Why Everyone In Texas Should Visit This One Tiny Town
We all know that everything is bigger in Texas, so the amount of small towns dispersed throughout the state might be shocking. With a population of just over 6,000 as of 2013, Alpine makes up for what it lacks in size with a true West Texas spirit larger than the state itself. If you ever find yourself stuck out in the desert near the Big Bend, stop by and experience everything there is to see and do in this beautiful oasis you might have never known existed.
Between history, food, shopping, the beautiful scenery of the Big Bend, and other attractions, you'll never be short of things to do in Alpine! Not to mention that West Texas charm that can be felt all throughout the town - there's just nothing like it.
Alpine has great food to satisfy every appetite for every meal of the day. Start your day at Judy's Bread and Breakfast Cafe! All your southern favorites like biscuits and gravy, bacon, and eggs, plus homemade baked goods can be found here.
I mean, how mouthwatering does this cinnamon roll look? With icing and butter because, duh, this is Texas.
After you've eaten, tame your sugar high with some history at the Museum of the Big Bend. Located on the Sul Ross University campus, this museum will teach you about the geography and communities of the region and how they've changed over time. You can look at an enormous collection of maps, and in April and May, buy western art and custom gear at the Trappings of Texas exhibit.
In Alpine, you can experience this majestic view firsthand. Big Bend National Park is close by and offers some of the most amazing scenery in the state. Hike to the top of Hancock Hill and sign your name in a notebook left by students of the university! I've heard you can hear a pin drop up there.
You won't find busy streets and corporate buildings in Alpine, but you will find a quaint downtown square to take an afternoon stroll. With 19th century architecture, you'll definitely feel the small-town Texas charm. Explore art galleries, bookstores, gift shops and clothing stores.
We can all appreciate fine antiques as much as we may hate to admit. While you're downtown, stop by The Rusty Rabbit and look around. You're bound to find something you like - you can't get items like these anywhere other than the Old West!
Hiking and antiquing are hard work, so stop in for a snack at Murphy St. Raspa Co. It's a cute little shop with ice cream, frozen yogurt, homemade baked goods, and their specialty and namesake, raspas (Did you know that's another word for snowcones? I surely didn't).
If you're in Alpine between May and July, you can witness the atmosphere of Fenway Park in this tiny ballpark. Representing the o6 Ranch brand, this stadium is home to the Alpine Cowboys of the independent Pecos league, and missing a game would be a tragedy.
The spirit of the cowboy is truly authentic to West Texas. Ranching fuels the community's economy and defines its culture, which is evident in many of the town's annual events. If you're here in February, don't miss the Cowboy Poetry Gathering where you'll hear performers orating the tradition of the working cowboy. In August, you can have a good time at the Big Bend Ranch Rodeo. Regardless of when you visit, you'll be constantly reminded of what state you're in.
Alpine is full of good eats. It's easy to work up an appetite with all the attractions keeping you busy, and luckily, you aren't short on options for a hearty meal. No small town is complete without a diner, so stop by Penny's for a burger and a milkshake and let yourself be transported back to the 50's.
Or if you're more in the mood for some authentic Mexican food while you're out in the desert, Los Jalepenos has you covered. Try their green chile enchiladas. Yum!
Don't let the small town act fool you - Alpine has a nightlife scene to be reckoned with. Head out to Big Bend Brewing Company and enjoy yourself - who's going to know? You're in the middle of nowhere, right?
Now you can go to sleep knowing you've done everything there is to do in the little town of Alpine - but you'll be sleeping in style! Built in 1928, the historic Holland Hotel is basically the Empire State Building of West Texas. It's been the venue for generations of weddings, parties, and other gatherings for as long as locals can remember. Sweet dreams!
I don’t know about you, but I’m sure going to hurry out west as soon as I can! Have you ever visited Alpine? What did you do there? What’s your favorite tiny town in Texas? Share in the comments below!
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
