For dog lovers and pet parents, road trips are just better with a wagging tail riding shotgun. If you’re searching for open skies, relaxed vibes, and outdoor spots where your pet can roam freely, a pet-friendly road trip to Marfa delivers it all. Surrounded by West Texas wilderness, this artsy desert town is more than just photogenic—it’s also a surprisingly welcoming place for your four-legged travel companion.
With wide-open spaces, scenic trails, and pup-welcoming patios, Marfa offers a road trip experience that’s just as fun for your pet as it is for you.
Why Marfa Is Perfect for Pet Owners
Marfa’s slow pace and open landscapes make it an ideal destination for traveling with pets. Unlike crowded city parks or noisy tourist hubs, here you’ll find quiet desert roads, off-leash friendly hikes, and peaceful campgrounds where dogs can explore without stress. Plus, many of Marfa’s restaurants and accommodations embrace furry guests with open arms and water bowls.
Best Pet-Friendly Places to Visit in and Around Marfa
1. Marfa Lights Viewing Area
Spacious, quiet, and open all night, this rest area is a great first stop for you and your pup. It’s not fenced, but it’s rarely crowded—making it perfect for relaxed strolls and stargazing with your dog by your side.
Address: US-67, 9 miles east of Marfa
Hours: 24/7
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Mystery lights and peaceful desert skies
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring a leash and flashlight—while it’s a great spot for late-night walks, it’s also wild and dark.
2. Davis Mountains State Park
About 30 minutes from Marfa, this park offers pet-friendly trails with beautiful mountain views. Dogs are allowed on all trails if leashed, and there are shaded picnic areas to enjoy together.
Address: TX-118 N, Fort Davis, TX
Hours: Daily: 8am–10pm
Approx Cost: $6 per adult
Famous For: Dog-accessible mountain hikes and campsites
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Try the Skyline Drive Trail early or late in the day for cooler temps and fewer hikers.
3. El Cosmico
This iconic Marfa glamping destination welcomes pets in most of its yurts, safari tents, and campsites. The large open space and relaxed atmosphere are perfect for dogs to lounge with you under the stars.
Address: 802 S Highland Ave, Marfa, TX
Hours: Check-in: 3pm
Approx Cost: $100–$250
Famous For: Pet-welcoming accommodations and desert ambiance
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Pack your pet’s bed and keep them leashed when exploring the shared areas.
4. Chihuahuan Desert Nature Center
Though pets are not allowed inside the botanical gardens, the outdoor trails around the perimeter are fair game if leashed. It’s a scenic way to enjoy nature with your dog while learning about desert ecosystems.
Address: 43869 TX-118, Fort Davis, TX
Hours: Mon–Sat: 9am–5pm
Approx Cost: $6
Famous For: Desert scenery and short hikes
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring extra water—there’s little shade and desert heat builds quickly.
5. Alpine’s Kokernot Park (Stop on the Way)
On your route to or from Marfa, Kokernot Park in Alpine is a lovely stop with open fields, walking trails, and dog-friendly picnic spots.
Address: Fighting Buck Ave, Alpine, TX
Hours: Daily, sunrise to sunset
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Spacious greenspace and pet-friendly trails
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Great place to let your pup stretch their legs after the drive.
6. Planet Marfa (Dog-Friendly Beer Garden)
This quirky, open-air bar welcomes well-behaved pups. While you sip a beer, your dog can relax by your side in one of the shaded areas. There’s even a teepee to explore.
Address: 200 S Abbott St, Marfa, TX
Hours: Seasonal; afternoons to late night
Approx Cost: Drinks: $5–$10
Famous For: Pet-welcoming patio and funky desert vibes
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Visit in the early evening before it gets too busy or hot.
7. Pinto Canyon Road (Leash-Free Roadside Exploration)
Want to give your dog an off-leash desert run? Drive west of Marfa on Pinto Canyon Road and stop at one of the many quiet pull-offs. Just watch for wildlife and keep safety in mind.
Address: FM 2810 west of Marfa
Hours: Daylight hours
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Off-grid exploration and scenic silence
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Always bring water, and only let dogs off leash if they’re well-trained and responsive.
Pet-Friendly Food Stops in Marfa
1. Do Your Thing Coffee
This artsy café welcomes pups on its shaded outdoor patio. It’s a great spot to grab breakfast and hang out with your dog while you plan your day.
Address: 201 E Dallas St, Marfa, TX
Hours: Daily: 7:30am–2pm
Approx Cost: $5–$15
Famous For: Toasts, espresso, and creative flair
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Order a cold brew and ask for a cup of water for your pup—they’re happy to accommodate.
2. Para Llevar
This wood-fired pizza spot has a laid-back outdoor garden that’s perfect for pups. Dogs can sit with you at one of the picnic tables while you enjoy a post-adventure meal.
Address: 310 S Spring St, Marfa, TX
Hours: Thu–Sun: 12pm–8pm
Approx Cost: $10–$20
Famous For: Pizza, sandwiches, and baked treats
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring a travel water bowl so your pup can relax while you eat.
3. Food Shark
This food truck eatery has shaded picnic tables and plenty of room for dogs. It’s casual and popular with locals and visitors alike—plus, it’s a short walk from the Chinati Foundation.
Address: East of the railroad tracks, Marfa, TX
Hours: Wed–Sat: 12pm–3pm
Approx Cost: $8–$15
Famous For: Falafel, hummus, and street food flair
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Midday shade can be limited—go earlier in the day or bring a sunshade.
Pet-Welcoming Accommodations in Marfa
1. El Cosmico
Not only is this stylish desert hotel dog-friendly, it’s also one of the most relaxing and photogenic places to stay in Marfa. Plenty of space to roam, and pups are truly welcome.
Address: 802 S Highland Ave, Marfa, TX
Hours: Check-in: 3pm
Approx Cost: $100–$250
Famous For: Creative lodging and pet-friendliness
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Check their calendar—sometimes they host outdoor events where pups can tag along too.
2. Riata Inn Marfa
A budget-friendly, pet-welcoming hotel just outside downtown. It’s a great option for travelers who want basic comfort and easy access to walking space.
Address: 1500 US-90, Marfa, TX
Hours: 24/7
Approx Cost: $80–$120
Famous For: Value and dog-friendly rooms
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Request a ground-floor room with direct outdoor access for convenient potty breaks.
3. Tumble In RV Park and Tent Campground
If your pup loves the outdoors as much as you do, Tumble In is the perfect overnight stop. It’s quiet, clean, and surrounded by open skies.
Address: 1338 US-90, Marfa, TX
Hours: 24/7
Approx Cost: $20–$40
Famous For: Simple camping and pet-friendly atmosphere
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Always keep pets leashed on-site—this is rattlesnake country, after all.
Packing Tips for Pet-Friendly Road Trips
Collapsible water bowl and travel bottle
Extra leash, harness, and poop bags
Portable crate or travel bed
Shade cover for rest stops or campgrounds
Pet-friendly bug spray and paw balm
Copies of vaccination records (some lodgings require them)
Favorite chew toy or blanket for comfort
Snacks and meal portions in sealed containers
Pet first aid kit for desert hazards
Local Tips and Seasonal Advice
Spring and fall are ideal—avoid hot asphalt and midday heat in summer
Always carry more water than you think you’ll need for your pet
Watch for cactus spines, stickers, and sharp rocks on trails
Most restaurants welcome dogs outside but confirm before visiting
Desert wildlife like snakes, javelinas, and coyotes can appear—keep pets close
Weekdays offer quieter trails and more relaxed accommodations
Conclusion: Let the Tails Wag and the Wheels Roll
Marfa isn’t just a great road trip destination—it’s a place where you and your pet can truly breathe. Whether you’re hiking desert trails, sharing pizza on a patio, or cuddling under the stars, this journey is all about freedom, simplicity, and companionship.
So leash up, hit the road, and discover how magical West Texas can be—one pawprint at a time.
