5 Tourist Attractions in Midland, Texas – The Town Where a Former President Spent His Childhood

Midland is a town located in the western part of the state of Texas, United States. This area has long been deeply connected to the oil industry, and in recent years, with the rise of shale gas extraction, it has garnered increased attention within the U.S. As a result, there are also tourist attractions in Midland where visitors can learn about oil.
Another reason Midland is known across the U.S. is that it is the hometown of the 43rd President of the United States, President Bush. Now, let’s take a look at some of the tourist attractions in Midland.

1. Permian Basin Petroleum Museum

When you think of Midland, its deep and ongoing connection to oil immediately comes to mind. The Petroleum Museum is a key attraction for understanding Midland. This museum spans 40,000 square feet and offers detailed exhibits on the history and methods of oil drilling from the 1960s to the present day. It is said to be the largest museum in the United States dedicated to the oil industry. Over a million visitors from around the world have already explored its many highlights.
In addition to racing cars and exhibits, there are games and videos that even children can enjoy. The variety of games is impressive and can captivate adults as well. Don’t miss the outdoor drilling equipment displays either.
With global interest in shale gas still growing, both the Petroleum Museum and the land of Midland remain fascinating to watch!

2. George W. Bush Childhood Home

Midland is the hometown of the 43rd President of the United States, George W. Bush. The house where he spent his early childhood in the 1950s has been preserved as a tourist site—definitely worth a visit! He lived in this house from age two through middle school.
As many know, his father, often referred to as “Papa Bush,” was also the 41st U.S. President. Despite that, this house is not particularly extravagant—it provides a glimpse into the typical life of a middle-class American family in the 1950s. Guided tours are available, allowing visitors to learn about the Bush family’s history and how President Bush spent his early years in Midland. It’s an especially recommended spot for families curious about his upbringing!
This house, where two presidents and a First Lady once lived, is a must-see destination in Midland!

3. Odessa Meteor Crater and Museum

Did you know you can visit a crater in Midland formed by a meteor that struck over 50,000 years ago? In 1892, a rancher searching for cattle stumbled upon this crater, which turned out to be the third-largest in the United States. A meteor with a diameter of 550 feet is believed to have created it!
The composition of the meteor is also notable—being mostly made of iron, it’s considered rare, and some people collect rocks from the site. Sadly, much of the crater is now buried under Midland’s soil, dust, and brush. However, there is a museum dedicated to meteorites nearby that is well worth visiting too.
Interestingly, some believe the meteor is still buried about 170 meters underground. The surrounding area has trails, so why not take a walk and reflect on meteorites and the cosmos while enjoying the vast landscape of the Midland area?

4. Museum of the Southwest

The Museum of the Southwest is another must-visit tourist attraction in Midland. Don’t forget to take in the building itself first! This charming stone structure was used as a residence until the 1960s.
Inside, there are 1,700 items on display ranging from ancient to modern art, including paintings, sculptures, pottery, photography, and textiles. While the exhibits are impressive, the main attraction is the state-of-the-art digital planetarium. Cutting-edge technology is used to create a realistic space experience, which has received rave reviews from visitors. In summer, concerts and events are also held here, attracting both locals and tourists. If you’re visiting Midland in the summer, be sure to check the event schedule.
Conveniently located in downtown Midland, it’s easy to access.

5. I-20 Wildlife Preserve

Located along the I-20 highway that runs across the southern part of Midland, this wildlife preserve is the perfect spot to experience Midland’s natural environment. The park features a boardwalk over the wetlands. As you walk along the easy trails, you’ll encounter a wide variety of wildlife including beautiful birds, butterflies, rare dragonflies, ducks, turtles, and rabbits.
Informative signs about the animals are placed throughout the preserve, and volunteers are stationed in various spots. Take the opportunity to ask questions and gain firsthand knowledge. Visitors often praise the friendliness of the volunteers.
In the otherwise dry and rugged landscape of Midland, this preserve is a rare oasis! It's a surprisingly tranquil place despite being near the highway. However, temperatures can soar in summer, so morning visits are recommended.

◎ Summary

What do you think? Did you get a sense of the charm of Midland with its rich variety of attractions, from oil and meteorites to presidents? It’s a town that continues to capture attention. Be sure to visit Midland, Texas!

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5 Tourist Attractions in Midland, Texas – The Town Where a Former President Spent His Childhood