Austin to Marfa & Alpine by Car: Art, Stargazing & West Texas Routes is a wide‑open adventure across ranch country and sky‑is‑huge horizons. Hola Car Rentals makes the logistics easy, so you can focus on timing, fuel, and the best roadside stops. For a quick exit after landing, start with Austin car rental at AUS; if you’re downtown first, compare Austin car hire and plan an early roll‑out.
Route highlights
Follow US‑290 or I‑10 toward Junction and Fort Stockton, then aim south to Alpine for murals, galleries, and mountain air. Continue to Marfa for minimalist art, food trucks, and the Mystery Lights viewing area at dusk. Services thin out after dark, so keep the tank topped up and carry water. If you’re bound for Big Bend later, add a full day and check park alerts before you go.
Safety & readiness
- Download offline maps; mobile service can be patchy on ranch roads.
- Watch for wildlife at dawn/dusk and check tire pressure every morning.
- In summer, heat is intense—pack sunscreen, a hat, and extra water.
Returning to Austin? Time your arrival to miss rush hour on the city’s main corridors. To make drop‑off smoother, review desk locations and signage using airport car rental desks.
Where to stay & when to go
Weeknights are quieter; book lodging early for spring arts weekends and fall star parties. Winter brings crisp air and big skies; summer storms arrive fast but fade quickly. Either way, sunrise and late afternoon offer the best light for photos.
Book with peace of mind: Hola Car Rentals offers clear pricing, maximum coverage options on select itineraries, and Free Cancellation up to 48 hours before pick‑up. Explore more desk availability through AUS car hire and confirm a fast return via AUS airport car rental.