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

Marfa Garden 1

Relax and enjoy this contemporary casita (1 of 2) in a quiet, private garden (1.25 acres) filled with native plants and walking trails. The 500 sq. ft. one room interior is beautifully furnished, well-appointed and comfortable. Large, covered porches provide the perfect setting to experience the garden and distant mountain views. The property and garden are featured in four books, Gardens of Texas, Marfa Modern, Under Western Skies, and Marfa Garden. (Registered 2025 City of Marfa #S95)

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 - Modern Oasis on 5 Acres in Marfa

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

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 Paloma • Tiny Home - Close to Heaven

Big Bend vibes! Boasting Prickly Pear wallpaper & decorated with local art, Casa Paloma embodies the vibrancy of far West Texas. Enjoy an evening under the stars, get cozy by the fire in the chiminea, grill on the patio, and most importantly take in sunsets and sunrises so spectacular you can only be in the WEST! 5 minuets from downtown Alpine, 30 minutes from Fort Davis, Marfa, and Marathon. The Big Bend National Park, Terlingua, and Lajitas are roughly 100 miles away.

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.

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.

Marfa Container: JUDY

Philadelphia Street Containers is a boutique-style hotel container experience. There are five private spaces within the complex, all ranging in different sizes and designed to perfection. Rent the entire hotel or rent each space individually. “Judy” is a 200sf private space with a walk-in shower, queen-size bed, desk, and fun art throughout. Outdoor spaces, including the cowboy pool, are shared with guests renting the four other units.

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.