El Paso, Texas: This Vibrant Border City Will Surprise You
Have you ever heard of a city and thought there probably wasn’t anything that special about it, but when you eventually visited, it captivated you in a completely unexpected way? El Paso Texas is like that. It will surprise you and may even steal your heart.
It’s not just a random dry and dusty desert town. El Paso is vibrant and rich in culture and experiences. My parents and sister have both lived in El Paso over the years so I have had many opportunities to visit. It is a place we have enjoyed exploring with our kids as well.
It’s home to the striking Franklin Mountains that split the city and is the number one place you must visit. You’ll have great hiking and sweeping views over the city and surrounding landscape.
Our guide shares the places we recommend you see in El Paso, where to eat, and which regional getaways to consider as well for an amazing visit.
DISCLAIMER: This post may contain links to affiliate websites. When you click on and/or make a purchase through an affiliate link placed on our website, we may receive a small commission or other form of compensation at no additional cost to you. Please read our disclaimer for more info.
If you’d prefer to watch a video, click below to see our visit to El Paso where we take you on a hike and to an annual festival.
Things To Do
There are so many incredible things to do in El Paso from outdoor adventures to museums to gorgeous overlooks. Here are our top recommendations:
Franklin Mountains State Park
This state park splits the east and west sides of the city. The mountains are a striking feature anywhere in the city. Our favorite hike is up to the Aztec Caves. You’ll also want to explore the El Paso Tin Mines. Bring sturdy footwear for both, and a flashlight for the mines.
El Paso Museum of Archaeology
This museum sits on the east side slope of the Franklin Mountains on Transmountain Drive. There are exhibits on the history of the southwest and Mexico. The desert garden is also very nice to wander through. Immediately adjacent to this museum is the National Border Patrol Museum.
Transmountain Drive Overlook
The best time to stop at the Transmountain Drive overlook on the west side, is sunset. You can bring a picnic or just stop for the view. You can see the west side of the city and the glow of the setting sun.
El Paso Zoo and Botanical Gardens
El Paso’s zoo is 35 acres large and houses a variety of animals. It has lots of other fun things to do like a carousel, train, splash pad, playground, amphitheater, and ropes course.
Fort Bliss Museum
This large military museum is free to visit, but you will need to get a pass at either the Chaffee Gate or Buffalo Soldier Gate visitor center if you don’t have a DoD ID card.
The museum focuses on the history of Fort Bliss as well as the 1st Armored Division. The 1st Armored Division is America’s oldest tank division and known as Old Ironsides.
El Paso Museum of History
Enjoy free admission to this museum where you’ll learn about El Paso’s history, multi-cultural heritage, and the people of the region.
El Paso Museum of Art
El Paso’s art museum is another free museum showcasing varied artwork in its permanent collection of American, European, and Mexican art, and additional rotating exhibits. The museum includes an Art School and spaces in which children and adults can take classes or attend camps.
San Jacinto Plaza
San Jacinto Plaza downtown is a central location to gather and take in the downtown sights and people watch. This is also the location of the annual Winter Fest and other events. In the winter it is beautifully decorated with Christmas lights.
There is a sculpture fountain in the park of alligators, that our kids enjoyed seeing when we visited. Only later did I learn it was a nod to the fact that live alligators once lived in San Jacinto Plaza!
La Nube STEAM Discovery Center
La Nube looks like a Science and Technology center on steroids. It is full of interactive exhibits and opportunities to play and learn. There are daily staff-led activities including a story time that looks like a lot of fun. The water play would probably occupy my kiddos the longest. There is even an area for the littlest ones.
Scenic Drive and Viewpoint
This scenic drive up above the city overlooks both El Paso and Ciudad Juárez. Though its a good view in the daytime, it’s the nighttime view that is the best.
Where To Eat
- Cattleman’s Steakhouse: family style restaurant located on a working ranch. It’s a great place for a special event. The food is excellent and you’re sure to have a memorable time.
- The Hoppy Monk: family owned with lots of beers on tap. Yummy food and Sunday brunch.
- Crave Kitchen & Bar: American bistro with a great brunch.
- L&J Café: Local landmark around since 1927 service authentic Mexican food.
- 40 Love: a from scratch kitchen at Tennis West Sports & Racquet Club. Visit for the patio vibes and lake views.
Day Trips From El Paso
There are several places in the region that are easy day or weekend trips. Or you can do a road trip and connect them!
Cities Not To Miss
Nearby in New Mexico, Las Cruces, Ruidoso, Cloudcroft, and Silver City are all worth visiting!
Outdoor Sites
Get outside at one of our favorite nearby outdoor locations:
- White Sands National Park‘s soft white sand is great to sled down!
- Explore inside the cliff dwellings at Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument
- A bit further away but closer to El Paso than any other major Texas city, is Big Bend National Park.
