We may receive a commission if you make purchases through affiliate links (at no extra cost to you). Read why our approach to travel is different.
From its origins as a watering hole for Native Americans, Big Spring has long been a popular stopping off point. Early European settlers to what is now the United States quickly realized the importance of Big Spring’s location. Mid-way across the Texas plains, it was the perfect base as they pushed towards the West Coast.
The arrival of the Texas and Pacific Railroad in 1880 paved the way for a permanent settlement. But it was in 1920 that Big Spring suddenly went from a small provincial town to a major economic center thanks to the discovery of oil in the nearby Permian Basin. Today, the oil industry is still a major player, but when that dries up, Big Spring won’t be left behind. It’s now home to one of the U.S.’s largest wind farms.
Despite the city’s significance, Big Spring is little known, especially by those outside of the U.S. Most visitors are weary travelers looking for a cheap motel to rest their heads on a long drive. But from the spring itself to historic buildings and a myriad of outdoor activities, there are so many things to do in Big Spring.
Add in a surprising number of quirky independent restaurants and a colorful nightlife scene, Big Spring deserves to be so much more than an overnight stop.
Skip to...
Getting to Big Spring
There is no airport in Big Spring, the closest being Midland International Air and Spaceport (MAF), around 50 miles to the west. It’s served by the big three U.S. carriers along with Southwest from destinations across Texas and the West Coast. The nearest international airport is Dallas Fort Worth which is 280 miles to the east (around a four-hour drive).
Public transport in Big Spring is almost non-existent. The best way to visit is to rent a car and drive yourself. If you decide not to drive, it’s possible to take a taxi from Midland Airport for around $150. Make sure you book your taxi back to the airport in advance as there is no Uber or Lyft in Big Spring and only two taxi companies.
The only alternative to flying is to take one of three daily Greyhound buses which serve Big Spring on their route from Dallas to Los Angeles.
Where to stay in Big Spring
Without doubt, the best place to stay in Big Spring is Hotel Settles. Built in 1930 to accommodate visiting oil tycoons, Hotel Settles is the tallest building in the city. In fact, when it was built it was the tallest building anywhere between Fort Worth and El Paso. When the oil boom dwindled, the hotel fell into a state of disrepair and was eventually abandoned.
Purchased by the current owners in 2006, Hotel Settles has been lovingly restored to its former glory. Opt for a high floor room for a stunning view right across Big Spring. The most centrally located hotel in town, you’ll be perfectly positioned to enjoy all the best things to do in Big Spring.
If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, Knights Inn is a great choice with a central location. A traditional American motel which hasn’t lost its charm, expect comfortable rooms and a free breakfast.
The best restaurants in Big Spring
Settles Grill
Settles Grill in Hotel Settles is unequivocally Big Spring’s most lavish restaurant and a meal here is one of the must-do things to do in Big Spring. Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner (closed for dinner on Sundays), the décor and service are something to write home about. The menu is classic American bistro with salads, sandwiches and steaks. Expect true-to-Texas size portions and surprisingly good value.
Yo Mama’s
Big Spring’s go-to for comfort food, Yo Mama’s is open for lunch and dinner Tuesday through Saturday. Highlights include extravagant burgers, wings, brisket and jalapeno poppers. If you’re hungry, try their Juicy Lucy burger, a double cheeseburger with even more cheese between the cheese.
Alberto’s Crystal Cafe
Wherever you go in Texas, you won’t struggle to find authentic Mexican food and Big Spring is no different. Alberto’s Crystal Cafe is a local institution and a favorite with families. Open all day (except Mondays), call in for breakfast to try their divine Eggs Ranchero. Dinner highlights include enchiladas, fajitas and burritos plus burgers, steaks and salads.
The top 5 things to do in Big Spring
Go hiking in Big Spring State Park
Spanning over 380 acres, a visit to the State Park is a real must on your list of things to do in Big Spring. The site of the spring which gave the city it’s name, it gained state park status is 1934. Hike to the top of the 200 m bluff, known as Scenic Mountain, to get an idea of the sheer scale of Texas. The view is never ending.
Look out for rock carvings as you walk. There are over 300 petroglyphs dating back hundreds of years.
There’s a Texas State Park store and, during summer, a pop-up shop selling artisan handicrafts.
Delve into the past at Big Spring Heritage Museum
Two blocks south of Hotel Settles, a visit to the Heritage Museum should be high on your list of things to do in Big Spring. This non-profit museum and historical society has been showcasing the story of Big Spring since it first opened its doors in 1971.
Highlights include a feature on the cowboys of the city’s early days and an exhibit exploring the oil boom which made Big Spring what it is today (or, maybe, what it was yesterday). There’s a fascinating section on the Texas & Pacific Railroad and a quirky, if a little creepy, doll exhibition.
Fly high at Hangar 25 Aviation Museum
It wasn’t only the oil boom which brought workers flocking to Big Spring. Commissioned during World War Two, Webb Air Force Base was a major component of the city’s economy up until 1977. Although it initially closed in 1945, it was reactivated in 1951 as a training command post during the Cold War.
Hangar 25 is home to eight former USAF aircraft, plus displays on the history of Webb Air Force Base. It’s open 10 am – 4 pm Tuesday to Friday and 10 am – 2 pm on Saturdays; admission is free.
Get outdoors at Moss Creek Lake
Around ten miles outside of Downtown Big Spring, Moss Creek Lake is a manmade reservoir built to supply the city and Howard County. On a warm day, a visit to the lake is one of the top things to do in Big Spring and an ideal way to escape the heat.
Take a stroll around the miles of nature trails or cool off with a dip in the lake at the swimming beach. It’s also possible to camp at the lake and there’s RV parking. Entry is free, but you need to purchase a permit to drive into the park and fees apply for camping.
Enjoy live music at the Train Car
There’s plenty of lively bars in Big Spring, but nothing quite competes with The Train Car. A quirky outdoor cigar lounge set around a vintage Union Pacific railroad car, a visit to The Train Car is one of the top things to do in Big Spring in the evening.
Grab a drink from the bar and take a seat on the patio and while the night away. There’s live music every weekend and some weeknights, too. The Train Car is open daily from noon until midnight (8 pm on Sundays).
Share This Article
Traveling soon? Subscribe to The Insight below and get exclusive access to our personalized travel advice community via WhatsApp so you can ask all your burning travel questions.
Looking for the best comprehensive travel insurance? SafetyWing has you covered.
And for your eSIM in every country, there is only one option we recommend: Airalo.
Read more of our best insights from around the world
- 10 Awesome Things to Do in Kuşadası, Türkiye
- Traditional Food of Turkmenistan: 9 Dishes of Turkmen Cuisine You Must Try
- The Weekend in Tucson, Arizona You Shouldn’t Miss
- 8 Fun Things to Do in Riyadh in 2025
- Best Pubs in Jericho, Oxford for a Pint and Bite in 2025
- The 7 Best Cafes in Falmouth, Cornwall
