The best way to experience an authentic taste of Texas is to spend some time in beautiful Odessa. If you are a cowboy enthusiast or want to try your hand at ranching, look no further because Odessa, Texas, has you covered.
Odessa is the largest town in Ector County in western Texas. It is a major shipping point for livestock, and the land is rich in natural oil and gas. The city is known for its rich cowboy culture. It hosts local events with rodeos, livestock shows, and live country music.
About Odessa Texas
Odessa, Texas, has lots to offer to anyone who visits this fantastic city. There are excellent restaurants, lavish hotels, and entertainment for all ages. The city boasts a unique geological site. If you want to learn more, there are plenty of museums and memorials to visit.
Odessa, Texas, should be on your short list of places to visit, so here are some facts you may want to know about this stunning city.
Facts About Odessa Texas
- Location: Odessa is a city in the heart of the Permian Basin, Texas
- County: Odessa is located in Ector County, Texas
- Land Area: Odessa has a total land area of 51.32. sq mi
- Zipcodes: 79760 – 79769
- Population: As per the 2020 census, Odessa has a population of 114,421 citizens
- Crime rate: Odessa has a low crime rate of 36.98 crimes per 1000 residents
- Average Temperature June: 87°F
- Average Temperature January: 58°F
- Universities: Odessa has two universities, the University of Texas Permian Basin and Texas Tech University
- Airports: Odessa is served by Midlands International Air and Space Port
- Best hotels: There are two highly rated hotels in Odessa, they are:
- The Odessa Marriott Hotel and Conference Center
- The Hilton Garden Inn
- Best Restaurants: Cork and Pig Tavern, Red Oak Kitchen, and the Curb Side Bistro
What Is Odessa Texas Known For?
The west Texas city of Odessa is most commonly known for its American cowboy culture. The famous film and novel “Friday Night Lights” is based on one of the city’s high school football teams. The most iconic views of Odessa will be of the many prominent oil rigs on the open Odessa plains.
Spending some time in this beautiful cowboy city will enable visitors to discover more of the city, such as the famous Pacific railway that was started in 1885. Visit one of the many rodeos the city hosts to discover the true talents of a cowboy, and remember your cowboy hat.
People From Odessa Texas
Odessa has a large selection of famous people that are proud to be from this amazing city. These people have achieved greatness in the form of art, culture, military, and sport. Odessa is home to former Presidents George H and George W Bush. Both had quoted, “at Odessa, we became Texan and proud of it.”
Here are a few honorable mentions:
- Bonner Bolton (bull rider and model}
- Marcus Cannon (Professional Football player)
- Chuck Dicus (College football hall of fame)
- Chris Kyle (former U.S. Navy SEAL)
- Roy Orbison (Singer)
- Blair Late (actor and singer)
- Elizabeth Wetmore (novelist)
- Stephnie Weir (comedian and actress)
- Mike Holloway (Survivor: Worlds Apart winner)
Where is Odessa Texas?
Odessa is situated in the heart of the oil-rich Permian Basin in western Texas. This beautiful city is located at 31°51′ north latitude and 102°22′ west longitude. Odessa’s transport links are U.S. Highway 80 and 385 and interstate Highway 20.
Areas Near Odessa Texas
Many smaller towns within 50 miles of Odessa, Texas, are well worth taking a day trip to explore. These little towns all have a rich Texan history, and the local communities are friendly and very welcoming. Indulge in the local cuisine and culture and make some new friends.
- Arcade, TX
- West Odessa, TX
- Warfield, TX
- Douro, TX
- Pleasant Farms, TX
- Corner Mill, TX
- Badger, TX
- Sandy Acres, TX
The Layout Of Odessa Texas
Odessa, Texas, is a typical western Texas town that is full of culture and history. The downtown area is home to several new and old high-rise buildings and is the city’s nightlife and restaurants epicenter.
Odessa has ten popular housing suburbs that offer a genuine home feel with typical Texas dwellings. All schools and commercial centers are easily accessible from most neighborhoods.
Areas In Odessa Texas
Odessa, Texas, is divided up into three areas. Each area has direct access to the town center, schools, hospitals, and emergency services. These areas are:
- Midlands
- Gardendale
- Goldsmith
Getting About In Odessa Texas
Getting about in Odessa, Texas, is easy, and there are many sites to see as you explore the city. Here are the easiest ways of getting about this amazing city.
| Mode of Transport | Positive | Negative |
| On Foot | Safe to walk | Limited walkways downtown |
| Public Transport | Six bus routes | More bus stops needed |
| Driving | Well maintained roads | Medium traffic Congestion |
On Foot
There are several walkways to explore in the downtown and suburbs. It is safe to take a leisurely stroll with a friend or pet. Be sure to greet the locals you pass by; they might just let you in on a secret location.
Public Transport
The public transit system in Odessa, Texas, is limited to bus and shuttle services. Six major bus routes will give the public access to all popular areas in the city. Several taxi services operate from key areas in the downtown area.
Driving
Driving is the primary mode of getting about in Odessa, Texas. The roads are well maintained, and there is no shortage of parking facilities at your destination. There is some traffic congestion but nothing like what can be found in the larger cities.
What To Do In Odessa Texas
Odessa, Texas, has many great activities and attractions in and around the city limits that are sure to amaze all. Here are a few great attractions on offer:
- Enjoy an evening at the local theater
- Visit a geological site
- Relax in a State Park
- Stroll through a museum
Visit The Chris Kyle Memorial
The life of Chris Kyle, a decorated U.S. Navy SEAL, was brought in the film “American Sniper.” The 2,800-square-foot plaza is made from black and Texas limestone. The statue of Chris Kyle is accompanied by symbols related to his time in the military. The memorial pays tribute to all who have served in the SEALs.
A Night At The Ector Theatre
The newly renovated theater was reopened in April 2021 and now brings world-class entertainment to Odessa. Many shows feature local performance artists and vocalists to entertain all that love theater.
The Odessa Meteor Crater
This site is a geological marvel right on the doorstep of Odessa. The crater is one of the biggest in the United States, spanning 550 feet wide. Created more than 20,000 years ago when a barrage of meteors fell to earth. Besides the crater, there is a museum on site displaying a collection of iron meteorites.
Visit The Monahans Sandhills State Park
The Monahans Sandhills State Park has 3,840 acres of magnificent sand dunes. Try your hand at sand-dune surfing while exploring the unique sights. There is a campground, visitor center, and a beautiful equestrian area with many hiking and riding trails to choose from.
The Parker House Ranching Museum
Discover the history of ranching at The Parker House Ranching Museum. The museum has period-correct furnishing and décor with fun exhibits. A great way to get more perception into the world of the cowboy.
Where To Eat In Odessa Texas
- Saltgrass Steak House
- Red Oak Kitchen
- Cork and Pig Tavern
- Babba’s 33
- Ed & Tom’s Bar-B-Que
- Curb Side Bistro
- La Bodega Mexican Restaurant & Bar
Where To Stay In Odessa Texas
- La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Odessa
- Home2 Suites by Hilton Odessa
- MCM Grand Hotel & Fun Dome
- Executive Inn Odessa
- Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham Odessa
- Towne Place Suites by Marriott Odessa
- Staybridge Suites Odessa
- Holiday Inn Odessa
Odessa FAQs
There is so much to learn and explore in Odessa, Texas. So, let’s start by answering s few frequently asked questions.
Is Odessa Texas Safe To Visit?
Odessa, Texas, is safe to visit. They have a low crime rate of 36.98 crimes per 1000 residents. The Odessa police are friendly, helpful, and ready to serve.
Is Odessa Texas A Good Place To Live?
Odessa, Texas, is a great city to live in. The city has a tremendous suburban vibe, with most residents owning property. There are four schools, a college, and two universities in Odessa, and an excellent relationship exists between residents and emergency personnel.
Is Odessa, Texas Far From The Mexican Border?
Odessa is situated in western Texas and is 286 miles north of Juarez, Mexico.
Where Does Odessa Texas Get Its Name From?
Odessa, Texas, was named after the Russian Pacific railroad workers. The workers said the region reminded them of their farmlands in Odessa, Russia.
References:
- Odessa, Texas Restaurants and Hotels: discoverodessa.org/
- Odessa, Texas Public Information: odessa-tx.gov
Christian Linden is a seasoned writer and contributor at Texas View, specializing in topics that resonate with the Texan community. With over a decade of experience in journalism, Christian brings a wealth of knowledge in local politics, culture, and lifestyle. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Communications from the University of Texas. When he's not writing, Christian enjoys spending weekends traveling across Texas with his family, exploring everything from bustling cities to serene landscapes.
