Brewster County

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Alpine is the county seat of Brewster County, Texas.  It is also the largest town & only city within the county.  Alpine serves as the central point for the vast Big Bend area, which includes parts of Brewster, Presidio & Jeff Davis counties.  

Alpine, Texas, offers a blend of outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, and unique attractions. You can explore the Museum of the Big Bend, hike to the top of Hancock Hill for stunning views, visit the Chihuahuan Desert Research Institute, or catch a baseball game at Kokernot Field. Day trips to nearby Fort Davis, Marfa, or Big Bend National Parkare also popular. Here's a more detailed look at what you can do in Alpine:

Outdoor Activities:

• Hancock Hill:. Hike to the top of Hancock Hill for panoramic views of Alpine and the surrounding landscape. It's also known for a desk that has been placed there, and hikers can add their names to a notebook inside. 
• Chihuahuan Desert Research Institute:. Explore the gardens, hiking trails, and educational center at this unique facility. 
• Davis Mountains State Park:. Located near Fort Davis, this park offers stunning scenery and hiking opportunities. 
• Big Bend Ranch State Park:. A larger state park offering more remote backcountry trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. 
• Big Bend National Park:. A short drive south from Alpine, this national park offers vast landscapes, scenic drives, and hiking trails. 

Helpful links:

https://www.brewstercounty.gov

https://visitalpinetx.com

Marathon, Texas, is a popular gateway to Big Bend National Park, offering a variety of activities and attractions. Visitors can explore Big Bend's stunning scenery, enjoy stargazing in the dark Texas skies, visit the World's Smallest Target store, or relax at Gage Gardens. The town itself also offers art galleries, a historic hotel, and annual events like the Marathon 2 Marathon race and chili cook-offs. Here's a more detailed look at things to do in Marathon:

Nature and Outdoors:

• Big Bend National Park: A short drive south of Marathon, Big Bend offers incredible landscapes, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing. 
• Stargazing: Marathon's dark skies are known for incredible stargazing opportunities. 
• Gage Gardens: A beautiful oasis with a tropical greenhouse and other features. 
• Post Park: Located a few miles outside of town, Post Park offers picnic areas, a dance hall, and a community gathering space. 

Town Attractions:

• Gage Hotel: A historic hotel with restaurants, bars, and a unique atmosphere. 
• Brick Vault: Part of the Gage Hotel, Brick Vault is a popular spot for BBQ, beer, and live music. 
• Klepper Gallery and Evans Gallery: Browse fine art and photography at these local art galleries. 
• Desert Ghost Distillery: Experience the local spirits at this distillery. 
• V6 Collection Store: Shop for local art and crafts. 

Events and Activities:

• Marathon 2 Marathon: A popular running event in late October. 
• Chili Cook-offs: Celebrate Texas chili during the summer. 
• Fourth of July Dance: An annual dance event at Post Park. 
• West Fest: A celebration of West Texas cuisine in September. 
• Fandango filming locations: The town served as a filming location for the movie "Fandango". 

Other:

• Shopping: Explore local shops for souvenirs and gifts. 
• Dining: Enjoy local cuisine and Texas hospitality at various restaurants. 
• Hidden Dagger Adventures: An outfitter offering guided tours and activities in Big Bend. 

Helpful links:

https://www.marathontexas.com

https://www.tourtexas.com/destinations/big-bend-and-brewster-county

Terlingua, Texas offers a mix of historical exploration, outdoor adventures, and unique cultural experiences. Explore the Terlingua Ghost Town, visit the Big Bend National Park, enjoy stargazing, or indulge in the local chili cook-off traditions. 

Outdoor Adventures:

• Stargazing: Terlingua is known for its dark skies, making it an ideal spot for stargazing. 
• Hiking: Explore trails like the Indian Head Trail and Dorgan Sublett Trail. 
• River Trips: Float the Rio Grande or explore the canyons. 
• Jeep Tours and ATV Rides: Experience the area in a unique way with Far Flung Outdoor Center. 
• Horseback Riding: Big Bend Stables offers horseback riding opportunities. 

Cultural Experiences:

• Starlight Theatre: Enjoy live music, food, and a unique atmosphere at this iconic spot. 
• Big Bend Art Studio: Explore local art and find unique pieces. 
• Terlingua Chili Cook-Off: Participate in or watch this famous chili cook-off event on the first Saturday of November. 
• Taqueria el Milagro: Enjoy authentic Mexican food.
• Terlingua Trading Company: Find souvenirs and local crafts. 
• Desert Lotus Healing Arts: Explore holistic practices and wellness experiences.

Helpful links:

https://visitbigbend.com/terlingua/

https://gov.texas.gov/film/trail/terlingua-ghost-town