El Paso is a beautiful, vibrant city perfect for exploring, hiking, and viewing picturesque scenery. It blends old history and modern culture. With delicious culinary delights and colorful murals, El Paso has something to offer for everyone. Here are the top 15 best things to do in El Paso.
Best Things to Do in El Paso
1. Visit the Franklin Mountains State Park
The state park is above the city and features extensive trails suitable for hiking and biking at various levels of difficulty. The 125 miles of rugged trails pass through wild deserts, green vegetation, and mountains. The park also offers great rock climbing, camping, and picnicking opportunities. Other outdoor activities include birdwatching, wildlife viewing, and geocaching. With its large urban setting and panoramic views, the park is a paradise for photographers and artists.
2. Enjoy the El Paso Scenic Drive
The drive takes you around the winding roads of the mountain and up to the breathtaking viewpoint in the Franklin Mountains. The spots to enjoy along the drive include the Overlook, Rim Road, Port Philip Mine, etc. Pull over at the Overlook to enjoy the stunning views. Let your eyes and cameras enjoy the picturesque views of the amazing sunset and the city lights.
3. Have a nice time with your kids at the El Paso Zoo and Botanical Gardens
These 35 acres of green space promise endless fun and adventure for families with kids. It is home to animals from all over the world, including Asia, Africa, America, the Chihuahuan Desert, etc. Kids will have an awesome time at the Foster-tree playground, Boo at the Zoo, Hunt Family Desert Spring, and special events like animal encounters. It is not a very big zoo, but it is well-maintained and has an impressive number of animals.
4. Be Impressed with the Robust Collection of Art at the El Paso Museum of Art
You will be surprised to see the diverse collection of American, Mexican, and European art. The exhibits include sculptures, photos, and portraits, too. The artworks include pieces from the Renaissance to modern contemporary pieces. The highlight of the museum is the 13th-century Byzantine Madonna and Child. It also features a series of rotating exhibits by several artists from around the world. The best thing about the museum is it is free.
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5. Take a Relaxing Stroll at the Keystone Heritage Park and Botanical Gardens
The park area is absolutely beautiful with a running koi pond, a gurgling stream, botanical gardens, and wetlands with various fowl. The wetlands are home to more than 200 species of migratory birds, which stop on their migratory route. There are walking paths around the wetlands to view the birds. The botanical garden features a moonlight garden, an amphitheatre, a xeric demonstration garden, and a children’s garden. The plants and trees are marked, making it a wonderful spot for learning and having fun.
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6. See the Interesting Exhibits at the El Paso Museum of History
You will learn about 4000 years of history of the region at the El Paso Museum. With a collection of more than 10000 exhibits, the museum is worth a visit. Its important exhibits include the Zork wedding dress, Ysleta mission door, Giron chest, etc. The highlight of the museum is the Digie, the interactive digital wall, 35 feet in length, displayed across five touch-sensitive screens. Mini-Digie, a smaller, portable version of the digital wall, has a single screen.
7. Watch a Baseball Game at the Southwest University Park
Located in the centre of the town, this ballpark is the home of the baseball team El Paso Chihuahuas. It has a beautiful field with modern amenities and a welcoming atmosphere. The stadium hosts several home games. Watching a game is an enjoyable experience for the fans. The lively atmosphere and diverse selection of food options make the experience more enthusiastic.
8. Have fun with your Family at the Western Playland Amusement Park
With thrill rides and attractions, your family is assured of fun and laughter. The Fireball, the looping coaster, leaves you hanging upside down and then reverses direction. The swinging pendulum the Loco 360 swings and spins is an exciting ride. Enjoy the spin and tilt in the trapped two-passenger seats of the Wipeout. Let your adrenaline rush in the Hurricane, a thrilling ride. Rock and roll in the Pendulum. There are many more rides that leave you screaming and laughing.
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9. Learn the Prehistory of the Area at the El Paso Museum of Archaeology
The museum displays exhibits of the prehistoric inhabitants of the region for the past 14,000 years. The exhibits are interesting and attract not only archaeologists and history buffs but also people who know nothing about archaeology. The museum is located on 15 acres of land. There are more than 300 varieties of Chihuahuan desert plants and a walking trail to explore them.
10. Step into Chamizal History at the Chamizal National Memorial
This memorial commemorates the Chamizal treaty signed to end a 100-year-old border dispute between the USA and Mexico. It includes a museum, art galleries, and theatres. Many events and festivals are hosted all around the year. You can learn about the history of the disputes and treaties from the exhibits. It is a great place with pleasant weather to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, picnicking, and watching cultural events.
11. Stroll through the El Paso Municipal Rose Gardens
With more than 500 varieties of roses and 2000 rose bushes spread over four acres of land, the park is so beautiful and appealing. New varieties of roses are added every year. Most of the varieties are repeat bloomers and the blooming flowers are a treat to your eyes and camera. The aroma and the beauty of the roses are stress busters. Stroll through this well-maintained park, or just sit and relax, admiring the colorful blooms.
12. Hike on the Thousand Steps Trail
It is a popular hiking destination known for its breathtaking views. The 3.7-mile-long trail with 1600 feet of elevation is challenging and includes a series of steps. However, it is worth the climb because you will be rewarded with a scenic view of the beautiful nature. Wear comfortable hiking shoes and get ready to walk along the gravel and rocks on the trail.
13. Explore the National Border Patrol Museum
The museum, spread over 10,000 square feet of land, is dedicated to Border Patrol. One of the exhibits includes the vehicles used by the patrol officers, such as helicopters, planes, boats, cars, and jeeps. Another one exhibits weapons and the uniforms used from 1924. It is worth visiting to learn about the history of the US Border Patrol.
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14. Take a tour of the Magoffin Home State Historic Site
It was built in 1875 for Joseph Magoffin, a civic leader. The 19-room museum is an example of the impressive territorial style of architecture. A tour of the building will help you to learn the history and heritage of the Southwest borderlands and the lives of the Magoffins, who left their mark in history.
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15. Hike and Drive through the Dunes at the Red Sands
Red Sands is spectacular, with small hills, glorious red dunes, and stunning views. Several million years ago, the area was under sea. So it is filled with fossils. It is an amazing location to camp, shoot, boulder, and go on a road trip. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the desert and have fun.
Conclusion
El Paso offers plenty of ways to escape from everyday stress and enjoy. Pack your bags and get ready to create cherishable memories.
