Things to Do in Marathon, Texas: A 2-Day Itinerary

If you are heading to Big Bend National Park, it’s likely that you will be driving through Marathon, Texas. This small town is a destination of itself with an art scene, beautiful and funky places to stay, and a community feel. If you are looking for somewhere to stay near Big Bend or want to extend your stay in West Texas, Marathon is a beautiful city to do so! Below are some of my favorite things to do in Marathon, Texas!

Day 1 in Marathon, Texas

Since Marathon is a bit of a drive from many of the surrounding attractions, you’ll likely arrive in the afternoon or evening. When you do, check into the Gage Hotel, a historic luxury hotel that blends West Texas character with inspiration from the region’s Mexican, Spanish, Native American, and cowboy heritage.

Things To Do in Marathon Texas- Things To Do in Marathon TX

There’s nothing like arriving at the Gage after a long drive, relaxing by the fire, and settling into a comfortable room. If you want a little extra relaxation, the Gage Wellness Spa offers massages, body treatments, facials, and an aromatherapy steam room.

The Gage also regularly hosts live music and special events, so check the calendar to see what’s happening during your stay.

For dinner, make a reservation at 12 Gage Restaurant, which is open daily from 6–9 PM. The menu changes with the seasons, so you may find something different each time you visit.

The Gage’s menu changes regularly so every time you go back you can have a different experience.

Day 2 in Marathon, Texas

Wake up and grab some coffee and a green chili chorizo skillet to fuel up for the day right next door at V6 Coffee Bar. Spend some time walking around the gift shop right next door. I loved seeing all of the Texas and Spanish themed items as well as the Big Bend artwork.

Afterwards you can walk right over to the Klepper Gallery by Dan Kepper who is famous for his moon mosaic.

I loved walking through the gallery and seeing the beautiful landscape photographs, along with his unique images of birds in flight against colorful backdrops. I also got to learn more about his photography process, including how he worked alongside scientists studying birds. He would place a colorful fabric backdrop behind them and capture the moment the birds were released, creating these incredible and unexpected images.

After indulging in fine art you can head over to the Gage Gardens, 27 acres of beautiful gardens including ponds, vineyards, fountains, roses, fruit orchards, putting green, and exercise stations for a leisurely stroll. You could spend all morning walking through the gardens and resting!

If you have a little extra time in Marathon TX, head to Post Park, also known as Fort Pena Colorado, an oasis in the desert, to watch the water and feed the ducks.

Lunchtime

For lunch head over to Brick Vault Brewery & Barbecue for all your BBQ cravings! We made sure to grab some brisket, cabrito (goat), chili mac n cheese, and some Mexican street corn! Yum!

After lunch pack up your bags and head to one of the funkiest hotels in Texas: Eve’s Garden Bed and Breakfast. Eve’s is a B&B handmade out of papercrete! It’s a colorful palace in the Big Bend area that is truly incredible and unique.

Grab a complimentary beer on tap, sit out by the koi pond and enjoy the greenhouse-like beauty or take a dip in the pool. You can read more about my experience at Eve’s Garden Eve’s Garden Bed & Breakfast – A Unique B&B Near Big Bend!

Once you’re well checked in, head out to the downtown square to take part in live music and fun. For a small town, they have many regular events going on which you can find visit website. We attended during the weekend of Fiesta Noche De Buena where all the shops hand out drinks, open up their shops to sell goodies, and offer holiday caroling on a hayride!

The next morning, wake up to a homemade breakfast and get ready to head out for an adventure in Big Bend National Park!

Things to Do in Marathon, Texas: Final Thoughts

What I love about Marathon TX is the slow life, art, and beauty almost in the middle of nowhere. It’s the perfect amount of relaxation before embarking on an adventure in Big Bend National Park. Plus, there is nowhere else quite like Marathon TX that holds onto the historic Western vibe while also housing a palace of paper you can live in! While both hotels are beautiful, I recommend having time to spend at both the Gage and Eve’s Garden, whether it’s planning two separate trips or splitting up your trip between the two.