Located at the western edge of Texas on the left bank of the Rio Grande, which here forms the frontier with Mexico, El Paso is the largest American city on the Mexican frontier. Its unique desert landscapes are home to diverse flora and fauna, and the city is rich in cultural attractions.
El Paso is one of the best ways to spend time in West Texas due to its cuisine, art scene, hiking trails, and more. As Shelby McCue, President of the El Paso Mission Valley Association, once said, “El Paso is the hidden gem of the world.”
To learn more about other things to do in this part of Texas, read through our comprehensive list of the top attractions and places to visit in El Paso.
Ready to start planning to Best Attraction of Fort Worth? Keep reading !…Here are 10 of the best places to visit in EI Paso.
1. Scenic Drive El Paso
Scenic Drive in El Paso, Texas, is a popular route that offers breathtaking views of the city, the Rio Grande, and the surrounding landscape.
Location: Scenic Drive is located on the southern edge of the Franklin Mountains, offering panoramic vistas of the city of El Paso and the border with Mexico. It’s easily accessible from downtown El Paso.
Sunset Views: Scenic Drive is particularly famous for its sunset views. Many visitors and locals come here in the evening to watch the sun set over the mountains, casting beautiful colors across the city and the desert landscape.
Hiking Trails: In addition to the drive itself, there are hiking trails in the Franklin Mountains State Park that can be accessed from Scenic Drive.
Scenic Drive Events and Festivals: Occasionally, special events and festivals are held along Scenic Drive, offering a unique way to experience the area. These events may include live music, art exhibitions, and cultural celebrations.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful place to enjoy the sunset, explore the natural beauty of the region, or simply take in panoramic views of El Paso and the surrounding desert, Scenic Drive offers a memorable experience for visitors and residents alike. It’s an ideal location to appreciate the unique landscapes of the Chihuahuan Desert and the Franklin Mountains.
2. El Paso Zoo
The El Paso Zoo is a popular destination for families and animal enthusiasts in El Paso, Texas. The zoo covers approximately 35 acres and is home to a diverse collection of animals from around the world.
El Paso Zoo Location: The El Paso Zoo is located at 4001 E. Paisano Drive, El Paso, TX 79905. It’s conveniently situated near downtown El Paso.
Animal Exhibits: The El Paso Zoo features a wide variety of animal exhibits, including:
- Africa: This section includes animals like African lions, African elephants, meerkats, and zebras.
- Asia: You can find animals such as Sumatran tigers, Malayan tigers, and Siamangs in the Asian area.
- Americas: This section includes exhibits with North and South American animals like jaguars, mountain lions, and spider monkeys.
Attractions:
Foster Tree-house Playground, Hunt Family Endangered Species Carousel, Hunt Family Desert Spring, Wildlife Amphitheater, Copper Canyon Challenge.
El Paso Zoo Map: Click Here
El Paso Zoo Website: https://www.elpasozoo.org/
Are Commercial Photography or Videography Allowed?
Guests are welcome to photograph and/or videotape at the El Paso Zoo for their personal use.
For filming or professional and portrait photography please contact the Zoo.
Are There Baby Changing Stations?
Yes, in every set of restrooms there is a space for changing.
What Items Are Not Allowed?
The El Paso Zoo does not allow guests to bring balloons, noise makers, glitter, confetti, cascarones nor piñatas. Likewise, balls, grills and other portable cooking stoves and devices, domestic animals, alcoholic beverages, glass containers, lawn chairs, bicycles, roller blades, skates, and/or skateboards are not allowed inside the Zoo.
3. Franklin Mountains State Park
Franklin Mountains State Park is a large and beautiful state park located in the city of El Paso, Texas, and it’s known for its stunning desert landscapes, rugged terrain, and outdoor recreational opportunities.
Location: Franklin Mountains State Park is situated within the city limits of El Paso, making it one of the largest urban parks in the United States. It covers over 24,000 acres of the Franklin Mountains, which are part of the southern Rocky Mountains.
Hiking: The park offers an extensive network of hiking trails suitable for all levels of hikers, from easy walks to challenging scrambles. Popular trails include the Ron Coleman Trail, Aztec Caves Trail, and the North Franklin Peak Trail.
Rock Climbing: Franklin Mountains State Park is a popular destination for rock climbing enthusiasts.
Mountain Biking: The park has designated mountain biking trails that wind through the desert landscape
Camping: Franklin Mountains State Park has campsites for those who want to experience the desert under the stars. Campers can choose from both primitive and developed campsites.
Wildlife: The park is home to a variety of desert wildlife, including mule deer, jackrabbits, and a wide range of bird species. Birdwatching is a popular activity in the park.
Franklin Mountains State Park: Map
Franklin Mountains State Park Website: https://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/
Mountains State Park Fee: Click Here
4. Chamizal National Memorial
Chamizal National Memorial is a unique and historically significant park located in El Paso, Texas. It commemorates the peaceful resolution of a century-old border dispute between the United States and Mexico.
Location: Chamizal National Memorial is situated in the southern part of El Paso, Texas, along the United States-Mexico border. Its address is 800 S San Marcial Street, El Paso, TX 79905.
Cultural Center: The memorial includes a cultural center with exhibits, art galleries, and educational programs that focus on the history, culture, and heritage of the region. Visitors can learn about the border dispute, the people of the Chamizal region, and the rich cultural traditions of the area.
Events and Programs: The memorial hosts various events and programs throughout the year, including cultural festivals, art exhibitions, and educational workshops.
Chamizal National Memorial: MAP
Chamizal National Memorial: Fees & Passes
Chamizal National Memorial: Photos & Multimedia
Chamizal National Memorial: Website
Chamizal National Memorial is not only a historic site but also a cultural center that promotes understanding and cooperation between nations while celebrating the diverse heritage of the border region between the United States and Mexico.
5. El Paso Mission Trail
The El Paso Mission Trail Association seeks to promote the historic nine-mile corridor between Ysleta, Socorro, and San Elizario through education, preservation, and tourism efforts. As part of the larger El Camino Real de Tierra Adentro National Historic Trail, the Mission Trail serves as a gateway to one of the most historical areas in the binational region.
Founded in 1986, the El Paso Mission Trail Association is a non-profit organization that actively promotes cultural heritage, diversity, historical preservation, and economic development in the local community.
Members of the El Paso Mission Trail Association are passionate about facilitating understanding of the living cultural legacies that play a vital role in shared history.
Address: 9065 Alameda Ave. El Paso, Texas 79907
Official Website: https://www.elpasomissions.org/
Where are the restrooms throughout the El Paso Mission Trail?
Restrooms open to the public can be found at the Mission Valley Visitors Center, Speaking Rock Entertainment Center, Tigua Cultural Center, Tigua Recreation & Wellness Center, and the Los Portales Museum & Information Center. Restrooms open to patrons can be found at every restaurant and most art galleries.
What is the El Paso Mission Trail?
The El Paso Mission Trail is a 9-mile historic corridor that connects two of the oldest continuously operated missions in the United States (Ysleta Mission and Socorro Mission) and a historic presidio chapel (San Elizario Presidio Chapel).
6. Museum of Art El Paso
The El Paso Museum of Art is a cultural institution located in El Paso, Texas, dedicated to showcasing a diverse collection of art and providing educational opportunities for the community. Approximately 100,000 visitors visited per year.
Location: The El Paso Museum of Art is situated in downtown El Paso at 1 Arts Festival Plaza, El Paso, TX 79901. It’s conveniently located near other cultural and historic attractions in the city.
Collections: The museum’s permanent collection includes over 7,000 works of art, with pieces from various cultures and time periods. The collection encompasses European, Mexican, American, and Mexican colonial art, among others.
Special Exhibitions: In addition to its permanent collection, the El Paso Museum of Art hosts a rotating schedule of special exhibitions that feature a wide range of artistic styles and themes.
Plaza Theatre: Enjoy a show or concert at the beautifully restored Plaza Theatre, a historic venue in downtown El Paso.
Hours: Sun – Tue Closed and Wed – Sat 10am – 6pm
Museum of Art El Pas Official Website: https://epma.art/
7. El Paso Museum of Archaeology
The El Paso Museum of Archaeology is dedicated to the narration, interpretation and preservation of archaeological and anthropological artifacts through research, exhibits, education, and special programs, with a focus on the prehistory and culture of the El Paso area and the Southwest.
Location: The El Paso Museum of Archaeology is situated at 4301 Transmountain Road, El Paso, TX 79924. It’s located in the northeast part of the city, nestled against the foothills of the Franklin Mountains.
Mission of Museum of Archaeology : The museum’s mission is to promote an understanding and appreciation of the rich history of the border region and the cultural significance of archaeology.
Museum Store: The Museum Store offers a wide variety of merchandise,
including books, ceramics, authentic Indian jewelry and art, postcards toys and more!
Native American Artifacts: The museum houses a significant collection of Native American artifacts, including pottery, tools, jewelry, and textiles, representing various indigenous cultures of the Southwest, including the Apache, Pueblo, and more.
Official Website: http://epmarch.org/
| Hours: | Wednesday-Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Admission: | FREE |
8. Fort Bliss Museum
The Fort Bliss Museum, also known as the “Old Ironsides” Museum, is a military history museum located on the grounds of Fort Bliss in El Paso, Texas. The museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history and heritage of the U.S. Army, with a particular focus on the 1st Armored Division, which is often referred to as “Old Ironsides.
Location: The Fort Bliss Museum is located within the Fort Bliss military installation, specifically in Building 1735 Marshall Road, Fort Bliss, TX 79916.
Fort Bliss Museum AIM: The museum’s mission is to collect, preserve, interpret, and display artifacts and materials related to the history of Fort Bliss and the 1st Armored Division, as well as the role of Fort Bliss in the development of artillery and missile systems.
Collections: The museum’s collections include a wide range of historical artifacts, uniforms, equipment, photographs, documents, and memorabilia related to the U.S. Army’s presence at Fort Bliss.
Events: The museum may host special events, lectures, and ceremonies to commemorate important military anniversaries and historical milestones.
Fort Bliss Official Website: https://home.army.mil/bliss/index.php/my-fort/all-services/fort-bliss-and-old-ironsides-museu
9. Plaza Theatre
The Plaza Theatre, located in El Paso, Texas, is a historic and iconic performing arts venue in the city’s downtown district.
History: The Plaza Theatre originally opened its doors in 1930 as a grand movie palace. It was designed by the architectural firm Rapp and Rapp in a Spanish Colonial Revival style, featuring ornate details, a beautiful interior, and a stunning marquee. Over the years, it became a beloved entertainment venue in El Paso.
Location: The Plaza Theatre is situated at 125 Pioneer Plaza, El Paso, TX 79901. It’s conveniently located in the heart of downtown El Paso.
Architecture: The Plaza Theatre is known for its exquisite architectural details, including terra cotta ornamentation, decorative plasterwork, and intricate tile work.
Programming: The Plaza Theatre hosts a wide variety of performances and events, including Broadway shows, concerts, ballets, operas, comedy shows, and more.
El Paso Symphony Orchestra: The Plaza Theatre is also home to the El Paso Symphony Orchestra, which performs classical and contemporary music throughout the year.
Parking: There are 975 secure, underground parking spaces available within walking distance.
SEATING LEVELS: Total Seating: 2,000–2,050+ seats, depending on production requirements
Orchestra Pit: 65 seats
Orchestra: 1,235 seats
Mezzanine: 374 seats
Balcony: 384 seats
Plaza Theatre Website: https://elpasolive.com/
Plaza Theatre BUY TICKETS: Click Here
10. Magoffin Home State Historic Site
The Magoffin Home State Historic Site is a historic house museum located in El Paso. It is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history and heritage of the Magoffin family and the El Paso region. The architecture of the Magoffin Home is an interesting blend of styles, including Territorial Revival, Greek Revival, and Adobe.
Location: The Magoffin Home is situated at 1120 Magoffin Avenue, El Paso, TX 79901. It is conveniently located in downtown El Paso.
Magoffin Family: The Magoffin family, headed by Joseph Magoffin, played a prominent role in the political and economic development of the El Paso region during the 19th century.Joseph Magoffin was a merchant, politician, and diplomat who influenced the growth of the city.
Collections: The Magoffin Home State Historic Site is home to a collection of period furnishings, artifacts, and memorabilia that provide insight into the daily life and history of the Magoffin family and the El Paso region.
Events and Programs: The Magoffin Home hosts various events, programs, and educational activities throughout the year.
Magoffin Home State Historic Site Website: https://www.thc.texas.gov/historic-sites/magoffin-home-state-historic-site
10 of The Best Places to Visit in El Paso, I like Scenic Drive El Paso very much….
These are just the tip’s of 10 of The Best Places to Visit in El Paso, 2023. What other places would you add to the list, and which have you been to? Tell us about your experiences in the comments….
El Paso, TX – Climate Chart
