Midland: Best Things to Do
SIGHTSEEING
Explore the beauty of Midland's nature at the I-20 Wildlife Preserve. This ecotourism destination is also a science education resource.
There are urban playa lake, floodplain thickets and prairie grassland which is also home to the wildlife and aquatic habitat. Various animals can also be found around the preserve, from raccoons, porcupine, salamanders, turtles, to birds.
I-20 Wildlife Preserve
DOWNTOWN
Visit the Museum of the Southwest that showcases regional art, culture, science, and archeology. The museum that has been operating since 1965 is divided into several institutions, they are Juliette and Fred Turner, Jr. Memorial Art Museum, Marian West and William Blanton Blakemore Planetarium, Fredda Turner Durham Children's Museum, and a Sculpture Garden that hosts more than a dozen sculptures.
Museum of the Southwest
SHOPPING
Shop at Midland Park Mall with more than 90 stores ranging from fashion, makeup, and beauty. The mall that was first opened in 1980 is home to two Dillard's stores, JCPenney, Bealls, and Ross Dress for Less. Don't forget to stop by the food court to enjoy delicious foods from Fuddruckers, Longhorn Steakhouse, Bubba's 33, and etc. With brands like Victoria's Secret, Aéropostale, Buckle, Ulta & Coach, This mall is considered to be Midland's premier shopping destination.
Midland Park Mall
FOOD & DRINK
Midland has various cuisines originated from other countries such as Mexican and Italian cuisines. Barbeque is also quite popular in Midland and several great barbeque restaurants can be found in the city.
Meanwhile, for the drink, alcoholic drinks such as beer and cocktails can easily be found in Midland.
CULTURE
Midland is home to several different cultures, it can be seen from several institutions who aim to preserve these cultures in Midland, such as the Hispanic Cultural Center of Midland and Midland African American Roots Historical/Cultural Arts Council. Interesting cultural events are often held in Midland, some of them are the Midland Festival Ballet, Midland-Odessa Symphony and Chorale, and Summer Mummers, which is the longest-running summer Theater in Texas.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
Peak season: Summer is the month where Midland is most crowded with tourists. From June to August many people come to Midland to explore the city. The nice weather during this time makes it comfortable for people to enjoy the city's attractions.
HOTEL
Enjoy a comfortable stay at the Residence Inn by Marriott Midland. While you're staying here, you can also get easy access to several Midland attractions like the Scharbauer Sports Complex, Midland Park Mall and Wagner Nöel Performing Arts Center. Enjoy the facilities that the hotel offers like the outdoor pool and fitness center. La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Midland is another great accommodation option in Midland. It is located seven miles from the airport and conveniently close to downtown midland. The hotel is pet-friendly, so you don't have to worry if you're planning to take your pet to travel and stay with you.
Residence Inn by Marriott Midland
La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Midland
RESTAURANT
Taste the deliciousness of Texas' steak at the Saltgrass Steak House. You can order various foods ranging from steak, seafood, salads, sandwiches, and burgers. Make sure to try their Center Cut Porkchop and BBQ Baby Back Ribs. Another great eating place in Midland is the Grub Burger Bar that specializes in quality burgers.
Saltgrass Steak House
Grub Burger Bar
CAFE
Grab a quick bite at Tony’s Old-Fashioned Bakery where they serve fresh-baked cookies and pastries. Don't forget to also try their famous breakfast sandwich when you stop by the shop. Or, come to the Higher Grounds Coffee Shop where you can also find various tasty coffee drinks and breakfast fares like Mango Chicken, BLTA, Turkey Club, and Spicy Piglet.
Tony’s Old-Fashioned Bakery
Higher Grounds Coffee Shop
BAR AND NIGHTLIFE
Show your best at singing at the Rockstar Karaoke, Inc and enjoy a glass of good drink at the bar. This place is one of the most awesome places to hang out and meet new people in Midland.
Or come to the Triple Threat Sports Bar & Grill to experience different life events every day. Check out the bar's official website to know the upcoming schedule. Make sure to also try their delicious specialty menu once you're there, such as Grilled Fish & Shrimp and Smothered Steak and Shrimp.
Rockstar Karaoke, Inc
Triple Threat Sports Bar & Grill
INTERESTING PLACE
Visit one of the most popular historical landmarks in Midland, George W. Bush Childhood Home. The former president of the United States used to live here from 1951 to 1955, and today it's listed as one of the National Register of Historic Places. In 2006, the house was then turned into a museum. You can join a guided tour provided by the museum to know more about the history of this place. You can also come to the Midland Army Air Field Museum Hangar located in the Main Hangar at the High Sky Wing complex of the Midland International Air & Space Port. Here, you will be able to see several aircraft that are being exhibited and learn about the impact of the West Texans in World War II.
George W. Bush Childhood Home
Midland Army Air Field Museum Hangar
INSTAGRAMMABLE SPOT
Learn about the oil and gas industry through the exhibition at the Permian Basin Petroleum Museum. The museum that was first founded in 1975 is home to several interesting exhibitions, among them are the Mythcrackers, Permian Reef, and The Voyage of the PetroTrekker. This is the place where you can learn about the 230 million years' history of petroleum and energy. See the incredible architecture of the Wagner Noël Performing Arts Center. Amazing live art performances ranging from music, dance, and comedy shows are often held here.
Permian Basin Petroleum Museum
Wagner Noël Performing Arts Center
