Marathon, Texas, with its 300 residents might seem an unlikely spot for a luxury hotel. But the Gage Hotel, nestled among the desert beauty of West Texas, exudes exceptional coolness. Like its neighboring towns Alpine and Marfa, Marathon is a place where quietude reigns, and the Gage fits seamlessly. The hotel offers a combination of cozy warmth and sophistication. The Western art collection feels like a perfect tribute to the region's history and culture. The staff is friendly and welcoming, creating an atmosphere both relaxed and thoughtful. In Marathon, time slows, and the Gage provides tranquility. It's understated and where restrained western luxury meets the desert's vast, peaceful solitude. read more

This was my 3rd trip to Big Bend and wanted to make it a point to stay at the Gage Hotel. We got into town around 2pm so I went to see if it was possible for an early check in. The front desk was very polite but informed us it wouldn't be ready until 3. No worries, we walked over to the Gage Gardens. Basically, a botanical garden and the only thing green in all of West Texas. It only takes about 15 minutes to walk through it but is very nice. We then went to the brewery/bbq spot to have a few beers while we wait. We went back to the reception desk at 3:45 and room still not ready. We actually didn't get in until about 4:30. Not that big of a deal but a little annoying. The room itself felt old. Old school metal keys, no TV, small room and old furniture (more antique like than outdated). There isn't much insulation as you will hear any noise going on in the hallway. There is no elevator so don't stay on the 2nd floor if you can't walk up a flight of stairs. Of course, my lady friend packed everything and the kitchen sink in her bag forcing me to carry it up the stairs. The grounds are great. Cool courtyard with various fire pits. The White Buffalo bar, V-6 coffee shop and the 12 Gage restaurant are also connected to the hotel. Plus, they own an art gallery, a distillery, and I think the pizza place, brewery and bbq place down the block. Don't get fired from Gage if you work here, there aren't a lot of other places to get employed. You'd have to move! We had drinks at the Buffalo Bar before walking down to Ghostfire pizza. We didn't get reservation in time to eat at the 12 Gage but that was fine because the pizza was really good. There are various style rooms, and we got basically the cheapest one at 289.00 (with taxes and fees) . I don't think it's worth the price for what we received but the hotel itself is decent. read more

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The Gage Hotel in Marathon, Texas is not your average hotel! History and the beauty of the area will win you over. Sure you can stay at cheaper hotels, but then that's what you get. My wife and I had the pleasure of staying there and enjoyed every minute. Just to walk around and look at the grounds will be worth the stay! Beautiful pool Very relaxing, the lack of traffic and noise is a plus. The rooms are like stepping back in time. No TV, that's correct NO TV! That's a good thing. We had dinner at the 12 gage hotel and a drink from the bar. Everyone is so nice and friendly wanting to make your stay memorable. I could go on for a while, bit juts look at the pictures! Next time you are near Marathon, Texas, go and stay at the Gage Hotel! read more

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Good: different than anything I've stayed in. Historical vibe. Unique environment. Quite area. Pool looked awesome. Bad: No hooks in room, no clock, no tv. Unsafe stairways. Very expensive restaurant on site. read more

This was my first stay at the gage. I must say the check in staff could have been friendlier. After a (very) long drive we were turned away because we were 10 minutes early for check in. The room was adorable (and smelled lovely) though there was some trash that blew in from the road on our patio and something spilled and left in the entry way of our room. Parts of the hotel were under construction, but it didn't affect our stay. We visited the gardens across the street and local shops, it was mostly a very charming experience. read more

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Fantastic oasis in Marathon. The front desk ladies are wonderful. Great dinner inside the hotel and don't forget to walk the gardens across the street!!! read more

We stayed here for a long weekend to enjoy Big Bend National Park based on a recommendation from a friend. We liked the idea of getting the rustic western experience of Marathon, Texas while ensuring we had a comfortable bed to sleep in after a day of hiking. The historic charm of this historic hotel is a neat experience and the staff was all friendly and welcoming each time we'd come and go. A few things to note: there isn't much else in Marathon outside of the hotel and restaurants associated with the Gage. Just plan accordingly for what you need for your visit as you won't find a Walmart or traditional grocery store. Also, the drive from Marathon to the national park entrance is an hour and you'll find yourself driving at least another 30 minutes or more from that point to get to the key points of the park. One of the perks of Marathon's remoteness is the amazing views of the stars at night! read more

Gage Hotel - Hotels Near Me - Marathon, Texas

This was ally of fun for such a remote location. Dinner was nice and they have a gardens across the road that is awesome during sunset .

I'd say strong 4. Let me make it simple. There are several awesome places to stay in this town and Gage is one of them. Chances are if you are coming this way you want to stay in a historic hotel. Or at least have an authentic west Texas experience. Stay here! Go!!! read more

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What a disappointment! We have heard of the Gage hotel for a long time and I decided to bring my husband on a West Texas trip for his birthday. I booked a deluxe king room with fireplace and private patio. They put us in a small room with two beds. A few hours later someone used a key to open our door. Not his fault, the front desk people gave him our room key. Then we went to diner. It's 7pm on a Friday and they are out of crabcakes. Really?? I ordered a beet salad with whipped ricotta, added grilled shrimp to it. Three shrimp for $18 and I couldn't find any whipped ricotta. The waitress never checked back after delivering our food. Terrible service. The people here are mostly nice. The hospitality service is non-existent. I would never come back here. read more

5/5 A great place to stay in Marathon, Texas if you're looking for a retreat. It has a spa, gym for use, outdoor pool, and firepits, attached restaurant is called 12 Gage and Bar: Buffalo Bar. We stayed in the Shepard house, the historic house behind the hotel suites. It had nice rooms(spacious), the only downside is that there was no attached bathroom, and it was outside of the room, down the hall. The hotel is beautifully designed and clean. They give you a keurig coffee machine and free water bottles in the room! The location is excellent as it is down the street from food, and drinks. It is about an hour and 30 minutes from Big Bend National Park, this is not the place to stay if you're wanting to transport to the park; I'd recommend closer towns. read more

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This place seldom disappoints when you're in Marathon. To those who don't know Marathon is a tiny little town at the turn to Big Bend. There isn't much there, at all. Fortunately, the Gage hotel was restored years back and had been a destination for all. I can't vouch for the single rooms because I have always stayed in one the casitas on the property. However, they are always nicely detailed and clean. The lobby is totally west Texas, warm and inviting. The restaurant and bar (12 Gage) are the finishing touches. The food is always spot on and the wait staff is helpful and pleasant. They have their hands full with customers who have had one or two extra Ranch Waters (guilty) and do so with a smile. The quail options are a favorite for all of us who stay at the Gage. Book a room in advance because they fill up fast. read more

Gage Hotel - One expensive Tatanka - Hotels Near Me - Marathon, Texas

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The Gage is a Texas icon and not to be missed. It is worth the drive to the middle of nowhere, and if as a Texan, you haven't been, it is a requirement. The southwestern architecture is authentic and makes you feel at home. All of our meals were well-prepared and reflective of the region. read more

Very nice rooms clean and comfortable set in a complex of historic buildings in West Texas. Only 70 miles from the Panther Station welcome center of Big Bend NP. read more

On a recent stay, we reserved the Casa Jardin suite and couldn't have been happier. The check in was flawless and quick. We then drove over to the gardens and our Casa. It was unbelievably romantic, beautiful, and enjoyable. It felt like we had the entire gardens to ourselves. The room was huge and the bathroom incredible. Right out the porch were distant views on one side and a lovely entry to the phenomenal Gardens. This is just one special place that you should treat yourself and your significant other to. read more

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Beware!! You may not be able to eat so bring food. My husband rented 2 rooms, one was the presidential suite. We were informed that the rooms would not be ready on time. We got into the suite at 3:30 and the other room at 4. The Gauge owns almost everything on the street and the pizza place was closed for the day, the bar opened at 3 pm with 2 food options until 6pm and the main restaurant stayed closed until 6. We didn't think to make a reservation so we couldn't eat at the restaurant and the bar was so slammed that they quit taking food orders. So we were in the middle of nowhere with no food. There is no priority for people paying to stay in the hotel. Lots of people just stopping by to eat and look at the hotel. Fortunately we had been camping and had a propane stove and taco ingredients so we literally cooked our dinner in the courtyard. There were lots of hungry unhappy people here last night. There used to be a large whimsical chess set that is gone now. The only reason I'm giving 2 stars is because the bartenders were great and trying their best. The suite is very nice as it should be for the price. The hotel does not at all live up to its reputation. read more

I'd heard many great accounts of the Gage before I finally got the chance to visit and stay. The history of the architect is fascinating, and the hotel resembles several other notable west Texas hotels. The lobby was classy and inviting, and the staff incredibly professional and friendly. Our room was perfect. The gym had absolutely anything you could need, and the pool and grounds were immaculate. The hotel bar is fantastic, and there are several other watering holes a stone's throw away. To top it off, for a cat lover, there is a resident feline named "Squeak" who seemed to take to me. This place is truly legendary, and we would love to visit again. read more

Gage Hotel - The incredible Buffalo Bar. - Hotels Near Me - Marathon, Texas

The hotel itself has lots of character. Fun just to look around. Staff was great. Food at 12 Gage Restaurant was not good and definitely not worth the price. Waitstaff was great. My Room was in the Captain Shepard House. Nice, but not worth the price. Low water pressure and on and off Hot Water. Cannot recommend. Will not be back. read more

Really enjoy this place! Out in the middle of Nowhere West Texas, it's a perfect jumping off place to visit Big Bend and a even better place to land after spending a day visiting the Park. The place has a real cool bar called the White Buffalo, and a fantastic restaurant called the 12 Gage. Try the Quail and the Rib Eye and you will not be disappointed but my dining companions had the fish and they were happy too! Go figure! No TV's, but with the pool, the bar, the restaurant, the open fire pit to visit with other travelers and of course the big sky, you don't miss the tube! It's every Texans obligation to visit Big Bend at least once and this place makes it a lot more fun! read more

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I took a trip to West Texas and we spent one night stayng at the Gage Hotel. Marathan is a small town and there's not much to see outside of this historic hotel. While it's pricier than other options in the area, it's worth the experience. First off, the property is beautiful. You'll definitely want to spend some time walking through the lobby, the outdoor patio, and the hotel bar famous for its prickly pear margaritas. DMX had just passed when I was there and they played some of his songs which was just perfect. The rooms similarly have a lot of character and they're clean. Within walking distance from the hotel are several restaurants and the Gage Gardens. The gardens are are a picturesque spot to take a stroll, play some putt-putt, or relax in nature. Service was lovely throughout and I would definitely return. Alpine is only a 20-30 minute drive away if you'd like to explore a more populated town while you're in the area. read more

A charming hotel and great restaurant with welcoming staff. I loved the Gage Hotel and recommend it.

First trip to far West Texas. Had heard and read so much about this hotel. It's a grand old property that has been well restored. The 12 Gauge Restaurant was only offering outdoor seating due to COVID. At 104 degrees, no thanks. (That's out of their control.) The V-6 Coffee Shop was good and Brick Vault BBQ was terrific. We did not use the pool...it was filled to their limited capacity. Looks very nice. You have to drive an hour to Marfa or Fort Davis mountains from here...an hour and a half to Big Bend NP (which was closed due to COVID, as well as the McDonald Observatory and nearly all restaurants and galleries in Marfa). It's an hour and 45 to Presidio. This location is just not very convenient to the major attractions of the Big Bend region of Texas. Not sure the amenities of The Gage outweigh the relative inconvenience. For the price per night, we could stay at The Gaylord in Dallas, Big Cedar Lodge near Branson or The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs. It's a great consideration for a anniversary weekend, etc. I just don't think it's the best "gateway to Big Bend". It's definitely worth doing at least once. read more

Nice property, nice rooms in the courtyard. Some have fireplaces, specify if you want one. Ribeye at the Gage restaurant is wonderful and chick fried steak is fork tender. Huge portions. Modist wine selection is adaquate. read more

Gage Hotel - Hotels Near Me - Marathon, Texas

Where to begin?! I could write an entire book on the majesty of this hotel. For years now, the Hotel del Coronado has been my favorite, with nothing else coming close to it... until I stayed at the Gage Hotel. Let's begin with the staples: cleanliness, great scents filling the air (like cozy fires for one!), friendly staff, beautifully-maintained grounds, and an all-around atmosphere of comfort and tranquil relaxation... they've got it all down. But they don't stop there. With fluffy cloud-like sheets and mattresses, and a rain showerhead in the stone-tiled doorless shower, it was equally as difficult to get out of the bed as it was the bathroom. From the unique ceiling to the soap scents, every sight and smell transported you to a place of calming bliss. You've really got to see the rooms for yourself, as I could literally praise every piece of furniture and decor they chose. Next, we move on to the restaurant and White Buffalo bar. I ate a trost salad, which was so good I could've eaten two of them. However, the little jalapeno corn bread appetizers... I required far more than two. Those things could win awards! I ended up taking a box home with me and wished it could've been a truckful, since that box was gone by late morning the next day. Choosing a cocktail will be one of the most difficult tasks you face on your stay here. I went with the Sally Rand (pictured) and like the jalapeno corn bread, I could've had a truckful more. It was one of the best cocktails I've ever had, and believe you me, this lush knows her cocktails. Every damn last drink sounded incredible, and I'm sure they all are. I'd get a different one each time if I lived nearby! In conclusion, and to be perfectly honest, I wish they were closer to the coast and rented apartments along with rooms, because I'd move here in a heartbeat just for the Gage. I've said it many times before and I'll say it many more, but this is the ULTIMATE in "treat yourself"! read more

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Our second trip to the Gage Hotel in Marathon, Texas this week was over Memorial Day. Last year we stayed in the Los Portales part of the hotel and loved it. Very rustic, quiet, next to a beautiful courtyard with a tranquil water feature in the middle. Very relaxing, no TV and no telephone. This year we are at the Casa Jardin house, off property 2 minutes from the hotel itself next to the 27 acre Gage Gardens. Although it was very nice, we will probably request the Las Portales room with fireplace next year. Either accommodation is exquisite and worth the price. If you're looking to check out Big Bend National Park, this is a great base camp location. read more

Gage Hotel - The entrance to one of the houses available thru The Gage. 2 very nice, quiet patios to relax on - Hotels Near Me - Marathon, Texas

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Staff was nice, and liked that the hotel was themed. They also have 3 hotel restaurants to choose from - a bbq, a regular and a high end dining place attached to the hotel. Rooms and beds were overall comfy- there's a sink in the bedroom. The showers are public and you're given robes to walk to and from the areas. There are a lot of picturesque waiting areas as well as areas to just chillax. If you travel to marathon , more than likely you're traveling to relax or hike so it's perfect for both - with many small mom and pops around that are walkable. The ceilings are thin so you hear everything and the doors have slight openings at the bottom so you smell everything as well but it's a true Texan experience! read more

Gage Hotel - Front of hotel - Hotels Near Me - Marathon, Texas

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I can safely guarantee you that the Gage Hotel is by far the best hotel in all of Marathon, Texas. If given the opportunity, stay the night here. When you do, you're certain to have nothing but the most magical experience. read more

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Gage Hotel is our favorite place to stay when we go to Big Bend National Park. Everything about the Gage is first class: the facilities, The areas with the fully stocked fire pits and fireplaces, the rooms, the restaurant, the gardens, the little park across from part of the hotel. It is all amazing and worth every penny of the price. We had a bucket of beer and a charcuterie board in our room when we arrived and it was such a wonderful addition to our stay! read more

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I am completely shocked and blown away at the fantastic experience we had at The Gage. Upon arrival, I had the absolute pleasure of meeting Santiago, Sky and Sienna. WOW! They are an incredible front desk staff. Those sweet, kind, friendly and helpful faces were exactly what we needed after a long drive. You know what they say about first impressions Especially Santiago... His personality and vibe is so positive and he radiates happiness to everyone he is in contact with. The hotel itself is just incredible. The style, designs, decor... the food, the drinks, the pool area, the game area... just amazing. We stayed at the Wedin House. I absolutely loved it! It was spotless clean and smelt so good. Cozy beds, great showers, temperature was incredible in the house. Loved having the ice machine for my drinks Loved the porch and the stars at night were just ridiculous! Amazing amenities. Adrian and Taylor made some amazing drinks in the White Buffalo Bar and were so helpful and sweet. Holly was our server at the restaurant and was absolutely amazing. She is a fantastic server.... So refined and classy. Justin was equally as amazing and was like flash lightning when it came to getting a drinks refilled, plates cleared.... Anything! Just a great dinner experience at the 12 Gage. We LOVE staying at hotels and have traveled all over the country and this place and the staff are definitely in our top 5. Amazing vibe. Amazing hotel. Keep up the work and we will be back soon. Erin Krampitz read more

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This was such a cool hotel! Loved the accommodations except the fact that there was practically 2 inches between the 2 toilet doors so it was not at all private. Shower was odd. Needs to be managed a bit better. Bar staff was fairly rude, as well as front desk girl when I asked a question (maybe on her phone?). Housekeeping really needs to be more discreet- I didn't like getting up in the morning and they are just relaxing over in chairs by rooms (waiting to clean?) with their many carts. It was off-putting. Otherwise, I would stay here again because it is a beautiful property and that outweighed the surly staff! read more

I don't get it. There absolutely nothing special about this place, save the nice staff. Rooms are average, nothing special at all. They're clean, that's it. The shower had little water pressure and it took forever to get hot water. The pool area was basic. The pool itself didn't appear clean so I didn't get in. The bar was nice. The barman was helpful and friendly, but he really lacked proper training. Again, the staff seemed very nice. They were helpful but the reality is that the hotel is nothing special at all. read more

I really wanted to love this place but I just can't give it 5 stars. First night we stayed at Portales room and we killed at least 20 or more mosquitos. Next morning we noticed the maids were cleaning rooms with doors left wide open so that explains it. For almost $300 a night this is not worth it. The next 2 days we decided to move into historic hotel part. Rooms were good enough. The front desk people definitely need some people skills training, as their faces and attitudes display their unhappiness to be at work. I do love the decor and grounds are stunning. Pool was great and food at the Gage was excellent. I would most likely give this place another try due to this and maybe next time we will be greeted with a smile. read more

We stayed at the Gage hotel for one night. We chose room 10, which is supposed to be haunted. Unfortunately, we saw no paranormal activity. The room was very comfortable, decorated well, and the bed was super comfy. The hotel itself is beautiful and historic. Everywhere you look there is something interesting to study. They have a ton of places to sit and take in the West Texas vibe. I wish we had more time to stay. read more

A great Oasis and treat before Big Bend, make the most of it, there is no more good food after this. Comfy beds, nice patio space and fire pit. read more

The main hotel and grounds are beautiful. We stayed in Captain Shepard House located within walking distance. Our stay was less than pleasant. The house and furnishing need updating. The bed and pillows were uncomfortable. There is a private bath but its down the hall. The house has seen better days and isn't insulated very well. The T- stat is set on 72 and it gets a little warm at night. There are no TV's other than the one in common living area which we couldnt watch because we never could find the remote control. The restaurant and bar were very nice and the staff was amazing. I didn't think the room standard met the cost for the room. Ill opt to stay somewhere else next time. read more

Such a pleasant surprise! The hotel is a little oasis, the perfect break from the long drive through Texas. The front desk staff were outstanding and made the stay just that much better. The property is beautiful, the restaurant's food is delicious and the people are so nice. Can't wait to come back! read more

We ducked into the White Buffalo after a hard day's travel and relaxed to a couple of Gage Hotel Ranch Waters. Y'all that Ranch Water is the best I have ever had. The bar is quintessential West Texas and I loved every second we were there. The bartender was engaging and friendly as we chatted abt Ranch Water variations. The time we spent in the White Buffalo was nothing short of West Texas magic. Conversations were being had over delicious fare and the decor was rustic and chic making for a pleasant visit. We plan to make it back before our departure. Y'all... when in Marathon, run... don't walk to the White Buffalo. You'll be delighted... I promise. read more

Burn my luggage, I ain't ever going home. *spits in spittoon* This is my favorite place to stay. It is one of the closest hotels to Big Bend National Park. It is beautiful and comfortable, steeped in West Texas history. Yes, I wear a cowboy hat and say "pardner" all the time when I'm there. *Note...if you click the Gage link and look at the photos, they are all from my vacation.* Built in 1922 by a banker who needed a convenient place to take care of business with ranchers and what not--the main building has been restored. Additional space has been added and you can tell by the photos that they did a great job maintaining the old west theme. YES IT HAS A POOL! My daughter loves the pool with the fountains, something most bed and breakfast/historic hotels lack. After hiking in 107 degree heat at Big Bend...you want to swim in a pool, trust me. Prices start at $86 a night for your basic room with no bath, in the old hotel--remember we are talking 1920 folks. However, for those with more luxurious needs like a shower they have added baths to many of the rooms which go for $108. And for folks who need a little more they top out between $230 and $363 a night for suites and cabins. All are beautiful. We had a nice blue room with a bathroom (shower and all) in the main hotel. Service is amazing. Hotel has a bar and restaurant, both serving great food. The restaurant is top notch, though mini-me enjoyed the nachos from the bar (no, she did not go IN the bar, I got them to go.) Hmm...I guess since it's the old west, she could have gone in the bar, she is almost 12 years old now. Heck, she could probably be slinging whiskey and playing the piano. read more

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My favorite place to stay in the Big Bend/Marfa area. If you have the funds, it's much nicer than staying at the Paisano in Marfa, and it's much closer to Big Bend. Think: sparkling pool, your own adobe house or large room, a fireplace, comfortable, luxurious bedding, like being a cowboy who really made it. I've stayed in the main hotel, the bed and breakfast down the street, and the adobe apartments, and they're all completely worth it. The food in the restaurant is great. Trust me, you'll want to stay here after a long day hiking Big Bend or braving the desert. read more

We stayed at the courtyard rooms at the Gage. The room is lovely. It's very quaint. There's a fireplace in the room. You'll need it in the colder nights. There's no AC or heating in the old part. Be sure to go to the White Buffalo Saloon. They have the best margaritas I've ever had. Also, really great steaks. read more

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