Things To Do In Marathon TX

The top things to do in Marathon, TX, including eating well and sleeping better!

Marathon, Texas, is a (very) small town with big bites and great places to lay your head. It’s located in the Big Bend Region of West Texas and is a 30 to 40-minute drive to the national park. There is not much here but a few shops, galleries, and places to eat and sleep, but it’s the gateway to Big Bend National Park for tourists and, therefore, a popular place to visit. But while heading to Big Bend, the Rio Grande River, or any other area, you may want to know the top things to do in Marathon, TX.

Marathon is the closest town to the north entrance of Big Bend. To get there, take a flight to either Midland or El Paso, rent a car and drive the rest of the way. However, a road trip is a good option too. And if you’re lucky, you’ll happen upon a place that is playing live music.

Related: 15 Epic Backpacking Trails In Texas

Things To Do In Marathon, TX

The history of Marathon lies within the charming town serving as the quintessential backdrop for the Gage Hotel, with gift shops on Main Street and local eateries all within walking distance. It’s the perfect place to visit for outdoor enthusiasts to get a glimpse of what the Big Bend National Park will be. The best time to visit Marathon, TX, is March through November when it’s hot, but it really depends on why you’re going there. Big Ben National Park is always open, with visitors there year-round.

Post Park

Outdoor activities include visiting Post Park, where you can picnic, watch for birds and do some fishing, and learn about the foundations of Camp Pena Colorado – a hidden gem in the area. Rent a bike at the Gage Hotel to bike the scenic road to the park. You may be the only one on the road. If you’re in the area at these times, check out the annual 4th of July dance, the summer Chili Cook-Off, and the West Fest Cabrito Cook-Off in September.

The park features several educational and historical markers, interpretive nature plaques, picnic tables & grills, some covered tables, and restrooms.

Black Gap Wildlife Management Area

Hunters and Anglers will like Black Gap Wildlife Management Area. It allows for hunting and fishing at certain times – as long as you have a permit.

If you’re a hunter on your way to Mexico for a Hunting expedition, Marathon is an excellent place to stay before heading over the border or meeting your guide. That’s exactly what my husband did this past week. He and his buddies stayed at the Marathon Motel and at a weird Airbnb (husband called it) and ate well at the White Buffalo Cantina, waiting to meet their guide the next day. The Gage Hotel is a little pricy, but they like eating there – which never disappoints. He said he would stay at the Gage Hotel if he goes back, but reservations need to be made well in advance.

Iron Mountain Chicken Fried Steak / White Buffalo Cantina in the Gage Hotel.

Places To Eat In Marathon, TX

The first four restaurants below are part of the Gage Hotel, but there are a few more places to dine in this small town in West Texas.

Brick Vault Brewery & Barbecue

The restaurant is open seasonally, and it’s said that the barbecue is some of the best in the area.

White Buffalo Cantina

Entrees include beef tenderloin filet, prime rib, seared redfish, quail, chicken breast, local mushroom & roasted cauliflower, and the Iron Mountain chicken fried steak (above).

12 Gage Restaurant

Gage Hotel’s award-winning restaurant, where you’ll feast on gourmet West Texas cuisine. The restaurant uses high-quality ingredients, locally sourced wild game served with vegetables and herbs from the Gage Garden.

Seasonal Menu.

French Co Grocer

A general store with picnic supplies, beer, wine, and camping gear that serves burgers on Friday nights.

Places To Stay In Marathon, TX

While most visitors heading to Big Bend know about the Gage Hotel in Marathon, there are plenty more places to stay in town. Most offer free Wi-Fi.

• Gage Hotel – You can stay in the Captain Albion Shepard House, casitas, and rooms at the historic Gage Hotel. Gage Gardens is lovely to meander. And don’t forget to book a spa treatment at the Gage Wellness Spa and plunge into the hydrotherapy spa pool and steam room. The spa was completely renovated in the Summer of 2021. Make sure to make reservations well in advance.
• Eve’s Garden Bed and Breakfast – room rentals include a complimentary breakfast of homemade organic-gourmet breakfasts.
• Marathon Motel & RV Park – provides star parties with telescopes. The perfect place to catch the starry sky here!
• La Casita Grande – Cottages on Airbnb
• Historic McGonagill House (on Airbnb)
• La Loma Del Chivo – Dobie guest houses the hunters thought of. Located on 6th Street.
• Casa La Vista – two-bedroom cottage on VRBO

Other Places To Visit While In Marathon:

• Klepper Gallery features fine art and original photography by E. Dan Klepper.
• Evans Gallery – Big Ben photographer
• V6 Coffee Bar is an espresso bar + antique shop showcasing artisan goods and art.
• Front Street Books (in downtown Alpine), where you can pick up books about Big Ben.
• Prada Marfa

Next time you’re headed to Big Bend, visit Marathon, Texas.

PIN IT!