Routes, Drive Times & Road Tips to Big BendBig Bend sits deep in far West Texas. Whether you’re coming from El Paso, Midland/Odessa, San Antonio, Austin, Houston, or Dallas/Fort Worth, choose the route that matches your arrival town and the part of the park you want...
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Marathon, Texas Lodging
The Gage Hotel
The Gage Hotel stands as a legendary landmark in West Texas, serving as the quintessential gateway to Big Bend National Park since 1927. This meticulously preserved historic hotel offers a rare combination of laid-back luxury, gracious hospitality, and authentic Texas charm that has created enduring memories for generations of travelers. Officially listed in the National Register of Historic Places, the Gage represents nearly a century of hospitality excellence. Surrounded by the pristine beauty of Big Bend country, the hotel continues to embody the spirit of the Old West while providing modern comfort and exceptional service that discerning travelers expect.
At a Glance
Location
102 NW 1st Street, Marathon, Big Bend Texas
A Rich Historical Legacy
For almost a century, The Gage Hotel has welcomed guests through its doors, earning a distinguished place in Texas hospitality history. The hotels heritage is woven into the fabric of West Texas, serving as a witness to the changing landscape of the region while maintaining its timeless appeal and commitment to excellence. The Gage has received numerous accolades recognizing its exceptional status in the hospitality industry, including being named #1 Hotel in Texas by Conde Nast Traveler and listed among the Top 10 Resorts in Texas by Travel + Leisure Magazines Worlds Best Awards. The iconic White Buffalo Bar has been celebrated for serving the Best Margarita in Texas by Saveur magazine, and National Geographic Travel Magazine has included the Gage in their prestigious Stay List.
Distinctive Accommodations
The Gage offers a variety of accommodation options, each with its own unique character and charm.
Historic Hotel Rooms
Historic Hotel Rooms capture the hotels historic heritage with period-appropriate furnishings and modern comforts.
Los Portales
Los Portales includes the prestigious Owners Suite with premium amenities and exceptional views. Captain Shepard House offers multi-bedroom suites perfect for families or extended stays.
Casitas
Casitas provide individual guest houses including the Wilson House for private lodging with full residential amenities.
Exceptional Dining
The Gage Hotel is renowned for its culinary offerings that showcase the best of Texas cuisine.
12 Gage Restaurant
12 Gage Restaurant is an award-winning establishment featuring authentic Texas cuisine influenced by the surrounding border region, with an extensive wine list and creative seasonal menus (reservations recommended through OpenTable). The legendary
White Buffalo Bar
White Buffalo Bar stands as one of Texas Monthlys Top Hotel Bars, serving signature cocktails and creating an iconic saloon atmosphere that should not be missed. V6 Cafe and Coffee Bar offers specialty coffee drinks and light fare in a casual setting. Brick Vault Brewery and Barbecue brings craft beer and authentic Texas barbecue to the Gage experience.
GhostFire Pizza
GhostFire Pizza serves wood-fired pizzas in a casual, family-friendly environment.
Amenities and Services
Guests enjoy an array of amenities designed for comfort and relaxation during their stay. The Swimming Pool provides refreshing relief from the West Texas heat (note: closed November 1 – March 1 for renovations). The Gage Spa offers full-service spa treatments including massages, facials, and wellness therapies. The Fitness Center features modern equipment for maintaining wellness routines while traveling.
Concierge Services
Concierge Services provide expert recommendations for Big Bend National Park day trips and area exploration.
Wellness Programs
Wellness Programs are available for guests seeking holistic experiences during their stay.
V6 Collection Shopping
Connected to the V6 Coffee Bar, the V6 Collection offers a carefully curated selection of items for purchase. The shop features artisan jewelry, handcrafted pottery, beautiful textiles, unique home decor items, and an extensive collection of books dedicated to the Big Bend region and Texas history. Guests will also find original art and photography from talented Texas artists, making it an excellent source for souvenirs and gifts that capture the spirit of West Texas.
Perfectly Positioned
Located in Marathon, Texas—the self-proclaimed Gateway to Big Bend—The Gage Hotel offers convenient access to Big Bend National Park while providing a peaceful retreat from the crowds. The hotels location on Highway 90 West places guests within easy reach of the parks western entrance while surrounded by the stunning landscapes that define the Big Bend region. The historic downtown Marathon location provides easy access to local shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions while maintaining the peaceful atmosphere that makes the Gage so special.
Explore More While You’re Here
The Gage Hotel pairs naturally with some of the most popular destinations in the Big Bend region.
Big Bend National Park
The Persimmon Gap entrance to Big Bend National Park is about 40 miles away on US-385, a straight shot toward the Chisos Mountains, Santa Elena Canyon, and the Rio Grande corridor. Plan a full day or more — the Chisos, Santa Elena Canyon, and the Rio Grande are all inside that gate.
Alpine
Alpine is about 25 miles away, home to Sul Ross State University, the Museum of the Big Bend, and a growing restaurant and brewery scene. Stock up here — groceries, a proper sit-down meal, and the museum — before the highway empties out south.
Terlingua Ghost Town
The historic Terlingua Ghost Town is about 65 miles away, with nearby dining and sightseeing that bring the area’s mining history to life. The old porches, the cemetery on the hill, and the nightly gathering at the Starlight Theatre are the usual finish to a Big Bend day.
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