What a fun summer season we’ve had here at the hotel! From Viva Big Bend to Grilling at the Gage, it has been a fun-filled summer and we loved seeing all of the great times had by our guests. Come back and visit us soon! Below are some of our favorite photos taken at the hotel this summer:
We love this photo from @setforthinstyle!
Nothing like relaxing yoga and meditation in the Gage Gardens! Photo courtesy of @ranchovilla_bigbend
Relaxing on the porch with some pipes. These guys know how to live! Photo courtesy of @rrs1179
Amazing photo from @jjkennemer of a storm rolling through West Texas!
There’s nothing more beautiful than a couple in love. Thank you for letting us share your special day @onsosa18!
Wonderful collection of polaroid snapshots from around the hotel from @kodyrak.
This cute pooch was visiting us with his wonderful owner @des_reminted.
If you are looking for a weekend getaway excuse this fall, look no further than a stay at Gage. Not only is the fall season a beautiful time to have an adventure in Big Bend National Park, there is also so much going on in the area and we’ve got your accommodations covered.
The newest exhibit at Museum of the Big Bend celebrates the work of muralist, illustrator, war correspondent, portraitist, landscapist, novelist and historian, Tom Lea. His work has taken him all over the world but most of his art focuses on subjects found right here near his home on the border between Texas and Mexico.
Whether you are a BBQ extraordinaire and want to give this cook-off a go, or just want to try some delicious West Texas beef, this event is for you. After the cook-off throw on your boots prepare to get down to the tunes of Craig Carter and Spur of the Moment at Post Park.
For its 18th year, more than 400 riders are expected to ride in support of Big Bend National Park. This fun-filled event includes live music, BBQ, bike parade, games, show competitions and some gorgeous scenery with rides that will blow you away.
You don’t have to be a marathoner or a runner to be a part of this fun event! The race offers a full marathon, ½ marathon, 10K and 5K where the finish line ends right in front of the Gage Hotel! A pasta dinner, live entertainment, and ‘Post Race Party’ keep the good times rolling on all night long.
This family friendly festival celebrates green living and promotes it in fun ways for everyone. Demonstrations, crafts, art, local food, music and a great time are some of the things you can expect at the Green Scene. Not only is this a fun way to learn about “being green” but all proceeds go to the Terlingua Community Garden!
Come join us on our restaurant patio this fall! We have several weekends of great live music we know you will enjoy. Hold on to your hats as you take a listen to our exciting line-up:
“When I was 12 years old and in 7th grade, I had a phenomenal science teacher who organized summer trips out to West Texas from our small east Texas town. That was the first time I experienced the quiet beauty of the vast, West Texas landscape, which was in such stark contrast to the piney woods and swamplands where I grew up. The wide open spaces that seemed to go on forever opened up my world and fostered my love for heading west.
Now as a mom of two young girls who love adventure, my husband CJ and I visit our favorite spots in West Texas every chance we get, always capped off with a stay at Marathon’s Gage Hotel.
The tiny town of Marathon, TX has won our hearts with it’s quiet, charming main street and friendly residents. We like to bring along our bikes, cruise around the sleepy town and take pictures of the desert landscape. The history of the Gage Hotel and their attention to detail makes staying here such a unique experience, and is such a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of city life in Austin.
As photographers, the West Texas landscape offers endless opportunities for photos with it’s unique quality of light and open expanses. Recently, we had the opportunity to document a wedding at the Gage Hotel, and it’s one of our favorites to date. A wedding at the Gage Hotel is such a relaxed, and festive atmosphere where everyone can come together to celebrate, and practically have an entire town to yourselves! It’s such a fun weekend getaway and unique experience for your guests, and great proximity for exploring Big Bend National Park.
We were so inspired while documenting this wedding, with the ceremony held at the historic Captain Shepard’s House, and reception at the Gage Hotel courtyard. We were able to steal the bride and groom away for some portraits against the stunning desert landscape, which are my favorite images from the day. We’re looking forward to documenting another wedding here this fall!
Some of our other favorite West Texas spots include Balmorhea State park, the world’s largest spring-fed swimming pool. The water is cold and clear and our family enjoys snorkeling and swimming with the catfish.
We always try to make it to a “star party” at McDonald’s Observatory, the darkest observatory in North America. Astronomers will point out constellations in the night sky and you can view planets through their massive telescopes. It’s a wonderful facility and the stars are spectacular!
Other spots we love include Big Bend National Park, El Cosmico in Marfa, the Indian Lodge in Davis Mountains State Park, built in the 1930’s by the Civilian Conservation Corp, and we’ll stop off in Alpine to grab a hot dog from “Cow Dog,” a food truck parked on their main street, and pop into Ring Tail Music to browse their records.
Our family loves visiting West Texas and we find something new each time we visit. We can’t wait to head west again!”
Phillip, our manager and food and beverage director here at the Gage Hotel, shared with us his most popular drink recipe that keeps visitors raving and craving, even weeks after their stay. Needless to say, this West Texan knows a thing or two about making an amazing and authentic margarita—and we are lucky enough to have him share his secret with us. Happy Friday y’all!
The 5 simple ingredients are as follows:
1.5 ounces *Pura Vida Silver tequila
2 ounces freshly squeezed lime juice
3/4 ounces of Cointreau
Splash of simple syrup
1/2 ounces of prickly pear juice (1/2prickly pear juice, and 1/2 prickly pear purée mix)
After combining the above, add the mixture to a shaker with ice, and shake vigorously. Salt the rim of the glass (or not—whichever you prefer!), and add ice. Then, strain the margarita into your glass and garnish with lime wedge or fruit of your choice.
Voila! You have your self a delicious homemade Prickly Pear Margarita, courtesy of the Gage Hotel. Enjoy!
Need an excuse to get away? Set your sights out west. This winter we are offering low rates, weekly spa specials and a variety of fun events. Come and visit us soon!
For those of you who have visited us before, you may think you’ve seen all that Marathon has to offer! However, our little town has a few hidden gems that may surprise you. Next time you’re out visiting our area take some time to check out some of our treasures!
The Milky Way: As one of the most isolated areas of the country Marathon’s night sky is one of the top star gazing locations in North America. In fact, it has the least amount of light pollution of any National Park in the lower 48 states and is classified as a Level 1 Dark Sky!
Captain Shepard’s House: Don’t miss your chance to see one of the first colonial homes built in the late 1800’s in the town that would soon become Marathon, TX.
One of a Kind Shopping: Marathon, TX is host to a variety of stores that you won’t find anywhere else! We guarantee that you’ll find great clothes, antiques and one-of-a-kind art.
Marathon Coffee Shop: Not only will their delicious and down-home coffees & fresh baked goods perk you up in the morning, but this is the best spot in Marathon to hear our local banjo player Billy Faier (pictured below) play some fabulous tunes!
Gage Gardens: At the Gage Hotel we have worked so hard to cultivate a “Secret Garden” of our own. The Gage Gardens is a secluded, peaceful oasis perfect for any family picnic or romantic stroll.
First School House: This is the oldest school building in Brewster County. Built in 1888 it was used not only for schooling, but for all town public meetings and elections. The structure is still in beautiful shape over 120 years later due to a restoration done in 1928 by the ladies of the Marathon Study Club. Hence the school house’s new nickname – The “Club House”!
Marathon Jail: While the first “jail” in Marathon consisted of a windmill and a few chains for drunkenness and disorderly behavior, eventually we upgraded to this small, rock structure. Come inside, take a look and try not to get into any trouble! We’d hate to have to dust off those cuffs!
(Photo credits: Daniel Self, Andrew Slaton and the Marathon Historical Museum)
At the Gage Hotel we strive to ensure that our guests are treated to the best of the best and we think we’ve found that in the William Roam line of products.
William Roam’s signature Roam Collection is now available in our guest rooms. These finely crafted luxury grooming products are formulated with a unique blend of antioxidant phytonutrients, amino acids, vitamins and minerals for incredibly soft and healthy skin and hair. Best of all, the products are 100% conceived and created in the U.S and packaged with recycled materials. Having tried the products ourselves, we are sold, and know that you will be too.
William Roam strive to encapsulate the “spirit of modern American travel: refined but approachable, sophisticated but spirited” and, like the Gage Hotel and our guests, hold themselves to the highest standards of quality and style which is why we are proud to partner with them.
“The nights will pass so quickly, But there’s a feeling that still lingers on.
As we pass around the tune, That big yellow moon
Lights up ‘neath the Terlingua sky” ˜ Gary P. Nunn
It’s summer at the Gage! And we are taking full advantage of those warm summer nights by bringing you a spectacular line up of musicians each weekend. So, grab your friends, dust off your dancin’ boots and join us for a grand ole time!
June 14th – Ricky Stein
Ricky Stein is well on his way to becoming a big name in Texas rock n’ roll. He tours statewide, nationally and throughout the world.
June 28th – Drew Kennedy
Musician and author, Drew Kennedy, hails from New Braunfels, TX. Give his lyrics a good listening to; he definitely has a way with words.
July 4th – Tessy Lou & The Shotgun Stars
Originally from Montana, Tessy and her crew have made their way down to Texas with their soulful country sound.
July 12th – Bryon Garrison
Bryon has a unique sound that pulls from artists like Johnny Cash, Elvis, Chris Isaak, and Dean Martin
July 18th – Jamie Wilson
When describing Jamie Wilson’s voice, two aspects come to mind: that honeyed tenor twang that’s become known as one of the sweetest instruments in modern folk music, and that poignant, poetic, down-to-earth point of view she brings to her songwriting.
July 24th-26th – Viva Big Bend Music Festival
Featuring Guests: La Tampiqueña, The Washers, The Statesboro Revue, and Sour Bridges
August 16th – Kolton Moore (and Aaron Franklin Grilling Event)
Kolton Moore, a native Texan, is said to be the new sound of Texas country rock.
August 22nd – Kelley Mickwee
Kelley’s soulful country sounds originate from Memphis, Tennessee where she performed with a band… but now she’s back in Texas, flying solo, and better than ever.
August 29th – Jason Eady
Jason is a die-hard country artist, and you can hear his Mississippi roots through the nuances of blues, soul and primal swamp rock in his music.
Picture this… relaxing in the White Buffalo Bar courtyard, mingling with your friends and feeling the warmth of the West Texas sun, when you realize you’re in need of something refreshing. Have no fear! This summer our bartenders are mixing the White Buffalo Paloma – a delicious blend of Tres Generaciones Silver tequila, grapefruit juice and more!
If you want to give a go at making it yourself, check out this recipe straight from our expert bartenders. Cheers, and happy weekend!
The White Buffalo Paloma:
2 ounces Tres Generaciones Silver Tequila
4 ounces Grapefruit juice
3 ounces Topo Chico (sparkling water)
2 Lime wedges squeezed
Salt Rim
Fill Glass with tequila, Grapefruit juice, Topo Chico and the squeezed lime wedges
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