So to keep it short and sweet, I'm looking at possibly making a trip out toward the Big Bend area at Christmas time for 3-4 days. I'd appreciate any input on places to see or things to do from folks that know the area. I'm assuming I'll be staying in Alpine,Marfa or maybe even Fort Davis, even though I know it'll be a bit of a drive to the park. I don't know that part of the state at all so I'm open to ideas

Be sure to watch the aliens in Marfa.

I’ve only driven through some of that country. I regret not seeing more of it while working in the area. Guadalupe Peak is a few hours north of there, so it may not suit your schedule, but keep it in mind. The hike to the top is beautiful, and it’s neat to be at the highest point in Texas.

Get a courtyard room at the Gage.

I forgot to mention I'm traveling solo, so there's nobody to impress , I just basically want to see that part of the state. Heck, I might not even make it to Big Bend but I'm sure gonna try if time allows. Thanks for the replies Sneaky & leswad

Not enough time, the Indian Lodge in the Fort Davis state park is a must stay location.

McDonalds Observatory is near Fort Davis, for some it is a must stop, others, don't care.

The Fort Davis National Park has the remains of the old Fort Davis, I recommend reading about it before visiting it, a must stop for history lovers.

Balmorhea State Park, a desolate part of Texas, but it is an oasis, that is a must see for Texans. As least a look at the swimming pool should be required.

Big Bend, I consider it a multiple days tour, just to see Santa Elena Canyon, the Basin and Rio Grande Village with a little sight seeing is a 160 miles of driving.

Terlingua, a so called ghost town, that lives today.

Better make any reservations ASAP.

I tend to take a look at the Day Tripper to get an idea of an area I am not familiar with to get an idea. Day Tripper

Get you some wildwood weed, you can take a trip and never leave the house.

-Fort Davis is awesome to see
-Marfa lights are a real thing and will completely blow your mind
-Terlingua is cool and super weird.
-Stop at some of the road side shops, the geology stuff and geodes you can buy are pretty cool
-I would definitely do at least one of the hikes that gets you into the alpine in the mountains. It is weird to go from all of that dessert into pine trees.
-The famous hikes are famous for a reason
Window Trail
Hot springs trail
Santa Elena Canyon Trail

There is a nice rattlesnake collection in Ft. Davis

Guadeloupe Peak is great idea. I did it the first time solo. But NEVER in late December for me. It’s gets way cold up there.

Thanks for the ideas guys, definitely helps in the planning department

The National Park has a tendency to be full at holidays. If you can, there is a motel in The Basin at the Park, you might try a reservation there. Also a couple of motels down in Study Butte. Another thought might be, Ft Davis to Marfa, to Presidio, (a couple motels there) and then down to the Park via Lajitas and then back up to Alpine, or Marfa.