F O R T D A V I S
Fort Davis, known for being the tallest town in Texas (5,050 ft!), has beautiful mountain scenery, starry skies, and is home to the world renowned McDonald Observatory.
VISIT
FORT DAVIS NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE
Fort Davis was in function from 1854 until 1891 to protect travelers heading west on the San Antonio-El Paso Road.
Today, Fort Davis Historic Site is regarded as one of the best remaining examples of a frontier military post in the American Southwest. It is a vivid reminder of the significant role played by the military in the settlement and development of the western frontier.
MCDONALD OBSERVATORY
The McDonald Observatory is located sixteen miles northwest of Fort Davis on Hwy. 118. The observatory is open 9-5 daily and star parties with night viewing through the telescopes are also offered at times. One of the best stargazing destinations in America.
Call 877-984-7827 for a recorded message on viewing conditions and program times.
CHIHUAHUAN DESERT NATURE CENTER
The Chihuahuan Desert Nature Center contains over 500 acres of semi-desert grasslands and igneous rock outcrops. Geological features include: the Modesta Canyon, a unique riparian canyon with a year-round spring, and Clayton's Overlook, a dome with spectacular views from all directions with the Geologic Exhibit at the top of the Overlook. The Nature Center offers over five miles of hiking trails, the a desert botanical garden, a cactus & succulent greenhouse, and more.
DAVIS MOUNTAINS STATE PARK
Davis Mountain State Park is located 4 miles west of Fort Davis on Highway 118. The park offers mountain biking, horseback riding, ranger programs, and stargazing along with stellar views of the Davis Mountains.
Also a 75 mile scenic drive through the Davis mountains leaves Fort Davis on HWY 118 and is one of the most scenic and un-crowded drives in Texas and America.
EAT + DRINK
STONE VILLAGE MARKET
With fresh made-to-order sandwiches, salads, soups, and cookies at the deli counter, this local natural foods market in Ft Davis offers a wide variety of fresh organic produce! Nicknamed the "Tiny Whole Foods" of the high desert, Stone Village Market is our go-to when it comes to grabbing a quick, healthy, meal on the go.
BLUE MOUNTAIN BISTRO AT HOTEL LIMPIA
Blue Mountain Bistro is our top choice for fine dining with a local flair in Ft. Davis. Whether you’re in the mood for Beef Bourguignon, a fabulous Ribeye, or a Grilled Salmon Filet, you can find it at Blue Mountain Bistro! They sport a full bar with top shelf liquor, assorted beers (including local favorites from the Big Bend Brewery), and fine wine samplings!
LUPITA'S PLACE
Located right in the Middle of Fort Davis, Lupita's Place offers delicious Tex-Mex with a convenient dine-in area (or call ahead for orders to go!) Ask any local where to go for the best and most authentic mexican food in town, and they'll send to Lupita's. It also has a fabulous burger.
Lupita's Place is open Monday-Saturday: 7am-9pm, Sunday 8am-9pm.
STAY
INDIAN LODGE
Located inside the Davis Mountains State Park, Indian Lodge is a memorable place to stay in Fort Davis. One can explore the natural beauty of the Davis Mountains by day, and relax in a comfortable room by night. With its white adobe walls, historic aura, and refreshing pool, Indian Lodge is a welcome oasis in West Texas.
HOTEL LIMPIA
The Hotel Limpia is a historic, restored 1912 hotel nestled in the scenic Davis Mountains. Complete with a courtyard garden, a glassed-in veranda, and porches donning rocking chairs, Hotel Limpia is a historic Texas gem and a peaceful place to stay. Also, Hotel Limpia is home to the only bar in Jeff Davis County- the Blue Mountain Bistro (see above).
Notable Weekends + Events in Fort Davis
CYCLEFEST
September
Cyclefest is arguably the best and most scenic Bike Tour in the state of Texas with beautiful vistas, easy novice routes and challenging hills. Cyclefest is a “must do” for every cyclist. Cyclists tour the Davis Mountains in this 42nd annual event- which includes routes of 27, 55, and 76 miles. The event is staged at the historic Prude Ranch in Fort Davis and is held the Third Weekend of September.
STAR PARTY AT MCDONALD OBSERVATORY
The Star Party program (~ 2 hours, depending on weather & crowd size) is fun for the entire family, and is open to everyone! Reservations are nearly always required as this program frequently sells out. Enjoy night sky constellation tours and views of celestial objects through a number of telescopes (varying in size up to a 24-inch Ritchey–Chrétien telescope) in the Rebecca Gale Telescope Park at the Visitors Center every Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday evening.
Tip: Be sure to dress warmly (especially for evening programs) and bring your reservation confirmation with you! The Visitors Center is open 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Central Time.
CHRISTMAS AT THE FORT
December
See Fort Davis in full spirit for the holidays with decorations in all of the newly restored historical buildings!