If you’re looking for a place to explore and enjoy some of the best Texan culture, look no further than El Paso, Texas! From stunning mountain ranges to thriving downtowns, this city has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to explore historic sites, marvel at the stunning scenery, or taste some of the best food in the country, we’ve got you covered. Here are 8 reasons why you should add El Paso, Texas to your travel plans this year.
1. See The Views From The El Paso Scenic Drive
The El Paso Scenic Drive is a must-experience for anyone visiting the Franklin Mountains. This winding road takes you up and provides stunning views of the city and its border landscape along the southern edge of the mountain range. The drive can be accessed from Rim Road, and it’s well worth spending some time enjoying all that this scenic route has to offer. Pack lunch or picnic supplies and take your time exploring each turn in this beautiful area!
Drive down Transmountain Road in Franklin Mountain State Park. This route has many scenic spots, including a lookout point with amazing views of El Paso and the Franklin Mountains.
Highway 28 is a scenic drive that takes you on a journey through the rural landscape of Chile. The road winds its way through chile farms, pecan trees, orchards, and rustic cattle ranches before ending at the ocean. This drive is great for a day outside of the city; it’s easy to take in all the beauty while traveling at speeds limited only by your own patience!
2. El Paso Zoo
El Paso Zoo is a great place to visit with the whole family. The zoo has three large exhibits – Animals of Africa, Animals of Asia, and Animals of the Americas – each containing a variety of different big and small animals. There are also fun Zoo Adventure Programs for children and adults alike, along with daily animal encounters where visitors can get up close to sea lions, eagles, monkeys, tortoises, and other animals. Additionally, the zoo offers family-friendly attractions such as a treehouse playground, a water play area year-round, and an African Safari that allows visitors to see elephants and rhinoceroses up close.
3. Franklin Mountains State Park
The Franklin Mountains are a spectacular attraction for residents and visitors alike. They’re easily accessible on the north end of El Paso, Texas, and make an excellent recreational outlet for everyone in the city and beyond. In addition to hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and other fun activity options, there are also geocaching opportunities available here. The park also features ranger-led programs that offer interesting insights into wildlife behavior, as well as extensive wildlife-watching opportunities. If you’re looking for a unique outing in El Paso that will leave you feeling satisfied – go check out the Franklin Mountains!
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4. Hueco Tanks State Park & Historic Site
Hueco Tanks is another amazing recreational spot near El Paso, Texas that offers hikers, climbers, and bird watchers a variety of outdoor activities. If you’re interested in the region’s history, be sure to visit Hueco Tanks!
Today, the park is a popular tourist destination that can be enjoyed by all. The imposing rock formations and natural basins are a stunning sight, but they also hold ancient significance. People have gathered at this unique location for thousands of years to take in the beauty and peace it has to offer.
5. Take In A Show At The Plaza Theatre
The Plaza Theatre is a stunning Spanish Colonial Revival theater located in the heart of downtown El Paso. Constructed in 1930 and restored to its original grandeur in 2006, this venue features some of the best live entertainment and attractions available in town.
One of the things that makes visiting the Plaza Theater so special is simply taking time to enjoy its ornate auditorium space. The mosaic-tiled floors, ornamental metal railings, and antique furniture all add to an atmospheric experience that can’t be found at any other theater around town. And don’t forget about those painted stars on the ceiling – they really make an impact!
Today, the Plaza is host to a variety of shows, including performances by top country artists, mariachi bands, and Broadway shows. Every Wednesday at noon, the building is open to the public for a free tour.
6. Hit The El Paso Mission Trail
The Mission Trail is a popular scenic driving route that runs through the state of Texas. The trail starts in El Paso and travels nine miles to the Ysleta Mission, one of the oldest surviving Spanish missions in Texas. Along the way, you’ll see several other important mission stations, such as Socorro (first built in 1691), San Elizario (with its Spanish garrison church from 1789), and others. This 9-mile route provides tourists with an opportunity to explore the state’s rich multicultural heritage and learn more about its history. It’s also a great way for drivers to get exercise and enjoy the beautiful scenery while enjoying some historical significance!
There are a number of authentic cultural attractions surrounding the missions, including local eateries, galleries, and cultural centers such as the Tigua Indian Cultural Center.
7. Get Your Art Fix At The El Paso Museum Of Art
The El Paso Museum of Art houses an impressive collection of more than 7,000 pieces focusing on American, European, and Mexican art from the 12th century to the current times. The American art collection features many fine examples from the southwest.
Max Weber, Milton Avery, and John Marin are among the modernist artists represented. There are also Impressionist pieces by Edward Bannister, Frank Boggs, William Merritt Chase, and Henry O. Tanner in the museum.
There is also a wide selection of prints, drawings, watercolors, posters, and photographs. A variety of educational programs and workshops are also held on a regular basis for all ages.
8. The Centennial Museum And Chihuahuan Desert Gardens
The Centennial Museum is a great place to visit if you’re interested in the natural and cultural history of the Southwest and Mexico. The museum features displays on archeology, ethnology, geology, paleontology, and more. In addition to permanent exhibits, the museum always changes the exhibitions that focus on different aspects of southwestern culture. Plus, don’t forget about Chihuahuan Desert Gardens – this beautiful garden contains more than 800 species of native plants!
In addition to the Lhakhang Cultural Exhibit, the facility includes UTEP’s Cultural Jewel, a collection of finely detailed Bhutanese architecture, murals, and more. There’s something for everyone to enjoy on this museum campus!
