Strange Roadside Attractions You Can Actually Visit in West Texas

If there's one thing we Texans love, it’s a good road trip, and nothing spices up a long drive quite like pulling over to see something completely unexpected. West Texas is full of quirky roadside attractions, from art installations in the middle of nowhere to record-breaking critters.

For the record, I am a fan of roadside attractions as I've made it a favorite pastime to hop in my truck and go for a ride to visit these sites. These are what I call "roadside museums," and the payoff in the end is that I'll find a Buckee's or cool restaurants along the way. Over the years, I’ve passed more than a few of these while traveling, whether for radio events or a relaxing weekend getaway, and trust me, they’re worth the stop.

Prada Marfa - Valentine, Texas

In the middle of this West Texas desert sits a luxury boutique you CAN NOT shop in. Built in 2005 as a permanent art installation, Prada Marfa has become one of the most photographed spots in Texas. Inside are real Prada shoes and handbags, but the doors are sealed shut.

Giant Jackrabbit - Odessa

You can’t miss Odessa’s massive fiberglass jackrabbit, a symbol of the city’s annual Jackrabbit Jamboree. This oversized bunny has been greeting travelers since the 1960s and makes for a fun, if slightly absurd, photo op.

Read More: July Texas Floods Uncover Amazing 115-Year-Old Dinosaur Tracks

World’s Largest Rattlesnake – Freer

In the small South Texas town of Freer, you’ll stumble upon a surprisingly realistic monument: a massive coiled diamondback rattlesnake statue, crafted from concrete and steel, spanning 14 feet long and standing about 7 feet tall. Designed by local artist Peggy Stacy and built by Pete Hunter in 1976, it guards the Chamber of Commerce and makes for a delightfully quirky photo stop.

Meteor Crater - Odessa

A reminder from space that West Texas has seen its share of excitement, the Odessa Meteor Crater is a massive depression left behind by a meteor strike thousands of years ago. There’s a small visitor center and a short walking trail.

Paisano Pete - Fort Stockton

Standing 22 feet tall, this roadrunner statue proudly watches over Fort Stockton. He’s been a town mascot since 1980 and still ranks as one of the largest roadrunner statues in the world.

Whether you’re looking for the perfect Instagram shot or just an excuse to stretch your legs, these roadside oddities deliver.
Which one will you visit first?