Welcome to El Paso, affectionately known as Sun City thanks to its impressive 300 days of sunshine each year! This vibrant city on the Texas-Mexico border has so much more to offer than meets the eye. From its mouth-watering cuisine to breathtaking natural landscapes, El Paso is a treasure trove waiting to be discovered.
Here’s a guide to some of the best spots and activities to check out in Sun City:
Chamizal National Memorial
– Address: 800 S San Marcial St, El Paso, TX 79905
Covering 55 acres, Chamizal National Memorial commemorates the peaceful resolution of a border dispute between the U.S. and Mexico. It’s a fascinating place to learn about the history and people affected by the border changes dictated by the shifting Rio Grande. Dive deeper into the area’s past with a visit to the memorial.
Franklin Mountain State Park
– Address: Tom Mays Park Access Rd, El Paso, TX 79930
– Admission: $5.00
As one of the largest urban parks in the U.S., Franklin Mountain State Park boasts over 100 miles of trails perfect for hiking, biking, and climbing. Reaching elevations up to 7,000 feet, this park offers spectacular scenery and plenty of adventure. It’s popular on weekends, so consider reserving your parking spot online in advance.
Scenic Drive
– Address: Scenic Dr., El Paso, TX 79902
For jaw-dropping views of El Paso, head to Scenic Drive. This spot is perfect for a drive, bike ride, or run, though be sure to check if the road is open to traffic on weekends. Alternatively, take in the cityscape from Transmountain Road with its convenient pull-offs.
El Paso Museum of Art
– Address: 1 Arts Festival Plaza, El Paso, TX 79901
– Hours: Wed. – Sat. 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
– Admission: Free
Located downtown, this museum is a haven for art lovers. With over 7,000 works by artists like Botticelli and van Dyck, you’ll find something to captivate your imagination. Don’t miss this cultural gem!
National Border Patrol Museum
– Address: 4315 Woodrow Bean Transmountain, El Paso, TX 79924
– Hours: Tues. – Sat. 9:00 am – 4:45 pm
– Admission: Free
The museum provides a deep dive into the history and evolution of the U.S. Border Patrol. From uniforms to vehicles and personal stories, it’s an enlightening experience that chronicles an essential part of America’s history.
Hueco Tanks State Park & Historic Site
– Address: 6900 Hueco Tanks Road No. 1, El Paso, TX 79938
– Admission: $7.00
This park is known for its stunning rock formations and historic rock basins or “huecos,” which were essential water sources for generations. With great hiking, rock climbing, and bird watching, it’s a nature lover’s paradise. There are limited self-guided and tour-guided opportunities to protect the fragile ecosystem, so plan accordingly.
The Plaza Theatre
– Address: 125 Henry Trost Ct, El Paso, TX 79901
For a dose of entertainment, head to The Plaza Theatre. This historic venue hosts a variety of performances, from Broadway classics to concerts. Opened in the 1930s, it’s a beautifully preserved piece of El Paso’s cultural history.
El Paso Museum of History
– Address: 510 N Santa Fe St, El Paso, TX 79901
– Hours: Wed. – Sat. 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
– Admission: Free
Discover 400 years of regional history at this fascinating museum. With exhibits ranging from indigenous cultures to modern-day stories, it offers a comprehensive look at the area’s diverse past.
El Paso Museum of Archaeology
– Address: 4301 Woodrow Bean Transmountain Dr, El Paso, TX 79924
– Hours: Wed. – Sat. 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
– Admission: Free
With artifacts spanning over 14,000 years, this museum highlights the rich archaeological history of the Southwest U.S. and Northern Mexico. It’s a must-visit for those interested in the area’s ancient cultures.
Delicious Mexican and Tex-Mex Cuisine
El Paso’s food scene is a delightful mix of flavors, rooted in rich Mexican and Tex-Mex traditions. Here are some dining spots you shouldn’t miss:
– L & J Cafe: 3622 E Missouri Ave, El Paso, TX 79903
– Tacos Don Cuco: Various Locations
– El Cometa: Various Locations
These eateries serve up unforgettable tacos, burritos, and more at reasonable prices. If you have any recommendations for my next visit, I’d love to hear them!
El Paso offers an array of incredible experiences, and these are just the highlights. Enjoy exploring Sun City, and don’t forget to check out some of our day trip recommendations as well!
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