Day Trips & Weekend Getaways
Best Day Trips & Weekend Getaways from Midland, TX
Midland sits in the Permian Basin with access to the Permian Basin Petroleum Museum, the Museum of the Southwest, and the Hogan Family Park.
The Petroleum Museum and the Museum of the Southwest offer culture in the oil patch.
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or browse all12 destinations near Midland
Fort Lancaster Scenic Overlook
Sheffield, TX 79781
Why this destination?
Recommended because: highly rated (4.8 by 0.1k+ visitors) · 1 hr 47 min from Midland
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
National Ranching Heritage Center
Lubbock, TX 79409
Why this destination?
Recommended because: History destination · highly rated (4.8 by 0.3k+ visitors) · 1 hr 57 min from Midland · fits $10 - $25 budget
Best time to visit: Year-round. Indoor museums and historic sites are great rainy-day options.
American Windmill Museum
Lubbock, TX 79403
Why this destination?
Recommended because: History destination · highly rated (4.8 by 0.7k+ visitors) · 1 hr 52 min from Midland · fits $10 - $25 budget
Best time to visit: Year-round. Indoor museums and historic sites are great rainy-day options.
Independence Creek Preserve
Sheffield, TX 79781
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · well rated (4.7 stars) · 1 hr 58 min from Midland · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Caverns of Sonora
Sonora, TX 76950
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.7 by 2.0k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 30 min from Midland · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Buddy Holly Center
Lubbock, TX 79401
Why this destination?
Recommended because: History destination · highly rated (4.6 by 1.5k+ visitors) · 1 hr 50 min from Midland · fits $10 - $25 budget
Best time to visit: Year-round. Indoor museums and historic sites are great rainy-day options.
International Waterlily Collection
San Angelo, TX 76901
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.6 by 0.9k+ visitors) · 1 hr 46 min from Midland · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Monahans Sandhills State Park
Monahans, TX 79756
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.6 by 2.0k+ visitors) · 51 min from Midland · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Prairie Dog Town
Lubbock, TX 79401
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.6 by 0.9k+ visitors) · 1 hr 56 min from Midland · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Mackenzie Main City Park
Lubbock, TX
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.5 by 2.0k+ visitors) · 1 hr 54 min from Midland · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Paisano Pete
Fort Stockton, TX 79735
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.5 by 0.4k+ visitors) · 1 hr 41 min from Midland · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Lubbock Lake National Historic Landmark
Lubbock, TX 79415
Why this destination?
Recommended because: History destination · highly rated (4.5 by 0.4k+ visitors) · 1 hr 56 min from Midland · fits $10 - $25 budget
Best time to visit: Year-round. Indoor museums and historic sites are great rainy-day options.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best day trips from Midland, TX?
The best day trips from Midland include state parks, historic towns, scenic drives, wineries, and outdoor recreation. Our page shows top-rated destinations with real drive times, Google ratings, and budget estimates so you can pick the right trip for your schedule and interests.
How far should I drive for a day trip from Midland?
Most great day trips from Midland are between 1 and 3 hours away. Under an hour gets you local parks and nearby towns. Two to three hours opens up state parks, lakefront destinations, and small cities worth a full day of exploring.
What are cheap things to do near Midland?
Many of the best day trips near Midland are free or low-cost. State parks, hiking trails, scenic drives, and small-town Main Streets are all great options. Check the budget estimates on each destination card above to plan a trip that fits your wallet.
What is the best time of year for day trips from Midland?
Spring and fall are ideal for most destinations near Midland, with mild weather and smaller crowds. Summer is great for beaches and water activities. Winter works well for indoor attractions like museums, historic sites, and food-focused trips. Check the seasonal notes on each card for specific timing tips.
Are there weekend getaways near Midland?
Yes. Many destinations within 2-4 hours of Midland make excellent overnight trips. Look for spots with multiple activities, good dining, and nearby lodging. Use the "Plan This Trip" button on any card to start building an itinerary, or check our drive-time pages for destinations at specific distances. If you need a car, compare rental options to find the best deal.
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