There’s something really odd going on near Big Bend National Park in the ghost town of Terlingua Texas!! The once thriving mercury mining town has reincarnated itself. What used to be a whispering ghost town transformed itself into a lively outdoor ruins museum full of mystery, wonder and quirky lore. But, aside from being a ghost town, there’s plenty of other things to do in Terlingua Texas!

Simply put, Terlingua isn’t just a map dot. It’s an intriguing place is that’s more of a state of mind. It’s a ghost town. 

Terlingua, by far, is unique, quirky and well…different.

Amidst the ruins of the past, there’s a bit of lively mystery that you just have to make it a point to make the drive and see for yourself.

This blog article contains affiliate links. We may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you so we can continue to create more helpful free content. Thank you, we appreciate your support! Full disclosure here.

Located near Big Bend National Park in west Texas, the historic ghost town of Terlingua is one of those places that you just can’t look away.

In fact, it’s drawn visitors from all over the globe dubbing it Texas’ most visited ghost town. Terlingua is also listed in the National Register of Historic Places.

Terlingua plays host to mine shafts, old building ruins, a roofless saloon and a cemetery that celebrates dawn of the living dead everyday.

Though this small Texas town ranks low in population, Terlingua surely makes up for it with a personality as big as Texas. It takes reign as some of the most unique things to do in Terlingua.

About Terlingua, Texas

The name, Terlingua, derives from tres, and lenguas, two Spanish words meaning “three tongues” called such for one of two reasons.

Some of the locals claim one of the reasons is reference to Terlingua Creek’s three forks.

But others claim it’s because the three languages spoken there; English, Spanish and that of the Native American tribe in the area.

Those of the latter language were from the Chizo’s (Chiso) Indians. Also called the Taquitatome Indians, the Chizo Indians came from parts of the Chihauhua Desert, Chahuila and Trans-Pecos; thus bringing their communicative language to Terlingua.

The ghost town, Terlingua, is situated near the Rio Grand River between the small towns of Lajitas and Study Butte, and Mexico.

It wasn’t until the mid 1800’s that life began in Terlingua, Texas. Cinnabar, the raw ore that produces mercury or quicksilver (found in old thermometers) was discovered. 

By World War I, mining operations peaked. It didn’t take long for the town to grow to about 2000 miners and their families in the mining district.

However, post World War II, mining operations stopped when the Chisos Mining Company filed for bankruptcy. The miners and settlers left for better opportunities elsewhere thus, earning its’ distinction as a ghost town. 

When is the best time to Visit Terlingua?

We found the best time to visit Terlingua is late October to March when the outdoor temperatures are very mild. The days are comfortably warm while the nights draw in that cool desert air.

We do recommend though not to visit Terlingua during holidays or kid’s school vacations; especially Christmas and Spring Break.

But also don’t plan your visit to Terlingua from May to October. It’s hot and miserable. Most places, especially lodging, lack air conditioning or not have efficient electricity to operate air conditioners.

But also, if you’re not a fan of snakes, especially the venous ones, rattlesnakes are active that time of year.

And, as summer winds down in August, tarantulas are out in full force to make baby tarantulas! Then those big, hairy, scary spiders go hibernate in their boroughs as the weather gets colder.

✰ OUTSIDER TIP ✰ Terlinguai is a desert town. Therefore, there are some creepy things you need to be aware of. 5 Dangerous Desert Spiders to  Avoid in the Southwestern U.S.

And lastly, if you’re looking for a truly unique adventure, Terlingua plays host to two big internationally acclaimed events.

The annual Viva Terlingua annual chili championship and Dia de los Muertos celebrations are what brings thousands to this thriving ghost town. We’ll talk about those later.

So, now that you’ve learned a little about Terlingua, grab your sightseeing bag and let’s go check out the cool things to do in Terlingua. We’ll show you why this living ghost town ranks at the top of our all time favorite travel destinations.

Top Things to Do in Terlingua, Texas

Places to Eat, Stay & Play!

Viva Terlingua! The Town that Rose from the Dead

In the 1960’s, a group of people looking for freedom and free love happened upon Terlingua to settle. Because it’s located near Big Bend National Park, the once-was ghost town reincarnated itself drawing in visitors and new life.

Only a few years later, did Terlinguans come up with a way to put this eclectic town back on the map.

In 1967, a few locals put together their first annual Chili Cookoff which later deemed Terlingua as the “Chili Capitol of the World” by the Chili Appreciation Society.

Today, a little over 100 people inhabit the eleven square mile small town. Living amongst the ruins mixed in with a sprinkle of small art galleries, trading  company, hotel and eclectic outdoor exhibits, the humble residents of Terlingua stand tall and proud.

The ghost town residents find simple reasons to celebrate life from their annual chili cook-off, Day of the Dead and good old fashion dirt floor dancing while throwing a few back while living life in the slow lane.

Things to Do in Terlingua, Texas

Today, Terlingua portrays itself more of an attitude and state of mind than anything else.

When you visit this former quicksilver mining town, appreciate all that’s now happening here; even if it scares you a little.

And guess what?

You actually don’t need to spend a dime to explore Terlingua. Visitors, tourists and gawkers are free to roam this quirky living ghost town ruins.

But, do help keep Terlingua alive by patronizing their restaurants, lodging, shops and galleries.

St. Agnes Church

Amongst the ruins of Terlingua, it’s no surprise that one of the buildings left standing would be the church. 

Considering Terlingua is located in a Catholic religious region, there was a need for a church for worship and gathering for the miners, settlers and passing through peddlers.

Formerly known as the Chisos Mission, St. Agnes Church was established not until 1914, after the town of Terlingua acquired a dependable water supply, a town doctor, hotel lodging for outsiders, mail service and even telephone service.

The adobe constructed church building sits on a the side of a hill overlooking Terlingua. Today, St. Agnes Church continues to present its’ iconic symbolism to not only the faith but that of life in this desert town.

St. Agnes Church was the gathering place to worship, mourn the dead and celebrate new life of baptisms and weddings. 

Still remaining as the town’s sentinel of faith, the simple altar, hardwood benches, and pine floor is all that’s needed for the spiritual seeking comfort which still renders today.

Terlingua Cemetery

One of our favorite things to do in Terlingua is is to visit the Terlingua Cemetery. I can’t quite describe it so you’ll just have to go to see for yourself. Also listed in the National Register of Historic Places, this indescribable cemetery resembles nothing of most cemeteries in the United States.

There are no perfect rows of headstones or grave markers. And, there’s no meticulously manicured landscaping…anywhere! 

In fact, there’s not even one blade of grass to be seen. It’s a hodge podge collection of scattered graves with personal adornments and moments…everywhere.

Historically, the first graves dug in the Terlingua Cemetery were to lay the victims of the 1918 influenza virus outbreak.

But also, miners who perished are also buried here and there’s even the grave of a Civil War Veteran.

Since there is no local granite stone grave marker company within hundreds of miles, makeshift crosses and memorials were constructed by family members.

As you walk around the makeshift mounds of sandstone and rock graves, you’ll notice there is no uniformity or even rhyme or reason of who is buried where.

Now, as we’ve heard from a couple of the local Terlinguans, the reason for the cemetery’s quirky humanistic approach to death is those left behind believe since death is inevitable that we should embrace it with hilarity (I guess?).

And, it’s kind of an untraditional sense of how family members memorialize their deceased loved ones with anything from beer bottles, plastic toys, old faded silk flowers and little personal trinkets only the dead will know.

Starlight Theatre Restaurant and Saloon

The Starlight Theater Restaurant and Saloon is one of the focal points in the dried up, desert town of Terlingua.

First constructed in the early 1900s, The Starlight served as an entertainment theatre venue for the local miners who lived in Terlingua and area villages.

But, story has it, the roof blew off in a storm thus, for it being named The Starlight.

Then, established ninety-some years later in 1991, the roofless theater has been thriving while still keeping the original vibe of The Starlight.

While it remains as a historical site, it still provides a great venue for concerts and dances, parties and yes, even theatrical shows.

The Starlight is open Sunday through Friday from 5:00 pm to midnight. And Saturdays, they give you another hour of imbibing and storytelling from 5:00 pm to 1:00 am.

The Starlight offers a fine selection of gourmet dishes, fun drinks and stories that only a dog will believe. They also have live entertainment from local talent as well as afar to fill in the gaps of boredom.

If you are coming in a group of ten or more, you’ll need to make a reservation as it’s the popular weekend watering hole for them there local cowboys and their lasses.

Oh, and if you wear a tie, they probably shoot ya! 

Terlingua Trading Company

You don’t want to miss taking in a little shopping at the The Terlingua Trading Company, formerly the Chisos Mining Company’s Old Trading Post.

Located right next door to The Starlight Theatre, the general store once was the gathering place for nomadic cowboy, settlers and trappers.

The Trading Company has remained in the family since Rex Ivey opened it. Today, Rex’s son, Bill along with his family own and operate the thriving quirky store.

There’s something for everyone; even hot pepper lights and regional Christmas decorations! It literally has everything under the sun and stars!

You can find everything from Cowboy hats, pottery, regional jewelry, soft stuffed animals and cool story books for the kids to Dawn of the Dead souvenirs!

And, they have quite the collection of books; ranging from history of the region, rockhounding, travel and nomadic campers.

Where to Dine in Terlingua, Texas

La Kiva: A Bar to Die For?

If you’re into trying something indescribably eccentric and weird, you’ll want to visit the La Kiva Bar in Terlingua.

This cave bar and restaurant is situated on about 25 acres in the center of the town.  But dang, the food and drink were excellent!

Unfortunately though, this little hole-in-the-wall cowboy watering hole put Terlingua on the map of notoriety. 

Apparently, the former popular bar owner got in a drunken, heated altercation that left him murdered in front of his own bar only to be discovered by an employee the following morning.

Today, this borderline brow-raising, eccentric hole-in-the-wall bar and grill serves it up in total informal fashion. The minute you walk into the La Kiva cave should tell you all you need to know.

But hey, the food and spirits are good! Even GQ magazine coins La Kiva as “the #1 most bizarre bar you must visit before you die”.

(Note: La Kiva is currently closed due to the COVID Pandemic. Make sure to check out their Facebook page to see when they open.)

Other Eats in Terlingua (Source: Travelocity)

• • • Starlight Theatre
    • DB’s Rustic Iron BBQ
    • Espresso Y Poco Mas
    • Espresso Y Poco Mas
    • Chili Pepper
    • Rio Bravo Restaurant
    • Long Draw Pizza
    • High Sierra Bar & Grill
    • 10. Bad Rabbit Cafe
    • Taqueria el Milagro
    • Big Bend Resort & Adventures Cafe
    • Canyon Brew Coffee
    • Tivo’s Restaurant

Places to Stay in Terlingua

Big Bend Holiday Hotel

If you’re looking for an interesting place for rest, romance, and relaxation, you’ll want to look into staying at the Big Bend Holiday Hotel.

But, Holiday Hotel for short, is not your average Super 8 or Marriott. It’s old rustic west Texas charm clashing with modern conveniences that creates a lodging experience you’ll never forget. It has gorgeous rooms in a historical West Texas setting.

There’s several different venues that may suit your lodging fancy; Ghost Town Lodging, Casitas, Rio Grand Rock House, and the more sophisticated Perry Mansion.

So, whether you are looking to enjoy a romantic weekend, relaxing after a week of hiking Big Bend National Park or a weekend of celebrating, it’s the place to lay your heads.

But, you may want to sleep with one eye open as it is in Terlingua where rust never sleeps. And neither do the ghosts of miner’s past.

The Big Bend Holiday Hotel is owned an operated by the same Ivey family that owns and operates the Terlingua Trading Company next to the Starlight.

Other Lodging in Terlingua

Source: Travelocity

• • • Paisano Village RV Park & Inn
    • Terlingua Nights Cabins
    • Wildhorse Station
    • Longhorn Ranch Motel
    • Chisos Mining Company Motel
    • El Dorado Hotel
    • Big Bend Resort And Adventures
    • Mission Lodge
    • Big Bend Casitas at Far Flung Outdoor Center
    • Ten Bits Ranch
    • Villa Terlingua
    • La Posada Milagro Guesthouse
    • Upstairs at the Mansion
    • Agave Terlingua
    • Buzzard’s Roost

RV Parks and Campgrounds near Terlingua

Source: Travelocity

• • • B.J.’s RV Park
    • Ocotillos Village – Van and Tent Camping
    • Paisano Village RV Park & Inn
    • Rancho Topanga Campgrounds
    • Roadrunner Travelers Rv Park

Specialty Lodging in Terlingua

Source: Travelocity

• • • Tin Valley Retro Rentals – AirB&B Airstream
    • Basecamp Terlingua – Tipis and Bubbles
    • Buzzard’s Roost – Fully Furnished Tipis
    • Ocotillos Village – Rustic A Frames
    • Willow House – Modern with a View

Viva Terlingua! Terlingua International Championship Chili Cookoff

The Terlingua Annual Chili Championship happens on the first Saturday in November. CASI (Chili Appreciation Society International) was the original host for the 1967 Terlingua  Chili Championship and continues the tradition. 

The CASI calls it the granddaddy of all chili cookoffs worldwide!

The four day event begins on the Wednesday prior to the big weekend event that crowns the International Chili Champion on Saturday.

The annual celebration consists of three incredible nights of great music and five different mouthwatering contests; chili, traditional salsa, non-traditional salsa, buffalo hot wings and beans! 

The entire spicy celebration takes place at the Rancho CASI de los Chisos located on the north side of Highway 170 right in Terlingua.

So, bring your sassy appetite for some tongue-tingling, spicy samplings, song and dance! Because this event is always regarded as one of the most fun things to do in Terlingua.

Dia de los Muertos – Day of the Dead

One of the top things to do in Terlingua is their annual chili championship, plan on visiting the Terlingua Cemetery at sunset on November 2nd to celebrate Dia de los Muertos, also known as “Day of the Dead”.

Costumed and face-painted residents of Terlingua light up the cemetery with thousands of candles while honoring their lost loved ones with offerings and meditations.

Trust me when I say, this is one of the most unique traditional events you’ll ever experience!

For an interesting perspective of Terlingua’s Dia de los Muertos, check out Ayasha Basu Photography’s collection of photos of the celebration.

✰ RVing to Big Bend National Park & Terlingua ✰ RV Trip Wizard helps you plan the perfect trip and their RV GPS app turns your phone into an RV Safe GPS to get you there safely.  Have a question about ANYTHING related to RVing, join the conversation at any of their awesome RV forum communities.

Click here to learn more and sign up for the FREE trial.

Wrapping up our things to do in Terlingua

Of our many travels throughout the United States, Terlingua, Texas scaled its’ way up to be one of the most peculiar and favorite historic places we’ve ever visited.

But what drew us to explore this living ghost town? Curiosity? Or were we searching for something odd and eclectic?

So many adjectives describe this once bustling pre-Civil War bustling mining town that now collects visitors like us to continue telling their story. And, there’s always plenty of things to do in Terlingua!

While you’re visiting Terlingua

Visiting Boquillas, BC Mexico

Our Excellent Mexican Adventure at Boquillas, Mexico

Making the Most of Your National Park Experience

AMAZON DISCLOSURE:                                                                                                            This website is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.