If you’re staying at The Plaza Pioneer Park for three or more days, you may want to explore a thriving art and culture scene just three hours away from El Paso: Marfa. Known for its quirky art installations, stunning desertscapes, and music festivals, this West Texas town is making a big name for itself. 

While you’re in Marfa, consider visiting the following attractions: 

Prada Marfa

Commissioned by Art Production Fund and Ballroom Marfa, Prada Marfa is a site-specific art project by Berlin-based artists Michael Elmgreen and Ingar Dragset. The space is modeled after a Prada boutique, featuring luxury goods from the designer brand’s fall 2005 collection of handbags and shoes. However, the store is just a sculpture, so sadly there is nothing to be purchased. 

Donald Judd’s Concrete Blocks

American artist Donald Judd turned a decommissioned army base into an art compound that is now known as The Chinati Foundation. The art museum in Marfa houses Judd’s 15 untitled works in concrete or 15 gray rectangular architectural formations that rest in the middle of the vast ranchland. 

Marfa Burrito

Marfa Burrito is a little house with wood-paneled walls that are covered with decorations and pictures of Matthew McConaughey. With five burrito choices, all of them make a perfect meal with soft, handmade tortillas. Diners often recommend the Primo, which is stuffed with beans, potatoes, onions, tomatoes, salsa, and cheese.

Palace Theater

Built as the Marfa Opera House in 1905, The Palace Theater was also the former Art Deco movie theater in downtown Marfa. It once hosted 1955 screenings of Elizabeth Taylor and James Dean movies every night, while George Stevens and his Warner Brothers crew were shooting Giant (1956) outside of Marfa. Although the theater closed in the 1970s, the space is now an illustrator’s studio. 

Ballroom Marfa 

Ballroom Marfa is a non-profit organization and a contemporary cultural arts space that explores a variety of visual arts, film, music, and performance. Serving international and local arts communities, the organization supports the artwork of both emerging and recognized artists.

After your day trip, rest and recharge at The Plaza Hotel Pioneer Park. Stay longer to discover more of El Paso with our ‘West Texas Escape’ offer that allows you to save up to 25% with a five-night stay.