Alpine Travel Guide
Plan your trip to Alpine, Texas with this comprehensive tour guide featuring its must-visit places, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture, safety and health tips, and more.
- Introduction to Alpine
- List of Places to Visit in Alpine
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Alpine
- Best Things to Do in Alpine: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Alpine
- Food and Drink Scene of Alpine
- Where to Stay in Alpine: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Alpine: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Alpine
- Best Time to Visit Alpine
- Do’s and Don’ts of Alpine
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Alpine: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Alpine
- Where to Go Next from Alpine: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Alpine
Located in Trans-Pecos, in Big Bend Country, Texas, Alpine is a charming town filled with stunning natural landscapes and culturally rich attractions. If you’re looking for an outdoor adventure or a city escape, Alpine serves as the perfect destination. With its diverse array of things to do, beautiful parks to explore, and mouth-watering food to savor; Alpine has something for everyone.
List of Places to Visit in Alpine
Here is a list of must-visit places in Alpine:
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Museum of the Big Bend
- Alpine Historical Society Museum
- Sul Ross State University
Natural Attractions of Alpine: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Big Bend National Park
- Davis Mountains State Park
- Chihuahuan Desert Nature Center and Botanical Gardens
Hiking/Biking Routes of Alpine
Alpine is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in Alpine:
- Big Bend National Park Trails: Featuring over 150 miles of scenic hiking trails.
- Davis Mountains Preserve: Offering a vast network of trails for all levels of experience.
- Elephant Mountain Wildlife Management Area: Rent a mountain bike and explore this sprawling wilderness area.
Best Things to Do in Alpine: Activities and Tours
Alpine offers a diverse array of things to do for all types of travelers, whether you’re looking for a laid-back day or an adrenaline-pumping adventure. Here’s a list of the best things to do in Alpine:
- Explore the Marfa Lights
- Horseback Riding at Lajitas Stables
- Stargazing at McDonald Observatory
- Visit the Alpine Cowboys Baseball Club
Week-Long Itinerary for Alpine
Here’s a one-week itinerary that will allow you to experience the best of Alpine:
| Day | Activities |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Visit the Museum of the Big Bend and explore Sul Ross State University |
| Day 2 | Explore the natural beauty of Davis Mountains State Park |
| Day 3 | Visit the Alpine Historical Society Museum and the Chihuahuan Desert Nature Center |
| Day 4 | Take a day trip to Big Bend National Park and hiking |
| Day 5 | Enjoy horseback riding at Lajitas Stables |
| Day 6 | Visit McDonald Observatory for an unforgettable stargazing experience |
| Day 7 | Relax and enjoy the local food and drink scene of Alpine |
Food and Drink Scene of Alpine
Alpine doesn’t disappoint food and drink lovers, with its variety of local cuisines and refreshing drinks. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:
Must-Try Dishes
- Traditional Tex-Mex Tacos
- Cowboy-style Ribeye
- Huevos Rancheros, a classic breakfast dish
Local Beverages
- Big Bend Brewing Company’s Beer
- Cactus Margarita from the Reata Restaurant
- Lonestar State Wine
Where to Stay in Alpine: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Alpine offers a range of accommodation options that cater to all types of travelers. Here are some of the recommended options:
- Holland Hotel: A historical hotel that offers contemporary amenities and is located in the city center.
- Hampton Inn Alpine: A stylish and modern hotel located near Sul Ross State University
- The Maverick Inn: a cozy and affordable option located near Alpine’s downtown area
What to Buy in Alpine: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Alpine is known for its unique local products and handmade souvenirs. Here are some of the best things to buy in Alpine:
- Handmade pottery from Alpine Pottery
- Western-style clothing and souvenirs from Big Bend Saddlery
- Natural skincare products from Big Bend Soap Factory
Local Culture and Customs of Alpine
Alpine is proud of its Texan culture and traditions. The cowboy lifestyle is celebrated throughout the town with many rodeos and western-themed events. It’s essential to be respectful of the local traditions and embrace the diversity of the town.
Best Time to Visit Alpine
The best time to visit Alpine is during the spring (March to May) when the weather is mild, and the wildflowers are in bloom. The summertime(June-August) is hot, but it’s an ideal time for hikers and adventurers. The fall (September to November) offers pleasant temperatures and stunning foliage, while winter (December to February) brings cooler temperatures, which are perfect for winter sports.
Do’s and Don’ts of Alpine
Do:
- Respect local customs and traditions
- Embrace the diverse community and listen and learn about their culture
- Pack for outdoor activities and sun protection
Don’t:
- Litter; leave only footprints and take only memories.
- Break laws or regulations
- Distract wildlife or intentionally harm them.
Safety and Health
Safety in Alpine
Alpine is generally a safe town, but like any other city, it’s essential to be vigilant and aware of your surroundings. Don’t leave your belongings unattended, and avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas.
Health in Alpine
Alpine’s high altitude may affect visitors who are not acclimated to it. It’s essential to drink plenty of water and wear appropriate clothing during outdoor activities.
Getting to Alpine: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Alpine
- Midland International Air and Space Port (MAF) is the nearest major airport, located about 150 miles east of Alpine.
Bus Stations Near Alpine
- Greyhound buses regularly run from the El Paso, TX station to Alpine.
Other Options
- A rental car from major companies like Enterprise or Hertz is a convenient way to explore Alpine.
How to Get Around in Alpine
The best way to explore the town is by car. However, if you don’t have a car, you can rent a bike or take a taxi.
Where to Go Next from Alpine: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Alpine serves as a gateway to other stunning attractions in the area. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions:
- Marfa, a small and artsy town, is located around 25 miles from Alpine.
- Terlingua, a ghost town near Big Bend National Park, is about 50 miles from Alpine.
Conclusion
With its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes, Alpine is a must-visit destination for any traveler. Plan your trip with this comprehensive travel guide and enjoy every moment of your Alpine adventure.
