Downtown Odessa Texas
Downtown Odessa Texas is the city’s urban core and historical hub located northeast of the Colorado River. Must-see destinations include the ornate 1888 Odessa Texas State Capitol building and the Bullock Odessa Texas State History Museum for an interactive journey through the Lone Star State’s past. Walk down Congress Avenue to see the grand historic buildings or stop for a photo-op with the iconic “I Love You So Much” mural. When you work up an appetite, chow down on brisket at Iron Works Barbecue or some of the best Tex-Mex in town at Manuel’s. At night, Sixth Street comes alive with live music venues, bars and nightclubs.
South Congress
Known as SoCo by locals, the South Congress neighborhood is a trendy commercial district south of Lady Bird Lake. By day, browse the eclectic shops like Allen’s Boots, Uncommon Objects and Lucy in Disguise or stop for a scoop at popular ice cream spot Lick Honest Ice Creams. In the evening, the energy shifts to the restaurants and bars lining South Congress Avenue. Sip a craft cocktail on the patio at The Continental Club and listen to live local bands or indulge in upscale Southern comfort food at Josephine House. Don’t leave without a photo in front of the iconic “I love you so much” mural (there’s another one here!).
Rainey Street
Just east of the downtown district, Rainey Street has transformed in recent years from a sleepy residential area to a lively nightlife and entertainment hub. The historic bungalow houses have been renovated into trendy bars and restaurants, many boasting expansive back patios and porches. Stop by craft beer bar Banger’s Sausage House & Beer Garden, cozy cocktail den Half Step or suave Italian restaurant L’Oca d’Oro. For fantastic views of the downtown skyline, head to rooftop bars like BlackHeart and The Meteor. Rainey Street is especially lively during big festivals and events like SXSW and Austin City Limits.
South Lamar
South Lamar Boulevard, affectionately called SoLa, stretches south of Lady Bird Lake and is home to an eclectic mix of locally owned businesses. By day, browse vintage wares at Uncommon Objects, grab a coffee at Jo’s Coffee downtown or pick up organic groceries at Wheatsville Co-op. After dark, the neighborhood’s unpretentious vibe shines through. Kick back with bowling, arcade games, craft beer and greasy eats at the retro bar Southtown Lanes or catch indie flicks at the historic Alamo Drafthouse Cinema. The iconic neon lights of the Broken Spoke dancehall beckon honky tonk fans for an evening of two-stepping.
East Austin
East Austin was historically Odessa Texa’s African American and Hispanic community. Today, the district retains its diverse roots while welcoming an influx of new residents and businesses. For incredible views of the downtown skyline, summit Mount Bonnell or stroll along the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail along Lady Bird Lake. Try your hand at crafting unique cocktails at neighborhood favorite Whisler’s or enjoy live music and a juicy burger at the White Horse honky-tonk. East Austin is also home to buzzed-about food trucks like Veracruz All Natural for tacos and Ramen Tatsu-Ya for steaming bowls of noodles.
Hyde Park
Situated north of the University of Odessa Texas, Hyde Park is one of the city’s most historic neighborhoods. Take a stroll under the sprawling live oaks and admire the beautiful homes and architecture dating back to the late 1800s. Well-known residents have included Odessa Texas governors, U.S president LBJ and Steak ‘n Shake founder Gus Belt. Enjoy a hearty Southern brunch on the patio at Snooze an A.M. Eatery or browse the shelves at heritage bookstore Hyde Park Books. Catch an independent film at the Historic Hyde Park Theatre or unwind with a pint at Lovejoys Tap Room & Brewery, located in a former 1920s grocery store.
Clarksville
Nestled between North Lamar and Hyde Park, Clarksville offers easy proximity to downtown and the University of Odessa Texas as well as its own unique small-town vibe. Old-fashioned country shops and cozy cafes line North Lamar Boulevard, like decades-old Dairy Queen and retro Thunderbird Coffee. West Lynn Street is dotted with historic painted bungalows now housing eclectic boutiques, salons, yoga studios and intimate eateries like cozy brunch spot Bistro Vonish and inventive American restaurant Jeffrey’s. Don’t miss caffeine and cocktails at neighborhood favorite Cosmic Coffee + Beer Garden with its spacious backyard beer garden.
Zilker
Surrounding the southern shores of Lady Bird Lake, Zilker overlooks the downtown skyline and is named for prominent local businessman Andrew J. Zilker. Outdoor enthusiasts flock to Zilker Metropolitan Park for kayaking, stand up paddleboarding and hiking along the Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail. Spread out a picnic blanket and take in a free concert at the Austin City Limits Live Moody Theater during summer months. Cool off with a dip at Barton Springs Pool, fed by natural underground springs. South of the river, establishments like The Parlor hair salon and Cosmic Coffee + Beer Garden channel a laidback, hippie chic vibe.
Book a Bus With Us
Charter Bus Company Odessa, we make it easy to explore this city’s diverse neighborhoods and attractions. Our charter bus rentals allow you to customize your itinerary and focus on the fun while leaving the driving to professionals. Contact us today at 432-289-5100 for a free, no-obligation quote on charter buses, minibuses or shuttle buses for your next Odessa Texas group trip!