Pecos, located just south of the New Mexico border, is the most extensive city and the county seat of Reeves County, Texas.
In 2012, the city was named the second-fastest growing small city in America on the Forbes 400. As of 2023, Peco’s population is estimated to be 12,296.
Pecos is extremely popular for its tasty and juicy cantaloupes and for being the home of the world’s first rodeo.
The city is a destination that offers original American experiences that would please any traveler. It has an old-fashioned charm and is home to numerous historic sites that interest any history buff.
Nature lovers visiting Pecos are not left out either, as the city contains plenty of outdoor activities, such as hiking, horseback riding, fishing, camping, bird watching, and hunting.
With its breathtaking landscapes, friendly locals, and welcoming environment, it is no surprise that the city has long been dubbed as a “true West” destination.
Do you plan to visit Pecos? Here are some of the best things to do in Pecos, TX.
Things to Do in Pecos, TX
1. Visit Maxey Park
Maxey Park, located at Cothrun Street, has activities and amenities for guests of all ages. The park is popular for its vibrant floral displays and well-maintained gardens.
Maxey Park has sports courts, a splash pad, and stone benches. Escape the sizzling Texas heat by cooling off at the splash pad in the park.
Whether you want to have a picnic, let your kids roam, or play baseball, Maxey Park provides a friendly atmosphere for family outings.
Play volleyball or basketball with the locals if you want a more energetic activity. And make sure you remember to take a picture of the park’s mini Alamo. Exploring Maxey Park is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Pecos, TX.
Address: Cothrun St, Pecos, TX 79772, United States
2. Tour the Texas Rodeo Hall of Fame
Texas Rodeo Hall of Fame
Texas Rodeo Hall of Fame is a unique attraction at the historic T & D Train depot. Exploring this destination is one of the top things to do in Pecos, TX.
This spot was constructed to preserve the rodeo history. It honors the cowgirls and cowboys who aided in making rodeo a fun and popular pastime.
Explore the museum, retrace the rodeo heritage of the city, and learn more about the legends who made Pecos popular.
Another terrific thing about the Texas Rodeo Hall of Fame is that it is free.
Address: 100 E 1st St, Pecos, TX 79772, United States
3. Sweat it out at Reeves County Recreation Center
Reeves County Recreation Center, located at W Easterbrook Drive, is a fitness facility that aims to boost people’s health and wellness via recreation.
This recreation center is not called a modern wonder for nothing. With its excellent architecture and 50-foot dome, this structure will make you want to take lots of pictures.
Work out and play basketball, racquetball, or volleyball at Reeves County Recreation Center.
There is also a lovely walking path, a water spa, and a whirlpool at this recreation center. Another additional perk is that it offers classes in water spa and yoga.
Address:1288 Easterbrook Dr, Pecos, TX 79772, United States
4. Get helpful information at the Pecos Area Chamber of Commerce & Convention and Visitors Bureau
Pecos Area Chamber of Commerce & Convention and Visitors Bureau
The Pecos Area Chamber of Commerce & Convention and Visitors Bureau, situated inside the historic T&D Train Deport, is teeming with tourism information and merchandise.
If you are looking for more tips on what to do in Pecos, TX, you should come here. Through its guides and displays, this visitor center will provide plenty of information on the most fascinating sights to see during your stay.
Visit the Pecos Area Chamber of Commerce & Convention and Visitors Bureau and learn more about the city’s trendy attractions and affordable activities.
Furthermore, you may grab some merchandise and souvenirs at this visitor center.
Address: 100 E. Dot Stafford St. Pecos, Texas
5. Walk the Pecos Boot Trail
The Pecos Boot Trail, managed by the Pecos Chamber, is a public art project offering visitors and locals a unique experience. One of the fun things to do in Pecos, TX, is to explore the Pecos Trail.
It offers an opportunity to immerse yourself in the Pecos region’s rich history and cowboy culture.
The trail is short and easy, making it accessible for hikers of different skill levels and ages. Discover the city’s heritage excitingly and interactively by following the Pecos Boot Trail.
Along the way, you will uncover artistic 8-foot boots highlighting pieces of Peco’s rich history.
While not your regular candlelit dinner, it may be one of the things to do with your partner when you visit. Follow the trail and gather stamps from the businesses sponsoring these boats.
Once you have finished the challenge, head to Pecos Chamber to collect your reward.
Address: Pecos, TX, United States
6. Have a family meal at Bush’s Chicken
Bush’s Chicken is a famous fast-food restaurant chain with countless fried chicken lovers in Texas. It has over 70 stores in the state, including the one in Pecos.
Bush’s Chicken’s meticulous marinating and cooking process ensures that everything you taste is as outstanding as chicken can get.
Many other Southern comfort dishes are also featured on the menu, including the popular iced tea by the gallon.
The main appeal at Bush’s Chicken is fried chicken tenders in several sizes, including personal packages with 4-6 tenders and family meals with countless pieces.
Choice of sides includes okra, green beans, jalapenos, kids-love-it Max and cheese, and more.
Address:924 S Eddy St, Pecos, TX 79772, United States
7. Browse through the West of The Pecos Museum
West of The Pecos Museum
The West of The Pecos Museum is among the best places to visit in Pecos, TX.
West of The Pecos Museum, established in 1963, features 50 rooms housing original memorabilia and artifacts from a bygone era.
With its interactive exhibits and rare cowboy items, it is undoubtedly a place that children will enjoy.
Walk through the museum and learn more about the social activities, education, and gunfights in West Texas in 1896.
Address: 120 E Dot Stafford St, Pecos, TX 79772, United States
8. Unleash your inner lumberjack at Changos Axe Throwing
Changos Axe Throwing is a deluxe axe-throwing venue and sports bar in Pecos, TX. It is a hidden gem guaranteed to make your visit memorable and fun.
Envision releasing some stress by throwing an axe at a target sounds exciting, right? It is an exciting activity that you won’t just find anywhere.
Whether hanging out with pals, on a date or looking for a thrilling activity, Changos Axe Throwing is where you should go for good old-fashioned fun.
Take aim and hurl axes at targets, release your inner lumberjack, and have a swell time. It is a unique and unforgettable activity for adventurous dates or group activities.
The pleasant staff guarantees your safety and enjoyment throughout. Axe throwing at this destination is undoubtedly one of the fun things to do in Pecos, TX.
Address: 212 E 3rd St Suite B, Pecos, TX 79772, United States
Texas is one of the top places to visit in the United States; check out the list of things to do in Brownwood and thing to do in Brownwood for a fun time.
9. Put your taste bud to the test at La Nortena Tamale Factory
This family-owned restaurant offers tamales and other mouthwatering Mexican food.
La Nortena Tamale Factory, known for its made-from-scratch tamales, is a Mexican restaurant dating back to 1966.
Several decades of service are evidence of its enduring distinction. Still, your taste buds should be allowed an experience of its own. The spongy tamales with profound, extremely spicy flavors would not disappoint you.
Want a more filling meal? There are some delicious Mexican dishes on the menu to pick from. The tamales at La Nortena Tamale Factory are traditional and only come in two types: one with red chile and pork and one with cheese, chicken, and green chile.
You should pick barbacoa and briskets with Spanish rice on the side for the other dish.
If you are on a trip to Carlsbad Caverns or the Guadalupe Mountains, stopping here will be an excellent decision.
Address 211 E 3rd St, Pecos, TX 79772, United States
10. Visit the replica of Anne Hathaway Cottage
.jpg){kind=link}
Anne Hathaway Cottage
Access to the kitchen and a vast meeting place on the second level are provided in two different sections.
The Black Box, a simple block and steel structure near the Globe Theater and the Anne Hathaway Cottage, features a 16-foot ceiling and a 2,475-square-foot conference hall.
The Cottage also caters to seminars, meetings, live performances, and private parties
Address:2308 Shakespeare Rd, Odessa, TX 79761, United States
11. Shop at Desiree Boutique
One of the top things to do in Pecos, TX, is to shop at Desiree Boutique. It has been the local shop for clothing and accessories since 1992.
Though they have an amazing selection of oilfield clothing and workwear for patrons in the Lone Star State, visitors will also find wedding dresses, school uniforms, quinceañera dresses, tuxedos, and accessories.
Furthermore, Desiree Boutique offers the finest boot brands so your feet can stay safe and secure during workdays.
Whether you are searching for a western-style cowboy boot or something more straightforward, you will find something at this boutique.
They also have work boots designed for safety, such as waterproof, fire-resistant, steel-toed, and slip-resistant boots.
Visitors looking for lace-up and pull-on boats will find them in abundance at this boutique.
Regardless of your preferences, the polite and friendly staff here are always happy to help. Stop by Deisree Boutique today and find the style and sizes that match your taste.
Address:1203 S Eddy St #5807, Pecos, TX 79772, United States
12. Read a book or watch a movie at Reeves County Library
A library isn’t normally the first place that comes to mind when you think of exciting things to do on a vacation. However, Reeves County Library has more to offer than just books.
With its Internet access, movies, and video games, this library will entertain you differently.
Visit this Reeves County Library and check out its books, films, and activities. Additionally, you may partake in any of their events and contests.
Reeve County Library is undoubtedly a must-stop for avid readers vacationing in Pecos, TX.
Address: 315 S Oak St, Pecos, TX 79772, United States
13. Eat delicious pizza at Arti’s Italian Restaurant
This family-run Italian restaurant is a famous hangout for locals with recipes from various regions of Italy. Its pizzas are particularly delicious.
Anyone used to the bustling atmosphere and dazzling glamor of the big city restaurants will find the small-town ambiance at Arti’s Italian Restaurant a welcoming change.
Several locals like to visit this place, from oil workers in baseball caps to families with kids, adding to the friendly atmosphere of the place.
Although the menu includes pasta, pizzas, and calzones, it also contains delicious main dishes, snacks, and desserts.
Aside from building your own pizza, you can order from numerous specialty choices like supreme and margarita.
The restaurant also offers a famous pasta dish of chicken lasagna, chicken parmesan, and fettuccine Alfredo, known as the Tour of Sicily.
Other enjoyable selections are Arti’s Chicken, prepared with sauteed mushrooms and artichoke, spaghetti with meatballs, and any calzone you like.
Address: 214 S Oak St, Pecos, TX 79772, United States
14. Catch a live show at Buck Jackson Arena
Buck Jackson Arena
Buck Jackson Arena, known as home to the world’s first rodeo, has been holding competitions since 1883. It is one of the best places to visit in Pecos, TX, and is perfect for anyone searching for fun outdoor activities.
Not only is it saturated in history, but it also hosts exciting bull rides, motorcycle events, and rodeos.
There is no better way to experience the Buck Jackson Arena than to attend a live rodeo show. You can also watch other events hosted at this arena.
Do not forget to stop by its shop and buy a fantastic souvenir.
Address: 1556 S Cedar St, Pecos, TX 79772, United States
15. See a Show at the Permian Playhouse
Watching live theaters is always a fantastic experience, so head to the Permian Playhouse to catch a performance here.
It hosts various theatrical performances, such as plays, musicals, comedies, and plays that are acted on stage. Visit with your loved ones and book tickets in advance for an enjoyable experience.
Numerous burger spots are nearby, so you can grab a quick bite when famished and enjoy an hour or two of mesmerizing experiences.
Spend a few hours with your family at the Permian Playhouse
Address:310 W 42nd Street, Odessa, TX 79764, United States
Also, check out the best of attractions and activities in Marshall, Spring, and San Antonio for a fun vacation in Texas.
16. Stay at Holiday Inn Express & Suites Pecos
Before figuring out what to do in Pecos, TX, check out Holiday Inn Express & Suites. It will serve as a comfy abode during your stay in the city.
The hotel is close to many city attractions like the West of the Pecos Museum and the Blue Jackson Rodeo Arena.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Pecos’s small-town charm and convenient location are ideal for all visitors.
Regardless of your reasons for visiting Pecos, lodging at this hotel guarantees a carefree trip.
You will find that its gorgeously appointed accommodations are the perfect choice for your trip to Pecos.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Pecos offers a fitness center, free WIFI, a 24-hour business center, and a complimentary hot Express Start Breakfast Bar featuring their tasty signature cinnamon rolls.
Address:1900 S Cedar St, Pecos, TX 79772, United States
17. Play in the Water at McKinney Park Sprayground
The McKinney Park Sprayground is a beloved attraction for kids. It is only open during specific times of the year, so schedule your visit.
They have various water fixtures that always spray water around. Your children will enjoy splashing about in the water.
There is also an extensive main water area with an enormous bucket that throws water on you.
Address: 625 W Pool Road, Odessa, TX 79763, United States
18. Pay tribute at the Chris Kyle Memorial
Chris Kyle Memorial
This memorial celebrates Kyle’s brave heart and spirit. The carefully built and majestic monuments feature a statue of the American Sniper, Chris Kyle, carrying a flag.
When you walk around it, you will feel an inner aura and reverence. His family also penned down a precious and touching message on a plaque.
There are numerous inspiring quotes written close to the campus.
When you visit the Chris Kyle Memorial, you will be reminded of the sacrifices many people in the Navy and military service make for the nation.
Address TX-191 Frontage, Odessa, TX 79765, United States
19. Enjoy juicy barbecue at Pody’s BBQ
Texas is known for its fabulous BBQ restaurants no matter the part of the city you plan to visit. In Pecos, one of the finest places to have grilled meat is the popular Pody’s BBQ.
This lovely BBQ joint is in a nondescript building that wouldn’t be difficult to miss. Still, due to the unmistakable tempting smell of Texas BBQ, you will be able to narrow it down.
Its space is tiny, contrary to the large sizes of meats and extras you will get from the pleasant staff members.
The soft, succulent meat is so tasty that you won’t need a knife to pull it apart. Putting it in sandwiches is another fantastic idea.
The only downside is that the restaurant occasionally runs out of juicy brisket before closing, so you should probably go there early.
Some visitors’ favorites include chopped brisket sandwiches or pulled pork sandwiches; green chili hominy and potato salad are recommended for sides.
Address: 1330 S Cedar St, Pecos, TX 79772, United States
20. Drop by the World’s Largest Jack Rabbit
When the rabbit was constructed in 1962, Odessa Chamber of Commerce President John Benn Shepperd formed the nickname “Jack Ben Rabbit.”
The World’s Largest Jack Rabbit statue was Benn’s way of commemorating the city’s yearly jackrabbit roping competition at the Odessa Rodeo.
The Humane Society of the United States halted the competitions for good in 1978. Since then, the statue has been showcased in the old Prairie Pete Park.
Several years later, it was moved to a maintenance yard, where it stayed until a public uproar forced it to another location.
In 1997, an individual attempted to rob the statue, which forced the government to move it down to the sidewalk.
In 2017, a 14.5-foot tall version of the jackrabbit was erected in Ralls, TX, replacing it as the world’s largest jackrabbit.
Address W 8th St & N Sam Houston Ave, Odessa, TX 79761, United States
21. Watch a Game at Ratliff Stadium
Ratliff Stadium
The Ratliff Stadium can accommodate up to 193,000 people. The stadium was finished and inaugurated on September 15, 1982.
It served as the background for the football action in the 2004 movie “Friday Night Lights.”
Ratliff Stadium also serves as the home field for two high schools in Permian and Odessa.
It also hosts graduation ceremonies and track and field championships. Catch a live sporting event if you are lucky to grab a ticket.
Address: 1862 E Yukon Road, Odessa, TX 79765, United States
22. Hop around the Altitude Trampoline Park
Not only is jumping on a trampoline fun, but it is also a great way to remember your childhood.
It does not matter if you are an adult or a kid; the only thing that truly matters here is having a swell time.
It is an exciting experience to jump on the trampolines, rise high in the air, and fall back down. The Altitude Trampoline Park provides these experiences and gives an abundance of fun.
It is a terrific activity zone and entertainment center featuring various jumping areas, including an Olympic-sized trampoline.
Aside from this, they have several fabulous and fun activities, like a trapeze swing, a foam pad, a battle beam, tumble tracks, and dodgeball. Take your entire family to Altitude Trampoline Park.
Address: 5161 E 42nd Street, Odessa, TX 79762, United States
23. Stop by the Odessa Meteor Crater
Odessa Meteor Crater
The large Odesa Meteor Crater, located in the southwestern part of Ector County and southwest of Odesa, is among Texas’s three major impact crater sites.
This Crater was created by the effect of thousands of octahedrite (an iron metallic kind), which dropped to earth thousands of years ago.
A museum dedicated to the Odessa meteor crater is close to the site. Showcased here is a 70-pound sample of a meteorite. The rock is estimated to be at least 63,000 years old.
Over the years, they have salvaged as many as 1,500 meteorites from the nearby areas. The Odessa Meteor Crate Site was acknowledged as a National Natural Landmark by the National Park Service.
A small information area can be found here, and you are welcome to undertake a self-guided tour over a nature trail.
The Odessa Meteor Crater is an intriguing site to visit and a rather unusual attraction. Odessa Meteor Crater is in Odessa, TX, roughly 60 minutes from Pecos, TX.
Address: 5599 Meteor Crater Road, Odessa, TX 79763, United States
24. Admire the Stonehenge Replica
Stonehenge Replica
The Stonehenge Replica is a thrilling spot to see during your visit to the nearby Odessa.
The replica is created with enormous monolithic rocks that remind guests of the original Stonehenge in England.
You can even feel the stones, revel in the textures, and soak up all the grooves on the rocks.
It is an extremely reflective experience, and you will appreciate the people who must have built these enormous structures.
The Stonehenge Replica is also fabulous for taking pictures to post on your social media accounts.
Address: Preston Smith Road, Odessa, TX 79762, United States
Texas has some of the best cities in the United States to explore. Here is a list of fun things to do in Freeport, things to Do in Port Arthur, and Restaurants in Lampasas for fun exploration.
Plan Your Trip to Pecos
Pecos is a small city located in the western part of Texas. In spite of its size, the city has much to offer for guests who want to get a taste of Texan hospitality and culture.
From the moment you arrive, you will be astonished by the city’s blend of Old West Charm and the comfort of today.
When ready to relax and kick back after touring the city, you can indulge in some of the finest Texan-Mexican cuisine.
With its thrilling variety of attractions, delicious food, and natural landmarks, Pecos makes for a memorable travel destination.