About two hours north of Big Bend on Highway 67 is Marfa: a town of fewer than 2,000 that’s known as a commune for minimalist artists.
At first glance, Marfa seems like an almost impossibly sleepy little town. But walk around a bit, and you’ll find it’s home to some offbeat dive bars, tongue-in-cheek taco joints, and a smattering of fine art galleries.
What to do: Marfa is probably best known for the Marfa lights: glowing orbs that appear seemingly from nowhere in the desert outside of town. They’re best seen just after sunset from the official Marfa Lights Viewing Area, which is located about nine miles east of Marfa on Highway 90.
Armchair theorists have come up with all manner of explanations for the Marfa lights. Some see them as UFO activity, and others as a spiritual phenomenon. But most people now agree that they’re caused by the refraction of car headlights.
Where to eat: Absolutely do not miss Marfa’s Buns N’ Roses, a breakfast spot that offers some of the best road trip fare in Texas. Get the donuts.
Where to stay: The hippest spot for travelers is El Cosmico, a “nomadic hotel and campground” that offers lodging in teepees, safari tents, and refurbished trailers. It’s a great place to comingle with other travelers in a world that resembles Texas counter-culture circa 1972.
Lodging there ranges from $20-85 a night, depending on the accommodations.
Pinto Canyon Road