Travel

Travel Guide: Road Trip to Marfa, Texas

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6 years ago

Hi Everyone,

I hope you're enjoying the brand new additions to myPrada Marfa series.It was hard keeping them a secret but I couldn't be happier with all of the initial feedback. Plus, these new photos have inspired today's travel guide! With mysomewhat unique perspective, I'm excited to share my personal tips for this secluded, yet must-see location.

If you’ve already heard of Marfa, TX but haven’t had a chance to visit yet, then you’re probably familiar with its reputation as an unique art hub in the middle of nowhere. While off the beaten path (to say the least) and takes some effort to get to, with the closest airport being about 3.5 hours away,it is filled with artsyecclectic sites that are definitely worth seeing at least once. That being said, art isn’t the only thing worth seeing in Marfa...although,definitely a priority for anytraveler’s to-do list! If you’ve never thought of adding Marfa, TX to your list, then please allow me to make my case as to whyyou should add it ASAP...

WHERE TO STAY:

Not only are the museums and installations a work of art, but I’d argue that the places to stay in Marfa, Texas are art pieces in and of themselves! If you’re heading to this remote location for an overnight stay, then you’ll have plenty of desert-chic places to choose from. For starters, El Cosmico is a comfortable campground of sorts—complete with queen beds, power, and your choice between a “glamping” tent, teepee, or several photogenic retro trailers of varying sizes. If you’re looking for a slightly more traditional stay, try the 1930’s vintage Hotel Paisano or TheThunderbird Motel.

For our Team GM trip, we stayed at The Thunderbird, whichcombines rich history with sleek contemporary design, which consequently makes it one of the coolest places to stay in Marfa. If you've ever stayed atthe Ace Hotel in Palm Springs, it gives me similar vibes. The rooms are simple yet chic and the pool is the perfect cool off during one of those hot Texas afternoons.

![](https://res.cloudinary.com/gray-malin/image/upload/c_scale/gray-malin/blog-uploads/Screen Shot 2018-07-18 at 1.12.30 PM.png-hwpvTZw)

WHERE TO EAT:

You may be shocked by how developed (and delicious) the food selection is in Marfa, Texas. Complete with everything from vegan eats, to trendy coffee shops, to the acclaimed Marfa Burrito (where Ramona will make you breakfast burritos from her own kitchen), there is something for everyone in Marfa—and you’ll be dreaming about it for days afterward. Some visitors even say that the food alone is their favorite part of their trip to Marfa...my favorite? Al Campo.

Inspired by the rustic cooking of the countryside of Chile and Argentina, Al Campo was the perfect spot for me and Team GM to dine our first night in Marfa. What is typically a communinal table, we filled it up and dined on delicious food and amazing wine.

WHERE TO VISIT:

Prada Marfa is a permanentinstallationby artists Elmgreen and Dragset, and you quite literally can't miss it on thetwo lane road heading into Marfa. I may be a little biased, but this fashion-forward art piece offers some incredibly interesting food for thought and is a must-see. Needless to say,it is my personal favorite, however, there is plenty of art toindulge in.

Marfa itself is chock-full of surprisingly trendy photo opportunities that are totally unique to the destinationand always flanked by the sprawling desert landscape in the background. And of course,while you’re there, make a stop at The Chinati Foundation for thenoteworthy permanent art installations, such as the 15 untitled works in concrete and museum of aluminum works that change appearance in the rising and setting sun.

Last but not least, if you’re heading to the desert for a natural spectacle, then Marfa won’t disappoint. Visitors have said that during the night, on the southeast horizon just outside of Marfa, you can see mysterious lights that change colors, dance, and speed across the empty plains in the distance. These lights are stranger than they may seem, however…the area outside of town is uninhabited, and no one can figure out the source of these mystery lights. But no matter where they actually come from, the sight just adds to the intrigue of the remote location of Marfa. Speaking from experience, they are bizarre and absolutely worth checking out! To see for yourself, head to the official viewing areaand be an Onlooker yourself.

Have I convinced you to visit Marfa, Texas yet? Will you be adding it to your list of must-see destinations?

To say Marfa is an unique destination would be an understatement, and that’s why I can’t get enough of it. If you’re in love with this location like I am, or just want to add a touch of Marfa’s vibe to your own home, make sure to check out the latest from myPrada Marfaseries.

Cheers,

xx

GM