Big Bend National Park is a stunningly beautiful, rugged landscape located in southwest Texas. Spanning 801,163 acres, the park contains an incredible variety of landscapes ranging from desert to mountain peaks, canyons to rivers.
But what makes this park truly unique are the cities surrounding it that offer a variety of activities and attractions for visitors to explore. Let’s take a look at some of the best cities near Big Bend National Park.
Alpine, TX
Located only 30 miles away from the entrance to Big Bend National Park, Alpine is the perfect destination for those looking to explore the area.
It’s home to many unique restaurants and shops as well as Sul Ross State University which offers cultural and educational events throughout the year.
The city also hosts several annual festivals such as Alpine Cowboy Reunion and Arts Festival and Brews & Blues Music Festival.
Plus, with numerous RV parks in the area, it’s easy to find a place to stay while visiting Big Bend.
Marathon, TX
Just over an hour’s drive from Big Bend National Park lies Marathon—a small town with plenty of charm.
The downtown area is full of historic buildings that give visitors a glimpse into Marathon’s past as well as its vibrant present-day culture.
While here you can enjoy activities such as horseback riding or visit the nearby Gage Hotel which features art galleries and live music shows every week.
You can also take day trips out into nature at places like Balmorhea State Park or Davis Mountains State Park located just outside of town.
Terlingua Ghost Town
If you want something truly unique during your trip to Big Bend then take a short drive down to Terlingua Ghost Town—one of America’s most famous ghost towns.
This once-bustling mining town has been abandoned since 1930 but still attracts tourists due to its picturesque views and intriguing history.
Visitors can wander around the old buildings and view original artifacts left behind by former residents such as mining tools and pieces of furniture. It’s an interesting experience that shouldn’t be missed!
Things to do in cities near big bend national park
1. Visit the Big Bend National Park
The Big Bend National Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Texas. The park is home to a variety of different landscapes, including mountains, canyons, and desert.
There are also a number of different activities that visitors can enjoy, such as hiking, camping, and fishing.
2. Visit the Guadalupe Mountains National Park
The Guadalupe Mountains National Park is located near the Big Bend National Park. The park is home to the highest peak in Texas, Guadalupe Peak.
Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, and bird watching in the park.
3. Visit the Davis Mountains State Park
The Davis Mountains State Park is located near the Big Bend National Park. The park is home to a variety of different landscapes, including mountains, desert, and grasslands.
Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, camping, and horseback riding in the park.
4. Visit the Fort Davis National Historic Site
The Fort Davis National Historic Site is located near the Big Bend National Park.
The site is home to a number of different buildings that were used by the United States Army during the 19th century. Visitors can take tours of the fort and learn about its history.
5. Visit the McDonald Observatory
The McDonald Observatory is located near the Big Bend National Park. The observatory is home to a number of different telescopes that are used for research purposes.
Visitors can take tours of the facility and learn about astronomy.
6. Visit the Chihuahuan Desert Nature Center
The Chihuahuan Desert Nature Center is located near the Big Bend Park. The center is home to a variety of different animals that live in the Chihuahuan Desert.
Visitors can learn about the desert ecosystem and see animals such as snakes, lizards, and birds up close.
7. Visit the Terlingua Ghost Town
The Terlingua Ghost Town is located near the Big Bend Park. The town was once a thriving mining community but was abandoned in the early 20th century.