Places to visit in Midland, TX.
There are plenty of things to do in Midland that could keep you busy. Plus, Midland has a lot of charming and exciting spots throughout the city. You could look at local events and decide to go there on a given evening, or you could pick an area of town and explore it. Don’t be afraid to talk to people, either—that’s always been the best way to find things to do anywhere.
Permian Basin Petroleum Museum
Located in Midland, Texas, the Permian Basin Petroleum Museum is one of the largest museums dedicated to the petroleum industry. Initially founded in 1968 by over 500 community leaders, the museum opened in 1975 with a mission to explore the petroleum industry and showcase the region’s rich history.
The many interactive exhibits are sure to delight visitors of all ages. The museum’s exhibits are organized by topics, such as the region’s geology, oil and gas industry history, and the history of the oil patch. The museum also boasts a research library, an archives center, and an interactive exhibit center. The museum is open Monday through Sunday.
The museum boasts an impressive 40,000 square feet of interactive education. In addition to the above-ground displays, the museum also features an outdoor collection of historic oil field equipment.
Museum of the Southwest
The Museum of the Southwest is a multi-disciplinary cultural institution in Midland, Texas. It’s home to several buildings and facilities, including the Fredda Turner Durham Children’s Museum, the Blakemore Planetarium, and the Turner Memorial Art Museum. These four buildings are situated on five acres of land. The museum’s collections include paintings, drawings, prints, and archaeological items. It also features a sculpture garden.
The Museum of the Southwest has been open since 1966. It’s located on the grounds of the historic Turner Mansion. The Mansion was built in 1937 by Fred and Juliette Turner. Its architecture combines several styles, including Mediterranean, American Colonial, and Art Deco. It also includes a tennis court and horse stables.
The American Association of Museums has accredited the Museum of the Southwest since 1992. In addition to the permanent collection, there are also traveling exhibitions and a Mobile Oilfield Learning unit. These exhibits are geared toward fifth through eighth graders.
Dennis the Menace Park
Located in Midland, Texas, Dennis the Menace Park was designed to be one of the first adventure playgrounds in the United States. It opened on July 11, 1959. The 3.9-acre specialty park was modeled after a similar garden on the West Coast.
Dennis, the Menace Park, received a slew of upgrades in recent years. New sidewalks, fencing, lighting, and a parking lot make it more accessible. Some of the most notable upgrades include the XTO Splash Pad, a water play structure.
The splash pad is only open from 8 am to 10 pm. Non-game openings are best accessed by entering the park through the gate closest to it. On busy days, attendants will be on hand to guide you in and out.
The park also boasts some other play structures, many of which are designed to be fun for children of all ages. In addition, there are indoor pools, one of which features a lazy river and three water slides.
Fort Concho Historic Site
During the 1860s, the United States Army established Fort Concho in Midland, Texas. This army post served as a frontier army fort from 1867 until 1889. As a result, Fort Concho is one of the best-preserved abandoned forts in the country.
Fort Concho was located at the confluence of the North Concho, South Concho, and Middle Concho rivers. It was built as a place for protection for settlers in the higher river valleys. However, it was also a place for Indians.
Fort Concho was located along a well-known Indian warpath. It ran through the Edwards Plateau and Balcones Escarpment. It also crossed the Rio Grande near Eagle Pass. The route was prominent during the westward migrations.
The Fort Concho Army Post fought and defeated Indians in this area. However, thousands of cattle were destroyed by Indians, and settlers regularly suffered from Indian attacks.
Joyland Amusement Park
Located in Lubbock’s Mackenzie Park, Joyland Amusement Park is a small, family-owned, operated traditional amusement park. It runs from March through September. In addition, the park is open for special events and birthday parties. This family-friendly amusement park has more than thirty rides and attractions.
The Joyland Amusement Park is the second generation of a family-owned and operated business. David Dean is the president of the corporation. He has been involved in the operations since 1973.
The main attraction of the park is a colorful 1905 carousel. Besides the main attraction, the park has a water slide, roller coasters, and a slew of rides for children of all ages. The park is also home to the Blackwater Draw Museum, which displays artifacts relating to Locality No.1. The park is also home to the Dare Devil Drop, a 140-foot-tall drop tower ride.
Best Things to Do in Midland Texas
Places to visit in Midland, TX:
- Permian Basin Petroleum Museum
- Museum of the Southwest
- Dennis the Menace Park
- Fort Concho Historic Site
- Joyland Amusement Park