The car’s loaded, and you’re all packed.  Hit the road and head west to explore Alpine and Marfa. With breathtaking landscapes, a rich history, and a celebrated arts scene, each promises unforgettable experiences for your weekend getaway

Alpine, Texas

Driving west on Highway 90, you’ll arrive in a quaint town nestled perfectly between the Davis and Glass mountains: Alpine. Start your visit by checking into the historic Holland Hotel, where art, history, and a touch of luxury come together to set the tone for your Alpine adventure.

A must-see for every visitor to the area, the Historic Walking Tour - a mapped-out walking path purposefully guiding you to boutiques, art galleries, restaurants, food trucks, murals and more. For food, check out Cow Dog, an all-beef hot dog joint that serves up some dogs that are masterpieces in their own right, with the wing sauce-smothered “Wing” Dog and grilled pineapple-topped “Al Pastor” varieties waiting to be scarfed.

While you’re exploring, don’t miss the Museum of the Big Bend, located on the campus of Sul Ross State University. The museum offers a deep dive into the history and culture of West Texas, featuring everything from Native American artifacts to cowboy memorabilia, all set against the backdrop of stunning mountain views.

To see some of Alpine’s natural side, hit the links at the Alpine Country Club. This nine-hole course has some breathtaking views of the surrounding mountain ranges, plus it’s a great opportunity to work on your short game. If golf isn’t your thing, you can also hike up Hancock Hill behind Sul Ross State University and check out some of the same views. As a bonus, the hike leads you to the famous Desk on the Hill, a quirky local landmark that’s become a favorite spot for snapping photos with a panoramic backdrop.

Don’t forget your  camera—this is a view you’ll definitely want to capture.

Marfa, Texas

Just 30 miles west of Alpine lies Marfa, a small town with a big reputation for its global art scene. The legacy of the town’s art movement lives on through the Chinati Foundation, which opened in 1986 and now showcases works from dozens of contemporary artists. Marfa's creative energy is sure to draw you back for more.

Before diving into the art scene, start your day at Marfa Burrito, known for serving the best breakfast burritos in town—arguably in all of Presidio County. It’s the perfect spot to fuel up before exploring all that Marfa has to offer.

Perhaps the best known is the Marfa Lights. Despite there being no artist behind these other than Mother Nature herself, the lights attract visitors from all over the country. The Marfa Lights only appear every so often and at night. To stay awake and alert for the potential light viewing, we suggest stopping by Big Bend Coffee Roasters for a cup of joe before the potential light show. The lights, as large as basketballs and glowing in various colors, seem to dance through the night sky. Their origins? Still a mystery. Some say you’ll never forget the sight—if you’re lucky enough to see them.

While in Marfa, don't miss a visit to the iconic Prada Marfa, a permanently installed sculpture by artists Elmgreen and Dragset. Located about 26 miles northwest of the town, this quirky art installation is a must-see and makes for an unforgettable photo-op.

Finally, cap off your trip with dinner at Al Campo Wine Garden & Rustic Bistro, where you can enjoy farm-to-table dishes paired with a carefully curated selection of wines in a cozy, outdoor setting under the West Texas stars

So whether it’s the creative pulse of Marfa or the rich history of Alpine, there’s just one question left: which West Texas town will you explore?

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