14 Best Things to Do in Odessa, Texas

“We became Texans in Odessa and we are proud of it.” – Former President George W. Bush.

Most Texans know Odessa because of the Bush family and the oil fields!

Odessa is located in the Permian Basin, home to the famed Mid-Continent oil field, far west of Texas.

Did you know that the city is named after Odessa, Ukraine?

Here is a complete guide to visiting Odessa, Texas.

Also Read: The Ultimate West Texas Travel Itinerary

Things to do in Odessa, Texas

Odessa is a small city located in West Texas, halfway between Monaghans and Fort Stockton.

It’s only half an hour from Midland, Texas.

There are many exciting attractions and activities.

Known for its cattle ranches and long history of feral cats, this is an interesting place to explore and explore Texas’ early heritage.

Here are our favorite things to do in Odessa, Texas on your next visit.

Take a photo with Jack Ben the rabbit

Located in the center of Odessa, this giant hare statue is easy to spot and great for photos.

It was built in 1962 and is over 8 feet tall.

It was built to commemorate the tying of hares with a rope, which was held as part of the rodeo.

Today, it’s a whimsical reminder of Texas history.

Want more rabbits?

In addition to the famous sculpture, Odessa has over 30 other hares sculptures throughout the city.

Visitors love to be photographed with these brightly colored sculptures to win an award!

See works at the Ellen Noel Art Museum.

The Ellen Noel Museum of Art features many works of art from both Texan and foreign artists.

It offers a wide selection of art including sculptures, photographs and paintings.

Visitors can also visit the Museum’s Learning Center, which hosts talks and tours of the history and culture of Odessa.

Attend a free concert at Noel Heritage Plaza

Noel Heritage Plaza, located in the center of Odessa, is the venue for many city events.

This is a great place to listen to live music, attend events and relax.

Every summer, the square hosts free concerts featuring local musicians.

This is a great way to experience the vibrant culture of Texas.

Take a photo with a replica of Stonehenge

An exact copy of the Odessa Stonehenge, known as the Stonehenge of the Permian Basin, is a mesmerizing sight.

It was built in 2004 and is built from giant limestone blocks.

At over 19 feet tall, Stonehenge is astronomically accurate.

Watch a performance at the Wagner Noel Center for the Performing Arts.

The Wagner Noel Center for the Performing Arts is a must-see in Odessa.

Designed in an Art Deco style, this performing arts center hosts a variety of shows and events throughout the year, from musical performances to films and more.

Attend a Midland-Odessa Symphony & Chorale performance

Midland-Odessa Symphony & Chorale presents a wide range of classical and contemporary music concerts throughout the year.

Spectators can enjoy performances by talented musicians from all over West Texas.

Spend a day at Music City Mall

Music City Mall is a great place for shopping, dining and entertainment.

The mall has popular stores like H&M and Forever 21, as well as popular restaurants and eateries.

It also has a cinema where you can watch the latest movies with your friends and family.

While you’re here, don’t forget to visit the mall’s main attraction: the ice skating rink!

Admire the architecture of the Great Southwest Globe

The Globe of the Greater Southwest, Odessa’s main theater, is located on the Odessa College campus.

The striking building is inspired by William Shakespeare’s famous London Globe Theatre.

It features iconic octagonal architecture and wooden balconies.

Another must-see here: Anne Hathaway Cottage Library!

Anna was the wife of a famous playwright, and the copy cottage houses a large collection of Shakespeare’s works.

See more than life Odessa meteorite crater

The Odessa meteorite crater is one of the largest in the world.

This massive crater, over three miles wide, was formed by an asteroid explosion over 12,000 years ago.

Today it stands as a reminder of the power and beauty of nature.

Visitors can explore this incredible formation through guided tours and hikes.

Everyone who visits Odessa should see this.

Visit the Chris Kyle Memorial

The Chris Kyle Memorial is a tribute to Navy SEAL veteran and American sharpshooter Chris Kyle.

Located off I-20 near Odessa, this memorial features a bronze statue of Kyle.

The memorial also has several interactive exhibits.

It has become a place of pilgrimage for war veterans who want to honor the memory of the fallen hero.

Watch a performance at the Perm Theater

Perm Theater is a professional theater located in Odessa.

It features year-round productions, from classical plays and musicals to contemporary productions.

Spectators can enjoy a variety of performances while admiring the stunning Art Deco architecture.

Hike the trails in McKinney Park.

McKinney Park is a great place to get some fresh air and explore nature.

The sports park has walking and cycling trails, as well as many amenities, including basketball courts, soccer fields, a disc golf course, and playgrounds.

There are many opportunities to see wildlife such as deer, coyotes and birds.

Take the kids to the Altitude trampoline park.

Families love visiting Altitude, an indoor trampoline park in Odessa.

The park has several trampoline areas, slam dunk tracks, and a foam pit.

The park is also popular for birthday parties and other events.

See the sand dunes at Monahans Sandhills State Park.

Monahans Sandhills State Park is one of the most unique parks in Texas.

Covering over 3,840 acres of beautiful sand dunes, this park offers activities such as camping, hiking, bird watching, horseback riding, and more.

Visitors can also visit the nearby interpretive center and learn about the local flora and fauna.

What is your favorite thing to do in this charming west Texas town? Let us know below.