Need a break from the everyday grind but don’t have time for a long getaway? A day trip from Midland, Texas is the perfect answer. Whether you’re chasing sunsets over sand dunes, exploring ghost towns, hiking through desert trails, or simply eating your way through nearby small towns, Midland offers a hub of quick adventures just an hour or two away.
In this guide, you’ll find the best one-day escapes that are easy to reach and packed with local charm, outdoor beauty, and hidden gems of West Texas.
Why Take Day Trips from Midland?
Midland’s location in the Permian Basin makes it an excellent launch point for short road trips that feel like a true escape. Within 30 minutes to two hours, you can explore natural parks, quirky roadside attractions, historical towns, and scenic desert drives without needing to book a hotel or burn vacation time.
Perfect for solo adventurers, families, or couples, these spots deliver authentic Texas experiences—minus the long travel stress.
7 Best Day Trip Destinations from Midland
1. Monahans Sandhills State Park
Just under an hour west, this surreal landscape of white sand dunes feels like another world. You can hike, photograph, sled down dunes, or just sit and soak in the peace of the desert.
Address: Park Rd 41, Monahans, TX
Hours: Daily: 8am–10pm
Approx Cost: $4 entry
Famous For: Towering dunes perfect for sand sledding and desert photography
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring a sled or rent one at the ranger station—sunrise and sunset create magical light across the dunes.
2. Odessa Meteor Crater
Only 40 minutes from Midland, this geological wonder is one of the best-preserved meteor impact sites in the U.S. Walk the crater rim, visit the small museum, and imagine the cosmic collision that created it.
Address: 3100 Meteor Crater Rd, Odessa, TX
Hours: Tue–Sat: 10am–5pm
Approx Cost: $3
Famous For: Well-preserved impact site and museum exhibits
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring a drone or camera for aerial shots of the crater’s unique formations.
3. Big Spring State Park
Located just over an hour northeast, this mountaintop park offers panoramic desert views, paved walking paths, and great picnic areas. It’s a peaceful place to reset in nature.
Address: Park Rd 8, Big Spring, TX
Hours: Daily: 6am–10pm
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Scenic vistas and quiet hiking trails
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Drive the Scenic Mountain loop at sunset—then walk a trail and watch the colors change.
4. Balmorhea State Park
About two hours west, Balmorhea is famous for its spring-fed swimming pool, but also offers birdwatching, picnic spots, and desert scenery. A great day trip to cool off and recharge.
Address: 9207 TX-17, Toyahvale, TX
Hours: Daily: 8am–7:30pm
Approx Cost: $7 entry
Famous For: The world’s largest spring-fed swimming pool
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Book your entry pass in advance—it fills quickly on warm weekends.
5. Fort Stockton Historic District
History buffs will enjoy this frontier town just 90 minutes away. Explore the old fort, stroll through preserved 19th-century buildings, and stop at roadside photo ops like Paisano Pete.
Address: 301 E 3rd St, Fort Stockton, TX
Hours: Varies by site
Approx Cost: Free to moderate
Famous For: Historic fort and giant roadrunner statue
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Pair your visit with lunch at a local Tex-Mex spot for the full small-town experience.
6. Andrews, Texas
About 45 minutes north, Andrews is a quiet community with a charming downtown, scenic parks, and local murals perfect for photography. Great for a relaxed afternoon of shopping and strolling.
Address: Main St, Andrews, TX
Hours: Daylight
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Mural art and peaceful town square
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Visit Lakeside Park for a quick walk or picnic stop.
7. Crane County Park & Historic Jail
Drive an hour south to Crane for a quiet desert town with a surprisingly scenic county park and a small historical jailhouse museum. Off the beaten path but worth the detour for history and solitude.
Address: 907 W 6th St, Crane, TX
Hours: Park open daily
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Peaceful trails and historic exhibits
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring your camera—there’s plenty of rustic beauty here, especially in the evening light.
Great Local Food Stops on Your Day Trip
1. KD’s Bar-B-Q – Midland
Before hitting the road, grab a tray of slow-smoked brisket and cornbread. KD’s is a Midland classic and perfect for takeout or a quick fuel-up.
Address: 3109 Garden City Hwy, Midland, TX
Hours: Mon–Sat: 11am–8pm
Approx Cost: $10–$20
Famous For: Brisket and sausage plates
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Take your meal to-go and eat at a park picnic area at your destination.
2. Mi Casa – Andrews, TX
Authentic Tex-Mex in a cozy setting. Known for handmade tortillas, hearty enchiladas, and friendly service—perfect for recharging after a walk through town.
Address: 1701 N Main St, Andrews, TX
Hours: Daily: 11am–9pm
Approx Cost: $8–$18
Famous For: Green chile enchiladas and tacos
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Try the house-made salsa—it packs a punch!
3. The Historic Grey Mule Saloon – Fort Stockton
Now a tasting room, this restored saloon serves Texas wine and beer along with charcuterie boards and local snacks. It’s a unique way to toast your trip through Old West history.
Address: 101 S Main St, Fort Stockton, TX
Hours: Thu–Sun: 12pm–6pm
Approx Cost: $10–$25
Famous For: Wine tasting in a restored saloon
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Try the jalapeño wine with aged cheddar—it’s an unexpected hit.
Packing Tips for Day Trips from Midland
Refillable water bottle
Camera or phone with lots of storage
Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hat
Light layers (West Texas temps can change quickly)
Trail snacks and cooler for road meals
Printed or downloaded maps (cell service may drop)
Travel blanket or camp chairs for picnic stops
Hand sanitizer and wet wipes
Portable charger or power bank
Trash bag to pack out your waste
Local Tips and Seasonal Advice
Spring and fall are best—milder temps and clearer skies
Call ahead for park hours and potential closures
Sunrise departures help you beat heat and crowds
Most towns are walkable—wear comfortable shoes
Keep your gas tank at least half full—stations can be far apart
Pack extra water for summer trips
Some sites close on Sundays or Mondays—double-check schedules
Combine stops to make the most of each trip
Conclusion: Big Memories from Short Drives
A day trip from Midland is proof you don’t need to go far to find adventure. In just a few hours, you can climb sand dunes, walk among history, splash in desert springs, or just breathe in fresh air and sunshine. West Texas rewards the curious traveler, and these quick road escapes let you explore it all without planning a big getaway.
So grab your keys, fill up the tank, and let the road lead you somewhere new—just for the day.
