>>Marfa

Downtown Marfa, looking north towards the Hotel Paisano and the Presidio County Courthouse

E in 1881 as a water stop on the Texas and New Orleans Railroad, Marfa enjoyed a brief flurry of stardom in 1950 as crews began filming the epic “Giant” at locations around Marfa. Film stars Elizabeth Taylor, Rock Hudson, and James Dean made the Hotel Paisano their headquarters. Two decades later, acclaimed artist Donald Judd arrived from New York to establish the world renowned Chinati Foundation to preserve and present to the public permanent large-scale art installations. Today, Judd’s reputation has drawn urban artists from around the globe to relocate their studios and to open shops and galleries that are now among the community’s greatest tourist attractions.

Marfa is best known however, for the mysterious Marfa Lights whose appearance just above the horizon remain unexplained since the first recorded sighting in 1883. The best place to view this phenomenon is at the Marfa Lights Viewing Center, which provides binocular stations, picnic areas and restrooms, approximately 9 miles east of Marfa on Highway 90. Most nights, two or three lights appear just above the horizon, hovering and moving unpredictably. Visitor information is available at the Marfa Chamber of Commerce office in the Hotel Paisano, near the Presidio County Courthouse on Highland Avenue.

FEATURED EVENTS & ATTRACTIONS

Donald Judd's art at the Chinati Foundation

Chinati Foundation
Occupying much of the former army post Fort D.A. Russell, the Chinati Foundation houses a permanent internationally known collection of contemporary art as well as temporary exhibits by artists in residence. Open Wed – Sun www.chinati.org

Marfa and Presidio County Museum
Located in the 1880s adobe Humphris-Humphries House, museum features displays of the “Giant,” the Chihuahuan Desert, local military and county history, and a collection of panoramic photography by Frank Duncan.  Hours: 2:00-5:00 Mon – Fri

Presido County Courthouse
Built in 1886, the Goddess of Justice stands atop this elegant domed structure, that was restored in 2001. Take the elevator and stairs to the cupola and enjoy a 360 degree panorama of the Marfa Plateau and nearby Davis Mountains. Hours: 9:00-4:30 Mon – Fri

Hotel Paisano
Designed by famed regional architects Trost & Trost, the Paisano opened in June 1930. The building has undergone extensive renovation and is home to a display of “Giant” memorabilia, upscale rooms, shops and elegant dining. www.hotelpaisano.com

Marfa Municipal Golf Course
Known as the highest golf course in Texas, situated at 4,882 feet above sea level, this 9-hole course offers not only well-kept greens but also 360 degree views of blue mountains and open ranchland. 432-729-4043

Marfa Lights Festival
This celebration, held on Labor Day weekend each year, features a lighted night parade, food and crafts booths, street dances, and performances by local and nationally known musicians.

Gliding

World-class gliding in Marfa - photo courtesy of www.flygliders.com

Marfa is famous for its excellent soaring conditions and has attracted pilots and enthusiasts since1960.  Glider rides are available at the Marfa Municipal airport just north of town. marfafgliders@aol.com