What are the Top Things to Do in Big Spring, TX?

Big Spring’s top attractions blend natural beauty, history, and culture. Must-visits include the expansive Comanche Trail Park for outdoor fun, the unique Big Spring State Park perched on a mesa, the fascinating Heritage Museum showcasing local history, the beautifully restored historic Settles Hotel, and the engaging Hangar 25 Air Museum commemorating WWII aviation.

Beyond these highlights, you’ll find a welcoming community, classic West Texas scenery, and opportunities for relaxation. Stroll through downtown, catch a local event at the Municipal Auditorium, or simply enjoy the wide-open skies.

Is Comanche Trail Park worth visiting?

Absolutely. Comanche Trail Park is Big Spring’s premier recreational hub, offering a vast array of activities for all ages.

This sprawling 400-acre park features Spring Creek Reservoir, perfect for fishing (stocked with catfish, bass, and more) and non-motorized boating. You’ll find playgrounds, picnic areas with shelters, extensive walking and biking trails winding through native landscapes, an 18-hole golf course, lighted sports fields, and even a charming miniature train ride. It’s the heart of outdoor life in Big Spring and a fantastic spot for families or anyone seeking relaxation or activity.

What makes Big Spring State Park unique?

Big Spring State Park is unique as one of Texas’s smallest state parks, centered around the city’s namesake natural spring and perched atop Scenic Mountain, offering panoramic views unlike any other park in the system.

Developed in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), the park showcases beautiful native stonework, including a pavilion overlooking the spring (though the spring itself no longer flows visibly). The main draw is the stunning vista from the mountain top, providing a 360-degree view of the city and surrounding plains. It features short, accessible hiking trails, picnic areas, and a small campground. Its historical significance and breathtaking perspective make it a special stop.

What can I see at the Heritage Museum of Big Spring?

The Heritage Museum offers a deep dive into the rich tapestry of Big Spring and Howard County’s past, from prehistoric times through the oil boom era.

Housed in a former hotel building, its diverse exhibits cover Native American artifacts, pioneer life, the development of the railroad and ranching, the transformative impact of the oil industry, and the area’s military connections. You’ll find period rooms, historical photographs, documents, tools, clothing, and displays dedicated to significant local events and figures. It’s an essential visit for understanding the forces that shaped this West Texas community.

Where Can I Experience Big Spring’s History?

Big Spring’s history comes alive at sites like the meticulously restored Settles Hotel, the informative Heritage Museum, the poignant Hangar 25 Air Museum, and the historic Big Spring State Park CCC structures.

Beyond museums, simply walking through parts of downtown reveals architectural gems hinting at the city’s boom times. The Big Spring Municipal Auditorium is another historic venue worth noting.

What’s the story behind the Settles Hotel?

The Settles Hotel is a magnificent 15-story Art Deco landmark, opened in 1930 as a symbol of West Texas prosperity during the oil boom. After decades of decline, it underwent a stunning multi-million dollar restoration, reopening in 2012.

Once the tallest building between Fort Worth and El Paso, it hosted celebrities, politicians, and oil barons in its glamorous early days. Falling into disrepair, it was saved by a determined local effort and restored to its original grandeur. Today, it operates as a luxury hotel (The Settles Hotel) featuring period details, a grand lobby, a renowned restaurant (The Capitol Grille), and a rooftop bar. Staying or dining here is a step back into Big Spring’s most opulent era.

Why is Hangar 25 Air Museum significant?

Hangar 25 is significant as it preserves the history of the Big Spring Army Air Force Bombardier School (BSAFBS) active during World War II, located on the site of the original base’s sole remaining hangar.

The museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts, photographs, uniforms, and memorabilia directly related to the BSAFBS, which trained over 7,000 bombardiers. Its centerpiece is the meticulously restored “B-29 Superfortress” (a static display model representing the planes trainees learned on). Exhibits detail daily life on the base, training operations, and the experiences of personnel and local families during the war years. It’s a powerful tribute to Big Spring’s vital wartime contribution.

How Do I Plan a Trip to Big Spring?

Planning a trip to Big Spring involves considering transportation (primarily driving), choosing accommodations, picking the best time to visit based on weather, and budgeting for attractions, food, and lodging.

Big Spring is readily accessible by car via I-20. While it has a small airport (HCA – McMahon-Wrinkle), commercial flights are limited, making driving the most practical option for most visitors. Research hotels or motels in advance, especially if an event is happening. Spring and Fall offer the most pleasant weather.

What’s the best time of year to visit Big Spring?

Spring (March-May) and Fall (September-November) are generally the best times to visit Big Spring for comfortable outdoor activities.

During these seasons, temperatures are typically mild and pleasant, avoiding the intense heat of West Texas summers (June-August), where highs often exceed 95°F (35°C), and the sometimes chilly, occasionally icy winters (December-February). Spring offers wildflowers, while Fall provides clear skies. However, summer mornings/evenings can still be enjoyable for park visits, and winter offers fewer crowds. Always check the forecast before traveling.

Where are the best places to stay in Big Spring?

For a historic and luxurious experience, The Settles Hotel is unmatched. For standard amenities and convenience, several national chain hotels and motels are located near I-20.

Staying at the Settles Hotel is an experience in itself, placing you downtown near restaurants and the Municipal Auditorium. Numerous well-known chains (Holiday Inn Express, Hampton Inn, Best Western, La Quinta, Motel 6, etc.) offer reliable accommodations, often with pools and breakfast, clustered near the interstate exits for easy access. Big Spring State Park also offers basic camping facilities (tents and RVs, no hookups). Booking in advance is recommended, especially during events or hunting seasons.

How do I get to Big Spring, TX?

Big Spring is most easily reached by car via Interstate 20 (I-20), which runs east-west through the city. Limited commercial air service is available at McMahon-Wrinkle Airport (HCA).

Driving is the primary mode of access:

• From Dallas/Fort Worth: ~280 miles West on I-20 (approx. 4.5 hours).
• From Midland/Odessa: ~40 miles East on I-20 (approx. 40 mins).
• From Lubbock: ~110 miles Southeast via US-87 S (approx. 1 hour 45 mins).
• From El Paso: ~300 miles East on I-20 (approx. 4.5 hours).

Big Spring McMahon-Wrinkle Airport (HCA) offers general aviation services. The nearest major commercial airports are in Midland (MAF, ~45 mins) and Abilene (ABI, ~1.5 hours).

What Outdoor Activities are Available?

Big Spring offers diverse outdoor activities centered around its parks: hiking and biking trails at Comanche Trail Park, camping and scenic hikes at Big Spring State Park, fishing and boating on Spring Creek Reservoir, golfing, and sports fields.

Nature lovers can enjoy birdwatching and observing native West Texas flora and fauna in these green spaces. The relatively flat terrain around the city is also popular for road cycling. Hunting (dove, quail, deer) occurs in the surrounding county lands during designated seasons.

Can I go camping in or near Big Spring?

Yes, camping options include basic sites at Big Spring State Park and developed RV parks with hookups near the city.

Big Spring State Park offers tent and RV camping (up to 40 ft RVs) with restrooms and showers nearby. Note: There are no water, sewer, or electrical hookups at the state park sites. For full hookups (water/electric/sewer), several privately-owned RV parks are located in Big Spring, primarily catering to the oilfield industry but welcoming travelers. Comanche Trail Park does not offer overnight camping. Always check availability and book state park sites through the Texas State Parks reservation system.

Is fishing good in Big Spring?

Spring Creek Reservoir within Comanche Trail Park is a popular and regularly stocked urban fishing spot, known primarily for catfish and offering good opportunities, especially for families and casual anglers.

The Texas Parks & Wildlife Department (TPWD) stocks the reservoir with channel catfish throughout the warmer months (typically April-September). Largemouth bass, sunfish (bluegill), and carp are also present. Shoreline fishing access is excellent around much of the reservoir. A valid Texas fishing license is required for anglers 17 and older. While it may not be a trophy destination, it provides convenient and reliable fishing right in the city.

Where to Eat and Find Local Experiences?

Big Spring offers a range of dining options, from classic Texas steakhouses and BBQ joints to Mexican restaurants, casual diners, and the upscale dining experience at The Settles Hotel’s Capitol Grille.

For local flavor, try authentic West Texas BBQ or Tex-Mex. Beyond dining, check the schedule for events at the Municipal Auditorium or local parks, explore unique shops downtown, visit Howard College’s cultural events, or simply chat with friendly locals to discover hidden gems.

What are some popular restaurants in Big Spring?

Popular local eateries include steakhouses like Runaway Train Cafe and Salt Creek Steakhouse, BBQ spots like Jumbo’s BBQ and Bodacious Bar-B-Q, Mexican restaurants like Mi Casita and Rosa’s Cafe, and the fine dining experience at The Capitol Grille in The Settles Hotel.

You’ll also find national fast-food chains, classic diners like Woody’s, and cafes. For a true local breakfast or lunch, try one of the smaller, non-chain diners downtown. The variety ensures options for different tastes and budgets.

Are there any unique events in Big Spring?

Big Spring hosts several unique annual events, including the popular “Heat Wave Balloon Festival” (typically in July) and the “Howard County Fair & Rodeo” (usually in September/October).

The Heat Wave Balloon Festival features hot air balloon launches and glows, live music, food vendors, and family activities, filling Comanche Trail Park with color. The Howard County Fair & Rodeo is a classic West Texas event showcasing livestock shows, carnival rides, rodeo competitions, concerts, and more. Check the Big Spring Visitors Bureau or City of Big Spring event calendars for specific dates and other happenings like concerts at the Auditorium, holiday parades, or car shows.

Is Big Spring State Park good for hiking?

Big Spring State Park offers short, scenic hikes primarily focused on enjoying the panoramic views from Scenic Mountain rather than strenuous trails.

The park features about 3 miles of interconnected trails. These are generally easy to moderate in difficulty, with some elevation change. The main loop trail takes you around the rim of the mesa, offering those incredible 360-degree vistas. Other paths lead down towards the historic spring area and CCC structures. While not a destination for long-distance hiking, it’s perfect for a pleasant walk immersed in West Texas scenery and history. Wear sturdy shoes and bring water, especially in warmer months. The views are the true reward here.