Known for its cowboy culture and the many oil rigs that can be found around its urban area, the city of Odessa, TX, is home to a few local landmarks that make it a great spot to explore if you are traveling around western Texas in your 2023 Dodge Charger. We have put together three of the best tourist attractions you should check out while in the region.
1. Permian Basin Petroleum Museum
Located at 1500 I-20 in the neighboring city of Midland, the Permian Basin Petroleum Museum offers visitors an interactive journey through the history of oil exploitation in Texas, as well as the many events that led to the rise of this industry in the region. Starting with an explanation of the geology of the area during the Permian period and going through the technological developments of the petroleum industry, this museum is one of the best-rated attractions in the area.
Open to the public Monday through Saturday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, and Sundays between 2:00 pm and 5:00 pm, the Permian Basin Petroleum Museum was founded in 1975. Ever since, its permanent collection has expanded, and a large research library has also been added to the complex. Some of the artifacts you can find here include the first drilling rigs used in the region.
2. Odessa Meteor Crater
Covering a diameter of about 550 feet, the Odessa Meteor Crater is one of the largest meteorite craters in the state and a well-known tourist attraction. Although the exact age of the crater has not been established, it is thought to be around 63,500 years old. This place was designated a National Natural Landmark by the National Park Service in 1965.
Besides the large crater, which stands in the middle of open plain fields and can be easily distinguished from the distance, the Odessa Meteor Crater also features a small museum where you can find a collection of meteorite fragments that have been collected in the area. Located at 5599 Meteor Crater Road, this place can be reached in less than 15 minutes from the city center.
3. Museum of the Southwest
Established in 1966 and dedicated to showcasing the culture and history of the region, the Museum of the Southwest is located at 1705 W. Missouri in the city of Midland and can be reached in about 20 minutes by car via route I-20. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this place features a sculpture garden, a large collection of local art, as well as historical artifacts donated by local residents.
Are you searching for the best local dealership to buy a new vehicle and travel around Texas with your friends and family? Visit us today at All American Chrysler Jeep Dodge Odessa, explore our latest models, and meet our sales agents to design the perfect financing plan for your needs.
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