History, Hiking, and More: 5 Fun Places in El Paso, Texas
While Dallas and Austin are popular draws for visitors to Texas, it would be a shame to overlook El Paso with its unique mix of culture, architecture, and Mexican influences.
Located on the Rio Grande, El Paso has something to offer everyone, so come prepared to see stunning vistas and indulge in delicious Mexican-American cuisine. Whether you're interested in camping overnight with friends or learning more about the multicultural history of this corner of Texas, this border town delivers.
If you're headed to Sun City, here are 5 fun places in El Paso that you have to add to your itinerary.
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1) Learn About the Past on the El Paso Historic Mission Trail
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Linked by three chapels, the El Paso Historic Mission Trail presents more than 400 years of culture, architecture, and Texan history. Begin at the
Ysleta Mission
near the intersection of Alameda Avenue and South Zaragosa Road, then head down Alameda Avenue for 2.8 miles until you reach the
Socorro Mission
.
Next, drive to
San Elizario's historic district
to take a walking tour of the area that has long been at the heart of El Paso's history. There's even an art market along the way every third Sunday of the month, so you can take home a souvenir by a local artist. Stay at
one of the many El Paso hotels along this trail
, and you'll be steps from history.
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2) Spot Wildlife at Franklin Mountains State Park
Head just outside of El Paso's city center and marvel at the high desert mountains in
. Hike or mountain bike along one of the 100 trails inside Franklin Mountains State Park, try some rock climbing in
McKelligon Canyon
, or see if you can spot some wildlife like a coyote or mule deer.
The park offers plenty of camping spots, so pack a tent and get ready to make some s'mores.
3) Spend the Day Learning at the Centennial Museum
If you're interested in natural history, archaeology, or botany, you can't miss the
on the University of Texas at El Paso campus
. Explore the permanent exhibit about the Chihuahuan Desert's animal life and cultural past, and don't miss rotating exhibits that focus on topics from local artists to community issues.
Just outside of the museum, the
UTEP Gardens
showcase more than 600 plants native to the Greater Chihuahuan Desert region for a fully immersive learning experience.
4) Tour the Magoffin Home
The
has many of its original furnishings so visitors can get a feel for what life was like during the late 1800s. Octavia and Joseph Magoffin were community leaders in the early modern settlement days of El Paso: Octavia led the area's charity efforts for many years, while Joseph served as a county commissioner, judge, and alderman.
Today, the Magoffin Home is El Paso's only historic home open to the public.
5) See the Border from the Wyler Aerial Tramway
Located in Franklin Mountains State Park, the Tramway ride starts at an elevation of 4,692 feet. Hop on and ride another 1,000 feet to the top of Ranger Peak.
From this perspective, you can see the entirety of El Paso, across the border into Mexico, and even into New Mexico and Arizona on a clear day.
Want even more ideas? Check out even more El Paso, Texas, activities
.
Which of these fun places in El Paso would you be excited to visit?
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