MARFA, TX
Famous for simply not being famous, Marfa’s slogan of ‘Tough to get to. Tougher to explain. But once you get here, you get it.’ could not be more true.
A city reinvented by artist Donald Judd in the 1970s for the sole purpose of being off the grid has developed into a cultural hub for those brave enough to fare the journey. With the closest major airports more than 2 hours away from the town, it is a commitment that many have done in order to see this magnificent place.
So what’s in Marfa? A lot of art (originally famous for outdoor sculpture art, the city has evolved to have air-conditioned galleries as well), delicious bites, eclectic bar(s, and unique shops. See my favorites below!
SEE
ART. Duh. Ballroom Marfa has multiple rotational galleries, always showcasing innovative and captivating works.
OUTSIDE ART. Duh! Put on some sneakers and head over to The Chinati Foundation (aka the reason Marfa is what it is today) for a massive (+340 acres) look into the original art world Donald Judd created.
EAT
Coffee - The Sentinel Marfa is as much coffee shop as it is gift shop.
Snacks - Normally I would not include a Bodega on a “Must Eat” list, but The Get Go has some of the most unique bites & drinks. Worth the window shopping visit alone.
Lunch - So many good options. Grab an elevated sandwich and snacks at Para Llevar and sit in the shaded gravel backlot. Put yourself into a food coma with an insanely delicious Marfa Burrito. Or slow dine on a local farm-to-table meal at Aster Marfa.
Dinner - Although newer to the scene, Margaret’s is super fresh with great cocktails.
Late Night - Food Shark is one of the weirdest place I’ve ever been. Part junkyard, part grilled cheese truck, possibly part alien, but 100% the only place to get good grub late night.
STAY
Hotels - The two main options in the heart of town are either the old and classic The Hotel Paisano or the new and swanky Hotel Saint George
Glamping - If you’re the type of person who wants to wash their hands in an outdoor bathroom with Aesop soap, then El Cosmico is probably one of the coolest places you’ll ever see! But make sure to book early as both their airstreams and campsites go fast!
Airbnb - There are a ton of great and affordable options all right in the center of town.
PLAY
Looking to fit in like a local? Grab a pack of cigarettes and head over to kareokee night at Planet Marfa.
The only bar is closing and you’re looking for somewhere to keep the party going? Every night is the afterparty at Marfa Open.
SHOP
You can’t go to Marfa and leave without a straw hat from Communitie.
For one of a kind desert vintage and boutique apothecary vibes, check out RABA Marfa.
The souvenier jackpot, aka the WRONG Store.
NEARBY ROAD TRIPS
Feeling touristy? Drive an hour over to Valentine, TX to take your picture in front of the infamous Prada Marfa Store.
Feeling hot? Take a short 1.5 hour drive through the dusty desert to Balmorhea State Park - pack a picnic, a book, and swim in the public springs.
Feeling adventurous? Take a 2.5 hour drive to Big Bend State Park to see the beautiful flora & canyons along the Mexico border.
Pro-Tip : With minimal to non-existent traffic, the city is very easy and safe to walk or bike around.
