Things to do in El Paso

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

Photo provided by Texas Tourism / Kenny Braun
Photo provided by Texas Tourism / Kenny Braun
Photo provided by Texas Tourism / J Griffis Smith
Photo provided by Texas Tourism / Kenny Braun
Photo provided by Texas Tourism / Kenny Braun

El Paso Attractions

Set on the far western corner of Texas, the city of El Paso stands on the banks of the Rio Grande, just north of Ciudad Juárez across the Mexican border. These 2 cities, along with Las Cruces in the neighboring state of New Mexico, make up a metropolitan area with the largest bilingual and binational workforce in the Western Hemisphere. El Paso’s diversity contributes to a vibrant cultural scene boasting numerous museums, historic sites, art galleries, festivals, and international cuisine. Sitting at the foot of the Franklin Mountains, Sun City also offers the stark natural beauty of the southwest, with copper-hued hills, prickly cacti, and soaring eagles. Whether you want dive into the history of the Border Patrol, go rock climbing among ancient pictographs, or stuff yourself with authentic Mexican eats, there are plenty of things to do in this dynamic Texas town.


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What to do in El Paso

Free Things to Do in El Paso

They say the best things in life are free. Be sure to visit the following around El Paso:

El Paso Museum of Art - Chat to the staff or curator and gain an insight into the fascinating collections on display here.

Wyler Aerial Tramway - You can't beat this attraction if your goal is to let your hair down and have some fun.

El Paso City Hall - Architecture enthusiasts will certainly enjoy marveling at the impressive modern design of this landmark.

Magoffin Home State Historic Site - Stop at this historic landmark and experience a part of the cultural heritage of the area.

Judson F. Williams Convention Center - Open up your guidebook and discover why this place deserves a spot on your travel itinerary.

St. Patrick Cathedral - Toss a bit of spirituality into your vacation by spending some time at this holy site.

Scenic Drive - Overlook - It's easy to reconnect with Mother Nature at this awe-inspiring attraction.

Chihuahuan Desert Gardens - Organize a picnic date and enjoy a stroll around the interesting plants.

Areas & Neighborhoods in El Paso

In a city where Spanish is spoken just as much as English and cultural influences come from all across the globe, El Paso is home to neighborhoods that are just as diverse as the people who live here. Explore the city to uncover countless ways to expand your horizons, tantalize your taste buds, or become one with Mother Nature.

Downtown

Broken up into 5 of its own distinct districts, Downtown is the cultural and economic heart of El Paso, booming with restaurants, hotels, shopping, and entertainment. Here are the 3 areas you need to know:

El Centro

Starting at San Antonio Avenue and stretching all the way to the border, the city’s original shopping district buzzes with restaurants, boutiques, and markets that highlight the area’s multicultural atmosphere. Don’t forget to treat yourself to a pair of expertly crafted cowboy boots—after all, El Paso is known as the Boot Capital of the World.

Las Plazas

The nucleus of the city’s art and entertainment scene, Las Plazas is home to the Abraham Chavez Theatre, the El Paso Museum of Art, and the historic Plaza Theatre. Appropriately named, the area has numerous plazas that host festivals and concerts throughout the year.

Union Plaza

Once an industrial area, the Union Plaza district has been transformed into a hotspot for Downtown nightlife. It claims a diverse array of restaurants, bars, and nightclubs, including several that cater to the city’s large LGBTQ population. On Saturdays, Anthony Street is taken over by the Downtown Artist and Farmers’ Market, which celebrates local art and food.

Fort Bliss

As an important border town, El Paso has a strong military presence, with Fort Bliss serving as the largest training area in the United States. Get close to tanks and other equipment used since World War II at the Fort Bliss and Old Ironside Museums. At the heart of the base is also Freedom Crossing, a first-of-its-kind complex with restaurants, retail, and year-round events. Civilians only need a day-pass to get access.

Franklin Mountains State Park

Just outside the center of the city is Franklin Mountains State Park, the largest urban state park in the country. It offers plenty of options for hiking, biking, and trail-running, as well as picturesque views that encompass 3 states and 2 nations. Here, you can also find the National Border Patrol Museum and the El Paso Museum of Archaeology.

What to See in El Paso

Hop in a car for a ride along winding Scenic Drive on the south side of the park. The Scenic Drive Overlook offers views that stretch across El Paso and, if you’re traveling at night, sights of the Star on the Mountain illuminating the hillside with its 459 bulbs. For even more spectacular views, take a ride on the Wyler Aerial Tramway. Beginning at the height of 4,692 feet (1,430 m), the cable car whisks you away nearly 1,000 feet (305 m) higher to the top of Ranger Peak. Admire the beauty of the cacti garden before you board the tram, and upon reaching the top, gaze out upon 7,000 square miles (18,130 sq km) of Texas, New Mexico, and the landscapes south of the border.

Sightseeing in El Paso

For History Buffs

With more than 400 years of history, El Paso is a haven of Texas nostalgia. Take a walk through Downtown to see the Trost buildings of the 1920s, visit the centuries-old Spanish mission of Ysleta, or scope out the striking adobe architecture at the Magoffin Home Historic Site. You can also travel through time within 16,000 feet (4,877 m) of diverse exhibits at the El Paso Museum of History.

For Outdoor Lovers

El Paso’s more than 300 days of sunshine a year make the city an ideal spot for lovers of the outdoors. Hit the trails on foot or by bike at Franklin Mountains State Park or grab your clubs for a round at Butterfield Trail Golf Club. Thrill-seekers will also love Hueco Tanks, a world-class bouldering site where ancient pictographs adorn the rocks. Just a 90-minute drive over the state line into New Mexico is White Sands National Monument, a captivating landscape of rolling, bone-white dunes.

For Foodies

With it’s location on the border, it’s no surprise that El Paso is famous for its mix of hearty Texas cuisine and authentic Mexican flavors. Get ready for a finger-lickin’ plate of ribs at State Line or a cheesy enchilada at Avila, ranked one of the Top 50 Mexican Restaurants in the US by Hispanic Magazine. Though the city boasts many fine-dining restaurants as well, it’s the casual, family-run spots that really hit the spot. Don’t leave town without a stop for Tex-Mex at the old-timey H&H Car Wash.

For Music Aficionados

Like many of the bigger cities in Texas, El Paso is a mecca for music. Between March and September, there are many music festivals ranging in styles from country to hip hop to EDM. If you’re looking to uncover local talent, head to hotspot venues like Lowbrow Palace and Tricky Falls.

For Kids

If you’re traveling to El Paso with the family, there are plenty of kid-approved activities, as well. Make friends with more than 220 species at the El Paso Zoo, take in a baseball game at Southwest University Park, or cool off on the rides at Wet ‘n’ Wild Waterworld.

Things to Do in El Paso with Kids

El Paso has plenty of close by fun things to do for you and the kids. Our family friendly experiences will keep everyone happy for hours.


 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in El Paso? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 


 


Discover the most popular places to visit in El Paso

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in El Paso

El Paso which includes interior views and theater scenes

Downtown El Paso

4/5(316 area reviews)

Downtown El Paso is popular for its abundant dining options, and if you're looking for more to see and do, you might think about a trip to Plaza Theater or Southwest University Park.

Downtown El Paso
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Mission Valley

While visiting Mission Valley, you might make a stop by sights like Speaking Rock Entertainment Center and El Paso County Coliseum.

Mission Valley
Nikon B500 - zoomed in photo, Jan 2017

Northeast El Paso

3.5/5(21 area reviews)

While visiting Northeast El Paso, you might make a stop by sights like Franklin Mountains State Park and Painted Dunes Golf Course.

Northeast El Paso
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Horizon City

While Horizon City might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Eastlake Shopping Center and Eastlake Marketplace Center.

Horizon City
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Cielo Vista

If you're spending some time in Cielo Vista, Cielo Vista Mall and Lone Star Golf Course are top sights worth seeing.

Cielo Vista
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Socorro

Discover the historic Mission Trail at the registered Texas landmark, Socorro Mission, or enjoy a concert at Socorro Entertainment Center. Unwind at Bulldog Championship Park, featuring a splash park, walking trails, and a pond.

Socorro

 

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Popular day trips from El Paso

Frequently asked questions

Is El Paso worth visiting?
Famous for its nature and dining, discovering awesome things to do in El Paso is simple. Be sure to add Scenic Drive - Overlook to your itinerary when here.
How do I spend a day in El Paso?
Once you've visited popular attractions like Scenic Drive - Overlook and Bob-O's Family Fun Center, spend some time experiencing the food and retail options in El Paso.
What is the top tourist attraction in El Paso?
The top tourist attraction in El Paso is Scenic Drive - Overlook, so don't forget to include it on your sightseeing list.
Is three days enough to stay in El Paso?
You can easily tour popular attractions like Scenic Drive - Overlook, Bob-O's Family Fun Center and Wyler Aerial Tramway with a three-day trip to El Paso. On average, many travelers book two days here. There's plenty to do and see nearby too, so stay a while longer and venture to Ciudad Juarez.
Is El Paso a walkable city?
With vibrant neighborhoods and top attractions within walking distance of the city center, El Paso is a good destination to tour on foot. Wander between Scenic Drive - Overlook and International Museum of Art. Then take a stroll through Downtown El Paso, located 0.6 miles from downtown, and Union Plaza, which is roughly 0.4 miles away.
What are some activities to do in El Paso with kids?
Whether you're traveling with tiny adventurers or hard-to-please teens, an itinerary filled with cool activities is the key to a stress-free getaway. Browse our recommendations for what to do in El Paso with kids.

What to do in El Paso for adults?
Mercado Mayapan and The Woodhouse Day Spa - El Paso are just two of the things to do in El Paso. With plenty of activities available, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in El Paso?
In El Paso, Scenic Drive - Overlook is an unmissable spot for anyone wishing to enjoy the city without taking their wallet out. Also, wander around the green spaces and other neighborhoods, and ask for ideas from a local tour guide. It's a good way to explore the best free things to do in El Paso.