An Ultra High Definition 4K Real Time Driving Tour of Big Spring, Texas.
Big Spring, Texas is the county seat of Howard County, Texas and has a population of about 28,000 people. Big Spring is located between Abilene, Texas and Midland, Texas. It is also located in between Lubbock, Texas and San Angelo, Texas.
Is it Big Spring or Big Springs?
The name of the town is Big Spring, Texas. It is not plural. It was originally called Big Springs, but in 1916 the name became standardized as just Big Spring.
What is Big Spring, Texas known for?
The town of Big Spring is known for the big spring that was a consistent and reliable source of water for both people and wildlife for many years. Many artifacts have been discovered around the watering hole, demonstrating its importance even in ancient times. It played an important role as the start of the Comanche War Trail.
Is Big Spring, Texas in the Permian Basin?
Big Spring, Texas is located on the eastern part of the Permian Basin.
Was Midnight Cowboy filmed in Big Spring?
Parts of Midnight Cowboy were filmed in Big Spring, Texas. The character Joe Buck, played by John Voight, was from Big Spring.
Hotel Settles, in Big Spring, Texas
200 E 3rd St, Big Spring, TX 79720
The elegant Hotel Settles was originally opened in 1930. The 15 story hotel had a restaurant and pharmacy, and was the height of opulence. Unfortunately, within two years of the hotel opening the Settles family fell on hard times during the Great Depression and had to sell the hotel.
The hotel changed hands many times over the years, and it remained an important cultural hub in the community. There were many larger than life characters that frequented the hotel, and it became a popular destination for celebrities as well.
The hotel closed in 1982, after oil prices declined. It sat vacant for decades and fell into disrepair. Fortunately it was purchased in 2006 and able to be saved. After a $30 million renovation the hotel has been returned to its former glory, but with modern amenities.
What to see in Big Spring, Texas?
Big Spring State Park
No. 1 Scenic Drive Big Spring, TX 79720
Big Spring State Park is available for day use with no entrance fee. The park offers scenic vistas, hiking trails, picnic areas, and public restrooms. The park closes at sunset and does not offer camping. Day use reservations can be made in advance.
Hangar 25 Air Museum
1911 Apron Dr, Big Spring, TX 79720
The museum is housed in an airplane hangar from World War II. Admission is free, with donations appreciated. The museum focuses on the role of the Army Air Forces Bombardier School and the Webb Air Force Base.
In 1942 the Army Air Forces Bombardier School was built. Thousands of students trained at the school and many of them fought in WWII.
In 1951 the Big Spring Air Force Base was built, and later renamed the Webb Air Force Base in honor of the combat pilot Lt. James L. Webb who was a native of Big Spring.
Heritage Museum
510 Scurry St. Big Spring, TX 79720
The Heritage Museum has relics celebrating the history of Big Spring, Texas. The museum has a collection of longhorns, dolls, and phonographs.
Potton House
200 Gregg Street, Big Spring, Texas 79720
Joseph Potton worked for the railroad. This 1901 victorian home has been restored.
Comanche Trail Park
100 Whipkey Dr, Big Spring, TX 79720
The large community park offers many fun things to do. There is an amphitheater, golf course, playgrounds and trails. It is the location of the spring that Big Spring is named after.
Big Spring Municipal Auditorium
310 E 3rd St, Big Spring, TX 79720
The municipal auditorium is an architecturally interesting building that was built in 1932. It was renovated in 1988 and again in 2016 to bring it up to modern standards. The auditorium seats 1,400 people and has been the location of many important cultural events.
Where to stay in Big Spring?
The best option for where to stay in Big Spring is the Hotel Settles. There are also chain hotels along the highway that might be more economical.