El Paso, Texas, is a unique blend of rich history, vibrant culture, outdoor adventure, and amazing food. Nestled on the U.S.-Mexico border, this West Texas city offers breathtaking desert landscapes, incredible hiking opportunities, and a lively arts and music scene. Whether you’re a history buff, nature enthusiast, foodie, or just looking for a fun weekend getaway, El Paso has something for everyone.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best things to do in El Paso, from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences and top dining spots.
Things to Do in El Paso
1. Explore Franklin Mountains State Park
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If you love the outdoors, Franklin Mountains State Park is a must-visit. Covering over 27,000 acres, it’s the largest urban park in the U.S.
Things to Do:
- Hiking – Trails range from easy to challenging, with stunning views of the city and desert.
- Rock Climbing – The McKelligon Canyon area is popular for climbers.
- Scenic Drives – Transmountain Road offers breathtaking vistas.
- Wildlife Watching – Keep an eye out for golden eagles, roadrunners, and mule deer.
Top Hike: North Franklin Peak Trail – A challenging but rewarding 8.5-mile hike leading to the highest peak in El Paso.
2. Visit the El Paso Mission Trail
Travel back in time by exploring El Paso’s historic missions, some of the oldest in the U.S. The Mission Trail features three Spanish missions, all dating back over 300 years.
Missions to Visit:
- Ysleta Mission (1682) – The oldest continuously operated parish in Texas.
- Socorro Mission (1682) – Features beautiful adobe architecture.
- San Elizario Chapel (1789) – Located in a historic district with museums and art galleries.
Tip: Take a self-guided drive along the Mission Trail Scenic Byway for a glimpse into El Paso’s early history.
3. Discover the El Paso Museum of Art
Located in downtown El Paso, this free museum houses a diverse collection of artwork, from European masterpieces to Mexican and Southwestern art.
Highlights:
- Works by Diego Rivera and other famous Mexican artists.
- American and European art from the 12th to 18th centuries.
- Rotating contemporary exhibits featuring local and international artists.
Tip: After your visit, explore nearby restaurants and shops in San Jacinto Plaza.
4. Walk Around San Jacinto Plaza
This historic downtown plaza is the heart of El Paso and a great spot to relax, people-watch, and soak in the city’s culture.
Things to Do:
- See “Los Lagartos”, a sculpture representing the alligators that once lived in the plaza’s pond.
- Enjoy food trucks and live performances.
- Grab a coffee and sit under the shade of historic trees.
Tip: Visit during Christmas for the Plaza Lights Festival, when the park is beautifully illuminated.
5. Take in the Views at Scenic Drive Overlook
For one of the best views of El Paso, drive up Scenic Drive at sunset or nighttime. From the overlook, you’ll see the entire city, as well as Juárez, Mexico, and the Franklin Mountains.
Best Time to Visit:
- Sunset for golden hour views.
- Nighttime for a stunning city skyline.
Tip: There are pull-off spots along the way for taking photos.
6. Explore Hueco Tanks State Park
Just 40 minutes from El Paso, this historic rock-climbing and hiking paradise is known for its unique rock formations and ancient pictographs.
Things to Do:
- Rock Climbing – One of the best bouldering spots in the U.S.
- Hiking – Trails leading to hidden caves with prehistoric rock art.
- Guided Tours – Explore ancient pictographs left by indigenous people.
Tip: Permits are required to visit certain areas, so check ahead before going.
7. Visit the National Border Patrol Museum
For a unique and educational experience, check out this free museum dedicated to the history of the U.S. Border Patrol.
Exhibits Include:
- Historical uniforms and vehicles.
- Real-life equipment used by border patrol agents.
- Stories of famous border crossings.
Tip: Pair your visit with a stop at El Paso Museum of Archaeology, which is nearby.
8. Experience the El Paso Zoo and Botanical Gardens
A great spot for families, the El Paso Zoo features over 200 species, including African elephants, sea lions, and orangutans. The botanical gardens add a beautiful touch with native desert plants.
Must-See Attractions:
- Asia, Africa, and Americas exhibits with exotic animals.
- Butterfly Garden and Desert Bloom Garden.
- Interactive animal encounters and feeding experiences.
Tip: Arrive early to catch animal feedings and shows.
9. Try Authentic Mexican Food
El Paso is famous for its Tex-Mex and authentic Mexican cuisine.
Best Restaurants to Try:
- L&J Café – Known as “the old place by the graveyard,” it serves legendary enchiladas and chile con queso.
- H&H Car Wash and Coffee Shop – A hole-in-the-wall serving some of the best breakfast burritos.
- Kiki’s Mexican Restaurant – Famous for their green chile con queso.
- Cattleman’s Steakhouse – A Western-style steakhouse with amazing views.
Tip: Don’t leave without trying chile rellenos and tamales!
10. Attend a Local Festival or Event
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El Paso hosts cultural and music festivals year-round.
Popular Events:
- Sun City Music Festival – A major EDM festival.
- Neon Desert Music Festival – A mix of rock, hip-hop, and Latin music.
- Viva! El Paso – A historical performance showcasing El Paso’s diverse cultures.
- Dia de Los Muertos Festival – A celebration of Mexican heritage.
Tip: Check event calendars to see what’s happening during your visit.
Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in El Paso
1. What is El Paso best known for?
The City is famous for:
- Stunning desert landscapes and mountain views
- Authentic Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine
- Franklin Mountains State Park, the largest urban park in the U.S.
- Historic missions along the Mission Trail
- Scenic Drive Overlook, offering breathtaking views of the city and Juárez, Mexico
- Hueco Tanks State Park, known for rock climbing and ancient pictographs
- A rich blend of Mexican and Western culture
2. What are the best outdoor activities in El Paso?
- Hike in Franklin Mountains State Park – Over 100 miles of trails.
- Explore Hueco Tanks State Park – A top rock-climbing and hiking destination.
- Drive along Scenic Drive Overlook – Stunning city views, especially at sunset.
- Visit Keystone Heritage Park – A peaceful botanical garden and wetland preserve.
- Go mountain biking at Lost Dog Trailhead.
- Enjoy water activities at Ascarate Lake – Fishing, kayaking, and picnicking.
3. What are the best free things to do in El Paso?
- Visit San Jacinto Plaza in downtown El Paso.
- Walk through the historic El Paso Mission Trail.
- Explore the Museum of Art (free admission).
- Check out the Museum of History.
- Drive up Scenic Drive Overlook for breathtaking views.
- See ancient petroglyphs at Hueco Tanks State Park (entry fee applies for some areas).
- Walk the trails at Franklin Mountains State Park (some areas have small entrance fees).
- Visit the National Border Patrol Museum.
4. What are the best hikes?
- North Franklin Peak Trail – A challenging hike leading to the highest point in the city.
- Aztec Cave Trail – A short, moderate hike to a unique cave with great views.
- Ron Coleman Trail – A tough but rewarding trail with spectacular views.
- Palisades Canyon Loop – A scenic and less crowded trail.
- Tom Mays Nature Walk – An easy trail perfect for beginners.
Tip: If hiking in summer, start early in the morning to avoid extreme heat.
5. What are the best places to visit for history lovers?
- Mission Trail – Features three historic Spanish missions dating back to the 1600s.
- Magoffin Home State Historic Site – A well-preserved 19th-century adobe home.
- Concordia Cemetery – Final resting place of famous Wild West figures, including John Wesley Hardin.
- The National Border Patrol Museum – A fascinating look at border security history.
- El Paso Museum of History – Explores El Paso’s multicultural past.
Final Thoughts
El Paso is a hidden gem with a rich cultural heritage, stunning outdoor adventures, and incredible food. Whether you’re hiking the Franklin Mountains, exploring the historic missions, or enjoying authentic Tex-Mex cuisine, there’s no shortage of things to do in this vibrant border city.
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