Looking for the best and fun things to do in Odessa, TX?
Odessa was the home of the First Lady Barbara Bush in 1948, and it also houses the home of a former President of the United States.
The summers in this area are always hot and sunny, however, winters are chilly because snow is not observed here. For people who are fond of sand the beach, it is a must-visit area since the climate is semi-arid.
Odessa was named in honor of an area located in Ukraine. This city has plenty to keep you interested during your stay. The city is awash with artistic scenes, as well as art and entertainment center that is impressive.
Some of the most interesting places to see in Odessa include replicas of the Globe theatre in which every year the Shakespeare Festival is held, and the largest sculpture in the world of Jack Rabbit.
The Odessa meteorite crater, as well as The Permian Basin, are places that you should not leave out during your visit.
The city is welcoming and lively, and numerous events are scheduled to provide visitors a fun experience, such as live performances, festivals with vibrant colors, and cultural activities.
There are also famous restaurants and restaurants that you do not want to miss on your visit to Odessa. Are you planning a trip to Odessa? Here are the top things to do in Odessa, TX.
Things to Do in Odessa
1. The Presidential Museum and Leadership Library
Presidential Museum and Leadership Library
This Presidential Museum in Odessa is quite different from most presidential libraries because it does not center its information on the presidents themselves.
But its area of concentration is on the offices of past presidents who governed the United States.
The museum is situated at 4919 East University Boulevard but was previously located in the downtown area of Odessa.
This museum houses a vast collection of related campaign documents like signatures, commemorative items, memorabilia, portraits, and lots more.
Political cartoons of Presidents and Vice Presidents can also be seen here, and some of them are pretty hilarious.
There is a section in the library known as the Library of presidents dedicated to John Ben Shephard, the oldest son of the Texas Attorney General John Ben Shephard.
This section contains more than 4500 volumes of journals, newspapers, repository periodicals, documents, and many other things related to the presidency.
Another collection that’ll catch your fancy is the exhibit known as presidential hopefuls. The collections are memorabilia of candidates defeated in the election and who could not win the Presidency.
Another section of the library dedicated to Lyndon B. Johnson and John F. Kennedy, known as “We shall overcome,” centralizes its goals on the civil rights movement.
There is a replica of the oval office used by President Harry S. Truman during his stay in office. There are so many interesting artifacts to find in the museum.
Address: 4919 E University Blvd, Odessa, TX 79762, United States
2. Visit the Odessa Meteor Crater
Odessa Meteor Crater
The Odessa meteor crater site is situated in the southwestern region of Ector County. It is one of the three main impact crater sites in Texas.
What makes it significant from a geographical perspective is that the crater’s formation results from the impact of thousands of tetrahedrites.
A museum was built for the Odessa meteor crater, and it’s situated close to the crater. To be seen in the museum is a 70 pounds sample of the meteorite.
Over time, a total number of 1500 meteorites have been recovered from the surrounding regions. It is interesting to know that the rock is estimated to be approximately 63000 years old.
The museum is an existing member of the National natural landmarks.
Address: 5599 Meteor Crater Rd, Odessa, TX 79763, United States
3. Floyd Gwin Park
The Floyd Gwin Park occupies over 21 hectares which is a large land space. This area consists of playgrounds and playing areas.
There are lots of fun shipments to keep the kids going, including swings and lots more. There are also soccer courts, volleyball courts, and basketball courts.
The area and its facilities were constructed correctly and shaded so adults can have a great relaxation as their Kids have fun all around the place.
The park is neatly kept, and the lawns are trimmed properly.
Address: 2300 W 10th St, Odessa, TX 79763, United States
4. Ellen Noël Art Museum
Ellen Noël Art Museum
Amongst the fun things to do in Odessa, TX, is a visit to Ellen Noel Art Museum.
In Ellen Noel Art Museum, art is embraced in all shapes and forms, and it is the best place to view artworks in the area.
For instance, the museum organized a splendid exhibit where wedding dresses were used as the theme. Such exhibits are just the tip of what can be seen here, and they are so beautiful to behold.
The museum is sectioned into many collections and galleries, and this consists of rotating and permanent exhibits. There is also a section for photography and a sculpture garden that has an artistic and appealing look.
There is also a little old-fashioned gift shop where you can pick up souvenirs to bring back to your family.
Address: 4909 E University Blvd, Odessa, TX 79762, United States
5. Ratliff Ranch Golf Links
The Ratliff Ranch measured around 6,849 yards of golf and was designed by Jeffrey D. Brauer, ASGCA/R Colligan Golf course design, and the golf course was opened in the year 2008.
The Ratliff Ranch Golf is a great place to visit if you’re a golf lover or about to be. It is a nice attraction for locals and tourists who love golfing.
The lawns here are appropriately cut, and the grounds are maintained.
If you’re an amateur golfer, this is a great place to play, as it has an 18 hole long course.
Rental carts services are also offered. You can also stop by the golf shop to look at golf accessories and kits and their equipment.
Address: 7500 N Grandview Ave, Odessa, TX 79765, United States
6. Stonehenge Replica
Stonehenge Replica
The Stonehenge Replica is situated on the campus of the University of Texas. This is one interesting site to visit in Odessa.
Tourists and visitors who have been here will always say it’s one of the best areas to visit in Odessa.
This place has big monolithic rocks that remind you of the main Stonehenge.
Visitors are allowed to touch the stones to have a feel of the stone and its texture.
This is also an excellent place for meditation and reflection, and it is believed primitive people crafted its beautiful art pieces.
Its scenic view is outstanding as you can take many great photos to post on your social media accounts.
Address: Preston Smith Rd, Odessa, TX 79762, United States
7. Cinergy Odessa
The Cinergy is a state-of-the-art complex featuring theatre dining, event specials, leading-edge amenities, and an outstanding gaming center.
The facility in Odessa has mind-blowing recreational and gaming options to choose from.
Visitors are constantly coming in to experience fun in its total capacity, as the facility features a mini escape room, a bowling alley, and a state of the art arcades.
If you intend to plan a fun night with friends, family, or colleagues, Cinergy is the right place for you.
The bowling alley in Cinergy is one of the most famous game facilities you’ll find in Odessa. The facility has 18 lanes of upscale bowling with top-notch seating and architectural design.
This answers what to do in Odessa, TX, for a fun-filled time, one of the best things to do in Odessa for your checklist as there are lots of activities that’ll keep you thrilled and excited when you visit the Cinergy.
Address: 8250 TX-191, Odessa, TX 79765, United States
8. George W. Bush Childhood Home
George W. Bush Childhood Home
The house is open for visiting Tuesdays-Saturdays from 10ma to 5pm and Sundays from 2pm to 5pm
With 5$ you can tour around the house and look at the President’s Childhood home.
The house was home to two Presidents, two Governors, and a First lady. The notable house restoration gives visitors the ample opportunity to have an intrinsic view of the Bush family’s early life and legacy.
1412 West Ohio Avenue, Midland, Texas 79701, United States
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9. Sibley Nature Center
Sibley Nature Center
The Sibley Nature Center occupies a landscape of 49 acres in Hogan Park in Midland and features the southern Llano Estacado, Edwards Plateau, and Transpecos Regions.
In the Sibley Nature Center are taxidermy collections of animals from the region that are very entertaining for children.
For the kids, they are offered toddler times with storytime, gardening, and guided tours.
The Sibley center is open for visits throughout the week from Mondays to Fridays, 9am to 6pm, and Saturdays 9am to 4pm.
There are so many activities lined up for children to engage in the Sibley Nature Center. If you’re looking for a place to visit and enjoy exciting trail walks, then visit the Sibley Nature Center.
Address: 1307 E Wadley Ave, Midland, TX 79705, United States
10. Globe of the Great Southwest
Globe of the Great Southwest
The Globe of the Great Southwest is a must-see place to visit in Odessa. It is a duplicate of Shakespeare’s Globe theatre in London.
It is situated on the college campus on the south side of Odessa.
Theoretical films like A Midsummer Night’s Dream and classics like Romeo and Juliet, and contemporary productions such as August and Beauty and Beast are displayed.
A clone of the house Shakespeare’s wife, Anne Hathaway, resided as a kid is situated close by.
Many production plays are displayed here, and every year they host the Shakespeare festival.
2308 Shakespeare Road Odessa, TX 79761, United States
11. Wagner Noël Performing Arts Center
Wagner Noël Performing Arts Center
The Wagner Noel Performing Arts Center is situated about 15 miles northeast of Odessa and on the University of Texas of the Permian Basin.
The theatre organizes varieties of musical concerts and lectures with large symphonies and large country bands.
This is an exciting place to listen to great melodies and see live performances. The theatre also offers music tutorials and programs to the community.
You can check the website to see their music schedule and also buy tickets, enjoy the music.
Address: 1310 Farm to Market 1788, Midland, TX 79707, United States
12. White-Pool House
White-Pool House
The White-Pool House is a historic place in Odessa and one of the oldest structures to be found in the city.
A family of Indiana built the house in the year 1887, and inside the house are exhibits that display the various periods of the history of Odessa.
This house is a two-story red brick home with a windmill, water tank, Eclipse, a barn replica, and outbuildings.
The historic house offers guests the opportunity to view what ranching in the past was like in the town.
This place is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and the Texas Archaeological Landmark.
Address: 112 East Murphy Odessa, TX 79761 United States
13. A Football Game at Ratliff Stadium
Ratliff Stadium
The stadium has been featured in movies like the football action in the 2004 movie titled “Friday Night Lights” 1990
The Ratliff stadium is a place you should add to your list of fun things to do in Odessa for football lovers.
The Stadium is a home pitch for Odessa and Permian High Schools and is primarily used for playing American Football.
Track and field events and high school graduations, soccer, band contests are held in the Ratliff stadium.
Address: 1862 E Yukon Rd, Odessa, TX 79765, United States
14. Southern Maid Donuts
Southern Maid Donuts
This spot has delicious donuts that you might want to taste, and their donuts are out of this world.
From chocolate to blueberries, maple, strawberries, orange, and lemon, there are so many flavors to choose from their menu for a great taste.
Their Cherry donuts are highly recommended when you visit as they are fluffy and delicious. You’ll start salivating by merely looking at it. The cherry donuts are delicious. Have a bite!
The donuts are properly prepared, and the result is a perfect taste giving you this wonderful feeling after you take a quick bite that leaves you craving for more.
The donuts are sold at reasonable prices and are affordable for everyone. Have you been craving delicious sweet donuts? This is the right place to come.
Address: 721 N Hancock Ave, Odessa, TX 79761, United States
15. McKinney Park Spray Ground
This playground section is old-fashioned and fun-filled, and the kids would always want to visit. The playground is situated in Main Park, and it’s open for visitors during specific times of the year.
But you might be lucky to visit when the park is open and give your kids a nice treat.
The park has an efficient water fixture situated at essential points to spray water repeatedly. Also, the main water region occupies a vast area and has a big water bucket that tosses water at you.
Address: 625 W Pool Rd, Odessa, TX 79761, United States
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16. Jack Ben Rabbit Statue
Jack Ben Rabbit Statue
The Jack Ben Rabbit Statue is an eight-foot-tall statue popularly known for its historic milestone of the city. This statue will surely get your interest when you visit Odessa.
The Statue was erected in 1962 by John Ben Shepperd. He was the president of the Odessa Chamber of Commerce.
The statue was named Jack Ben Rabbit in memory of Odessa’s Jackrabbit Roping Competition. This event is held yearly at the Odessa Rodeo.
On the statue’s neck is a medallion, and the words “Odessa” and “Texas” are inscribed on it. This is one of the fun attractions in Odessa, Texas, don’t miss the opportunity of taking photos with “Jack Ben” so you can post them on your social media accounts.
Address: 802 N Sam Houston Ave, Odessa, TX 79761, United States
17. Altitude Trampoline Park
The Altitude Trampoline Park is a place in Odessa you don’t want to leave behind in your bucket list of things to do in Odessa as it gives you a feel of childhood days as you jump on the trampoline.
The fun in having to jump on these trampolines and then go high up and also fall faced down makes it scintillating.
Their massive trampoline park gives you these fun moments and experiences.
The Trampoline Park has exciting and fun-filled activities. Examples are the trapeze swing, the battle beam, the foam pad, the tumble tracks, and the dodgeball.
The trampoline park offers exactly these experiences and promises you lots of fun. It’s an excellent activity zone and entertainment center.
You should also try racing on their Olympic-sized trampoline with your kids.
Address: 5161 E 42nd St, Odessa, TX 79762, United States
18. Permian Playhouse
Permian Playhouse
Anyone who loves live plays and performances wouldn’t want to miss visiting the Permian Playhouse.
The Theatre has varieties of theatrical displays like plays, comedies, and musicals that are acted on stage.
Thinking of where to bring the whole family to have an excellent time and watch live performances, then book your tickets to have a scintillating experience.
Many burger spots are close by for visitors when they’re hungry.
This makes what to do in Odessa, TX, for a fun time, do consider an addition to your bucket list of things to do in Odessa, Texas.
Address: 310 W 42nd St, Odessa, TX 79764, United States
19. Kellus Turner Park
Kellus Turner Park is a dog-friendly environment, and it’s worth it to meet furry friends when you visit Odessa.
There is a lake situated in the area where you can get to feed ducks. The Park is kid-friendly and filled with fun and lots of activities.
You can bring food for the ducks and other little birds swimming their way on the waters.
Address: 2230 Sycamore Dr, Odessa, TX 79763, United States
20. Pay your Respects at Chris Kyle Memorial
Chris Kyle Memorial
The Chris Kyle memorial glorifies his bravery and stewardship. It is a well-built and superb monument.
The monument depicts Chris Kyle holding a flag, and it looks magnificent and outstanding. It was a well-built monument.
There is this breathtaking sense of aura when you look at it and walk around the monument.
The family of Chris Kyle also wrote heartfelt and loving messages on a plague to express their love for him. One interesting thing about the monument is that it inspires you to show stewardship in whatever area of life you serve.
This is one of the top attractions in Odessa, TX. A visit to the site gives you a reflection of the selfless services and sacrifices men and women in the military and navy services go through to keep us safe.
Address: TX-191 Frontage, Odessa, TX 79765, United States
21. Rosa’s Cafe and Tortilla Factory
Rosa’s Cafe and Tortilla Factory
This Mexican dish is something you want to try out when you visit Odessa, so you might as well add it to your list of things to do in Odessa, TX.
The Tortilla factory offers you the best tortillas you could find around the city.
A list of what to find on their menu and many more are nachos, burritos, fajitas, and tortillas.
If you choose to have breakfast here, you can try the chorizo or other stuff on their menu.
This environment is friendly, and it’s one place you could visit with the whole family.
You can also try out the sopapillas and cake carrot. The environment is serene, and you’ll feel relaxed. It’s a great spot filled with fun.
1701 N County Rd W, Odessa, TX 79763, United States
22. Light Display at McKinney Park
The light display in McKinney Park is something you don’t want to miss out on during your visit to Odessa. You might want to add this place to your list of fun things to do in Odessa, TX.
The fairy light displays in the park are magical and soul captivating.
You might choose to visit during nighttime when the Light shines through the dark sky with pure pigments of yellow, blue, red, and lots more.
The McKinney Park is furry friendly, and you can bring along your pet. The kids’ playground is exciting as it has many fun equipments like slide sets and swings.
There is also a basketball and baseball court for sports lovers who choose to visit during regular weekdays.
Address: 625 W Pool Rd, Odessa, TX 79763, United States
23. Visit Parker House Museum
Parker House Museum
The Parker House Museum was an abode for rancher Jim Parker, and he lived here in the early 1900s.
This is one cool place to be to have a view of the early lives of ranchers and be knowledgeable about them.
The home of these ranchers was transformed into a great tourist attraction that houses exhibits and artifacts of ranchers.
On display in the museum are memorabilia and photos of these ranchers.
A visit here will leave you in awe as It is pretty fun and informative. You can visit as it is one of the free things to do in Odessa, but donations are accepted.
Address: 118 Maple Ave, Odessa, TX 79761,United States
24. Jackrabbit Jamboree
Jackrabbit Jamboree
The Jackrabbit Jamboree, a public art project, comprises thirty-seven 6-foot tall jackrabbits around the city.
Jackrabbit has been a significant part of Odessa’s heritage since the first jackrabbit roping competition in 1932.
Although the roping contest no longer exists, Odessa locals have a never-ending
love for Jackrabbit.
Each Jackrabbit is specially painted to signify their location’s cultural heritage and importance.
There’s a Jack Ben Rabbit on Eight Avenue, and this rabbit is the major jackrabbit of the Jamboree.
Strolling around the city searching for jackrabbits is a fantastic way to learn about Texas heritage.
Make sure you take a selfie with every bunny.
Address: Odessa, Tx, United States
25. Music City Mall
One of the fun things to do in Odessa is to shop at Music City Mall.
Music City Mall is a shopping mall in Odessa, Texas, that initially opened as the Permian Mall.
The Mall is home to more than 100 businesses and used to be the only mall with an ice skating facility within 300 miles.
Music City Mall, also called MCM, offers several shopping options and entertainment complexes.
The shopping mall has music, clothing, jewelry shops, saloons, banks, and retail outlets, such as shoe, television, home decorations, and decor shops.
Music City Mall also has a photography and portrait shop and several retailers for fashion items. You will also find gift cards and specialty item shops at the mall.
Furthermore, the Mall organizes live musical performances by different artists.
Address: 4101 E 42nd St, Odessa, TX 79762, United States
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Plan a Trip to Odessa
Odessa is indeed a special place with a lot of attractions to make your visit worthwhile.
With outstanding attractions and a touch of nature in the city, it’s pretty easy to see why Odessa, Texas, should be a must-visit destination for you, friends, and family.
Odessa is fun, ranging from the state-of-the-art museums to the entertainment centers; there’s a lot to keep you happy and thrilled.