Vacation rentals in McDonald Observatory

Paradise Mountain Villa

This hillside villa sits atop 36 acres of untouched land at 6,000-ft. elevation! Enjoy dark skies & enchanted vistas stretching over 100 miles with 4 real seasons of extraordinary weather. Herds of deer, flocks of turkey, & migrating birds roam freely throughout the landscape. A quick 30-minute drive to nearby Marfa and Alpine, this property is a true secluded paradise where year-round hiking adventures await! NOTE: High speed Starlink Satellite Internet installed and operational (It’s FAST!!!)

"The Treehouse" -A Room, a View & a Private Deck

On the side of Dolores Mountain overlooking town, "The Treehouse", as we call it, is a grown-up version of your favorite childhood hideout. At the top of the private staircase in the courtyard, you will find an unexpectedly modern and comfortable retreat, perfect for relaxing and stargazing. - Private Entrance with Rooftop Deck - 270 Degree Views of the Davis Mountains - Centrally located 1 mile from the town's center - 25 minutes to Marfa, Alpine and McDonald Observatory - DishTV and WIFI

Sleeping Lion Casita with Sky Observation Deck

Nestled amidst the Chihuahuan Desert, the Sleeping Lion is a stylish casita that offers a serene retreat for couples or solo adventurers. With easy access to McDonald Observatory, Balmorhea State Park, and Marfa, our impeccably styled casita exudes a warm & inviting ambiance. Unwind on our patio, where you can soak up panoramic views of the majestic Sleeping Lion Mountain. Step inside to discover a cozy living area, small kitchen, and a plush bedroom. Embark on your Far West Texas journey.

Desert Sky – On 5 Acres with Marfa Lights Views

This unique Quonset Hut is located on 5 acres with incredible views of the Marfa lights, Chinati Peak and Davis Mountains - just minutes from Marfa's town center. Experience a rare desert oasis with modern amenities, incredible sunrise and sunset views and magnificent stargazing, while being close enough to enjoy everything Marfa has to offer. Perfect for couples, friends, or those looking to work remote! High speed WiFi, workspace, dog friendly, full kitchen, BBQ, lounge & dining area

Small House • Desert Retreat — Close to Heaven

West Texas Ranch meets Designer Style! Near town, 30 minutes from Fort Davis, Marfa, and Marathon. The Big Bend National Park, Terlingua, and Lajitas are roughly 100 miles away. Relax on the expansive front porch and enjoy the wide-open spaces and skies brimming with stars, and wake up to a sunrise with an uninterrupted view of Hancock Hill. Grill and chill! Watch the abundant wildlife such as javelina, mule deer, and fox. Enjoy the gateway to the Big Bend while staying comfortably.

Cozy and comfy cottage near Balmorhea State Park

Just 2 miles off IH-10 and walking distance to town and amenities, this 360sf cottage has everything you need for a comfortable stay. It’s ideal for a visit to Balmorhea State Park, home of the world’s largest spring-fed swimming pool, where people swim and scuba dive year-round in 74 degree water. Bird watching is popular at Sandia Wetlands and Balmorhea Lake. It’s a perfect place to start or end your visit to the Big Bend area, or as an overnight stop-over when traveling on IH-10.

Casa Calma

This serene little adobe home has been lovingly restored by its architect owners. High-speed wifi, dedicated work space, and the peaceful quiet created by the sound-dampening adobe walls make this a perfect WFH (away from home) base, while central location and a fully equipped kitchen make the space a perfect spot to relax after exploring the town. Casa Calma is especially close to the majority of restaurants, as well as the best coffee shops and Marfa's unique gem store.

Juniper Moon House

The Juniper Moon House is a one bedroom, one bath adobe casita, nestled amidst Juniper trees and prickly pear cacti. Located on the southwest end of town, it offers quieter surroundings while still being in close proximity to Marfa favorites. Featured in Conde Naste as "The Best Airbnbs for Stargazing" and on the Zoe Report as "The 10 Best Desert Rentals For Those Looking To Get Away From It All ASAP". *All surfaces are always cleaned with disinfectant between guests.

Central Courtyard - Private Suite

*COVID SAFE, NO SHARED INDOOR SPACE OR AIR VENTS* Centrally located, private suite, in 1920s Adobe with cozy king bed, coffee bar with mini-fridge, TV, strong Wifi, and completely private bathroom + entry way. Just blocks from the center of Marfa, you can easily walk everywhere in town or relax with drinks in the beautiful shared courtyard. **2 Night Minimum weekends ** 3 night minimum Events/Holidays** Price includes Local 7% Hotel Occupancy Tax (Marfa ID #S46)

The Last Resort, 79 Songbird

Fully renovated 1979 Songbird travel trailer in beautiful Fort Davis, Texas. Located in the center of town within walking distance to shops and restaurants; close to historic Fort Davis National Historic Site; 20 minutes to Marfa, Alpine, and the McDonald Observatory; 40 minutes to Balmorhea and Valentine; and an hour and a half away from Big Bend National Park. Enjoy our mild weather and night time stargazing from the Songbird's large deck.

The Last Resort, Sprinter

The Sprinter is a travel trailer in beautiful Fort Davis, Texas. Located in the center of town within walking distance to shops and restaurants; close to historic Fort Davis National Historic Site; 20 minutes to Marfa, Alpine, and the McDonald Observatory; 40 minutes to Balmorhea and Valentine; and an hour and a half away from Big Bend National Park. Enjoy our mild weather and night time stargazing from the Sprinter's large deck.

Casita on Arabella Mountain

Guest (studio) casita located on Arabella Mtn. in Limpia Crossing, 9 miles from Fort Davis and 8 miles from McDonald Observatory. Cools mornings, pleasant afternoons. The casita has everything you need to get away from it all. Sleep in or have early coffee and watch the wildlife. One can choose to have dinner in town or cook and have a quiet dinner in the casita. Star gazing is beautiful here in the Davis Mountains.