Itchin’ for a road trip? The world has caught on to the historical and cultural “little town that could” nestled in the Chihuahuan Desert. The seven-hour trek is worth it to experience the beautiful West Texas mecca that is Marfa.

Eat

The Brown Recluse – Meet with friends for breakfast amid shelves of used books. Open 7 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Mike’s Place – From Mex to burgers, Mike’s is a breakfast and lunch favorite for locals.

Maiya’s – Big city folks will feel right at home in this upscale haunt. Reservations are recommended.

Pizza Foundation – Once an old gas station, this pizza parlor claims the best pie for miles.

Lodging

The Thunderbird – Opened by Liz Lambert of our own Hotel San Jose, this stylized version of a roadside motel is a hipster favorite.

Hotel Paisano – The classic film “Giant” was filmed in this gorgeous and historic hotel. In-house Jett’s Grill is a dinner favorite.

See

Marfa Lights – Experience the phenomenon for yourself! Ask a local for the best spot to see the mysterious lights, just 8 miles east on Hwy 90.

Chinati Foundation – Donald Judd, the contemporary artist that started the Marfa art movement, turned a military base into a museum to ambitiously set his sculptural and massive works of art against the vast Texas landscape. Visit www.chinati.org for tour schedules.

Marfa Book Company – Spend an afternoon in this bookstore-meets-art gallery in the heart of town.

The Ballroom – This non-profit space is devoted to showcasing contemporary artists. Check out www.ballroommarfa.org for current exhibitions and events.