Things To Do
in El Paso

El Paso, located in the westernmost tip of Texas, is a vibrant city known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning desert landscapes. It serves as a border town with Juárez, Mexico, enhancing its diverse culinary and cultural offerings. The city's history is deeply rooted in Native American, Spanish, and Mexican influences, making it a melting pot of traditions.

With a warm climate and numerous outdoor activities, El Paso attracts visitors year-round who seek adventure and cultural experiences.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the City
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at L&J Cafe, known for its authentic Tex-Mex dishes. Then, explore the historic downtown area and visit the El Paso Museum of Art.

afternoon
:

Head to the scenic Franklin Mountains State Park for a hike, followed by a lunch break at a local food truck for delicious tacos.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at Cattleman’s Steakhouse, famous for its steaks, followed by a walk along the El Paso Riverwalk.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin with brunch at The Good Pie, renowned for its artisanal pizzas. Afterward, visit the Chamizal National Memorial to learn about the U.S.-Mexico border history.

afternoon
:

Spend some time at the scenic Scenic Drive Overlook for breathtaking views of the city and mountains, followed by lunch at a local favorite, Kiki's Mexican Restaurant.

evening
:

Finish your trip with a visit to the Plaza Theatre for a cultural show or performance, followed by cocktails at a local bar in the Union Plaza District.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a Restaurant$15
Coffee$4
🚕Taxi Ride$10
🏨Hotel Night$100
🥗Grocery Item$3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Diverse culinary scene with tasty food options.
  • Abundance of outdoor activities and beautiful landscapes.
  • Hot summers can be uncomfortable for some visitors.
  • Limited public transportation options.
  • Some areas may feel less urbanized and can be isolated.

Places to Visit in El Paso

Visit one of these nice places.

Franklin Mountains

A mountain range providing stunning views and excellent opportunities for nature photography.

Scenic Drive Overlook

Offers panoramic views of El Paso and Juárez, perfect for sunset shots.

Plaza Theatre

A beautifully restored historical theatre that makes for striking architectural photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in El Paso

El Paso is a culinary hotspot that seamlessly blends Mexican and Texan flavors, making it a paradise for food lovers. From street tacos to sophisticated dining experiences, there's something for everyone.

El Paso Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Chiles Rellenos

Stuffed peppers, often filled with cheese or meat, and served with a rich tomato sauce.

Must-Try!

Machaca

Shredded, spiced beef usually served with eggs and tortillas for breakfast.

Tortilla Soup

A flavorful soup made with a tomato base, chicken, avocado, and crispy tortilla strips.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

El Paso Downtown Street Market

A vibrant market featuring local vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts.

Food Trucks at San Jacinto Plaza

A collection of food trucks offering a variety of local and international cuisines.

Climate Guide

Weather

El Paso has a desert climate with hot summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures can reach 100°F (38°C) or higher, while winter highs are typically in the mid-50s°F (12-15°C) and lows can drop to the 30s°F (1-4°C). Rainfall is minimal throughout the year, with most precipitation occurring during the late summer months. The city enjoys ample sunshine, making it an ideal destination for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Residents appreciate greetings and polite conversation; saying 'hello' or 'how are you?' is common.

Respect for Cultural Diversity

El Paso has a rich cultural tapestry; showing respect for various customs and traditions is important.

Dress Code

While the city has a casual vibe, locals often dress neatly for restaurants and events.

Safety Guide

Safety

El Paso is generally considered a safe city for visitors, with a lower crime rate than many other U.S. cities. However, like any urban area, it's advisable to stay vigilant, especially in less populated areas at night. It's recommended to avoid displaying valuables in public and to use reputable transportation services. Familiarizing yourself with local emergency numbers and services is also wise.

Tipping in El Paso

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip servers 15-20% of the total bill in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers make it ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Hot and dry, with temperatures often exceeding 100°F; best for early morning or late evening activities.

Fall

Cooler temperatures and vibrant autumn colors; a great time for hiking and outdoor events.

Winter

Mild winters with occasional snow; perfect for indoor cultural events and holiday festivities.

Nightlife Guide

El Paso at Night

El Paso's nightlife is diverse, featuring everything from lively bars and clubs to charming lounges and live music venues. The Downtown and Union Plaza districts are popular for their vibrant scene, with many establishments offering live entertainment, including mariachi bands and DJs. Outdoor patios and rooftop bars provide a scenic backdrop to enjoy cocktails under the stars, while late-night eateries serve delicious snacks to keep the energy going.

Hiking in El Paso

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

North Franklin Mountain Trail

A challenging 8-mile round trip trail offering stunning views of El Paso and the surrounding desert.

Lost Dog Trail

A moderate 3-mile loop trail ideal for beginners, featuring beautiful desert scenery and wildlife.

Airports

How to reach El Paso by plane.

El Paso International Airport

Located just 10 minutes from downtown El Paso, this airport offers both domestic and limited international flights. It is the primary airport serving the region and features a range of amenities for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

El Paso's downtown area is relatively walkable, with many attractions, restaurants, and shops within a short distance of each other. However, outside the downtown core, neighborhoods may require a vehicle or public transportation to access key sites. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, but it's important to be cautious of traffic in busier areas.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Hispanic/Latino Community

A significant portion of El Paso's population identifies as Hispanic or Latino, contributing to the city's vibrant culture and traditions.

Military Families

Due to the proximity of Fort Bliss, a large military installation, many military families reside in the area, influencing the local community and economy.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

High school and college football are hugely popular in El Paso, with passionate local support for teams.

Soccer

Soccer has gained popularity, especially with the El Paso Locomotive FC attracting fans to their games.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in El Paso can vary throughout the day, with peak hours typically occurring during morning and evening commutes. Main highways and roads can become congested, especially near downtown. Public transportation options include buses and a limited light rail, which can help alleviate traffic issues.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting El Paso.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian versions of traditional dishes, such as veggie tacos and salads.

Gluten-Free Choices

Several eateries provide gluten-free options, particularly in their handcrafted dishes.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

El Paso has a range of healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and urgent care centers. The University Medical Center of El Paso serves as a major hospital providing comprehensive medical services. For non-emergency health issues, there are numerous outpatient clinics available. It's advisable for visitors to have health insurance to cover any potential medical expenses.

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Read more in our United States 2025 Travel Guide.

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