What to Do in Odessa, Texas?

Think you know Odessa, Texas? While it’s globally recognized as a powerhouse of the energy industry, there’s another side to this vibrant West Texas city waiting to be explored. Beyond the derricks lies a community rich with culture, surprising history, and unique attractions—from a Shakespearean theatre to an ancient meteor crater. 

If you’re in town for work, take the opportunity to discover the fun things to do in Odessa, TX, and turn your business trip into a memorable experience.

Top Attractions in Odessa

Odessa boasts several unique landmarks that are well worth a visit. From outer space to Shakespeare, you’ll find attractions that appeal to every interest.

• Odessa Meteor Crater: Step back 60,000 years at this National Natural Landmark. As one of the largest and best-preserved meteor impact sites in the United States, it’s a fascinating place to explore and imagine the cosmic collision that shaped the landscape.
• Ellen Noël Art Museum: Affiliated with the Smithsonian, this impressive museum features a vibrant collection of American art, rotating exhibitions, and a beautiful sculpture garden. It’s the perfect spot for a quiet and inspiring afternoon.
• The Globe Theatre: Experience a slice of Elizabethan England in the heart of Texas. This faithful replica of William Shakespeare’s original Globe Theatre hosts a variety of classic plays, musicals, and community performances throughout the year.
• Stonehenge Replica: Located on the campus of the University of Texas Permian Basin (UTPB), this full-scale replica of England’s famous Stonehenge is a must-see Odessa attraction. It’s a fun photo opportunity and an impressive feat of engineering.

Outdoor & Nature Activities

When you need a breath of fresh air, Odessa offers several parks and trails to help you stretch your legs and enjoy the West Texas sunshine.

• McKinney Park: This popular city park is a great place for a walk, a picnic, or a round of disc golf. During the holiday season, it transforms into Starbright Village, a spectacular drive-through display of festive lights.
• U.T.P.B. Trails: The UTPB campus has well-maintained walking and jogging trails that are open to the public, providing a safe and scenic environment for a daily workout.
• Odessa Mountain Bike Park: With over 11 miles of trails for all skill levels, this park is a fantastic destination for mountain bikers and hikers looking for a more rugged outdoor adventure.

Local Dining & Unique Experiences

After a productive day, treat your team to the authentic flavors of West Texas. Odessa’s dining scene is famous for its hearty steakhouse dinners, like those at The Legendary Barn Door; classic Tex-Mex, including Mamasita’s Mexican Grill; and legendary BBQ from joints like Brantley Creek Barbecue. 

For a more relaxed evening, you can explore F1 Bar & Grill, Odessa’s first fully functioning brewery, or one of Odessa’s numerous coffee shops. You can also check out the live music and arts scene for a true taste of local culture.

Activities for Families and Groups

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Odessa, TX, with a group, the city has plenty of options. Challenge your colleagues to a round of golf at the scenic Ratliff Ranch Golf Links. On a hot or rainy day, head indoors to one of the local recreational centers for bowling, arcade games, or swimming to foster team bonding.

FAQs on Odessa, TX Attractions

Tips for Visiting Odessa as a Corporate Traveler

Making the most of your downtime in a new city can help your team stay refreshed and productive. The key is planning, and that starts with having a comfortable, convenient place to call home.

At Corporate Hospitality Services (CHS), we simplify your housing needs so you can focus on your project. Whether you need a single hotel room for a visiting executive, furnished apartments for an extended stay, or a fully-catered man camp for your entire crew, we handle it all with a single call. We have two fully outfitted lodges in Odessa to accommodate workers in the Permian Basin, Odessa North at 2001 S. Highway 385, and Odessa South at 3006 S. Highway 385. 

Forget juggling receipts and vendor contracts. CHS provides one consolidated monthly invoice for all your lodging needs, combining hotel, apartment, and lodge stays into a single, simple bill. With 24/7 support from a real person and a convenient online portal, managing your workforce housing has never been easier.

Let us handle the logistics. Contact CHS today and discover how we can streamline your corporate travel.