The cities of Midland and Odessa lay 20 minutes apart in the oil rich Permian Basin of western Texas. Midland, the larger of the two towns, is the administrative center of the region’s petroleum industry and was once nicknamed “The Tall City” for its jutting downtown skyline. The city is also noted for being the onetime home of former presidents George H.W. Bush and George W. Bush, and the hometown of former First Lady Laura Bush. The area’s warm climate and short mild winters make it an ideal year round destination.
The histories of Midland and Odessa are tied to oil and natural gas extraction in the Permian Basin, where an estimated 20 percent of the United States’ oil and gas reserves are located. Visitors can learn about the science, technology, and history of oil and gas production at local museums, such as the Permian Basin Petroleum Museum in Midland. The Commemorative Air Force is located in Midland and administers a museum housing World War II airplanes, memorabilia, and artifacts. Annual air shows are held at the local airport.
Midland and Odessa share a thriving performing arts community with established regional symphonies and historic theatres that host a range of performances from musicals to comedies. Nightclubs, movie theatres, local and national restaurants are found throughout each town, as well as shopping malls and districts. Midland/Odessa are only a few hours’ drive from Big Bend National Park and Carlsbad Caverns National Park in New Mexico. Even closer to Midland/Odessa are a dozen lakes within a 150 mile radius. Several wilderness areas and campgrounds are nearby. In Midland alone there are almost 50 well maintained city parks with picnic areas, hiking and biking trails, playgrounds, swimming pools, dog parks, and more.
Midland International Airport serves as a primary access point to the two nearby national parks. The airport offers non-stop service to several major U.S. cities including Las Vegas, Austin, Dallas, Houston, Albuquerque, and several other New Mexico destinations. Midland/Odessa are located about 300 miles west of Fort Worth, and 300 miles east of El Paso on Interstate 20. To learn about hotels, activities, and more in Midland/Odessa, please see the links on the left.
