The tiny town of Marathon in far West Texas is an oasis of quirky charm that provides the perfect respite on an epic desert road trip adventure. Tucked against the rugged Glass Mountains in Brewster County, Marathon borders Big Bend National Park just 40 miles south of the park’s north entrance. It was my stopover after visiting Big Bend during my Far West Texas road trip.
What impressed me the most when visiting was the plethora of things to do in Marathon, Texas. With a population of just under 400 residents, what it lacks in size, the town makes up for with a big personality, outstanding natural scenery, an impressive culinary scene, and an eclectic array of accommodations. Discover a few of my favorite things to do in Marathon, Texas.
Getting to Marathon, Texas
After a long day of hiking in the heat throughout Big Bend, I arrived after an hour’s drive feeling exhausted. Getting to Marathon is an adventure in and of itself, as the dusty two-lane road stretches for what seems like an eternity across the stark landscape, you almost begin to question if there is even life out here. The views of endless flatlands eventually give way to the distant peaks that signal your arrival to the Marathon Basin area.
The town itself feels plucked straight out of an Old West movie set. Adobe brick buildings with signs advertising trading posts, the Marathon Motel & RV Park’s vintage trailers on display, and a smattering of art galleries lining Marathon’s wide main street.
Things to do in Marathon, Texas
For such a compact locale, Marathon manages to pack plenty of hidden gems and attractions that make it worth an overnight stay or two.
Browse art galleries
Shoppers can browse handmade artisan goods and photography from local creatives. Explore the Evans Gallery and Klepper Gallery for fine art and fine photography.
If you plan to stay at the Gage Hotel, stop and take notice of the V6 Collection, with artwork displayed from the personal collection of hotelier J.P. Bryan throughout the property. Or stop in at the V6 Collection store to shop the hotel’s uniquely curated boutique including original artwork from well-known local artists.
Visit the Gage Gardens
Across the main road from the Gage Hotel, lies the beautifully manicured 27-acre Gage Gardens. What looks like the gardens from Versailles, the green space offers light trails for walking and jogging, all surrounded by stunning water fountains, rose gardens, plenty of trees for shade, and a quiet reprieve.
Where to eat in Marathon, Texas
For a small town, Marathon surprisingly boasts a near-full menu of dining options. Marathon’s handful of no-frills restaurants dish up delicious food often sourced from local ingredients. Standouts include the 12 Gage Restaurant for fine dining and a good steak, the Brick Vault — considered one of the best BBQ joints in Texas — and the Oasis Cafe for a casual breakfast or lunch.
For your morning coffee and quick breakfast, stop in at the V6 Coffee Bar. In the evening, grab a drink at the White Buffalo Bar, a legendary cocktail bar that began as a humble grocery store before expanding into a saloon, rooming house, and today a bar serving margaritas and food.
The French Co. Grocer
Before you hit the road again, stop in at the local French Co. Grocer and grab some goodies for your trip. An unexpected success story in a town of less than 400, the local grocer offers a surprising amount of goods, including an espresso bar, breakfast burritos, and an impressive selection of wine, fresh produce, and burgers on Friday nights. A back patio offers a place to enjoy a beer or glass of wine with your burger. It’s the only spot in town to grab provisions for the road.
Marathon, Texas hotels
Based on my brief visit to Marathon, I would venture to guess that some of Texas’ most eclectic accommodations reside in this small town. As far as Marathon, Texas hotels go, there are two I highly recommend, each providing completely different experiences — The Gage Hotel and Eve’s Garden Bed and Breakfast.
The Gage Hotel
The crown jewel of Marathon, The Gage Hotel is an icon of West Texas. Established in 1926 by Texas cattleman, Alfred S. Gage, the hotel was designed by famed El Paso architect Henry Trost. The hotel remained closed for many years after Gage died in 1928 and was later restored and reopened as a hotel when bought in 1978.
A true oasis in the middle of the desert, the hotel’s Mission and Spanish-style architecture set the tone for a truly unique stay. At the property, you’ll find well-curated rooms and casitas, charming courtyards, a wellness spa and fitness center, a renowned art collection, a cooling pool, warming fire pits for those cool desert evenings, and on-site dining at the 12 Gage Restaurant.
Eve’s Garden Bed and Breakfast
I stumbled upon Eve’s Garden Bed and Breakfast while taking my morning walk. I was instantly drawn in by its colorful gardens and artful buildings that most likely could be seen from space (well maybe not, but you get my point).
The B&B is sculpted of papercrete and strawbale with vibrantly painted walls, art adorning the walls, lush gardens, old-world architecture, an indoor lap pool, an organic florist, and spectacular sunsets from the rooftop — complete with an octopus chair.
Even if you aren’t staying there, the owner is happy to give you a tour and show you around the property and her home. Along with her entertaining stories, she houses one of the best art collections in town, all hanging on her brightly colored walls.
Historic guest houses
You’ll also find a collection of historic guest houses throughout town. La Loma del Chivo is a guesthouse on SW 6th St. that features eclectic world art and a mysterious obelisk on the property grounds. Blas Payne House is one of the oldest homes in Marathon, restored to retain its 100-year adobe characteristics. Or stay at the original home of Captain Albion Shepard, the founder of Marathon, at the Captain Shepard Inn.
Marathon, Texas gets my small town stops stamp of approval.
*all photos taken by me and are subject to copyright.
