Guide to Marfa, Texas

We moved to West Texas about a year ago and have been searching for a place nearby that speaks to us. We are about 5 hours from anywhere, so I was so happy when I found out Marfa was less than 3 hours from home. I had heard about Marfa on several occasions and jumped at the chance to take a quick weekend trip.

If you haven’t heard of Marfa, it’s a small desert town known for its art scene and delicious food. It brings in people from all over the United States. Multiple celebrities have made the trek to this little dessert retreat, even though the nearest airport is about 3 hours away. A local even asked if we were from New York. I like to think it was because of our impeccable style, large numbers of visitors from NYC frequent this little oasis.

Where to stay

We opted for El Cosmico. It’s essentially a chic campground with canvas tents, teepees, yurts, and vintage trailers. The evening we stayed, the staff was setting up for the chillest happy hour I’ve ever seen. There was a large carafe of sangria, cold beer, hammocks, and a DJ playing records. In the morning, you can grab a coffee or hot tea while browsing the gift shop, which is to die for. If you choose a tent, teepee, or yurt, you must use the communal bathroom. If that is not your style, opt for a vintage trailer.

Not into glamping? Try Hotel St. George. It’s a modern hotel in downtown Marfa. It boasts a unique bookstore, a sleek bar, and a high scale restaurant.

If you’re looking for a little history, Hotel Paisano is the place. It hosted Elizabeth Taylor, Rock Hudson, and James Dean while they filmed Giant. Stop by the bar for a truly excellent margarita.

We also passed the Thunderbird Hotel. I’ve read there is an extensive record collection and great pool.

What to eat

The main reason I wanted to visit Marfa was because of Food Shark. My husband and I are huge foodies. Food just makes us happy. This lunch-only, Mediterranean food truck did not disappoint. Cool off with a watermelon and mint agua fresca while you wait for your food. The lamb kabobs are excellent and usually sell out. Finish things off with the black pepper, walnut brownie. You will thank me.

For dinner, try Jett’s Grill inside Hotel Paisano. The chicken fried steak is topped with spicy gravy and a roasted jalapeno. I think Justin was a little jealous he didn’t order it. Pizza Foundation, The Capri, Restaurant Cochineal, and LaVenture also have great reviews. Be sure to make a reservation in advance. We planned on trying Pizza Foundation, but the owners were at the Rangers game and it was closed for the weekend. We were lucky to find a reservation at Jett’s because most of the hotel guests were attending a wedding reception. For dessert have coffee and ice cream at Frama at Tumbleweed.

Enjoy a drink and live music at Planet Marfa. Since kids aren’t welcome at bars, we had to skip this spot. The owners of Food Shark also run the Museum of Electronic Wonders & Late Night Grilled Cheese Parlour. Unfortunately, it is closed while the owners prepare the new location. It is scheduled to open again sometime in 2016.

For breakfast, Squeeze has a wonderful breakfast menu. Enjoy a chai latte, acai bowl or breakfast sandwich with pesto. Bun N’ Roses is another great breakfast spot.

What to do

 

Marfa is full of great shops and art galleries. It’s easy to spend hours wandering around town. You can schedule a tour at the Chinati Foundation, a contemporary art museum located downtown, or find a unique read at Marfa Book Company. Prada Marfa is a picture worthy art installation about 45 minutes from town. Once the sun sets, head to the Marfa Lights Viewing Center. You may be able to catch a glimpse of the mystery lights, an unexplained phenomenon right outside of town.

Most of the town closes down during the week, making Marfa the perfect weekend destination. Justin and I cannot wait to visit again, sans children. Have you visited Marfa? If so, where should we go next time?