On our last trip to Odessa, I was shocked to make some new discoveries that I thought were awesome. The bars have gotten better, there are some newer restaurants that are fantastic, and there are more things to do with kids!
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Better bars these days!
Shack in the Back
The first one is Shack in the Back. It is no longer what it was when I was in high school. If I recall correctly, it was a BBW joint back then. Nowadays during the warm months it opens every Wednesday night. They have live music, a couple of bars, outdoor fire pits, pool tables. It is just an all-around great hang. Probably the best hangout I have been to in Odessa ever. Located at 11610 W Hwy 80 E, Odessa, TX 79765.
The Beer Garden
Out on Highway 80 is The Beer Garden. They have a variety of draft beer available as well as wine in an open-air venue with picnic tables & live music. Located at: 7112 W Hwy 80, Midland, TX 79706
Rolling 7 Ranch Saloon
Another place out off Highway 80, but set back a bit is Rolling 7 Ranch. I am not sure that they have specific hours, but if you can catch them open on a non-event night it’s an awesome place to hang out. They’ve got live music, horseshoes & beer! Located at: 11700 West County Road 122, Odessa, Texas.
Hanging out with friends at Rolling 7 Ranch
Better restaurants too!
Well, a few new restaurants, because let’s face it, Odessa has always had great restaurants!
Mi Piaci
The second one is a great little restaurant near Grandview and University called Mi Piaci. It is a bring your own wine concept, but you can also bring your own beer if you like. The food was awesome. It is what I would call Tex – Italian. Meaning there were jalapenos in my entree! I always get the Chicken Murphy made with sauteed mushrooms, jalapenos, sherry wine cream and marinara. (pictured) They are a local, family-owned and operated Italian Restaurant serving pizza, pasta, calzones, sub sandwiches, steak, and all of the classic Italian food favorites.
Flipped
Flipped breakfast restaurant in Odessa, Texas
A great place for breakfast that’s also super cute is Flipped at Parks Legado. They do not take reservations but I went in on a super busy morning and I was sat right away.
Garely’s Mexican Restaurant
The food here was fantastic. I got the Mocajeta and it met expectations! I had high expectations after first having this in Cabo.
Cafe at the Gardens
There is a restaurant now at Aldridge Gardens. Located at: 3300 N Fairgrounds Rd, Midland, TX 79705
More things to do in Midland and Odessa!
Big Sky Drive Inn
Odessa has always had great weather, so it just makes sense that they would have a drive in theater and after all these years, they finally have one again. It is a pet-friendly drive-in cinema offering 3 double features nightly, plus a large concession menu.
Located at: 6200 W Hwy 80, Midland, TX 79706
Cinergy
Midland and Odessa both have Cinergy Movie complexes now. Both have an arcade. The one in Odessa has a bowling alley and the one in Midland has a ropes course. The Midland location also has Escape rooms.
Cinergy Odessa: 8250 TX-191, Odessa, TX 79765
Cinergy Midland: 1917 Liberty Dr, Midland, TX 79706
Altitude Trampoline Park
Odessa has a huge indoor trampoline park and it’s super fun. They have Olympic trampolines too! It’s about $10 per hour per person.
Sherwood Park Pool
Odessa has a great community pool at Sherwood Park. They have special rates on family night.
Doug Russell Pool
Midland has a fantastic community pool that kids will love.
Jurassic Jungle Sprayground
This water playground located on UTPB is free! It offers a variety of spraying, dumping, sliding and cascading water features.
Wine and Canvas
Wine and Canvas is a painting class with wine or cocktails. A local artist helps customers step-by-step to create their finished masterpiece. They also have Cookies and Canvas for kids ages 5 and up.
Where to Stay in Odessa
Odessa, Texas is truly a unique place with something to experience for everyone. Whether it be catching the latest movie release at the theater, grabbing a bite to eat in one of its amazing restaurants, or relaxing in its many local parks, Odessa provides some entertainment. Those who live here know first-hand what a great city it is. We challenge you to explore all that the city has to offer and tell us your favorite spot in Odessa! Until next time friends, keep your eyes peeled for more Fun Finds from around town!
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Love love love !! Spending a Father’s Day trip this weekend w 2 little ones to Odessa & this article & the midland one will be my your guide for the weekend this was super helpful!! Thank you sm!