10 Unique Stays in Marfa, Texas
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FIND UNIQUE HOTELS IN MARFA, TEXAS, FOR A SPECIAL AND MEMORABLE STAY.
But with so many options available, choosing the right accommodation can be overwhelming.
In this post, I’ll describe the 13 best hotels and vacation rentals in Marfa, Texas, to help you decide where to stay.
Marfa is a quaint town located in western Texas that has become a favored spot for those seeking art, nature, and tranquility.
The town’s minimalist and contemporary art scene can be experienced at various galleries, museums, and studios.
The enigmatic Marfa lights – glowing orbs that appear on the horizon at night – make for a stupefying sight; the Big Bend National Park and the Davis Mountains nearby offer the chance to enjoy the natural beauty and outdoor activities.
So, to make your cozy base and explore all these fascinating things, here are the best places to stay in Marfa, Texas!
Where to Stay in Marfa, Texas: Top Recommendations
🏅 Best Place to Stay in Marfa, Texas for Couples: Marfa House Bosque Bonito in the Center of Marfa
🏅 Best Place to Stay in Marfa, Texas for Backpackers: El Cosmico
🏅 Best Place to Stay in Marfa Texas for first-time visitors: Marfa House Candelaria: In the center of Marfa
🏅 Best Place to Stay in Marfa, Texas with pets: The Lincoln Marfa
🏅Best Place to Stay in Marfa, Texas on a budget: Riata Inn Marfa
🏅 Best Place to Stay in Marfa, Texas, for Luxury travel: Hotel Saint George
Where to Stay in Marfa, TX
1. Hotel Saint George
Hotel Saint George is a historic hotel in Marfa that offers luxurious and spacious rooms with modern amenities and an artful design.
The hotel has a seasonal outdoor pool, a fitness center, and a bar. It also has an on-site restaurant that serves American and international cuisine and vegetarian/vegan options.
The luxury rooms of Hotel Saint George are praised for their spaciousness and neat decor. They feature comforts like air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, seating areas, and private bathrooms.
The hotel’s amenities include free private parking, a 24-hour front desk, room service, and WiFi connectivity throughout.
With a central location, deluxe amenities, and the friendliest staff that goes the extra mile to make your stay enjoyable, Hotel Saint George is one of the best Marfa Texas hotels for a luxury stay with stunning views.
Luxury in the middle of West Texas. Excellent location in the middle of Marfa. Lovely restaurant and well -prepared food and presentation.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ JOHN, MARCH 2023
2. Cibolo Creek Ranch and Resort
Located 30 miles south of town, Cibolo Creek Ranch and Resort is a Marfa, Texas, lodging option that offers a unique blend of history, nature, and luxury, making for one of the most spectacular stays in the region.
Cibolo Creek Ranch Resort has luxury guest rooms that are decorated with antique furnishings and artifacts.
The resort also has a restaurant that serves a la carte breakfast and authentic regional cuisine, a bar, a fitness center, and a 24/7 outdoor pool.
The resort is nestled in a 30,000-acre property that has three historic forts (that you can stay in!), a private airstrip, a media center, and several museums.
Guests can also enjoy various activities here, such as hiking, ATV and Humvee tours, fishing, horseback riding, and stargazing.
Beautiful location, property. Quiet, peaceful. So many activities and very helpful, accommodating staff. Outstanding cuisine. Will definitely return.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ JAY, MARCH 202
3. The Lincoln Marfa
The Lincoln Marfa is a smoke-free apartment building in Marfa, Texas, offering eight air-conditioned apartments with kitchens fully equipped with appliances and spices.
The property features a garden, BBQ grills, free Wi-Fi, and parking. The apartments offer premium bedding with down comforters, a patio, and a 32-inch smart TV.
Housekeeping is not available, but cleaning supplies are provided. The property is eco-friendly; safety features include carbon monoxide and smoke detectors. The location is central to Marfa’s shopping district. The property only allows service animals, and pets are not allowed.
IA lovely space! Clean, comfortable, quiet, and stylish. Hosts were responsive to our questions.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ William, MARCH 2023
4. Riata Inn
Riata Inn Marfa is a motel located on the eastern edge of Marfa. It is an excellent option for those who want to stay close to all the attractions but still enjoy a laid-back and peaceful accommodation.
The property is also highly rated for its great value for money and welcoming staff.
The motel offers over 40 guest rooms with comforts like free Wi-Fi, cable TV, minifridges, microwaves, and private baths. It also has a 24-hour front desk, a picnic area, and a vending machine for snacks and drinks.
Many great restaurants are close to the property, and complimentary parking is provided to the guests.
Overall, Riata Inn is a great place to stay if you’re on a road trip or simply want to enjoy a tranquil location on the outskirts of town.
What a amazing place to stay on a road trip! The room was clean and BIG! The bed is comfy as well. Love it!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ WEIHAO, MARCH 2023
5. The No. 3: Modern, Bright, Renovated Condo in Downtown Marfa
Located in the center of Marfa, The No. 3 is a one-bedroom condo that has been renovated with modern furnishings and amenities, such as fiber internet, a washer/dryer, air conditioning, and a patio.
Despite being pocket-friendly, it’s an excellent place for a comfy stay with all the necessary amenities.
The No. 3 features a bedroom with a queen bed, air-conditioning, TV, and wireless internet.
A private bathroom and living area are also part of the property, and the condo also has a well-equipped kitchen with a refrigerator and coffee machine. The condo can accommodate up to three guests and is pet-friendly as well.
Also, it’s within walking distance of many attractions, including the cozy coffee shop adjacent to it, JUDD Art Studio, Presidio County Museum, and the Chinati Foundation Museum.
We have been coming to Marfa for years. We had never stayed at this property but had an absolutely lovely time. Great location, well appointed—it had everything we needed. And it is pet friendly, so we could have our two little ones along. We will be back!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ RAPAHEL G., MARCH 2023
6. Historic two-story adobe house in the heart of Marfa
Photo © VRBO
This unique and beautifully detailed home, over a century old, has recently been renovated from the ground up. It is one of the few two-story, late 19th-century West Texas family homes in existence. The home features large, deeply cased windows and two-foot adobe walls.
Upstairs, it offers two bedrooms: the master bedroom with a king bed and a second bedroom with a queen bed and a bunk bed. The bathroom is located downstairs and includes a walk-in shower.
We loved our stay the Collie House. The home was clean, spacious, and very comfortable. Equipped with everything we needed. The location is amazing! The home is near nightlife and the train so some evenings were noisier than others. We prepared and brought sound machines to help at night and would definitely recommend others do so, especially if traveling with kiddos.
Sarah K.
7. Marfa House Bosque Bonito in the Center of Marfa
Another renovated apartment within the Marfa House, Bosque Bonito, is a cozy and comfortable apartment in the center of Marfa’s historic district, making it the perfect place to stay if you want to explore Marfa’s art scene and enjoy its charm.
The apartment has a bedroom featuring a queen-sized bed, a cozy living room, a fully-equipped kitchen, and a private bathroom. Facilities of Marfa House Bosque Bonito include air conditioning, a heater, TV, internet, parking, and accessibility features.
Marfa House Bosque Bonito is designed very tastefully and features original pieces in its decor.
Moreover, the apartment also has a fireplace to add to its ambiance, and guests can relax in the seating area on its front balcony.
Just the right size for my husband and me, clean, comfortable and right in downtown Marfa. We would definitely stay here again
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ CONNIE C,
8. Artist Loft – Western Edge of Town
Photo © VRBO
Artist Loft is a spacious lodging option in a former art studio on an 8-acre ranchette at the western edge of town.
The loft has a covered porch, custom-made art-crate furniture, a fully equipped kitchen, and a custom-designed bathroom.
It has high-speed Wi-Fi, heating and air-conditioning, and a south-facing covered deck, which is ideal for relaxing.
While the Artist Loft is away from downtown’s hustle and bustle, it’s just a short distance from the Judd and Chinati Foundations, as well as several cafes, restaurants, and shops.
This place is perfect for a couple or small group who are looking for plenty of space, tranquility, and easy access to everything Marfa has to offer.
What a great spot to reset, star-gaze, read and just enjoy Marfa. The studio is spacious and clean, with a fantastic porch for morning coffee or late night star gazing. Would definitely stay here again.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ CHRISTINA C, SEPTEMBER 2022
9. Marfa House Candelaria
Candelaria is another second-floor Marfa House vacation rental in the center of the city. It offers a single bedroom and private bath.
The amenities are similar, including air-conditioning, a living room, and a dining area.
This apartment also has a full kitchen, featuring a refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, and dishwasher.
The living room has a flat-screen TV, and guests are also provided with a gas fireplace and luggage storage space.
The main building has an art gallery and front balcony that guests have access to, and many popular galleries, museums, and attractions are also close to the property.
With an artistic ambiance, great amenities, and a central location, Marfa House Candelaria is a great stop for anyone visiting Marfa for its art scene.
Loved our brief stay, the art in this Marfa House is so cool and adds to the ambiance. Wish we had stayed longer and definitely would come back and recommend to friends!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ FAY E, MAY 2021
10. El Cosmico
Spanning over 20 acres of spectacular land, El Cosmico is a nomadic-style hotel and campground in Marfa.
Offering various types of accommodation, such as rooms, trailers, tents, yurts, and teepees, this hotel is the perfect place for a unique and atmospheric Marfa stay.
Some amenities may vary depending on the type of accommodation you choose, but a communal lounge, wood-fired hot tubs, a hammock grove, BBQ facilities, and a shared dining area and kitchen for guests to prepare their own meals are all part of the stay.
Nearby activities include cycling and hiking in the expansive landscapes surrounding El Cosmico.
Free private parking is also provided at the property, and borrowed bikes are also offered here if you want to go for a ride in town.
Had lots of fun, a cute, quirky campsite for those who want to be out in nature without totally being out in nature!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ANONYMOUS, DECEMBER 2022
Things to Do in Marfa
🖼️ Explore the Art Scene
Marfa has become a world-famous art destination thanks to the visionary work of minimalist artist Donald Judd.
Judd moved to Marfa in 1971 and transformed several buildings into permanent installations for his large-scale sculptures.
He also founded the Chinati Foundation, a museum that showcases his work and other contemporary artists on a former military base.
As such, Marfa attracts art lovers who want to experience Judd’s legacy and explore the diverse and vibrant art scene that has emerged in this desert town.
So, if you fancy art, make sure you explore all the amazing spots of this small city to make the most of your trip here!
🌃 Go Stargazing
The cerulean sky of Marfa becomes the perfect canvas for billions of stars at night, making stargazing one of the best things to do while you’re vacationing here.
You can see the entire Milky Way from many spots in town, including the El Cosmico Hotel and the McDonald Observatory, located half an hour north of Marfa, which organizes weekly star parties where you can take advantage of its position under some of the darkest skies in the continental United States for an enhanced stargazing experience.
🌌 See the Mysterious Marfa Lights
Stargazing with the whole of the milky way in view is an awe-inspiring experience on its own, but it gets even better with Marfa Lights.
If you don’t know about them, they’re super mysterious glowing orbs that pop up in the desert near Marfa.
People have been spotting them for ages and they’ve been linked to all sorts of spooky stuff like ghosts, UFOs, and will-o’-the-wisps.
However, nobody has been able to figure out what actually causes them or what they really are.
Over the years, Marfa Lights have become one of the biggest draws for people visiting Marfa.
If you’d like to see these lights dance on the horizon firsthand, there is a viewing platform on U.S. Route 67 where you can go to watch them at night.
🏬 Visit the Famous Prada Marfa Installation
I already mentioned the art installations of Marfa, but the Prada Marfa installation deserves a separate mention of its own.
This incredible piece of art is nestled in a corner of the expansive desert and it’s a must-see stop on your journey.
The Prada Marfa installation replicates a Prada store in the middle of nowhere. The store is filled with untouched shoes and handbags, which makes for a stunning sight.
Just keep in mind that visiting early in the morning is recommended if you want to avoid crowds.
🌄 Enjoy the Natural Beauty of the Surrounding Area
Besides being an arts hub, Marfa also has a wealth of natural beauty and a laid-back atmosphere.
This makes Marfa the perfect place to spend time away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Stargazing and looking out for the Marfa Lights are some of the most popular activities.
You can also venture out of town on a bike and take in the region’s landscape.
And the nearby Big Bend National Park and the Davis Mountains offer many opportunities for thrilling outdoor activities like exploring hiking trails, camping, and enjoying the stunning scenery.
What is the best time to visit Marfa?
You can visit Marfa any time of year, as there are events and attractions throughout the calendar, such as art exhibitions, music festivals, and star parties.
However, the summer can be very hot and busy, while the winter can be a bit cold, so the best time to visit Marfa is usually considered during the spring or fall when the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds.
How many days do you need in Marfa?
The number of days you need in Marfa depends on your interests and preferences, but it is recommended that you stay between 2 and 3 days.
Marfa is famous for its art scene, so you might want to visit some of the galleries, museums, and art installations that showcase local and international artists.
Two or three days should suffice to do all of that and explore the nearby attractions, such as the Marfa Lights, the Prada Marfa installation, the Davis Mountains, and Big Bend National Park.
FAQs
Is it worth visiting Marfa?
It offers a unique blend of contemporary art, natural beauty, and a laid-back vibe that is hard to find in other places.
Visitors can visit the famous Prada Marfa installation, experience the minimalist and contemporary art scene at galleries, museums, and studios, witness the mysterious Marfa lights, and enjoy the natural beauty and outdoor activities at nearby Big Bend National Park and the Davis Mountains.
Additionally, tourists can relax and unwind at cozy hotels, cafes, and restaurants that offer local and international food.
Overall, Marfa is a charming destination that offers a variety of experiences that are worth exploring.
Is Marfa walkable?
Walking around Marfa allows visitors to appreciate the town’s unique charm.
The downtown area is particularly walkable, with many shops, galleries, and restaurants located within a few blocks of each other.
Why is Marfa Texas so popular?
Also, the galleries, museums, and unique art like the Prada Marfa installation are another draw for visitors.
In short, Marfa has become a hub of contemporary and minimalist art for admirers worldwide.
Then there are the amazing stargazing experiences and the mysterious Marfa Lights (unexplained glowing orbs appearing a few miles east of town), which have been puzzling visitors and locals alike for over a century and attract tourists to this small Texan city.
The region’s landscape is also breathtaking, and with Big Bend National Park and the Davis Mountains nearby, there are plenty of opportunities for unforgettable outdoor activities like hiking, camping, cycling, fishing, and more.
To top it all off, Marfa also has a laid-back and welcoming vibe that attracts visitors seeking a slower pace of life.
The town’s small size and slower pace allow visitors to relax and unwind in a peaceful environment.
Overall, Marfa’s unique blend of contemporary art, quirky attractions, natural beauty, and laid-back atmosphere has made it a popular destination for tourists seeking a one-of-a-kind experience.
Unique Hotels in Marfa, Texas: Final Thoughts
There you have it! From quirky vacation rentals to luxurious hotels, Marfa offers a range of options to suit different tastes and budgets.
Whether you’re visiting for the contemporary art scene, the natural beauty, or the laid-back atmosphere, you can choose from the accommodation options I have highlighted above to make your stay in Marfa memorable.
Just remember to book early, and have fun exploring this hidden gem of Texas.
