Looking for a hidden gem in Texas? Look no further than Marathon, a tiny town that’s big on charm and rich in history. With its stunning natural surroundings, quirky landmarks, and friendly locals, Marathon is the perfect place to experience the best of Texas.
Your GUIDE to all things Marathon, Texas 👇
Located in Brewster County, Marathon is a small town in the West Texas region, about 175 miles southeast of El Paso. Surrounded by mountains and vast expanses of desert, it’s a town that’s steeped in history and culture, with plenty of things to see and do.
DOWNLOAD FULL GUIDE TO SAVE LATER ON YOUR PHONE WITH THATCH TRAVEL HERE:
Things To Do
Post Park
Located in the heart of Marathon, Post Park is a beautiful green space that’s perfect for a picnic or a game of frisbee. With its towering trees, lush grass, and stunning mountain views, it’s a peaceful oasis in the middle of town.
Gage Gardens
The gardens are part of the Gage Hotel, and they cover approximately 27 acres. The gardens feature a variety of native plants and trees, including mesquite, cactus, and yucca, as well as a variety of flowers and other ornamental plants.
There are several walking trails throughout the gardens that allow visitors to explore the different sections of the gardens, including a bird-watching area, a butterfly garden, and a vegetable garden. In addition to the plant life, the gardens also feature several sculptures and other works of art.
The Marathon Basin Museum
This small museum has exhibits on the history of the town and the surrounding area. It’s a great place to learn about the local ranching and mining industries, as well as the geology and ecology of the region.
The Glass Mountains
Located just outside of Marathon, the Glass Mountains are a unique geological formation that is well worth a visit. You can hike or drive to the top of the mountains for stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Marfa Lights
Just a short drive from Marathon, the Marfa Lights are a mysterious and unexplained phenomenon that’s fascinated visitors for decades. These strange lights appear in the night sky above the desert, and no one knows for sure what causes them. Whether you’re a believer or a skeptic, the Marfa Lights are an unforgettable sight.
While youre in Marfa, go to the smallest Prada store!
One of the most famous attractions in Marfa is the “Prada Marfa” installation, which is actually located about 35 miles northwest of the town on US Route 90. The installation is a permanent sculpture by artists Elmgreen and Dragset, and takes the form of a Prada storefront with shoes and handbags on display, but the door is permanently locked and the store will never actually open.
Food and Drink
Our number one: Brick Vault Brewery & Barbecue, best of food and drink in Marathon!
If you’re looking for a unique brewery experience in Marathon, Brick Vault Brewery & Barbecue is the place to go. This family-owned brewery is housed in a historic adobe building that was once a bank, and they serve up some amazing beers and barbecue. Their beer selection is constantly changing, but you can expect to find a variety of IPAs, stouts, and lagers on tap. They also offer a range of smoked meats and sides that pair perfectly with their brews. We did yoga here and it was great to have a beer after!
French Co. Grocer & Eatery
If you’re looking for a delicious and authentic taste of Texas, look no further than French Co. Grocer & Eatery. This charming restaurant and grocery store serves up fresh and flavorful Tex-Mex dishes, as well as a wide range of local products and souvenirs.
The Gage Hotel
This historic hotel offers a refined dining experience at its 12 Gage Restaurant, which serves contemporary American cuisine with a Southwestern flair. The menu features locally-sourced ingredients and changes seasonally to showcase the best of the region. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list and offers indoor and outdoor seating options. The Gage Hotel is a great choice for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.
Big Bend Brewing Co.
Big Bend Brewing Co. is a must-visit for any beer enthusiast visiting Marathon. Located just off the main street, this brewery offers a wide selection of craft beers that are all brewed on-site. You can take a tour of the facility to see how the beer is made, and then sample some of their delicious brews in the tasting room. Some of their most popular beers include the West of the Pecos Pilsner, La Frontera IPA, and the Dark Sky Stout.
Marathon Coffee and Beer Garden
If you’re looking for a more laid-back atmosphere to enjoy a cold brew, Marathon Coffee and Beer Garden is the perfect spot. This cozy coffee shop and beer garden serves up a range of craft beers, as well as locally roasted coffee and tea. They also offer live music on weekends, making it a great place to unwind and soak up the local atmosphere.
Marfa Brewing Company
While Marfa Brewing Company is technically located in nearby Marfa, it’s only a short drive from Marathon and well worth the trip. This brewery specializes in Belgian-style beers, and they use locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. They offer a range of beers on tap, including their popular La Rosa Gose and the Big Bend Farmhouse Ale. They also have a tasting room where you can try their beers and learn more about the brewing process.
Spicewood Bar and Restaurant
Deeply rooted in West Texas, they have made it their mission to provide you with a True Cattleman’s Hospitality. Where it’s not only about great food, it is a place to hang your hat and enjoy a West Texas Craft Cocktail. Great food and bar spot 30 min from Marathon Texas.
Extra Tips
Marathon is located in the Chihuahuan Desert, so be sure to pack sunscreen and plenty of water if you’re visiting in the summer months.
Marathon is also home to several historic sites and landmarks, including the Marathon Basin Bar, the Gage Gardens, and the Marathon Cemetery.
Accommodations
If you’re looking for a comfortable and convenient place to stay in Marathon, we highly recommend the Gage Hotel. With its luxurious rooms, beautiful courtyard, and excellent amenities, the Gage Hotel is the perfect home base for exploring the town and surrounding areas.
Additional Things to Do:
Big Bend National Park
Just a short drive from Marathon, Big Bend National Park is a stunning natural wonderland that’s not to be missed. From hiking and camping to birdwatching and stargazing, there’s something for everyone at Big Bend.
Stop by Terlingua when you’re leaving Big Bend:
erlingua Ghost Town is a historic mining town located in southwestern Texas near the Big Bend National Park. The town was established in the late 1800s as a quicksilver (mercury) mining community and flourished until the early 1940s, when the demand for mercury declined. After the mines closed, the town was largely abandoned and left to decay.
In the 1960s, however, Terlingua began to experience a revival as a destination for artists, hippies, and tourists. Today, the town is a popular tourist attraction, known for its historic buildings, desert landscapes, and vibrant cultural scene. Visitors can explore the ruins of the old mining operations, browse local art galleries, and sample the famous chili at the annual Terlingua Chili Cookoff.
One of the most famous landmarks in Terlingua is the Terlingua Cemetery, which is known for its quirky epitaphs and is the final resting place of many former miners and other local residents. The town also has several restaurants, shops, and other attractions for visitors to enjoy, including the Starlight Theatre Restaurant and Saloon, which features live music and an outdoor stage.
Overall, Terlingua Ghost Town is a unique and fascinating destination that offers a glimpse into the history and culture of southwestern Texas.
Chisos Mountains
Located within Big Bend National Park, the Chisos Mountains are a breathtaking natural wonder that’s perfect for hiking and exploring
travelingwithcva.com 