Home to multiple museums, theaters and libraries, Odessa's cultural scene is flourishing.

Ellen Nöel Art Museum

Originally called the Art Institute for the Permian Basin when it opened in 1985, the Ellen Nöel Art Museum was renamed after ten years to honor Mrs. Ellen W. Noël.

The museum, located at the University of Texas of the Permian Basin, features three galleries that exhibit a variety of works and collections, as well as a library and a Sculpture and Sensory Garden.

Presidential Museum and Leadership Library

Located next door to the Ellen Noel Art Museum, the Presidential Museum and Leadership Library are also on the Permian Basin's campus.

The museum, established in 1965, consists of campaign memorabilia and is dedicated to the history of the Office of the President as well as the men who have served as president of the United States.

The library, known as the “Library of Presidents,” was added more recently and comprises almost 5,000 volumes, including presidents' memoirs and documents from their years of service.

The Globe Theatre

The 410-seat Globe Theatre, built in the 1960's, provides an Elizabethan stage for classical and modern plays on the Odessa College campus.

This octagonal space, a replica of William Shakespeare's original Globe Theatre, hosts community theater performances, country western shows and other community activities, as well as a Shakespeare Festival that takes place each year.

American-Airpower Heritage Museum

The American-Airpower Heritage Museum collects, preserves and interprets World War II materials in order to tell the story of World War II military aviation.

The museum offers educational programs, exhibits, collections and library research services.

Permian Playhouse

Once known as the Odessa Theatre Guild, the Permian Playhouse has been entertaining Odessa for more than 40 years.

The playhouse presents full seasons of plays and musicals and offers Theatre Education classes, as well as Youth Theatre productions.