Marfa, Texas, may be best known for its artsy vibes and mysterious lights, but it’s also a fun, off-the-beaten-path destination for families. Whether you’re road-tripping through West Texas or planning a Marfa Texas vacation with your crew, this small desert town offers an unexpected mix of outdoor adventure, creative energy, and kid-friendly sights.
Here’s our guide to the best things to do in Marfa, TX with kids, including must-see stops like the Marfa Lights and the iconic Prada Marfa art installation.
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Things To Do in Marfa TX: Start with the Basics
Marfa isn’t your typical tourist town—it’s quirky, quiet, and full of surprises. The entire town is filled with unique shops and attractions, making it perfect for curious kids and adventure-loving parents. With wide-open spaces to explore and a laid-back vibe, it’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down and discover something new. Marfa is filled with hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
🌟 Introduction to Marfa Texas
Marfa, Texas, is a renowned small town in West Texas known for its rich history, unique ambiance, and stunning natural beauty. This tiny town, with a population of barely 2,000 residents, has become a popular destination for travelers and art lovers alike. Located in the heart of West Texas, Marfa is surrounded by the beautiful Davis Mountains and is close to Big Bend National Park, making it an ideal base for outdoor enthusiasts. The town’s art scene, which includes the famous Chinati Foundation, a contemporary art museum, and the Judd Foundation, is a major draw for visitors. Whether you’re interested in art, nature, or simply experiencing the unique Marfa spirit, this West Texas town has something for everyone.
🚗 Getting to Marfa
Getting to Marfa, Texas, is relatively easy, despite its remote location in West Texas. The nearest major cities are El Paso and Austin, with the driving distance from Austin to Marfa being approximately 6.3 hours. Once you arrive in Marfa, you can easily get around the town on foot or by bike, or rent a car to explore the surrounding area, including Davis Mountains State Park and Big Bend National Park. With its easy access and stunning natural beauty, Marfa is a must-visit destination for anyone roadtripping in West Texas. Highland Ave is a notable street in Marfa, home to several key attractions such as Hotel Saint George and the Judd Foundation.
👟 1. Catch the Mysterious Marfa Lights
What to see in Marfa? The mysterious Marfa Lights top the list. No visit to Marfa is complete without trying to spot the town’s most famous phenomenon: the Marfa Lights. These mysterious glowing orbs appear on clear nights near the Chinati Mountains and have puzzled people for generations. Visitors can also enjoy stargazing at the Rebecca Gale Telescope Park at the McDonald Observatory.
Tips for Visiting with Kids:
- Head to the Marfa Lights Viewing Area, about 9 miles east of town on Highway 90.
- Bring snacks, lawn chairs, and maybe a telescope or binoculars.
- Make it fun by letting the kids come up with their own wild theories about what the lights really are—aliens? Ghosts? Just headlights?
👜 2. Visit the Iconic Prada Marfa
Marfa things to do always include a drive to Prada Marfa. This Insta-famous art installation looks like a high-end boutique dropped in the middle of the desert. Created by artists Elmgreen and Dragset, it is technically located in Valentine, TX, about 35 minutes west of Marfa, and it’s still a must-see on any Marfa Texas vacation.
The area around Prada Marfa is also known for its connection to the classic film ‘Giant,’ which starred Elizabeth Taylor, James Dean, and Rock Hudson. This film, shot in West Texas, adds a layer of cultural significance to the location, attracting visitors interested in both art and cinema history.
Kids love the unexpected nature of it—it’s a Prada store that you can’t go into and nothing is for sale!
Kid Tip: Pack some dress-up accessories and have a silly photo shoot in front of the store. It makes for great vacation memories!
🎨 3. Explore Art (Even if You’re Not “Art People”)
Marfa is a modern art hub, thanks in large part to artist Donald Judd. But even if your kids aren’t into galleries, there are plenty of ways to make it fun.
- Chinati Foundation: Large-scale art installations and open spaces to run around.
- Marfa Contemporary and other small galleries: Pop in for quick, low-pressure visits.
- Murals and public art: Keep an eye out for colorful walls and sculptures around town.
- Ballroom Marfa: A key cultural hub showcasing contemporary art and supporting various artistic disciplines through free exhibitions and public programs.
- Raba Marfa: A must-visit shop for unique items from local artists, perfect for finding one-of-a-kind souvenirs.
Turn it into a scavenger hunt and challenge your kids to spot shapes, colors, or themes.!
🖼️ 4. Discover Local Shops and Galleries
Marfa, Texas, is a treasure trove of unique shops and galleries, showcasing the town’s vibrant art scene. Visitors can explore the various art galleries, including the Chinati Foundation, which features a carefully curated selection of contemporary art.
The town is also home to a range of local shops, including the famous Marfa Store, which offers a wide range of gifts, souvenirs, and local products. Other notable shops include the Prada Marfa store, a permanent art installation located just outside the town, and the various galleries and studios showcasing the work of local and international artists. Whether you’re looking for unique gifts, souvenirs, or simply wanting to experience the town’s art scene, Marfa’s local shops and galleries have something for everyone.
🚂 5. Stop by the Marfa Visitor Center & Railroad Depot
The visitor centers like the Marfa Visitor Center and Railroad Depot are essential stops for detailed information and enhancing the visitor experience. Located in the heart of downtown Marfa, the visitor center offers a wealth of information on the town’s history, art scene, and outdoor activities. Visitors can pick up maps, brochures, and guides to help them navigate the town and its surroundings, including Big Bend National Park and Davis Mountains State Park.
The Railroad Depot, which dates back to the early 20th century, is also home to a range of shops and galleries, including the Marfa and Presidio County Museum. With its rich history and convenient location, the Marfa Visitor Center and Railroad Depot is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Marfa.
Bonus: Ask about family-friendly events, pop-up markets, or star parties happening during your stay.
🌌 6. Stargazing & Desert Nights
One of the most peaceful Marfa Texas things to do with kids is simply watching the stars. Marfa, Texas, is renowned for its stunning night sky, with some of the darkest skies in the continental United States.
Visitors can experience the magic of the desert nights by stargazing at the Marfa Observatory or attending one of the many star parties hosted by the McDonald Observatory. The town’s unique location, far from any major cities, makes it an ideal spot for stargazing, with the Milky Way visible on clear nights. Whether you’re an astronomy enthusiast or simply looking to experience the beauty of the night sky, Marfa’s desert nights are a must-see. Nearby Fort Davis, a national historic site, offers additional opportunities for stargazing and exploring historical structures.
Tips:
- Head out of town just a bit for the darkest skies.
- Download a stargazing app like SkyView or Night Sky to identify constellations together.
- Bring hot cocoa and make it a night-time picnic.
🏞️ 7. Outdoor Activities for the Adventurous
Marfa, Texas, and its surroundings offer a range of outdoor activities for the adventurous, including hiking, biking, and camping. Big Bend National Park, located just outside the town, offers endless ways to explore the beautiful desert landscape, including scenic drives, hiking trails, and camping sites. Davis Mountains State Park, located nearby, also offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
Visitors can also explore the town’s unique landscape by taking a guided tour or renting a bike to ride through the desert. With its stunning natural beauty and range of outdoor activities, Marfa is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The front desk at local establishments can provide valuable information and assistance for planning outdoor activities.
🎉 8. Experience Marfa’s Events and Festivals
Marfa, Texas, is a town that loves to celebrate, with a wide range of events and festivals throughout the year. The Marfa Film Festival showcases independent films from around the world, while the Marfa Music Festival features live performances by local and international musicians. The town also hosts a number of art-related events, including the Chinati Foundation’s annual Open House, which offers self-guided tours of the foundation’s contemporary art museum and permanent art installation.
Visitors can also experience the town’s vibrant art scene by attending one of the many gallery openings or exhibitions, featuring works by artists such as Elmgreen & Dragset, who created the famous Prada Marfa installation. For a truly unique experience, visit Marfa during the Marfa Lights Festival, which celebrates the town’s famous mysterious glowing orbs. With its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty, Marfa is the perfect destination for anyone looking to experience the best of West Texas.
🍦 9. Dining in Marfa
Marfa, Texas, is a great destination for families, with a range of kid-friendly restaurants and activities. The Get Go is a popular spot for families, its a grocery store with some great options. Cochineal is another great option, offering a range of interesting options such as wild board, quail, and mushrooms. For a sweet treat, head to Bitter Sugar, which serves up coffee and baked goods. Most spots are casual and welcoming to families, with outdoor seating and room to roam.
After lunch, take a stroll through Downtown Marfa, which features a range of local shops and art galleries, including the Hotel Saint George and the Presidio County Courthouse. For outdoor activities, visit Davis Mountains State Park, which offers hiking, biking, and scenic drives, or explore the Big Bend National Park, which features stunning natural beauty and a range of outdoor activities. With its relaxed atmosphere and stunning natural beauty, Marfa is the perfect destination for a family vacation.
🛏 Where to Stay in Marfa with Kids
Accommodations in Marfa range from funky trailers to family-friendly rentals:
- El Cosmico: Stay in a vintage trailer, teepee, or yurt. Kids will love the novelty.
- Thunderbird Hotel: Stylish but low-key.
- Vacation rentals: Plenty of houses and casitas to rent for more space.
- Hotel Paisano: Notable for its historical significance related to the film ‘Giant,’ where several cast members stayed during its filming in 1955. The hotel lobby features photos and memorabilia from the film, and it offers a nice atmosphere with a bar, restaurant, and a collection of shops inside.
- Hotel Saint George: Known for its dog-friendly policies, historic significance, and vibrant dining atmosphere. The hotel features amenities that make it a preferred spot for visitors, including its bar and restaurant, LaVenture, which is recommended for cocktails and a unique ambiance.
A travel guide can be helpful in finding the best accommodations and planning activities in Marfa.
🚗 Make It a West Texas Road Trip
Visiting Marfa is a great addition to a West Texas road trip itinerary. A scenic drive through the region is an enjoyable way to experience the natural beauty of the surrounding areas. Consider pairing it with visits to:
- Big Bend National Park (2 hours south)
- Fort Davis and the McDonald Observatory (1 hour north)
- Balmorhea State Park (swim in a desert spring!)
- Guadalupe Mountain National Park & Carlsbad Caverns National Park (2 hours north)
Final Thoughts on a Marfa Texas Visit with Kids
While Marfa might not scream “family vacation” at first glance, it’s full of creativity, mystery, and wide-open possibilities. Whether you’re chasing the Marfa Lights, taking silly selfies at Prada Marfa, or lying under the stars, it’s a place that has been visited by a diverse range of people, including artists, celebrities, and weekend travelers, where kids can let their imaginations run wild—and so can you.
So pack your sense of wonder, load up the car, and discover the joy of a family trip that’s just a little…weird (in the best way). A travel guide can provide essential tips and recommendations for making the most of a visit to Marfa.
