Best things to do in Fort Davis

One of the country's major astronomical research institutions, McDonald Observatory has four impressive telescopes. The largest--the 9.2 m (30 ft) Hobby-Eberly telescope--ranks amongst the largest in the world. Stop by the observatory visitor center to see the staff in action and learn more about their projects and programs, as well as the science of space. Join a guided tour for inside access, or even watch live telescopic images of the sun during a solar viewing session. Be sure to book ahead online, however, as tickets can sell out very quickly. Set at an elevation of 2,070 m (6,790 ft) in the mountains of West Texas, the observatory is part of the University of Texas at Austin, and works closely with its science departments.

Explore the world of soldiers on the American frontier at Fort Davis National Historic Site. Discover the history of the military outpost from Comanche, Kiowa, and Apache raids to the short-lived camel corps and the fort's importance during the Civil War. Start at the visitor center where you can watch a short orientation film, then explore the six restored and furnished 1880s-style buildings. The site features 20 unrestored buildings and 100 ruins, which you can wander around as you keep your ears tuned for recordings of bugle calls and the sounds of an 1875 dress retreat parade, which are played at various times throughout the day. The site also offers hiking trails.