Salute, originally uploaded by Satxvike.

Odessa, in West Texas, has a good number of museums worth visiting, if you happen to be heading to an Odessa Texas bed and breakfast. One of these is the Commemorative Air Force Airpower Museum, pictured above.

Their mission is to “help history soar,” and they do it by acquiring, restoring and preserving “a complete collection of combat aircraft which were flown by all military services of the United States, and selected aircraft of other nations, for the education and enjoyment of present and future generations of Americans.”

The planes are ready to fly if and when the chance arises. Indeed, the chance does arise from time to time. The CAF holds AIRSHO each October. At that time, over 100 historic planes are available for viewing, and many pilots and crew members are present to field questions and share their passion for these planes.

The Commemorative Air Force Museum is truly remarkable. It began as a hobby, but grew into an organization that has restored and preserved hundreds of historic planes. Check it out the next time you stay at an Odessa bed and breakfast. You may find yourself compelled to return during AIRSHO 2010.

For more detailed information about the museum or AIRSHO, please visit the Commemorative Air Force website.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park, originally uploaded by NationalParkLover.

If you are planning a trip to West Texas, be sure to put the Guadalupe Mountains National Park on your itinerary. In addition to being stunningly beautiful, it boasts one of the finest examples of fossilized reef in the world. It is fascinating to behold.

There is solitude here, and silence. Hikers will revel in over 80 miles of trails traversing woodland canyons and riparian springs. Some may want to head straight into the wilderness on switch-back trails that aren’t for the faint of heart (literally). Once in the back country, you’ll find isolated valleys and, if you stay the night, you’ll see more stars than one would think possible. Be sure you are well prepared before you set off on even a short hike. There is no water in the back country, and the weather can change suddenly.

The Guadalupe Mountains National Park is worth a visit even if you aren’t a hiker. It is a great spot for birding and fossil hunting. History buffs will enjoy learning about the geology of the area and the first peoples. You can’t go wrong.

So the next time you feel like a road trip, head to West Texas. The Guadalupe Mountains National Park is four to five hours from both Odessa and Fort Davis. Enjoy the comfort and hospitality of West Texas Bed and Breakfasts on your way to and from the park.