Explore the Hidden Gems of Alpine, Texas
All the towns in the Big Bend region of Texas harbor a funky independent streak developed by living so far off the beaten path. However, Alpine—with its vibrant downtown arts scene, wide-open spaces, friendly community, and hip Western vibe—takes the cake.
Tucked away in the Chihuahuan Desert, 200 miles southeast of El Paso, Alpine boasts a population of 6,000 residents. This makes it the largest town in the area, earning it the unofficial title of the capital of Far West Texas. Moreover, located just a half-hour’s drive from all the Big Bend hotspots—Marfa, Marathon, and Fort Davis—it serves as a natural jumping-off spot for those wanting to explore the region.
With its sweeping views, rolling hills, and relatively mild weather thanks to its 4,500 feet of elevation, you might find yourself sticking around town longer than originally planned. Alpine is easy to love, with plenty of activities to keep you busy apart from the 800,000-acre park to the south.
Outdoor Adventures
Hiking to the top of Hancock Hill is a favorite among locals and visitors. The hiking trail starts from the parking lot at Sul Ross State University, and reaching the peak rewards you with a 360-degree view of Alpine and the valley between the Davis and Glass Mountains. Consequently, sunrise is the best time for a hike—not only do the sun’s golden rays illuminate the valley floor, but the weather is also mild enough to comfortably enjoy the moderate climb.
While the view from the top is spectacular, the hike is particularly famous for the metal desk located near the summit. In the early 1980s, university students dragged the desk to the top to create an outdoor classroom. Ever since, travelers have hiked to the desk to write messages in the notebook kept in its drawer.
History on Display
While on the university campus, immerse yourself in the rich history of the Big Bend Region at the Museum of Big Bend. The museum showcases a human history beginning with Native American inhabitants, followed by the impact of Spanish missionaries, Mexican influences, and finally the American pioneers moving westward during U.S. expansion.
Inside, you’ll find fascinating artifacts such as wing bones of the largest flying reptile—Quetzalcoatlus Northropi—and 16th-century maps of the new world, alongside unique arrowheads and photographs illustrating life for past residents of the region. Each year, the museum hosts an exhibition of cowboy gear and Western art called the “Trappings of Texas,” which attracts visitors from all around the globe.
A Perfect Small-Town Scene
After a day spent exploring the charming downtown area, you’ll quickly see why Alpine is frequently named one of the best small towns in Texas. Rows of art galleries, boutique shops, restaurants, and a historic theater from the 1920s line Holland and Murphy streets. Additionally, ten murals inspired by the scenic desert landscape, folklore, culture, and history adorn the sides of buildings throughout downtown.
One of the most Instagrammable murals is on the side of the Kiowa Gallery at the corner of Holland Avenue and 5th Street. Visitors often wait their turn to capture a photo in front of the mural depicting a Sul Ross State University banner above a vintage postcard reading “Greetings from Alpine.”
As night falls, the air fills with music. Thanks to numerous artists who call Alpine home, the town boasts a vibrant live music scene—it has even been designated a Texas Music Friendly Community by the state government. Musicians perform almost every night at local bars and music venues, such as Old Gringo Coffee and Cocktails, Railroad Blues, Century Bar & Grill at the Holland Hotel, and Alpine Wine. Furthermore, Alpine is a host location for the “Viva Big Bend” summer concert festival, featuring fifty bands across more than ten venues in the Big Bend region.
One-of-a-Kind Experiences
For those seeking to stay where the action is, consider a visit to the historic Holland Hotel. Designed by renowned architect Henry Trost, the hotel opened in 1912 and quickly became a favored accommodation for traveling salesmen disembarking from the nearby Sunset Limited rail line. The lobby features rich mahogany-colored leather chairs, taxidermy heads, and Spanish-style wooden ceiling beams, creating a welcoming atmosphere reminiscent of the Old West. Additionally, the pet-friendly hotel includes a spa, an excellent respite after a long day of desert hiking.
During June and July, visitors can catch the Alpine Cowboys play baseball at what Sports Illustrated called the “Best Little Ballpark in Texas.” Kokernot Field, a 1,400-seat replica of Chicago’s Wrigley Field from the 1940s, serves as both the home for the Sul Ross college baseball team and the Alpine Cowboys minor league team.
Finally, don’t leave Alpine without experiencing a night of stargazing. The expansive dark skies over West Texas reveal the famed Texas stars. Alpine is part of the Greater Big Bend International Dark Sky Reserve, the world’s largest reserve, boasting over nine million acres. On cloudless, moonless nights, you can observe a breathtaking array of stars arching across the sky.
