Permian Basin Petroleum Museum

This unique destination is the largest museum complex in the USA entirely dedicated to the history of "black gold" and the pioneers of its extraction. The Permian Basin Petroleum Museum, located in the city of Midland, occupies an impressive territory, offering visitors over 40,000 square feet of modern indoor exhibits and a large-scale outdoor area featuring giant equipment.

Founded in 1968, the museum tells the incredible story of the region's development, spanning West Texas and Southeast New Mexico. Here, history comes to life, beginning hundreds of millions of years ago in the Permian era: from ancient geology to the cutting-edge technologies of modern drilling. Thanks to its interactive approach, visitors can do more than just look at exhibits—they can literally immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the oil industry.

The museum is famous for its Petroleum Hall of Fame, which honors more than 140 industry pioneers, as well as a rare collection of artworks illustrating the region's cultural heritage. Following a major renovation in 2016, the complex has become an important educational center where history blends harmoniously with science and engineering, making it a must-visit for tourists of all ages.

To contact the museum administration or inquire about group tours, you can use the official communication channels. It is also recommended to check the organization's website for the latest information on events.

Visitors can look forward to a fascinating journey deep into the centuries and the earth's interior. Start your exploration with the interactive zones dedicated to Permian Period geology, where you can learn how oil deposits were formed millions of years ago. One of the most impressive parts of the exhibition is the outdoor area, which displays full-size oil rigs and massive drilling equipment, allowing you to appreciate the scale of the industry firsthand.

Technology enthusiasts should definitely stop by the transportation wing, which features a unique collection of racing cars created by the legendary Jim Hall. These machines are a true triumph of engineering and aerodynamics. Afterward, you can change the pace and enjoy the art in the museum's galleries: here you will find paintings by Tom Lovell, which capture the daily life and spirit of Texas's first settlers and oilmen with striking accuracy.

For those who prefer a thoughtful study of biographies, the doors of the Petroleum Hall of Fame are open. It features portraits and stories of more than 140 people whose contributions changed the world. With an emphasis on STEM disciplines, the museum offers numerous simulators and educational programs that turn learning about science into an engaging game for children and teenagers.

Finding this center of industrial history is easy, as it is located at 1500 I-20, Midland, TX 79701, right off the busy I-20 interstate. This location makes it highly accessible for travelers crossing Texas by car. Free parking is available on-site for visitors using personal vehicles.

If you are arriving in the region by plane, the drive from Midland International Air & Space Port (MAF) takes only 10–15 minutes. It is best to use a rental car or services like taxis and Uber, as public transportation in this part of the state is limited, and Midland is primarily a car-oriented city.

The drive from the neighboring city of Odessa takes about 20 minutes, while it’s no more than 5 minutes from downtown Midland. Given the scale of the outdoor exhibits and the distances between objects, walking to the museum is not recommended; it is most comfortable to arrive by car to save your energy for exploring the massive collection of equipment.

The history of this unique complex began in 1968, when more than 500 prominent residents joined forces under the leadership of oil tycoon and philanthropist George T. Abell. Their goal was to preserve the heritage of the industry that shaped the region. The museum officially opened its doors to its first visitors in 1975, instantly becoming a key landmark on the cultural map of Texas.

The collection's artistic value is enhanced by paintings created by masters Tom Lovell, Frank Gervasi, and John C. Scott. These works, bringing to life the harsh daily routines of early oilmen, were commissioned by the Abell-Hanger Foundation specifically for the museum. Notably, the founder himself, George Abell, was inducted into the Petroleum Hall of Fame back in 1972, three years before the main building's construction was completed.

In the 21st century, the museum underwent a major transformation. In 2004, thanks to the foundation's support, a new $7 million transportation wing was added. A decade later, in 2016, an even more ambitious $18 million renovation was completed, turning the classic halls into an ultra-modern space with an emphasis on STEM education and interactive technologies.

To explore all the treasures of the Permian Basin at a leisurely pace, the average visitor should set aside 2 to 3 hours. This is usually enough time to see the indoor halls, walk through the Hall of Fame, and discover the collection in the transportation wing.

If you are planning a visit with the whole family, especially with children, it's better to budget about 4 hours. The numerous interactive zones and the chance to literally touch the history of machinery in the outdoor area usually captivate young explorers for a long time, turning a museum trip into a full half-day adventure.

The museum doors are open to guests seven days a week, making it easy to include a visit in any travel itinerary. The main operating hours from Monday to Saturday are from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

On Sunday, the museum operates on a reduced schedule: visitors are welcome in the afternoon, from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Please note that this time is ideal for those who want to conclude their weekend with an educational walk through the halls and outdoor exhibition areas.

A stroll around the area after visiting the museum will allow you to dive even deeper into the atmosphere of West Texas. Midland offers a mix of historical landmarks and cozy spots to relax, where you can discuss what you've seen over a cup of coffee or a delicious dinner.