Located in the Permian Basin, Midland, Texas is a popular business travel destination, particularly for people in the oil and gas industry.
Also known for attracting football scouts, Midland hosts tens of thousands of corporate travelers yearly and ranks as the 14th fastest-growing city in the US based on its economic potential.
From restaurants to entertainment and more, here are 15 things worth doing the next time you’re in the Midland/Odessa area on business.
Museums and Attractions
With art museums, science and history centers, parks and natural wonders, there are many things to do in Midland, both indoors and outdoors. Here are some of the most popular attractions in the area:
Permian Basin Petroleum Museum
The Permian Basin Petroleum Museum is a science and technology museum with multiple exhibits and displays.
It (of course) includes plenty of petroleum installations, but it’s not only about oil and gas. Highlights of this facility include a mineral gallery and the Chaparral Gallery with race cars on display.
Museum of the Southwest
The Museum of the Southwest is much more than an art gallery, though plenty of artworks are on display. It’s actually an art and science museum, complete with a sculpture garden, the Marian West and William Blankton Planetarium, as well as the historic Turner Mansion, where you can see Kentucky Derby trophies in person!
Odessa Meteor Crater Museum
If you’re interested in astronomy, the Odessa Meteor Crater Museum is a must-see on your next trip to Midland — particularly because it might not exist for much longer.
Formed from a meteor crash, the crater was originally 115 feet deep. However, due to rain and wind erosion, it is now only 15 feet deep.
The Bush Family Home
The Bush Family Home State Historic Site is a unique opportunity to visit the family home of two former presidents. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this historical site was occupied by the Bush family in the 1950s.
The 41st president, George Herbert Walker Bush, lived here as an adult just before kicking off his political career. The 43rd president, George W. Bush, lived here as a child from about ages 5-10.
Monahans Sandhills State Park
One of the most unique places on this list, the Monahans Sandhills State Park is often called “an ocean of sand.”
Sand dunes in this park reach 50 feet high, and you can rent sand disks to slide down the dunes, just like sledding down a snowy mountain.
I-20 Wildlife Preserve & Jenna Welch Nature Center
Enjoy a day hiking nature trails or participating in an educational or wellness program at the I-20 Wildlife Preserve.
Featuring a lake, a butterfly garden, the Jenna Welch Nature Center and multiple outdoor trails for biking or hiking, this site is perfect for connecting with nature, relaxing and partaking in a wide variety of outdoor activities.
Susie’s South Forty Confections Candy Factory
Indulge your sweet tooth and see how candy is made at Susie’s South Forty Confections Candy Factory.
This 15,000 square foot facility offers free samples and free tours where you can watch professional candy-makers work their magic. The confections they make onsite are also available for purchase.
For small groups of 1 or 2, they’re happy to accommodate walk-in tours depending on their staffing, but large groups should coordinate their visit.
Either way, just giving them a quick call ahead can ensure you get the full experience.
Restaurants
