11 Best West Texas Weekend Getaways and Vacation Spots

Posted on December 18, 2023 | Julie J. |

If you’re looking for destinations for a weekend getaway in West Texas or planning a vacation or road trip, you’re in for a treat. This region is home to stunning landscapes, charming towns, and plenty of outdoor activities.

Whether you want to hike in the mountains, explore small-town art galleries, or simply relax and enjoy the scenery, West Texas has something for everyone.

These West Texas weekend getaway destinations listed below also make great vacation spots if you have more than just a weekend, as well as must-see stops to include in a West Texas road trip.

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Top Weekend Getaways in West Texas In Short

One of the most popular destinations in West Texas is Big Bend National Park. This vast park covers over 800,000 acres and offers countless opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife watching.

Other outdoor destinations in the region include the Davis Mountains, the Guadalupe Mountains, and the Rio Grande River.

If you’re looking for a more urban experience, you can visit the city of El Paso, which offers a vibrant arts scene, great food, and plenty of cultural attractions.

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Big Bend National Park

If you’re looking for a weekend getaway in West Texas, Big Bend National Park is a must-visit destination. With over 800,000 acres of diverse terrain, there’s plenty to explore.

One of the park’s main attractions is the Rio Grande, which offers opportunities for rafting, kayaking, and canoeing. You can also take a dip in one of the park’s hot springs or hike one of the many trails, ranging from easy nature walks to challenging mountain climbs.

If you’re interested in wildlife, keep an eye out for the park’s many species, including black bears, mountain lions, and javelinas. And don’t forget to stargaze at night – Big Bend is one of the best places in the country for viewing the night sky.

Marfa

If you’re planning a mini-vacation in West Texas, Marfa is a must-visit destination. This small town is known for its art scene, minimalist architecture, and stunning desert landscapes.

Start your trip by checking out some of the town’s most famous art installations, including the Prada Marfa store and the Chinati Foundation. If you’re interested in contemporary art, be sure to visit the Ballroom Marfa gallery.

After exploring the art scene, take a stroll through the town’s charming streets. Stop by the Hotel Paisano, which was a filming location for the movie “Giant,” and grab a drink at the historic bar.

If you’re interested in the local history, visit the Presidio County Courthouse and the Marfa and Presidio County Museum. For a unique outdoor experience, take a guided tour of the mysterious Marfa Lights.

When it comes to dining options, Marfa has plenty to offer. Grab a burger at the Lost Horse Saloon or try the wood-fired pizza at Stellina. For a special occasion, make a reservation at the famous Cochineal restaurant.

For a unique place to stay, check out El Cosmico offering you the chance to spend the night in a tipi.

Davis Mountains State Park

Davis Mountains State Park is a beautiful outdoor destination for a West Texas weekend getaway. The park is nestled in the picturesque Davis Mountains and offers a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages.

One of the highlights of the park is the Indian Lodge, a unique hotel that was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. The lodge features adobe walls, hand-carved furniture, and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. You can also enjoy a meal at the lodge’s restaurant, which serves up delicious southwestern cuisine.

If you’re looking to explore the great outdoors, Davis Mountains State Park has plenty of hiking trails to choose from. The Skyline Drive Trail is a popular option that offers stunning views of the park and surrounding area. You can also hike to the top of Mount Livermore, the highest peak in the park, for even more breathtaking views.

For those interested in history, the park is home to the Fort Davis National Historic Site. The site was a military post during the 1800s and played an important role in protecting settlers and travelers in the area. You can explore the fort’s buildings and learn about life on the frontier during that time period.

El Paso

If you’re looking for a weekend getaway in West Texas, El Paso should be at the top of your list. This vibrant city is full of history, culture, and adventure.

Start your weekend by exploring the downtown area. Take a stroll through San Jacinto Plaza, a beautiful public park that’s home to a stunning fountain and plenty of green space. Visit the El Paso Museum of Art, which features an impressive collection of works from around the world.

For a taste of the local cuisine, head to L&J Cafe, a family-owned restaurant that’s been serving up delicious Tex-Mex dishes since 1927. Don’t miss their famous green enchiladas or their homemade margaritas.

If you’re looking for outdoor adventures, make your way to Franklin Mountains State Park. This park offers over 100 miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as rock climbing and camping opportunities.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park

If you’re planning a weekend trip or vacation in West Texas, look no further than Guadalupe Mountains National Park. This park is home to the highest peak in Texas, Guadalupe Peak, and offers a variety of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy.

One of the most popular things to do in the park is hiking. The park has over 80 miles of trails ranging from easy nature walks to strenuous hikes up steep mountains. The most famous hike is the Guadalupe Peak Trail, which takes you to the summit of Guadalupe Peak and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

In addition to hiking, the park also offers opportunities for camping, backpacking, and stargazing. The park is designated as an International Dark Sky Park, which means that it has some of the darkest skies in the country and is the perfect place to see the stars.

If you’re interested in history, be sure to visit the Frijole Ranch Museum. This museum tells the story of the people who lived in the area before it became a national park and offers a glimpse into what life was like in the early 1900s.

Terlingua

If you’re looking for a unique and quirky weekend getaway in West Texas, Terlingua is the perfect destination for you. This former mining town turned ghost town has a lot to offer visitors, from scenic drives to delicious barbecue.

One of the main attractions in Terlingua is the Terlingua Ghost Town, which is home to a number of historic buildings and ruins. Take a stroll through the town and explore the old cemetery, the Trading Post, and the Starlight Theatre. You can also visit the nearby St. Agnes Church, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

If you’re a fan of outdoor activities, Terlingua has plenty to offer. Take a scenic drive through Big Bend National Park, which is just a short distance from Terlingua. You can also go hiking, mountain biking, or horseback riding in the nearby Chisos Mountains. For a more relaxing experience, take a dip in the hot springs at nearby Big Bend Ranch State Park.

No trip to Terlingua is complete without trying some of the famous Texas barbecue. Head to DB’s Rustic Iron BBQ for some authentic Texas-style brisket, pork ribs, turkey, pulled pork, and sausage. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the Frito pie, which is made with Fritos, chili, cheese, and onions.

Odessa

Odessa offers a variety of attractions and activities that will make your West Texas trip unforgettable, it’s a great destination for families with kids.

One of the must-visit places in Odessa is the Ellen Noel Art Museum. This museum features a collection of contemporary and modern art, including works by famous artists such as Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein. The museum also hosts various exhibitions and events throughout the year.

For a fun family activity, head to the Sherwood Park Aquatic Center. This park features a wave pool, lazy river, and various water slides that will keep you entertained for hours. The park also has a snack bar and picnic area, making it a great place for a summer day out.

The Altitude Trampoline Park is also a great place to visit if you’re traveling with kids.

If you’re a fan of history, don’t miss the Historic White-Pool House. This restored Victorian farmhouse is the oldest remaining structure in Ector County and features period pieces and family heirlooms.

Balmorhea State Park

If you want to experience a natural oasis in West Texas, Balmorhea State Park is one of the best Texas summer destinations.

The park boasts a natural spring-fed pool that is recognized as one of the largest in the world, measuring approximately 1.75 acres in size. You can swim, scuba dive, or just relax under the trees at this historic park in arid West Texas.

Aside from swimming, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy at Balmorhea State Park. You can bring your snorkeling gear and swim with the fish, or take a leisurely stroll around the park’s 49.5 acres.

If you’re looking for an adventure, you can also go on a scuba diving expedition in the crystal-clear water of the world’s largest spring-fed swimming pool.

Franklin Mountains State Park

Looking for a weekend getaway in West Texas? Look no further than Franklin Mountains State Park! This park is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure, relaxation, and breathtaking views.

The park offers a variety of activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing. There are over 100 miles of trails to explore, ranging from easy to difficult, so there’s something for everyone.

If you’re looking for a more leisurely activity, take a scenic drive through the park on Transmountain Road. Stop at the various overlooks along the way for stunning views of the surrounding mountains and cityscape.

In addition to outdoor activities, Franklin Mountains State Park offers a variety of educational programs for visitors of all ages. Learn about the history of the park and the surrounding area, as well as the plants and animals that call it home.

Hueco Tanks State Park and Historic Site

Milky Way under Hueco Tanks Texas -unsplash

If you’re looking for a unique and peaceful weekend getaway, Hueco Tanks State Park and Historic Site is a must-visit destination. Located in El Paso, this 860-acre park is home to three small granite mountains that are pocked with depressions that hold rainwater, creating an oasis in the barren desert.

At Hueco Tanks, you can hike, rock climb, bird watch, study nature and history, picnic, and stargaze. The park is widely popular amongst rock climbers and boulderers, but even if you don’t climb, the crazy rock structures and beautiful landscape are worth seeing.

You can take guided and self-guided tours to explore the park and visit the interpretive center, in a historic ranch house, to learn about the park and its history.

Where to Stay in West Texas

If you’re planning a weekend getaway in West Texas, you’ll need a comfortable place to stay. Fortunately, there are plenty of options to choose from.

Luxury Lodging

For a truly luxurious experience, consider staying at one of West Texas’ high-end hotels or resorts.

One option is the Lajitas Golf Resort, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and plenty of amenities such as a spa, golf course, and fine dining options.

Alternatively, you could stay at the Gage Hotel in Marathon, which features beautifully appointed rooms and a gorgeous courtyard.

Cozy Bed and Breakfasts

If you’re looking for a more intimate and cozy experience, consider staying at a bed and breakfast.

The Holland Hotel in Alpine is a charming option, with comfortable rooms and a delicious breakfast served each morning.

Another great choice is the Eve’s Garden Bed and Breakfast in Marathon, which features beautiful gardens and a relaxing atmosphere.

Camping and Glamping Options

For those who love the great outdoors, there are plenty of camping and glamping options available in West Texas.

One popular choice is the Big Bend Ranch State Park, which offers campsites and RV hookups.

If you’re looking for something a bit more luxurious, consider glamping at the El Cosmico in Marfa, which offers unique accommodations such as teepees and yurts.

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