Permian Basin Petroleum Museum
About
The Permian Basin Petroleum Museum offers a surprisingly engaging experience for families, transforming the story of West Texas oil into hands-on fun. Kids can explore interactive exhibits that explain how oil is discovered and extracted, walk through a recreated 1920s oil boom town complete with authentic buildings, and participate in educational programs designed specifically for young learners.
Highlights
- ✓Walking through the authentic reconstructed 1920s oil boom town with period buildings
- ✓Hands-on interactive exhibits explaining oil drilling and extraction technology
- ✓Antique oil field equipment and machinery displayed outdoors
- ✓Geology exhibits featuring fossils and rocks from the Permian Basin
- ✓Educational displays about local history and the impact of oil on Texas
Pro Tips
- 1.Start outdoors with the boom town replica when kids have the most energy, then head inside as they wind down
- 2.Visit on weekday mornings for the quietest experience and more hands-on time with interactive exhibits
- 3.Don't miss the geological exhibits on the lower level,kids love the rock displays and fossil collections
- 4.Ask about their family education programs and scavenger hunts at the front desk to keep kids engaged throughout the visit
- 5.Pack water bottles as the outdoor boom town can get hot, especially in summer months
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings (Tuesday-Thursday) are ideal for avoiding crowds and giving kids plenty of space to explore. Fall and spring offer the most comfortable weather for exploring the outdoor boom town, though the indoor exhibits make this a great year-round option during hot Texas summers.
What to Know
Admission is very affordable (typically under $10 for adults, with discounts for children). The museum has ample free parking and is stroller-accessible, though you may want to leave strollers in the car for the outdoor boom town area.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round with consistent hours. The outdoor boom town is best enjoyed in cooler months (October-April), while summer visitors should plan outdoor exploration for early morning. Note the shorter Sunday hours (2:00-5:00 PM).
Nearby Eats
Try Bush's Chicken (about 2 miles away) for family-friendly fried chicken and sides, or head to Chick-fil-A on Midkiff Road for a reliable kid-pleaser with a playground.
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