El Paso Travel Guide

Plan your trip to El Paso with this comprehensive tour guide featuring information on attractions, activities, accommodations, and more.


Introduction to El Paso

El Paso is a city in West Texas and a gateway to Mexico, known for its rugged landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Located in the heart of the Chihuahuan Desert, El Paso is surrounded by mountains, canyons, and scenic vistas. It is a city of contrasts, where traditional Mexican culture meets American modernity, and where the Old West meets the new.

List of Places to Visit in El Paso

If you are planning a trip to El Paso, there are plenty of attractions and activities to keep you entertained. Here is a list of the top places to visit in El Paso:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • El Paso Museum of Art: This museum features a permanent collection of over 7,000 works of art, including Spanish Colonial, Mexican, and Southwestern art.
  • El Paso Museum of History: This museum presents the history and culture of El Paso and the Southwest through interactive exhibits and multimedia presentations.
  • Magoffin Home State Historic Site: This 19th-century adobe home is a historic landmark that showcases the lifestyle and traditions of early El Paso settlers.
  • Chamizal National Memorial: This park commemorates the peaceful settlement of a century-long border dispute between the United States and Mexico.
  • Mission Trail: This route takes visitors to three historic Spanish missions: Ysleta, Socorro, and San Elizario.

Natural Attractions of El Paso: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Franklin Mountains State Park: This park is the largest urban wilderness park in the United States, with miles of hiking trails, rock climbing, and scenic overlooks.
  • Hueco Tanks State Park: This park features natural rock formations and ancient pictographs and petroglyphs of the indigenous peoples of the region.
  • Rio Bosque Wetlands Park: This park is a unique desert oasis that provides habitat for over 200 bird species and other wildlife.
  • Wyler Aerial Tramway: This tramway offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains from the top of Ranger Peak.

Hiking/Biking Routes of El Paso

El Paso offers numerous hiking and biking trails that take visitors through stunning natural landscapes and historic sites. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in El Paso:

  • Tom Mays Unit: This is the largest state park in El Paso, with over 24 miles of hiking trails that range from easy to difficult.
  • Lost Dog Trail: This trail is perfect for a family-friendly hike or mountain bike ride, with easy-to-follow trails that lead to scenic views of the Franklin Mountains.
  • McKelligon Canyon: This popular destination offers a variety of trails for hikers and mountain bikers, with views of the city and the surrounding mountains.

Best Things to Do in El Paso: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of things to do in El Paso, from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences. Here are some of the best activities and tours to try:

  • Explore the El Paso Mission Trail: Take a self-guided tour of the historic Spanish missions that date back to the 17th century.
  • Visit the El Paso Zoo: This zoo features over 220 species of animals from around the world, including endangered species like the Amur leopard and the African hunting dog.
  • Take a Scenic Drive: El Paso offers scenic drives that take you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in Texas, including the Rio Grande Valley and the Guadalupe Mountains.

Week-Long Itinerary for El Paso

Here is a suggested week-long itinerary for exploring El Paso:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the El Paso Museum of Art and the Plaza Theatre
Day 2 Hike or bike in Franklin Mountains State Park
Day 3 Visit Hueco Tanks State Park and explore ancient rock art
Day 4 Take a scenic drive to the Rio Grande Valley
Day 5 Explore the El Paso Mission Trail and visit historic sites
Day 6 Take the Wyler Aerial Tramway for panoramic views
Day 7 Visit the El Paso Zoo and enjoy some family time

Food and Drink Scene of El Paso

El Paso’s food scene is a mix of Mexican, Tex-Mex, and American influences, with a variety of dishes to try.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Chile con carne: A spicy meat stew that originated in Texas and is a staple of El Paso cuisine.
  • Tacos al pastor: A popular Mexican street food made with marinated pork and pineapple.
  • Enchiladas: A classic Tex-Mex dish made with tortillas filled with meat or cheese, and smothered in chili sauce.

Local Beverages

  • Margarita: A classic cocktail made with tequila, lime juice, and a touch of sweetness.
  • Prickly Pear: A pinkish-red fruit that grows in the region and is used to make a sweet and refreshing drink.
  • Mexican beer: A variety of Mexican beers are available in El Paso, from light lagers to dark stouts.

Where to Stay in El Paso: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

El Paso offers a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels.

  • Hotel Paso Del Norte: A historic hotel that combines Old-World charm with modern amenities.
  • Gardner Hotel: A budget-friendly hostel that offers clean and comfortable accommodations in the heart of downtown El Paso.
  • Stanton House: A boutique hotel with stylish rooms and stunning views of the Franklin Mountains.

What to Buy in El Paso: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you are looking for souvenirs and unique gifts to bring back from El Paso, here are some suggestions:

  • Mexican pottery and ceramics: El Paso is known for its vibrant Mexican-inspired pottery and ceramics.
  • Southwestern jewelry: The region is known for its turquoise and silver jewelry, which makes for a unique and beautiful gift.
  • Chile powder: A staple of Tex-Mex cuisine, chile powder can be found in many shops and markets in El Paso.

Local Culture and Customs of El Paso

El Paso has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its arts, music, and traditions. The city celebrates its Mexican-American heritage with events like the Dia de los Muertos Festival and the Plaza Classic Film Festival.

Best Time to Visit El Paso

The best time to visit El Paso is in the fall or winter, when the weather is cool and comfortable for outdoor activities. Spring and summer can be very hot, with temperatures often exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

Do’s and Don’ts of El Paso

Do:

  • Explore the outdoors: El Paso is a nature lover’s paradise, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities.
  • Sample the local cuisine: El Paso is known for its unique blend of Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine, with plenty of delicious dishes to try.
  • Learn about the city’s history and culture: El Paso has a rich cultural heritage that is worth a closer look.

Don’t:

  • Assume everyone speaks English: El Paso is a bilingual city, with many residents speaking both English and Spanish.
  • Ignore safety precautions: Like any city, El Paso has its share of crime, and visitors should take sensible safety precautions such as staying in well-lit areas and avoiding unfamiliar neighborhoods.
  • Overlook the city’s natural beauty: El Paso is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes that are worth exploring.

Safety and Health

Safety in El Paso

El Paso is generally a safe city, but visitors should exercise common sense precautions like locking their doors and not leaving valuables in plain sight.

Health in El Paso

El Paso is a relatively healthy city, with good air quality and a low incidence of communicable diseases.

Getting to El Paso: Transportation Options and Logistics

El Paso is served by several airports and bus stations that provide convenient transportation options.

Airports Near El Paso

  • El Paso International Airport: The primary airport for El Paso and the surrounding region, with flights from major airlines to destinations across the United States and Canada.
  • Abraham Gonzales International Airport: A small airport that serves flights to and from Mexico and nearby cities in Texas.

Bus Stations Near El Paso

  • El Paso Bus Station: The main bus station for the city, with service from major bus lines like Greyhound and El Paso-Los Angeles Limousine Express.
  • Juarez Bus Station: A busy bus station across the border in Juarez, Mexico, that provides access to many Mexican destinations.

Other Options

  • Amtrak: The nearest Amtrak station is in Alpine, Texas, which is about a four-hour drive from El Paso.
  • Driving: El Paso is located at the crossroads of several major highways, making it easily accessible by car.

How to Get Around in El Paso

El Paso offers several transportation options, including rental cars, public transportation, and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft.

Rental Cars

There are several rental car agencies located at El Paso International Airport and throughout the city, which offer a variety of car rental options.

Public Transportation

Sun Metro is El Paso’s bus system, which provides service throughout the city and to nearby destinations. Taxis, Uber and Lyft are also available.

Where to Go Next from El Paso: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time to explore the region, there are plenty of nearby destinations and excursions to consider, including:

  • Big Bend National Park: Located a few hours south of El Paso, this park features rugged landscapes, hot springs, and ancient rock art.
  • Carlsbad Caverns National Park: Located in New Mexico, this park features massive caves and underground chambers.
  • White Sands National Park: Located in southern New Mexico, this park features stunning white sand dunes and is a popular destination for outdoor activities like sandboarding and hiking.

Conclusion

El Paso is a vibrant and historic city with plenty of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you are interested in culture, history, nature, or adventure, there is something for everyone in El Paso. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable trip to the heart of West Texas!

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