15 Best Things to Do in Fort Stockton, Texas

Want to add some excitement to your next trip?

Why not head to Fort Stockton, Texas, one of the Lone Star State’s best-kept secrets.

Whether you’re looking for small-town West Texas life or gorgeous scenery and wide open spaces, Fort Stockton is worth a stop.

Most people visit Fort Stockton while driving through West Texas to El Paso, Big Bend, or the Guadalupe Mountains.

This is our favorite place to enjoy an authentic taste of the American West.

This small town is located in the heart of cowboy country and is filled with historical sites and western attractions.

Also Read: 25 Best Things to Do in West Texas

Things to do in Fort Stockton, Texas

Fort Stockton is a small town in West Texas that has a lot to offer tourists.

From stargazing and historic forts to ghost towns and antiques, here are the best things to do in Fort Stockton, Texas.

Learn about the history of Comanche Springs at the Fort Stockton Visitor Center.

The Fort Stockton Visitor Center, located inside the historic Santa Fe Railroad Depot, is the perfect place to experience the history of Comanche Springs.

Located in the heart of Fort Stockton, the center gives visitors the opportunity to explore artifacts, exhibits and sculptures that tell a unique story about the region’s fascinating past.

Comanche Springs has historically been populated by both Native Americans and pioneers.

The springs were responsible for the city’s early success, providing water for crops and livestock.

Visitors can also see a railroad car, an oil pump and other icons related to the history of Fort Stockton in the center.

Take a photo with Paisano Pete

Visiting Fort Stockton? You must take a photo with Paisano Pete per gram!

Paisano Pete is an 11-foot-tall, 22-foot-long road runner sculpture that has become a favorite roadside attraction in the area.

It is the second largest road runner sculpture in the world.

It’s on a busy intersection next to the Visitor Center, so be careful when taking pictures!

Learn about the area’s history at the Annie Riggs Memorial Museum.

The Annie Riggs Memorial Museum is a local history museum in Fort Stockton, Texas.

The museum is located in the former home and historic hotel of Annie Riggs, a pioneering woman who played a significant role in the development of the region.

The museum has a wide variety of exhibits on the history of Fort Stockton and the surrounding area, including the history of the hotel itself.

Visitors can also learn about Annie Riggs as well as see many artifacts that were used in everyday life during the pioneer days.

Visit the historic Fort Stockton

The Fort Stockton Historic Building is one of Fort Stockton’s most iconic buildings.

It was built in 1867 as a military fort to protect settlers, house troops of “buffalo soldiers” and protect the mail route from San Antonio to El Paso.

Today, the Fort Stockton Historical Society is overseeing its restoration and is opening it to the public as a museum.

Explore the Fort Stockton Historic District

The Fort Stockton Historic District is located in the heart of Fort Stockton and offers a glimpse into the past.

With historic buildings and landmarks, visitors can see 19th century homes, classrooms, churches and other structures that played an important role in the development of this city.

Take a look at the cemetery of the Old Fort.

Old Fort Cemetery is the final resting place of early pioneers, Civil War veterans, and other notables from Fort Stockton’s past.

The cemetery is in a quiet location near the Historic Fort.

Visitors can walk through the cemetery to learn more about the people who helped shape this small West Texas town.

Wander around the Pecos County Courthouse Plaza.

Built in Classic Revival architectural style, the Pecos County Courthouse Square is an impressive building.

Built in 1883, it has been an important part of Fort Stockton’s daily life and offers visitors a glimpse into the local culture.

See Old Pecos County Jail

The Old Pecos County Jail is a historic prison located in Fort Stockton.

The famous sandstone building, built in 1883, served as the county jail until 1953.

Today, visitors can visit the prison museum and see the holding cell, cell blocks, records of sheriffs and jailers, and other artifacts.

Go antique shopping on Main Street

If you love antiques, then Main Street in Fort Stockton is the place for you!

This popular street is lined with antique shops and stores.

Our favorite is Bella Terrazza. It has beautiful frescoes on the walls and many ancient finds and decor inside.

Stop for a drink at the Gray Mule saloon.

The Gray Mule Salon is an iconic bar in Fort Stockton.

Founded in 1901, the saloon has been serving cold beer to locals and visitors for over a century.

Check out the Gray Mule Saloon for a refreshing dip and enjoy chatting with the friendly locals!

Cool off in the Comanche Springs pool

Comanche Springs Pool, located in James Rooney Memorial Park, is a great place for visitors to spend a hot summer day.

It features a large swimming pool with slides and a diving board, as well as plenty of shaded seating areas.

This is the perfect place to take a dip after exploring all of Fort Stockton’s historic sights.

Things to do near Fort Stockton, Texas

Many famous West Texas attractions are only a few hours drive from Fort Stockton.

Visit Davis Mountains State Park

About an hour from Fort Stockton, Davis Mountains State Park is a great place to explore the beauty of West Texas.

The park has stunning views of the mountains and hills, as well as hiking trails, campgrounds, birdwatching spots, and more.

Be sure to check out downtown Fort Davis and McDonald’s Observatory while you’re here.

Hiking in Big Bend National Park

Few places in the United States boast the natural beauty and diversity of Big Bend National Park.

Located on the Texas-Mexico border, the park spans several acres of rocky mountains, canyons, desert landscapes, and riverlands.

Visitors can hike through the historic ruins, paddle through the canyons, or gaze at the stars in one of the darkest skies in the country.

Visit the ghost town of Terlingua

The abandoned mining town of Terlingua is just over two hours from Fort Stockton.

This is the perfect place to explore if you are looking for a unique Texas experience.

You will find historical buildings, harsh landscapes and many stories about ghosts!

Visit Martha’s Lights Viewing Center

The Marfa Lights Viewing Center is a must-see stop in West Texas.

This provides a great opportunity to see the mysterious lights that appear in the night sky near Marfa, Texas.

Whether you believe in their origin or not, this is an experience you won’t soon forget!

Soak up the culture in downtown Marfa by seeing the lights.

Also Read: 40 Best Places to Visit in Texas

Fort Stockton has a wealth of things to do, from its rich history to outdoor recreation.

What is your favorite thing to do in Fort Stockton, Texas? Let us know below.