Like many other cities along our Bankhead Highway journey, Odessa was built on ranching, railroads, and oil. Huge pools of oil lie beneath this area that was once the Permian Sea, and its extraction necessitated regular improvements to the road system to accommodate industry-related travel and large commercial vehicles. The Bankhead has taken several routes through Odessa over the years, but Second Street between Dixie Boulevard and Golder Avenue contains a large number of establishments that have remained relatively unaltered and well-maintained over the years. While you’re here, stop at the childhood home of former President George W. Bush, take a walking tour of downtown, or attend a play in a replica of Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre. Ten miles west of town, check out one of the largest meteor craters in the nation. At 550 feet in diameter, the Odessa Meteor Crater was created when an iron meteorite saw fit to deposit itself here some 63,500 years ago. Be happy you weren’t here for that star party!
Imperial 400 Motel
221 W. 2nd St.
This Los Angeles motel chain came to Odessa in 1963 during the hey day of the automobile era in response to the rapidly growing number of tourists in need of affordable lodging. The iconic wing design of the Imperial 400 Motels brought a little bit of Southern California to West Texas.
More Locations in Odessa
Manuel's Crispy Tacos
1404 E. 2nd St.
When traveling through Texas, a stop for Tex‐Mex is a must. Manuel’s is a throwback to the 1960s, with its multiple neon signs and brick geometric window screens.
Phillips 66 Service Station
1301 E. 2nd St.
A beautiful example of the Phillips 66 “new look” or “Harlequin” design attributed to architect Clarence Reinhardt, distinguishing features include the upward sloping, triangular-shaped canopy and canted windows. Travelers will find a similar station in Mineral Wells.
Auto Parts Store
208 E. 2nd St.
An architectural treasure, this auto parts store in is a stunning example of Moderne Style ingenuity. The store’s curving glass block corner, its slanting brick canopy piers, and its once neon adorned Texas sign make this building worth pulling off the road for.
Magnolia/Mobil Gas Station
1918 W. 2nd St.
You’ll see a number of vintage gas stations lining 2nd Street, but this former Magnolia is a Moderne Style gem. Once a ubiquitous design for Magnolias in the 1950s, this example features the classic streamlined curved corner canopy, flat roof, and horizontal red bands in the canopy fascia.