Along the shores of the Rio Grande sits El Paso, Texas. This bright, sunny and safe city is the sixth most populous city in Texas and offers a great variety of fun activities for visitors.
From families to singles, El Paso has a different feel for tourists than its glittery counterparts like Dallas or San Antonio. A melting pot of American and Mexican culture, you will find this mix well represented in cuisine, art, and architecture.
If you’re considering visiting El Paso and are wondering what it can offer you, we’re happy to say that El Paso will be the perfect choice for your next vacation. Read on to find out why.
- Nature
El Paso offers an incredible assortment of natural attractions. Just a short trip outside the city you’ll find Franklin Mountains State Park, which is one of the city’s main attractions. Rock climbers, hikers and mountain bikers flock to the area to take advantage of the incredible scenery and rugged terrain. You can also camp out in the park, but it isn’t for glamping. There is no electricity or running water, so it’s important to be prepared and bring enough fresh water.
Franklin Mountains State Park also features the Wyler Aerial Tramway. The cable car can transport you to the top of Ranger Peak in under five minutes where you can enjoy incredible views.
- Museums
There are several museums in the town of El Paso that have the city’s melting pot history on full display. The El Paso Museum of Art has American, Mexican and European art, while the El Paso Museum of History explores the city’s past and rich, multicultural history. There is also the El Paso Holocaust Museum that explores the dark days of the Holocaust.
- Theme parks and water parks
Taking full advantage of its 297 days of sunny weather (on average), El Paso has some great theme parks and water parks you can take the kids to. Western Playland offers attractions for both adults and children, while in nearby Anthony, Texas, you’ll find Wet’N’Wild Waterworld, which is a great option for that Texas sun gets a little too toasty.
- El Paso Zoo
Love animals? The El Paso Zoo has over 220 species from African, American and Asian locations in a 35-acre park. It offers great interactive experiences for children and adults and allows people to view critically endangered species, such as the Amur Leopard and the Aruba rattlesnake. The zoo also offers their Zoo Adventure Program, which permits sleepovers or behind the scenes tours.
- Ysleta Mission
If you’re a history buff, you may be interested in visiting the Ysleta Mission. This 19th century adobe New Mexican style church is one of the oldest continuously operated parishes in the state of Texas. The Ysleta community is also recognized as the oldest in Texas.
When you’re done exploring, bunk down for the night in one of El Paso’s many comfortable hotels, like the El Paso Marriott, before getting ready for another day of exploring in this fun border city.
