A West Texas town with ‘stunning geology’ named a top US small mountain city, says ranking
Looking for a small mountain town to cozy up in during the Texas winter?
You’re in luck because Alpine is voted as one of the best of 11 towns in the country by the Matador Network, a leading travel publisher. A team of Matador writers and editors compiled the list of 11 U.S. small mountain towns based on their expert opinion.
Alpine is located in West Texas near Big Bend National Park. With a population of only 6,039, you can imagine how small this city may feel. However, its size does not mean it doesn’t have plenty to do.
“Polished resort towns like Aspen and Park City tend to hog most of the all-season glory, not to mention the crowds. Often, however, there are charming, overlooked mountain towns not far from the big-name destinations — and they tend to make better home-away-from-home hubs if you prefer unpretentious vibes and a cheeseburger that won’t cost a half-day’s pay,” says the Matador Network.
Perfect for a holiday trip, it is a seven-hour drive from Fort Worth and a 30-minute flight from Dallas Fort Worth Airport to Midland International Air & Space Port.
So, if you are looking to go visit this small mountain town, here is what you need to know.
What is Alpine known for?
The Matador Network describes Alpine as notable for its “thriving small-town country music scene and outstanding stargazing opportunities.”
The City of Alpine says that the town is nicknamed “Eden of the West” for its natural scenery, “stunning geology,” history, and dark night skies filled with stars and planets.
Besides the music and star gazing, however, there are also plenty of antique shops and art galleries to peruse as well.
Shop:
Spradley Hats: 2701 B Hwy. 90 E, Alpine
El Papalote: 2007 Hamlin Ave, Alpine
Lucy’s Christmas Cottage: 106 E Lockhart Ave, Alpine
Wassermann’s: 203 W Holland Ave, Alpine
Cheshire Cat: 301 E Ave East, Alpine
Javelina’s 5th and Holland: 101 W Holland Ave, Alpine
Far West Guitars: 114 N 6th St, Alpine
Deja Vu Retail Shop: 203 N Phelps St, Alpine
Antelope Lodge Desert Shop Gifts: 2310 Hwy. 90 W, Alpine
Chicas Shoppe: 105 N 6th St, Alpine
Charity Thrift: 404 S Walker St, Alpine
Emergo Arts Boutique:301 E Holland Ave, Alpine
Murphy Street Provisions: 100 W Murphy Ave, Alpine
Magical Warehouse: 113 E Holland Ave, Alpine
Front Street Books: 121 E Holland Ave, Alpine
Art Galleries:
Curry Studio & Gallery: 104 W Murphy Ave, Alpine
‘Feel Good Art’ Studio: 609 E. Lockhart Ave, Alpine
Whitlock Studio of Fine Art: 110 N 6th St, Alpine
Where to stay in Alpine, Texas
The small town also has plenty of accommodation options, from quaint bed and breakfasts to vacation rentals:
Windmill House: 302 W. Avenue B, Alpine
Antelope Lodge: 2310 US-90, Alpine
Alpine Bed and Breakfast: 403 N 8th St, Alpine
Hotel Holland: 209 W Holland Ave, Alpine
Hotel Parker: 2800 US-90, Alpine
The Maverick Inn: 1200 E Holland Ave, Alpine
Where to dine in Alpine, Texas
If you don’t know what to do, you can always plan a food tour with the number of restaurants that Alpine has to offer:
Las Casita: 1104 E Avenue H, Alpine
Alcove Social: 211 E Holland Avenue, Alpine
Sazzon BajaMex Culinary: 901 E Holland Avenue, Alpine
Penny’s Diner: 2407 U.S. 90, Alpine
Alicia’s Mexican Restaurant: 708 E Gallego Ave, Alpine
Santana’s Ninety Nine Cent: 300 E Holland Ave, Alpine
Magoo’s Place: 905 E Ave East, Alpine
Century Bar and Grill: 209 W Holland Ave, Alpine
Railroad Blues: 504 W Holland Ave, Alpine
Spicewood Restaurant and Bar: 2612 US-90, Alpine
Bock Burger Takeaway: 601 E Ave East, Alpine
Reata Restaurant: 205 N 5th Street, Alpine
Roux Alpine: 1005 W Ave E, Alpine
The Ritchey: 102 E Murphy St, Alpine