One might imagine that Fort Davis, Texas, with its modest population of about 1000 people, won’t take much time to explore, but among the greatest things to do in Fort Davis is not just one of Texas’ national historic sites and a beloved state park, but also one of the nation’s top observatories!
Additionally, due to its mountainous location, Fort Davis experiences relatively mild temperatures in Texas. For instance, its average July high is 89°, compared to 96° in Austin and 97° in El Paso, making it a well-deservedly popular summer getaway that tempts people to stay longer.
Here are some things to do in Fort Davis, Texas!
Visit the Fort Davis National Historic Site
Fort Davis, which was occupied from 1854 to 1891, is one of the best-maintained frontier forts in the United States and is situated spectacularly against the Davis Mountains. When it was an active fort, Fort Davis was responsible for guarding people traveling through the desert and delivering mail and cargo.
More than 100 structures are still standing there today, some of which have been reconstructed to resemble the fort as it was in the 1880s.
It will be easy to find a hotel near Fort Davis National Historic Site.
Try The Fort Davis Drug Store’s food
The popular Fort Davis Drug Store, which is unquestionably one of the nicest locations to visit in Fort Davis, is one of the best-known local enterprises.
The quaint structure, which serves as a restaurant, gift store, and hotel, urges you to sit down and enjoy an ice cream on the front porch on a warm day. However, for those who prefer healthier options, the Fort Davis Drug Store also provides breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Explore Davis Mountains State Park and go hiking
If for no other reason than the fact that it is what draws the majority of tourists to the city, Davis Mountains State Park is undoubtedly at the top of the list of the greatest things to do in Fort Davis.
No visit to Fort Davis would be complete without spending some time in Davis Mountains State Park, which has 4.5 miles of hiking trails and offers fantastic stargazing, mountain biking, birdwatching, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Walk around the courthouse
Fort Davis, Texas, like so many other tiny communities, has a stunning courthouse. The Jeff Davis County Courthouse, which was constructed between 1910 and 1911 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is the one in question.
The surrounding lawn is lovely, and since the courthouse is close to Fort Davis landmarks like the Drug Store, it’s worthwhile to take a quick look.
The Old Overland Trail Museum is worth visiting
This little museum, which is situated on the historic San Antonio-El Paso Road, depicts the tale of the period before the railroad arrived in West Texas.
This museum, which is located in Fort Davis, Texas, has everything from antique medical equipment to the original Valentine Post Office. Admission is also free!
Visit the McDonald Observatory to observe the stars
Visiting the McDonald Observatory should unquestionably be included on any list of things to do in Fort Davis.
The McDonald Observatory, a world-class facility for astronomical study and education of the general public, is connected to the University of Texas. Fun fact: The Davis Mountains are home to some of the darkest skies in the United States.
If you’re set on going, make sure to prepare ahead, but it will be well worth it to view the night sky as you’ve probably never seen it before.
Visit Hotel Fort Davis Inn & R.V. Park for stay
Check in at the Fort Davis Inn & R.V. Park to combine your Fort Davis touring with a place to stay!
The property is tranquil, pleasant, and close to Davis Mountain. It is ideal for both family vacations and business meetings. Their excellent staff makes sure that every one of their visitors has all they require for a relaxing stay. Hygiene and cleanliness are thoroughly taken care of by the maintenance crew. It is also a pet-friendly hotel in Fort Davis, TX.
You can’t go wrong with a stay at the Fort Davis Inn & R.V. Park if you want the best hotel in Fort Davis, TX.
The Davis Mountains Scenic Loop should be driven
One of Texas’ most picturesque drives is this 75-mile loop around the Davis Mountains, which begins and ends in Fort Davis.
Consider making a pit stop at Madera Canyon Roadside Park along the way; you won’t be let down whether you decide to finish the 2.4-mile hike or just take in the scenery from the side of the road.
Visit the Botanical Garden and Desert Research Institute in the Chihuahuan Desert
The Chihuahuan Desert Research Institute is the place to go if you want to learn more about the delicate beauty and intricate ecosystem that make up the Chihuahuan Desert.
For a nominal price, you may walk among and discover more about desert plants than you ever knew at the center, which is maintained entirely by volunteers. The Chihuahuan Desert is studied and protected with all available resources.
Visit Stone Village Market for lunch
There are many things to admire about West Texas’ vast open areas, but one of them is how simple it is to find great delis and supermarkets when on the road.
But you can fill up on specialty foods in the middle of the desert at Stone Village Market. Also, stop by the deli for a sandwich before leaving.
Where in Texas is Fort Davis?
Approximately 25 minutes northeast of Marfa or northwest of Alpine, in West Texas, is where you’ll find Fort Davis.
It’s roughly 3 hours southeast of El Paso and 2 hours and 20 minutes north of the Chisos Basin Visitor Center in the heart of Big Bend National Park.
