When people tell me there is nothing to do in Midland, they are wrong. There are a bunch of oil drilling rigs and fields near the city including seeing more of them around the Permian Basin Petroleum Museum. I came about 30 mins before they closed and didn't have time to explore the exhibits that are inside the building. Instead, I rented a car and did my own exploring by driving and taking photos around the front and back of the museum. You will notice that there are different types of machineries used to drill oil from past and period times.

Texas is famous for producing petroleum, this wonderful museum provide vast knowledge of all aspect of the petroleum industry. It attract me the most is the wonderful rock collection from around the world. Being a rock hound, I lingered in this hall the longest time while we’re there. Most of the species was grand and gorgeous! Made me on drooling. I only wish the gift shop’s rock sold there is not only aimed at novice rock collectors also aimed at serious rock collectors.

Oil and gas are essential to everyone’s daily life, regardless of whatever they live. This museum tells the petroleum industry story and how it part of more than we expect. Terrific indoor exhibits, touchscreens and a movie. Outdoor exhibits are even more fabulous. They give you the full scale look into drilling equipment. Definitely a place for the whole family.

A fantastic way to spend hours learning about the history and future of the Permian Basin. Many arenas within the facility detail the contributions of those who created an oil-based empire. Best of all this museum were the staff & their enthusiasm of not only the museum but also the exhibits. Plan to spend hours exploring the inside exhibits and outside parks. The interactive video rooms were most appreciated!

There was a lot to see in this museum! We learned a lot about the Petroleum industry Two separate galleries on unique & valuable crystal/minerals and art/oil paintings. Lastly, an entire race car section on the Chaparral Cars 1963-1970 (Formula One Racers) * Indy 500 Be sure to go into the space ship that is a simulator type ride when in car section. Allow at least 2 hours & note there are several small theaters for educational purposes

The Permian Basin Petroleum Museum in Midland Texas is very interesting and has a very good broad display from how oil is created to how the oil boom started and developed into today’s industry. The exhibits were well displayed and as Texas is well known for producing petroleum this museum had a huge selection of information on all aspects of the industry from a rock collection from around the world, the early equipment used to extract the oil, right through to the history of why fuel prices increased over the years. There are some interesting larger exhibits outside and it takes about two or more hours to appreciate the whole museum. One thing to skip are the two movies zones, both are total rubbish propaganda movies by the current oil companies and totally full of misinformation on current trends in the oil industry. But overall a great well-presented museum and worth visiting.