Are you a history geek? Intrigued by the offbeat? Get your knowledge fix at any of these unique museums in West Texas.

Permian Basin Petroleum Museum

Take a deep dive into the history of petroleum and the Permian Basin’s prominent role in America’s energy industry at this highly interactive museum right here in Midland.

Midland Downtown Lions Club Fire Museum

Explore the history of firefighting and catch a glimpse at early equipment and artifacts at this unique museum. Some of the highlights include Midland’s first two fire trucks and a World War II fire alarm used at Midland Army Air Base.

National Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature

This gem of a museum in Abilene showcases “original art from the finest children’s literature” with one mission – “to inspire and empower children to read and be creative.” That’s something we can all aspire to, no matter how old we are.

Odessa Meteor Crater

While the actual crater isn’t much to look at – it’s mostly filled up with dirt at this point – the onsite museum does make for a fun visit. Learn about the colossal crater that came crashing to Earth more than 50,000 years ago. You can even buy fragments of the meteor for a unique souvenir.

West of the Pecos Museum

Relive the glory days of the Wild West at this history-packed museum in Pecos. Set in the restored 19th century Orient Hotel, West of the Pecos Museum features more than 50 rooms full of exhibits and artifacts. And it even includes an old saloon built in 1896.

Looking for more to explore in and around Midland? Check out the Anatole on Briarwood blog for ideas.