that could withstand heat and humidity for prolonged periods of time. Now, eight bathhouses remain and they are beautiful buildings constructed with masonry and steel. Many still offer spa services!

The park offers places to explore the thermal springs, go hiking, birding, photography, and biking. Just five hours from Dallas, this is one of the coolest places near Dallas for a vacation!

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10 Scenic Texas Road Trips That Should Be On Your Bucket List

• Take a scenic 154-mile drive through rolling hills and pink granite domes in the Texas Hill Country, passing charming towns along the way.
• Travel from Dallas to Galveston for a beachy Gulf Coast road trip, exploring cultural attractions like Buffalo Bayou Park and Moody Mansion.
• Experience the peaceful and scenic 120-mile Bluewater Highway to Galveston, passing coastal bayous and fishing villages along the way.

With its sprawling deserts, hill country, pine forests, and gulf coast beaches, Texas offers some of the most scenic and diverse road trip routes in the South and the entire United States. From panoramic desert vistas to stunning mountain ranges and coastal drives to winding riverside routes, Texas offers ideal road trip terrain. Many wind through national and state parks to protect the state's natural beauty. Others travel back in time along historical routes. Travelers will traverse endless expanses of West Texas, beach towns lining the Gulf Coast, Hill Country vineyards, and more. Here are 10 scenic Texas road trips that should be on your bucket list.

Road Trip From Mineral Wells To Marble Falls

This 154-mile texas hill country drive showcases rolling hills, pink granite domes, and the brazos river.

This scenic 154-mile drive through the scenic Texas Hill Country region showcases rolling green hills, massive pink granite domes, and the clear waters of the Brazos River. Departing the town of Mineral Wells, the route winds through pastoral countryside dotted with livestock, old barns, and charming farmhouses on its way to Granbury on the shores of Lake Granbury. Stop and wander around picturesque Granbury Square, filled with shops, restaurants, and historic buildings, before continuing on to the massive granite Pink Dome Wilderness Area. These huge pink granite dome structures rising from the green landscape are a stunning geological sight. Further along, cross the Brazos River en route to Marble Falls, a lively Hill Country town known for wineries, art galleries, festivals, and many charming things visitors can do in springtime .

• Distance : 154 miles
• Time to Drive: 3 hours 32 mins
• Top Attractions: Granbury Square , Lake Marble Falls
• Most Scenic Stops: Pink Dome Wilderness Area

Related: 10 Towns In Texas Hill Country To Add To Your Bucket List

Road Trip From Dallas To Galveston

Embark on a 288-mile gulf coast road trip, with stops at buffalo bayou park and moody mansion.

This easy 4-hour drive departs the big city of Dallas for island time on the Gulf Coast. Travelers can enjoy some of the free things in Dallas before departing, like touring the Dallas Museum Of Art . Follow Interstate 45 South as it crosses through open coastal prairies blanketed in bluebonnets in spring on its way to Galveston. Make a stop in Houston to explore the historic old town area of Buffalo Bayou, which is filled with unique shops, restaurants, and colorful street art. After grabbing a tasty bite, travelers can continue with their trip down the coast to the island city of Galveston.

• Distance: 288 miles
• Time to Drive : 4 hours 39 mins
• Top Attractions: Strand District , Moody Mansion
• Most Scenic Stops: Buffalo Bayou Park , Stewart Beach

Related: Road Trip Texas: What To Know About Driving From Austin To Dallas

Bluewater Highway

The peaceful 120-mile bluewater highway to galveston passes coastal bayous and lagoons along the intracoastal waterway.

The Bluewater Highway travels alongside the Intracoastal Waterway through marshy coastal bayous on its route from Palacios to Galveston. This is a peaceful, scenic detour off the busy highways. Travelers can spot a variety of coastal birds like great blue herons, pelicans, and egrets as they pass small waterfront towns and cross over salty lagoons and coastal lakes. Stop at public fishing piers and scenic pullouts to photograph fishing boats and those graceful birds in their natural habitat. Travelers should make sure to savor fresh gulf seafood straight from the docks in fishing villages and relax at a waterfront inn before ending their trip in beachy Galveston.

• Distance: 120 miles
• Time to Drive: 2 hours 52 mins
• Top Attractions: Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge , Smith Point
• Most Scenic Stops: Big Boggy National Wildlife Refuge

Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive

This 30-mile big bend drive offers stunning views of the chisos mountains and santa elena canyon in an underrated national park.

Winding through the spectacular landscapes of Big Bend National Park, America’s most underrated National Park , this desert drive offers stunning views of the Chisos Mountains and Santa Elena Canyon. Travelers can depart the Chisos Basin, surrounded by rocky peaks and home to some of the park's best hiking trails, and watch as the craggy limestone peaks of the Chisos Mountains loom ever larger outside their window. Stop at scenic pullouts like Mule Ear Spring Overlook for panoramic views before reaching Santa Elena Canyon , a towering slit carved through sheer limestone cliffs by the Rio Grande River . At the end of the drive, take a short walk into the canyon along the Santa Elena Canyon Trail to view the massive 1,500-foot tall rock walls up close and see the emerald green Rio Grande passing through.

• Distance: 30 miles
• Time to Drive: 54 mins
• Top Attractions : Santa Elena Canyon , Chisos Mountains
• Most Scenic Stops: Mule Ear Spring Overlook

Big Bend National Park

Epic mountain and canyon scenery await on this massive 300-mile loop through the heart of remote west texas.

Big Bend National Park is seven hours from San Antonio and a six-hour drive from El Paso. Epic mountain and desert scenery await around a 300-mile drive through the heart of Big Bend National Park in far West Texas. Along the route, gaze up in awe at the steep 1,500-foot walls of Santa Elena Canyon and unique volcanic rock balance formations like Elephant Tusk and the Pinnacle. Make sure to stop and hike into oak and juniper-lined canyons like Grapevine Canyon to view its 100-foot waterfall before cooling off with a refreshing dip in the emerald waters of the Rio Grande. As the road winds on through the Chisos Mountains, admire the domed caprock peaks and the jagged reddish cliffs of the Rosillos Mountains. With stunning natural scenery around every corner, from massive canyons to forested high country, this is undoubtedly one of the most scenic drives in all of Texas.

• Distance : 336 miles
• Time to Drive: 6 hours from El Paso , 7 hours from San Antonio
• Top Attractions: Grapevine Canyon , Santa Elena Canyon
• Most Scenic Stops: Sotol Vista Overlook

Related: These Two Towns Are The Closest to Big Bend National Park

Road Trip From Austin To San Antonio

Connect austin and san antonio, two of texas’ most vibrant cities, on this 79-mile drive past the stunning hamilton pool.

Following sections of the historic El Camino Real trail used by Spanish explorers, this easy and scenic 79-mile trip connects two of Texas' most vibrant cities. Depart Austin, the funky and eclectic capital of Texas. Visitors can stop to hike the gorgeous Hamilton Pool Preserve, where they can swim in a pristine natural pool surrounded by limestone cliffs. Other highlights include strolling the charming old town square in New Braunfels and visiting historic German heritage sites like the Graf Haus.

• Distance: 79.30 miles
• Time to Drive : 1 hour 30 mins
• Top Attractions: Hamilton Pool Preserve , San Antonio River Walk
• Most Scenic Stops: Natural Bridge Caverns

Dallas-Fort Worth To Waco

Travel 113 miles from dallas to waco through rolling prairies and charming small towns like waxahachie and west.

Tracing sections of the old Chisholm Trail used by cowboys driving cattle to market, this scenic drive starts in the DFW Metroplex and passes through rolling open prairie, the Victorian architecture of Waxahachie, hills dotted with livestock, wildflowers in spring, and charming small towns. Travelers will meet all those scenic adventures on their way to Waco. Must-see stops include strolling through historic downtown Waxahachie and viewing the Depression-era murals at the Ellis County Courthouse depicting the area's history and heritage. Waco offers several things for travelers to do , including touring Magnolia Market, Chip and Joanna Gaines' home decor shop made famous by Fixer Upper, and learning about Texas history at the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum.

• Distance: 113 miles
• Time to Drive: 1 hour 16 minutes
• Top Attractions: Magnolia Market , Texas Ranger Hall of Fame
• Most Scenic Stops: Chalk Ridge Falls

San Antonio To South Padre Island

Depart historic san antonio for endless beaches and breezy south padre island on this 297-mile coastal road trip.

This scenic coastal road trip departs historic San Antonio, home to San Antonio Missions National Historical Park , for the sunny beaches and tropical breezes of South Padre Island. Stop to explore the seaside village of Rockport, known for its art galleries and fresh seafood. Further south, spend some time in Corpus Christi touring the massive USS Lexington aircraft carrier museum.

• Distance : 297 miles
• Time to Drive : 4 hours 26 mins
• Top Attractions: Padre Island National Seashore , USS Lexington
• Most Scenic Stops : Mustang Island State Park

Related: 10 Things To Buy In San Antonio If You're Visiting For The First Time

Texas Castles Road Trip

Tour texas hill country’s castle attractions like stone castle, hangar hotel, and napa valley resort on this 242-mile fairytale drive.

Travelers can get their cameras ready for this route, traveling through the Texas Hill Country and visiting unique castle attractions and German-influenced towns. Start at Round Top's storybook Stone Castle, which was built purely as an art piece by an eccentric millionaire. Further along, stop in Luckenbach to see its historic old west dance hall before reaching Fredericksburg, which is home to some of the best vineyards . Here, travelers can tour the landmark Hangar Hotel , designed to resemble an old zeppelin hangar. Next up is the Celtic-inspired Driftwood Estate Winery & Vineyards, followed by the Bavarian-styled village of Gruene, settled by German farmers.

• Distance : 242 miles
• Time to Drive: 3 hours 46 mins
• Top Attractions: Gruene Historic District
• Most Scenic Stops: Hangar Hotel Stonehenge

Road Trip From Waco To Longview

This 174-mile trip from waco to longview explores busy interstates for quintessential small-town texas charm and scenery.

Traversing sections of rural Texas countryside characterized by gently rolling hills and open fields, this under-the-radar road trip departs Waco and journeys towards Longview in East Texas pine forest country. Stops include strolling around the charming historic town squares of Athens and Henderson, taking a refreshing dip in Lake Palestine, and touring elegant historic homes and museums highlighting the region's history and cultural heritage. Visitors will also find dinosaur tracks along the way! Explore beyond the busy interstates for a relaxing sampling of quintessential small-town Texas life.

• Distance : 174 miles
• Time to Drive: 3 hours
• Top Attractions: Lake Athens , Lake Palestine
• Most Scenic Stop s: Athens Town Square

7 Epic Texas Road Trip Itinerary Ideas

There’s absolutely no better way to explore the Lone Star State than on an epic Texas road trip, and we’ve created this road trip guide to show you some of the best ones around!

From Texas’ largest cities to its open plains, from its laid-back beach towns to its wine country, there is no shortage of variety when it comes to what you can experience in Texas.

Here are the best road trips in Texas–plus a few tips to keep in mind before you go.

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Unforgettable Texas Road Trip Ideas

Austin to san antonio loop.

For first-time visitors to Texas and Lone Star State lovers alike, it’s hard to imagine a better short Texas road trip than the route between Austin and San Antonio –especially because it is so customizable!

While Austin and San Antonio are less than 2 hours apart (allegedly–traffic often has other plans), here are just a few things to you can potentially do on the way: float the river in New Braunfels , swim in Hamilton Pool in Dripping Springs, shop in San Marcos, and eat some of Texas’ best barbecue in Lockhart.

If you’d like to extend the trip, consider making a triangle between the two cities by adding a stop in Fredericksburg to enjoy some of Texas’ German history, drink local wine, and climb to the top of Enchanted Rock.

Plus, of course, there are the cities themselves: both Austin and San Antonio are home to enough fun things to do to keep you busy for weeks, from the Alamo to the Texas State Capitol and beyond.

Recommended Road Trip Length

Since the driving distances are so short for this road trip, a four or five day trip is enough to give you a nice overview of the area–but the sheer number of things to do nearby means that you could easily triple that time without getting bored!

Small Hill Country Towns + Outdoor Adventures

This Texas road trip also focuses on the general region between and around Austin and San Antonio–also known as the Texas Hill Country –but instead of focusing the trip on the area’s two large cities with a few stops along the way, this one is focused entirely on the countryside.

Starting from either Austin or San Antonio, head out into the Hill Country to explore the official Texas Wine Trail, stop by whimsical Wimberely to experience Jacob’s Well and its colorful downtown, scarf down German food in Fredericksburg , sample barbecue in Lockhart, swim in Dripping Springs, head to the LBJ Ranch, and stop by the positively tiny town of Luckenbach.

Be sure to also mix in plenty of outdoor beauty: Enchanted Rock , Pedernales Falls State Park, Natural Bridge Caverns, and Guadalupe River State Park (one of the most popular spots for floating the river ) are all accessible on this Texas road trip.

A week is long enough to have an incredibly memorable Texas Hill Country trip, though not long enough to see it all!

Texas’ portion of Route 66 is fairly short–you can drive it straight across the panhandle in about 3 hours without stopping–but it definitely makes for a classic Texas road trip!

Along Route 66, by far the biggest city you’ll pass is Amarillo, where you should definitely stop to check out the Historic Route 66 District, the American Quarter Horse Museum, and–for the very, very hungry–the 72 oz. steak challenge at the Big Texan Steak Ranch (don’t worry, they have more human-sized portions on offer too).

You’ll definitely want to swing by Cadillac Ranch as well, located just west of Amarillo, for a sight that you just don’t see everyday: 10 Cadillacs with their frontends buried in a field, spray-painted within an inch of their lives. 

Lesser-known Slug Bug Ranch (similar concept as Cadillac Ranch, but with slug bugs) is located on Route 66 as well, but on the eastern side of Amarillo.

Though it’s not technically on Route 66 itself, I also highly recommend swinging south of Amarillo to check out Palo Duro Canyon , the second-largest canyon in the USA and an unforgettable place to visit!

While you can easily drive Texas’ portion of Route 66 in a single day, we recommend spending a night or two in either Amarillo or Canyon to enjoy the nearby sights and some of the hikes in Palo Duro Canyon!

Wide Open Spaces in West Texas

West Texas is not only home to the sprawling, harsh desert landscapes that the Lone Star State is often associated with, it’s also home to both of Texas’ national parks, which can act as the backbone to a phenomenal Texas road trip.

After exploring some of the best things to do in El Paso , head to Guadalupe Mountains National Park for truly majestic landscapes (and depending on time, consider dipping across the border to visit Carlsbad Caverns National Park in New Mexico as well).

From there, head off to Big Bend National Park: don’t miss hiking Santa Elena Canyon or admiring the views from Marshall Drive!

Nearby, you’ll find the lesser-known but still phenomenal cousin of Big Bend National Park: Big Bend Ranch State Park.

Along the way, consider stopping at the ghost town of Terlingua, the artsy town of Marfa (famous for its Prada store that never opens), and the McDonald Observatory, to fully appreciate the inky black night sky of West Texas.

In order to fully appreciate both national parks as well as Big Bend Ranch State Park while still leaving time for additional sightseeing along the way, we recommend taking around a week and a half to enjoy a West Texas road trip.

Dallas Loop Road Trip

For a Texas road trip with a fantastic mix of big cities, great food, charming small towns, and even a bit of nature, consider taking a road trip beginning and ending in Dallas.

Start off your trip by enjoying the best of Dallas and Ft. Worth, including the Arboretum, Reunion Tower, and Sixth Floor Museum in Dallas, and the Stockyards in Ft. Worth.

From there, head down to Waco, where you’ll find the insanely popular Magnolia Market at the Silos, the beautiful campus of Baylor, Wooly Mammoth National Monument, and even a Dr. Pepper Museum (Texans are serious about Dr. Pepper).

Be sure to stop along the way for kolaches in West, Texas!

Depending on the time of year and amount of time you have for your road trip, other destinations to mix in include Dublin (the original home of Dr. Pepper and a town with lots of Irish influences), Grapevine (one of the best Christmas destinations in Texas), Ennis (home to some of the best bluebonnet fields in the state during the spring) and Canton (adorable and historic, plus home to one of the best flea markets in Texas ).

A quick 3-day weekend is long enough to hit a few major sights in both Dallas and Ft. Worth and briefly see Waco as well, but for the full experience covering the great small towns near Dallas, 5-7 days would be a better time frame to work with.

Gulf Coast Road Trip

If you’re looking for a beach escape in Texas, you can’t do better than road tripping the southern section of the Gulf Coast.

Starting in Corpus Christi , head down the coast to charming Mustang Island before making your way down to South Padre to enjoy one of Texas’ most beloved beach escapes.

From riding horses on the beach to visiting a sea turtle sanctuary to, of course, simply enjoying the sun and waves, you’ll find plenty to do along the way.

Be sure to stop in Port Isabel to see Texas’ second-smallest state park and climb the 19th-century lighthouse for beautiful views of the town and water, too!

This road trip can be enjoyed over a 3-day weekend, though you’ll probably want to choose between visiting either South Padre or Mustang Island if you’re short on time.

To visit both islands and stop at fun spots like Port Isabel along the way, a week is a good time frame for this road trip in Texas.

Piney Woods Road Trip

Nothing puts the diversity of Texas on display quite as obviously as starting in the enormous metropolitan area of Houston and then driving due north, where very quickly, city will give way to green forest–a far cry from the desert landscapes of West Texas or the endless fields of the Panhandle that Texas is more likely to be associated with.

East Texas, though, is a whole different ball game, from the barbecue (generally served on a bun with sauce, unlike its better-known cousin from Central Texas) to the landscape.

For your Piney Woods road trip, stop by Davy Crockett National Forest to get an idea for what the nature in East Texas has to offer before heading onto towns like Palestine (one of the homes of the Texas State Railroad), Longview, Jefferson , Marshall, and Nacogdoches.

Caddo Lake State Park, with its beautiful bayous and Spanish moss, is also a must-see stop on an East Texas road trip.

Don’t forget to leave a little time for Houston itself: the Houston Space Center alone is worth the trip!

Starting and ending in Houston, you can get a good overview of the Piney Woods area in around a week–but consider extending your Texas road trip a bit to dip down south of Houston to enjoy the beaches of the Gulf Coast a bit, too!

Tricks + Tips for Road Trips in Texas

Don’t underestimate the distance involved in taking a texas road trip..

Fun fact: when you’re in El Paso, you’re closer to San Diego than Houston!

As the second-largest state in the USA, Texas covers a positively enormous amount of land–much of it extremely empty land, especially the further west you go–and therefore taking a road trip in Texas means planning strategically based on where in the state you are.

… and definitely don’t try to cover the whole state in one trip.

Unless you have the time and inclination to drive for thousands of miles, looping around the entirety of Texas’ most famous attractions is not realistic on a single Texas road trip.

The good news is, though, that that means there’s always a reason to come back!

Stopping and Buc-ee’s and Rudy’s are important parts of any road trip in Texas.

Buc-ee’s has a bigger reputation, but Rudy’s has better breakfast tacos–in my opinion, anyway, but there are definitely those who vehemently disagree!

Either way, these iconic Texas institutions deserve to be part of any Texas road trip. 

Rudy’s is a chain of barbecue restaurants with a side of selling gas and running a small general store, and Buc-ee’s is a gigantic gas station/souvenir shop/bakery/snack station with obsessively clean bathrooms and a beaver statue out front–and with a description like that, how can you not want to see it in person?

Texans drive fast, so be prepared!

The highest posted speed limit anywhere in Texas is 85 mph (70, 75, and 80 are more common, though), but on the long stretches of the open road, let’s just say that the speed limit can often, in practice, turn into the speed minimum.

Fill up when you can, especially when headed to rural areas.

Texas isn’t exactly Australian-Outback-levels of deprived of gas stations, but especially if you’re driving through very rural areas and/or on back roads, you won’t want to stress over your gas tank getting too low.

If you’re not in a hurry, opt for the back roads once in a while.

From beautiful farms to surprising small towns, there’s a lot of beauty lurking on Texas’ smaller roads.

Don’t plan a Texas road trip entirely around the big cities.

Texas’ cities are incredible, but many of the charms of road trips in Texas lie far away from their skyscrapers and (notorious) traffic.

Small towns, state parks, and wide-open spaces are some of the best things you can see in the Lone Star State, so be sure to mix them into your Texas road trip itinerary!

5 thoughts on “7 Epic Texas Road Trip Itinerary Ideas”

WOW! I lived the first 40 years of my life and now realize I only experienced a tiny bit of the wonders! After reading your articles (and seeing the pictures!) I can’t wait to go back and experience all of it!

Thank you so much, Diane! There is truly an overwhelming amount of things to see in Texas, we may never be done exploring it all!

Excellent presentation, but you should mention the twisted sisters, after TXDOT completes the bridge rework over Mill Creek.

I live in Virginia and I visit Texas every year and I have never before had a plan as well out as these seven trips. Thanks.

Glad to hear it, Fred! Enjoy Texas 🙂

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Chief Forecaster David Tillman tracking severe storms south of Dallas

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Dallas Cowboys select Auburn DT Justin Rogers at No. 244 overall in 2024 NFL draft

After his final collegiate season, rogers appeared in the east-west shrine bowl at the star in frisco..

By SportsDay Staff

5:51 PM on Apr 27, 2024 CDT — Updated at 8:11 PM on Apr 27, 2024 CDT

The Dallas Cowboys used their final pick in the 2024 NFL draft on a defensive lineman.

Dallas selected Auburn defensive tackle Justin Rogers at No. 244 overall Saturday evening. Rogers spent his last collegiate season at Auburn after transferring from Kentucky, making an appearance in the East-West Shrine Bowl at Ford Center at The Star in Frisco.

Rogers said he talked to the Cowboys before the draft as the East-West Shrine Bowl and the NFL Scouting Combine. He added that he brings a physical approach to the middle of the defensive line.

“A person that’s going to be violent in the middle,” Rogers said. “A hard worker and a person that’s going to come in every day ready to work.”

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Rogers (6-3, 346 pounds) finished his final collegiate season with 17 total tackles, two tackles for loss and one sack. His complete college résumé includes 94 total tackles, seven tackles for loss and three sacks.

Rogers was Dallas’ fourth defensive selection in this draft, joining defensive lineman Marshawn Kneeland, linebacker Marist Liufau and defensive back Caelen Carson.

When asked how he feels displaying his talent in the trenches, Rogers made it known he’s comfortable overpowering opponents.

“I love just showing my talent against two people,” Rogers said.

Will McClay offered this assessment:

“We want to get big,’' the Cowboys vice president of player personnel said. “We want to be physical.

“Justin Rogers is a big nasty from Auburn with some length that can play that big inside nose tackle position.’'

More Day 3 coverage

— Forget free agency. Dallas Cowboys need large impact from 2023, 2024 draft classes

— Cowboys’ Marshawn Kneeland has vital opportunity to watch, learn from DeMarcus Lawrence

— What did Trey Lance have to do with Dallas Cowboys passing on RBs in 2024 NFL draft?

— The Dallas Cowboys aren’t just devaluing the RB position, they’re giving up on the run

— Cowboys 2024 undrafted free agent tracker: What talent has Dallas added after NFL draft?

— Dallas Cowboys select Auburn DT Justin Rogers at No. 244 overall in 2024 NFL draft

— 2024 NFL draft grades: Our experts evaluate Cowboys’ Day 3 choices, new rookie class

— Cowboys select Louisiana-Lafayette OT Nathan Thomas at No. 233 overall in 2024 NFL draft

— Cowboys select Southeast Missouri State’s Ryan Flournoy at No. 216 overall in NFL draft

— Dallas Cowboys select Wake Forest CB Caelen Carson at No. 174 overall in 2024 NFL draft

Find more Cowboys coverage from The Dallas Morning News here .

SportsDay Staff

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