Marfa, Texas & Big Bend

Marfa, Texas is a small desert town known for its vibrant arts scene, iconic outdoor art installations like Prada Marfa, and stunning natural beauty, including the nearby Big Bend National Park. It blends a rich cultural history with modern creativity, attracting artists and travelers alike. Despite its small size, Marfa offers a uniquely inspiring experience rooted in art, food, nature, and wonder.

Restaurants

• Marfa Burritos is an ultra casual, hole in the wall that's clearly been around for some time. Go for delicious breakfast burritos loved by travelers and the local community.

• Para Llevar serves satisfying, doughy pizzas with warm, friendly service. We stocked up on snacks for our day trip to Big Bend. Coyote Coffee brews up rich cappuccinos and flaky scones from a converted service station.

• Asters Cafe and Bakery is a local favorite, serving lemon ricotta pancakes in the morning and spicy chicken sandwiches for lunch.

• Alta Marfa wine bar showcases Texas-grown grapes, paired with tinned sardines and a relaxed, inviting atmosphere.

• Jett’s Grill, in the courtyard of Hotel Paisano, usually has live music and fits the bill for a casual meal or happy hour.

• Cochineal features a tasting menu highlighting locally sourced meats. Make a reservation for the chef's menu. Otherwise, walk ins are welcome.

• If you hear live music echoing through the night in Marfa, it’s likely coming from Planet Marfa, a lively venue that also offers tasty pizza.

Attractions & Activities

• Just outside town, Prada Marfa stands as a stark, striking art piece—an art installation nestled in the middle of the desert, perfect for capturing Instagram-worthy shots. About 10 minutes west, the Giant Marfa movie mural by John Cerney illustrates scenes from the famous film and is a popular stop for movie fans.

• The mysterious Marfa Lights are an iconic desert spectacle—ethereal orbs of light that dance across the horizon, often seen at dawn or dusk.

• Wrong Marfa is an eclectic art gallery and shop, offering quirky gifts and showcasing local artworks.

• For art enthusiasts, Ballroom Marfa is a must-visit, known for its site-specific installations amid the desert landscape.

• Rule Gallery highlights contemporary works by emerging and mid-career artists, making it a favorite for art lovers.

• For a personal peek into one of Donald Judd’s most intimate projects, the Judd Foundation offers tours of “The Block,” a residence and installation occupying a full city block.

• The Giant Marfa mural by John Cerney continues to draw visitors for its vibrant scenes from the iconic film—just a short 10-minute drive west of town.

Day Trips

• Marathon, Texas - Dine at The Gage Hotel

• Big Bend - For an easy hike, try the Santa Elena Canyon Trail. It's about 1.7 miles round trip, relatively flat, and offers stunning views of the canyon walls and Rio Grande River.

Stay

• The Saint George is a stylish boutique hotel that combines modern comfort with artistic charm, offering a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of the desert town.

Getting There

We opted to make the 8+ hour drive from Dallas on mostly open, West Texas roads. As much as I was dreading it, the drive went by faster than expected and it was interesting to see Odessa and Midland. Plus, once you get there, you'll want your car so you can explore nearby attractions, like Big Bend, and other towns, like Marathon.