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Why, yes, you can bring your kids to Marfa. There’s good times to be had for all ages—we promise. 

The best small town library, a cactus museum, easy hikes, an independent bookstore, and more are on our El Kidsmico itinerary. Exploration in the high desert awaits.

Fort Davis, Texas

  • The town of Fort Davis is 21 miles northeast of Marfa on Hwy 17, about a 20 minute drive. It has an old western feel, with lots of shops and few restaurants.
  • The Fort Davis National Historic Site, located just north of town, is one of the best surviving examples of an Indian Wars frontier military post in the Southwest.
  • The Prude Ranch is a great opportunity for horseback riding amid stunning scenery. From trail rides to summer camps, there are options for kids 6+. Head north, then west on Hwy 118 next to Limpia Canyon. Call (432) 426-3201 to arrange your ride.
  • The McDonald Observatory is one of the most important astronomical research facilities in the world. Located 17 miles northwest of Fort Davis on Hwy 118, the observatory operated by University of Texas, Austin is perched 6,781 feet above sea level. The Visitor’s Center offers extensive exhibits, a theater, gift shop, and cafe. While public programs are limited now due to COVID, they do have some guided nighttime star viewings, which on a clear night and especially during a new moon or crescent moon, are breathtaking. Star parties book up quickly, so we suggest you reserve before heading out west.
  • The Chihuahuan Desert Nature Center features 507 acres of rolling grassland and igneous rocks, just four miles south of Fort Davis on Hwy 118. You can enjoy kid-friendly hiking trails, botanical gardens, and cactus and succulent greenhouses.

Balmorhea State Park

  • One of our favorite places in the world. Built in the 1930’s by the Civilian Conservation Corps, Balmorhea is the largest spring-fed swimming pool in the world and an absolute delight. Pack a picnic, load up the fam, and spend the day swimming and hanging out at this 46-acre state park. The pool spans 1.75 acres and 25 million gallons of crystal clear water flow through every day, keeping it a balmy 72–76 degrees Fahrenheit year round. You can swim with the fish and turtles that inhabit the pool, and even learn to scuba dive there if that’s your thing. The park is 58 miles away, about an hour from Marfa. Take Hwy 17 through Fort Davis past Wild Rose Pass. Head east of Hwy 290.
  • Feel like hitting the rio? Reach out to Far West Texas Outfitters for the river trip of a lifetime. Suitable for kids 6 and up.

Have tinier humans in tow? Here are some things to do in Marfa with kids of all ages

  • Coffield Park in Marfa is heavily shaded and perfect for families, offering ample space for little ones to run and climb.
  • Swing by Marfa Public Library: An incredible community space offering take and make craft kits, weekly storytime hours, and other programs that are free and open to all.
  • The Rock Shop! In our opinion, no further explanation is needed.
    Stop and Read Books: Peruse a selection of well-curated kid’s books that can serve as your child’s memento from their west Texas adventure.

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