M A R A T H O N 

JAMES H. EVANS GALLERY

James H. Evans is a gifted photographer who has dedicated the majority of his career to photographing the vast landscapes of Big Bend National Park and the people who inhabit the region. His gallery, located a few doors down from The Gage Hotel, is worth a peek. His work truly captures the landscapes that Far West Texas is known for.

Klepper Gallery

E. Dan Klepper, another talented artist living and working just north of Big Bend in Marathon, captures the landscape through large-scale photo mosaics, experimental videos, and other high-tech methods. His gallery is open daily from 10am - 6pm across the street from French Co. Grocer.

BRICK VAULT BREWERY & BARBECUE

Brick Vault Brewery & BBQ are known for two things: BBQ & beer. Connected to the Gage Hotel, Brick Vault Brewery & BBQ shares the spirit of the Big Bend Region with its on-site nanobrewery beer selections crafted to perfectly pair with expertly smoked meats. Get the brisket, it does NOT disappoint. While your at it, try the pork spare ribs, house-made sausage, delicious sides and a refreshing craft beer.

THE FRENCH GROCER

Marathon’s petite grocery store, French Grocer, offers a wide array of products. Fresh produce is limited but inventory is varied enough to where anyone can find something they like to enjoy or snack on.

Tip: Great bandana selection (for collectors out there). 

V6 COFFEE SHOP

Designed by Houston bar owners, this small and polished breakfast/coffee spot is comfortable and tasty. A great spot to fuel-up before entering BBNP. 

WHite Buffalo Bar

One of several dining options inside of the Gage Hotel, the White Buffalo offers bar menu bites like the famous White Buffalo Burger, named “Best Burger” by Texas Monthly Magazine (who also named the White Buffalo “The Best Hotel Bar in Texas”). Guests often linger on the patio with a cocktail to enjoy regularly scheduled live music performances. Check out the live music schedule here.

THE GAGE HOTEL

The Gage is a Far West Texas institution. Unlike other hotels of an older generation in the region, The Gage continues to update accommodations without compromising its original charm and allure. Before planning a trip, it is important to note that The Gage is the only real attraction or large establishment in Marathon. For that reason, I typically spend the last night of a long West Texas journey at The Gage. I recommend blowing it out at the famous White Buffalo Bar (located at The Gage) before heading back to your home city. Order a Ranch Water and/or a Prickly Pear Margarita  and ask the bartender about the story behind the White Buffalo.