Location: Odessa
Top Things to do in Odessa
The 6 Best Free Things to do in Odessa, Texas (TX)
Odessa /ˌoʊˈdɛsə/ is a city in and the county seat of Ector County, Texas, United States. It is located primarily in Ector County, although a small portion of the city extends into Midland County. Odessa's population was 118,918 at the 2010 census making it the 29th-most populous city in Texas; estimates as of July 2015 indicate a population of 159,436 in the city. It is the principal city of the Odessa Metropolitan Statistical Area, which includes all of Ector County. The metropolitan area is also a component of the larger Midland–Odessa combined statistical area, which had a 2010 census population of 278,801; a recent report from the United States Census Bureau estimates that the combined population as of July 2015 is 320,513. In 2014, Forbes magazine ranked Odessa as the third fastest-growing small city in the United States.
Restaurants in Odessa
1. Chris Kyle "American Sniper" Memorial
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 73 reviews
Reviewed By bjanavice - Brevard, United States
If you are in Odessa or are just drving through you really need to take the time to stop by and look at this memorial. Be sure to read the sign that tells you the meaning of everything at the memorial.
2. Ellen Noel Art Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 43 reviews
Reviewed By carendaniel50 - Odessa, United States
It was nice and interesting visiting this museum and seeing the various exhibits from photos from famous photographers and various generational displays. It was definitely worth seeing.
3. Presidential Archives and Leadership Library
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 29 reviews
The Presidential Archives and Leadership Library is located on the campus of the University of Texas of the Permian Basin and is administered by the John Ben Shepperd Public Leadership Institute. The archival collection was begun by local Odessa citizens as a memorial to the memory of President John F. Kennedy shortly after his assassination in 1963. There was such an overwhelming response with information about other presidents that a decision was made to create a unique collection that would be dedicated to the office of the presidency and an understanding of the electoral process. It is an outstanding collection of exhibits, campaign memorabilia, books, photos, magazines, and other historic collectibles that tell the history of the office of the president and of events that have shaped the American people. This dynamic collection continues to grow and expand as each new president takes office and is available to both the casual visitor and the serious scholar. Few experiences have greater impact than an encounter with history. The mission of the Archives is to have that impact.
Reviewed By RobertSuzanne - Tucson, United States
Unexpected to see this museum and library outside of DC. The exhibits in the galleries include a storyboard for each president and the important aspects of their terms, dolls dressed in exact replicas of the First Ladies gowns, and portraits of presidents and First Ladies and campaign memorabilia.The rug at the entrance is a copy of the one in the Oval Office during the Truman administration. There are 8 columns supporting the dome which represent the 8 presidents that died in office, 4 assassinated and 4 for health reasons. Extremely well done and docents are very knowledgeable to answer all of our questions.
4. Mckinney Park
5. Stonehenge Replica
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 138 reviews
Reviewed By drwatson32 - Shawnee, United States
This was a fun, quick stop in Odessa. The place is a good opportunity for kids to climb and run around. Pro tip: Stay off the grass. There are stickers and thorns that will go through the soles of your shoes.
