>>Odessa
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Oilpatch Jackrabbit in Odessa
Odessa is nestled in the heart of West Texas, midway between Dallas and El Paso. Offering breathtaking skies, wide-open spaces and real West Texas hospitality. Odessa has great restaurants, shopping, professional sports, unique attractions and museums.
Odessa was established in the late 1800s as a water stop for the railroad. Farming and ranching were the main sources of income until the discovery of oil in the 1920s when Odessa became headquarters for the vast petroleum industry in the Permian Basin. Today, Odessa remains active in the oil and gas business, but diversification efforts are going strong. It has grown and developed into a city with a unique balance between the benefits of a small town – such as moderate cost of living and a high quality of life, and the benefits of a large community – such as high quality educational, cultural and health care facilities.
Odessa is the gateway to Big Bend and a central hub in West Texas. Midland International Airport is located just 10 miles east of Odessa with easy access to Interstate 20.
For additional information on events, accommodations, or dining facilities, contact the Odessa Convention & Visitors Bureau at 1.800.780.4678 or the Web site at www.odessacvb.com.
FEATURED EVENTS & ATTRACTIONS
Presidential Museum
Dedicated to the office of the President, permanent and traveling exhibits provide a wealth of historical material in an entertaining, informative, and accessible manner. Also located on the grounds is the former home of President George H.W. Bush, his wife, Barbara and son President George W. Bush. 4919 E. University. 432.363.7737.
www.presidentialmuseum.org
Ellen Noël Art Museum
Architecture Exhibit at Ellen Noel
The variety of exhibitions and permanent collections offered by the Museum include historically significant art, outstanding contemporary art and juried exhibitions of regional art. The Museum’s Sculpture and Sensory Garden challenges the senses of both the sighted and non-sighted. 4909 E. University. 432.550.9696.
www.noelartmuseum.org
The Globe of the Great Southwest
The Globe of the Great Southwest is modeled after the original Shakespearean theatre and presents a variety of theatrical entertainment and local productions. 2308 Shakespeare Road in Odessa. 432.332.1586. www.globesw.org
White-Pool House Museum
Oldest existing residential structure in Odessa, built in 1887, has period furnishings and reflects lifestyles from the 1880s ranching period to the 1920s oil era. 112 E. Murphy St. 432.333.4072
Odessa Meteor Crater Museum & Visitor Center
The crater, the second largest in the nation, is approximately 550 feet in diameter and almost100 feet deep. A visitor’s center has exhibits on meteorites, tektites, meteorite impact products, historical videos and more. Just west of Odessa off I-20, exit 108. 432.381.0946
Permian Basin Fair and Exposition
Nine fun filled days in September, featuring live entertainment, great food, carnival, stock show, petting zoo, arts & crafts and more. For information contact 432.550.3232.
Sandhills Stock Show and Rodeo
This annual professional rodeo is one of the first on circuit and cowboys & cowgirls compete for top prizes. There is also a stock show, rodeo dance, and a Children’s rodeo. For information contact 432.366.3951.