Blog

El Paso's rich history and unique cultural blend make this a wonderful city to explore. Whether you live in El Paso or are visiting the area, here are a few tours that should be on your list. Trail Hands Dinner Tour The Old West is alive and well in El Paso. If you are interested in going on an exciting food excursion that features authentic West Texas cooking, book a Trail Hands Dinner Tour today. Border Sights Tours of El Paso has been taking guests on historical tours for years, and it now offers a true taste of the West. more Enjoy a climate-controlled ride up into the hills, true Cowboy Country. Among the scenic hills, you'll see horse farms and dude ranches. You might even get a glimpse of cowboys roping cattle. The dinner will be an authentic, rousing, West Texas event, so bring your appetite and a fun attitude. Tickets are $95 for adults and $50 for children 18 and under. Enjoy a steak dinner accompanied by two side dishes of your choice. Coffee, tea, and soft drinks are also included. Giddy up! Border Sights Tours of El Paso For a look at El Paso's rich history, you might consider Border Sights Tours' sightseeing tour. They offer entertaining and informative tours of the city, hitting all the top destinations while riding in the comfort of their luxury, climate-controlled vans. Tours are 3 hours and cost $65 per adult and $35 for anyone 18 and under. From the Tiffany Dome, to the Christ the King statue, to the world-famous Rosa's Cantina, you will be entertained and informed all along the way. The tour guides are happy to stop whenever and wherever. If you want to take pictures, just ask. El Paso Ghost Tours Paranormal activity is something most people need to see to believe. If seeing ghosts is what you want, you need to book an El Paso Ghost Tour today. For decades, the El Paso Ghost Tours team has been investigating El Paso's most haunted locations. Now you can join them on one of their exciting — and creepy! — tours, and experience for yourself the spine-tingling thrill of contact with the ghostly world around us. Right now, El Paso Ghost Tours is investigating one of El Paso's most haunted locations, the De Soto Hotel. Located in downtown El Paso, the location is recognized by the paranormal community as one of the most haunted buildings around. Built on top of a cemetery, the hotel has its own sordid past. Tours are held Fridays and begin promptly at 8:00 p.m., so arrive early. The tour costs $15 per person, and they offer a military discount price of $12. Guests are encouraged to bring their own audio- and video-recording devices, an open mind, and a keen eye and ear. Can you imagine the chill of being touched by something you cannot see, or the thrill of hearing a disembodied voice? These and many other paranormal activities have been documented at the De Soto Hotel. With so many tours available for your enjoyment, you are sure to experience exciting sights. Get out and explore all El Paso has to offer. Image via JKD Atlanta | Licensed under CC BY 2.0

If you asked somebody what their idea of a perfect date night would be, they'll likely respond by saying something along the lines of a nice dinner. And it's true: There's really nothing quite like dinner in a romantic setting with the person you love. In El Paso, Texas, there are numerous restaurants that are suited for this type of occasion. We've listed three of our favorites where we think you and your significant other will have a night to remember. Cafe Central Located on North Oregon, Cafe Central boasts an intimate and elegant atmosphere perfect for a romantic night out on the town. The menu is filled with delicious and classy dishes such as Puntas De Filete, Quail Pibil, Grilled All-Natural Ribeye, Scottish Salmon, Lobster Raviolo, fresh salads, and homemade desserts. Pair these items with a glass of wine or one of their signature drinks and you'll be in for quite a treat. more Reservations are welcome at Cafe Central. The eatery is open Monday to Thursday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., with the kitchen open 11 a.m. to 11.pm. and the bar open 11 p.m. to 2 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. They are closed on Sundays. Mesa Street Grill As indicated by the name, Mesa Street Grill is located on North Mesa Street in El Paso. It serves up a relaxing, yet elegant, experience with delicious creations that will have you salivating the moment you lay eyes on them. Things like their 12-ounce Prime New York, 14-ounce Tomahawk Pork Chop, Atlantic Salmon, Caramelized Scallops, Soup Du Jour', and handcrafted sides are just some of the restaurant's creations that local couples swear by. Bring your date to this fine establishment between the hours of 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Friday through Saturday for a unique take on the upscale American grill. Mi Piaci Ristorante Folks, who doesn't love Italian food? At Mi Piaci Ristorante, that's just what you'll be served during your date night. Featuring a classy ambiance with intimate lighting and elegant aesthetics, you'll be in for quite the meal thanks to menu items such as Pollo e funghi, Spaghetti Carbonara, Ortolana, Filetto di Manzo al Pepe Verde, Tilapia in crosta di Macadamia, and Astice Pappardelle. The eatery also serves homemade desserts that are the best way to round off your evening. And, of course, there's a vast selection of fine wines and other drinks. Mi Piaci Ristorante is open 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Friday to Saturday. Reservations are available. By visiting any of these fine establishments, you and your date are sure to have a delightfully romantic evening together. Filled with incredible menu entries, fabulous wines, delectable desserts, and classy environments, you'll both have a memorable night at any of the locations we listed above. We hope you and your significant other find your new favorite date night spot right in the heart of El Paso! Image via HarshLight | Licensed under CC BY 2.0

Whether you're looking for musicals, rock performances, or dance, from comedy to drama or anything in between, there is an event for you in El Paso this February. Some of the most iconic singers and celebrated musicals will be in town this year, so grab your family and head downtown this February for an unforgettable cultural experience with one of these six events. Shen Yun Shen Yun brings 5,000 years of Chinese culture and history to wondrous life. The classically trained dancers and orchestra will return to the Plaza Theatre with an all-new show this year on February 2 and 3. Backed by gorgeous animated backdrops, Shen Yun combines folk and ethnic dance with classical story-based performance and classic dance. more Kinky Boots Kinky Boots is a big-hearted Broadway hit that won six Tony awards, including Best Score, Best Choreography, and Best Musical. The iconic music, written by Cyndi Lauper, garnered Grammy and Tony awards. The show tells the story of Charlie Price, the struggling shoe-factory owner, and Lola, a fabulous performer who swoops in to save the day. This musical celebrates the power of humankind's determination to make the world a better place, and the friendships we make along the way. Check it out on February 9 at the Plaza Theatre. Shakespeare on the Run On Sunday, February 10, Shakespeare on the Run presents Shakespeare in Love at the Philanthropy Theatre. Staged by the New York Classical Theater, this performance moves the action 50 yards or so from scene to scene, generating a dynamic environment that will keep everyone involved. Willie Nelson For a Valentine's Day you won't forget, spend the evening with your loved ones and singer, songwriter, activist, and author Willie Nelson. This Texas icon, and pioneer of outlaw country music, has been on the road for five years but finally makes his triumphant return to El Paso this February 14. Hits like "On the Road Again," "Georgia on My Mind," and "Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain" will have you rocking out all night long. Come see him at the Abraham Chavez Theatre at 8 p.m. San Elizario Historic District Tours For something a little different, head to the San Elizario historic district for the nationally acclaimed walking tour that takes place the fourth Sunday of every month at noon and at 3 p.m. Gather at least 15 minutes before the starting time at the Main Street Mercantile for a slow-paced but high-energy walking tour over the course of about an hour and a half. Tony Bennett Tony Bennett has performed with pretty much every pop music icon you can think of, from Frank Sinatra and Paul McCartney to Barbra Streisand and Lady Gaga. No American pop musician has recorded for so long or to such acclaim. This 19-time Grammy award winner, including the 2001 Lifetime Achievement Award, has sold over 50 million records around the world. He'll have you dancing in the aisles at the Plaza Theatre on February 27. Whatever you're in the mood for, these events are sure to be fun! Image via Visit El Paso | Licensed by CC BY 2.0

Going out to dinner with the family is always a treat. It's a chance for everyone to socialize while enjoying a delicious meal. When dinner plans are on the agenda, consider one of these El Paso restaurants to fill the bill. L&J Cafe For a bit of nostalgia blended with authentic south-of-the-border taste, a visit to L&J Cafe is in order. It serves up a diverse menu of traditional Mexican dishes as well as creative borderland favorites. In business since 1927, the cafe has consistently offered great food, flavorful brews, friendly customer service, and a family-friendly environment. The historic building that houses the cafe features original murals and photos signed by celebrities who have "wet their whistle" at L&J. The cafe is open Monday-Friday at 9 a.m. and Saturday and Sunday at 8 a.m. Rosco's Burger Inn more Hot and juicy burgers with a side of chili cheese fries are just a sampling of what to expect at Rosco's Burger Inn. The cozy diner has an at-home atmosphere with its open kitchen, where you can watch your food being prepared. Savor the aroma of grilled onions as your homemade burger is cooked to perfection with all the trimmings and served on a toasted bun. Order a bowl of tasty chili and a side of onion rings to go along with your burger and fries. Expect good food and service in a friendly and casual family atmosphere. Dine Tuesday-Thursday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Track One Perfect for a night out with the family, Track One in on the right track when it comes to providing a delectable menu and refreshing beverages. The restaurant was established in 1972 using three vintage railroad cars from Southern Pacific: a dining car, boxcar, and caboose. Bring your family for lunch or dinner and sample the menu, which includes one just for kids. Order the specialty wings, an order of Killer Nachos or go all out with a T-bone steak, sauteed shrimp, or AM Track kebabs. The children's menu features corn dogs, PB&J sandwiches, pizza, and grilled cheese sandwiches. For adults, order a lime mojito or jalapeno margarita and your meal is good to go. Rib Hut In 1984, the Rib Hut came onto the scene in El Paso, bringing with it a sumptuous menu of succulent ribs, sausage, brisket, chicken, catfish, burgers, and more. Enjoy slow-smoked goodness and taste-tingling sauces, and to quench your thirst, select an ice-cold brew. Take advantage of lunch and specials every day, such as chicken-fried steak, one-half slab of baby back ribs, smoked chicken, sausage platter, and a thick and juicy Angus barbecue cheeseburger. There's a kid's menu, too, with mac and cheese, burgers, sliders, and a barbecue plate. Whether you want a sandwich or a combo platter, the Rib Hut has menu choices to satisfy any appetite. When lunch or dinner is planned for an outing, take advantage of the cultural cuisine selections available in El Paso for a family meal. Image via Visit El Paso | Licensed by CC BY 2.0

The sports culture in El Paso, Texas, is backed by impressive athlete profiles and dedicated fanbases that peak year-round. Whether you're into ice hockey, soccer, or baseball, finding a favorite pastime in this West Texas town is an easy feat for sports enthusiasts. Here your guide to El Paso sports teams gearing up for an exciting 2018-2019 season. El Paso Rhinos Part of the Midwest Division of the Western States Hockey League, the El Paso Rhinos are the premier amateur junior ice hockey team in the city. Former pro hockey player Cory Herman founded the team and serves as head coach, boasting nine Division Championship titles, a 2014 UHU (United Hockey Union) National Championship title, and three Thorne Cup Championship titles, all awarded between 2006 and 2018. more Additionally, all home games for the Rhinos hockey team are based at the El Paso County Coliseum Events Center on 4100 E. Paisano. Players train at the nearby Rhinos Training Center where they build on agility and strength to help improve their performances on the ice and further their careers. El Paso Coyotes Also based at the El Paso County Coliseum Events Center are the Coyotes professional soccer team's home matches. It competed in the Southwest Division of the Major Arena Soccer League alongside fellow teams like the Rio Grande Valley Barracudas and Dallas Sidekicks. Founded in 2016, the El Paso Coyotes are still a fairly new team and hold a bright future for the players, which mostly hail from Mexico and the U.S. In fact, the team collected its first franchise win during the 2017-2018 season, and earlier this year, it finished strong with a record 58 goals combined for midfielders Christian Gutierrez and Hugo Puentes, earning them a place among the top scorers in the league. El Paso Locomotive FC As a team founded in early 2018, the El Paso Locomotive FC doesn't have a full roster as of yet. However, the current lineup does include players hailing from clubs across the globe, including Latin America, Europe, and the U.S. This promising up-and-coming professional soccer team debuted in the United Soccer League Championship league and is expected to compete in the division's flagship tournament in 2019. As of now, all home games for the El Paso Locomotive FC are scheduled for play at Southwest University Park. El Paso Chihuahuas Also located at Southwest University Park is the training ground for El Paso Chihuahuas baseball. This Minor League Baseball (MiLB) team and San Diego Padres affiliate competes in the Pacific Southern Division of the Pacific Coast League (PCL). So far, the Chihuahuas have earned a PCL Championship in 2016, two Conference Championships, and four Division Championship titles since its 2014 debut. Baseball games at Southwest University Park offer fans the chance to get autographs from players prior to the first pitch. They can also sport their best team attire and accessories, courtesy of the onsite Team Shop, and cheer on the Chihuahuas as they face fellow teams like the Tacoma Rainiers, San Antonio Missions, and Sacramento River Cats. El Paso is home to a distinct set of sports teams whose home games never fail to get the crowd excited. Consider this guide to help you plan for the perfect season of indoor and outdoor sports recreation. Image via Mark Mauno | Licensed by CC BY-SA 2.0

If you're a culture buff traveling or residing in El Paso, Texas, you'll be glad to know that the city has many museums that offer diverse cultural experiences. Visiting these museums is a great way to know the city and its surrounding areas on a deeper level. Check out these three museums while you're in El Paso. Centennial Museum Established in 1936, the Centennial Museum in the University of Texas is the oldest museum in El Paso. This museum focuses on preserving and showcasing the cultural and natural history of the largest desert in North America, the Chihuahuan Desert region. It features a diverse permanent collection that consists of about 73,000 items, ranging from Native American crafts and artworks from famous local artists to fossils from the Ice Age and desert animals. The building that houses the Centennial Museum is an attraction in itself. Fashioned after a typical Bhutanese fortress, it features steep sloping walls, tile mandalas, and stone urns that resemble prayer wheels. Just outside the museum, you'll find the beautiful Chihuahuan Desert Gardens, which has over 800 species of plants that are found in the Chihuahuan Desert. more Located on West University Avenue, the Centennial Museum is open from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. from Tuesday to Saturday. Admission is free. National Border Patrol Museum The National Border Patrol Museum is the only museum in the U.S. dedicated to the history of border patrol. It covers over 80 years of border patrol history, from the Old West to the present day. As you explore the museum, you'll see an extensive collection of weapons, equipment, artifacts, documents, photos, paintings, and vehicles that provide an insight into the activities and achievements of the U.S. Border Patrol and the methods individuals used to cross the U.S.-Mexico border illegally. The National Border Patrol Museum is situated on Woodrow Bean Transmountain Road. It's open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. from Tuesday to Saturday. El Paso Holocaust Museum and Study Center Founded in 1994 by Holocaust survivor Henry Kellen, the El Paso Holocaust Museum and Study Center seeks to educate the public about Nazi concentration camps, the Third Reich, and resistance movements that took place during World War II. It does this through interesting interpretative panels and video presentations. In the “Final Solution” section of the museum, you can “board” a railcar and experience what it was like to be deported to an extermination camp. The El Paso Holocaust Museum is housed in an artfully designed building on North Oregon Street in downtown El Paso. It's open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. from Tuesday to Friday and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Whether you're interested in cultural, art, or military history, you'll be able to find a museum in El Paso that suits your taste. Other museums worth visiting include the El Paso Museum of History, El Paso Museum of Art, Fort Bliss and Old Ironsides Museum, Chamizal National Memorial, and the El Paso County Historical Society's Burges House. Image via Visit El Paso | Licensed by CC BY 2.0

If you happen to be in El Paso this holiday season, you should attend some of the exciting festivities and events that will be taking place around the city. Whether you want to see Christmas light displays, shop for gifts, watch live shows, or enjoy fun-filled activities with your family and friends, you can easily find an event that suits your fancy. Check out these three popular holiday events in El Paso. Winterfest Celebration of Lights In El Paso, the Winterfest Celebration of Lights is the event that officially ushers in the holiday season. This year, it'll kick off on Nov. 18 at San Jacinto Plaza with a full day of holiday-themed entertainment, including a fireworks display, the tree more lighting ceremony, and the spectacular Celebration of Lights Parade that features numerous walking groups, floats, and vehicles. During the course of the festival, which lasts until Jan. 6, there will be a lot of events, activities, and displays throughout the downtown area, such as an outdoor ice-skating rink, winter-themed cafe, life-size snow globe selfie station, and seasonal food and drinks. If you want to do some holiday shopping, head down to the Celebration of Lights Holiday Market, where you can buy a wide range of merchandise from 60 local vendors and enjoy live entertainment. Performances at the Plaza Theatre Between November and January every year, the iconic Plaza Theatre hosts a variety of live performances to celebrate the holiday season. While new shows will be available this year, you can expect to see a number of regular performances on the roster, such as the “Great Russian Nutcracker” by the internationally acclaimed Moscow Ballet and special productions from Dave Koz, El Paso Symphony Orchestra, and El Paso Choral Society. Constructed in 1930, the Plaza Theatre is an attraction in itself, featuring Spanish mission-style architecture on the outside and grandiose rococo design on the inside. It looks opulent and glamorous with its posh carpeting, mosaic-tiled floors, intricately painted ceilings, wrought iron banisters, and antique furnishings. So, dress your best on your visit. The theater is located at the Pioneer Plaza on West Mills Avenue. Sun Bowl If you're a football fan, you can make this holiday season more memorable by attending the nationally televised Sun Bowl game. Founded in 1934, the Sun Bowl is the second-oldest bowl game in the country, behind the Rose Bowl. This highly anticipated event features college football teams from the Pac-12 Conference and the Atlantic Coast Conference. Besides watching exciting football action, you'll also get the chance to see one of the most beautiful football stadiums in the country — the Sun Bowl stadium. While this year's participating teams are still undecided, the game is scheduled to take place on Dec. 31. The Sun Bowl stadium is situated on Sun Bowl Drive. Due to its diverse cultural influences, El Paso also has some holiday traditions and festivities that are not found in other parts of the country. You can expect to have a unique holiday experience while in El Paso. Image via Visit El Paso | Licensed by CC BY 2.0

Summer may be over, but that doesn't mean all the fun outdoor activities you enjoy doing with your friends or family have to wait until next year. The warm months of fall in El Paso are filled with exciting events that have a little something for everyone. Here are some of the most interesting things happening in and around El Paso these coming months. Mesilla Jazz Happening The first weekend of October marks the 18th edition of this spectacular annual event that takes place each fall in the famous Mesilla Plaza. Organized by The Mesilla Valley Jazz & Blues Society with the purpose of promoting jazz and blues in El Paso, this free event is not only a delight for lovers of the genre but also for casual music lovers looking to spend some fun few days outdoors. more Hosted by jazz aficionado Trevor Hodgkin, this lively fall event offers spectators an eclectic mix of live jazz and blues performers. Live shows start on Friday afternoon and end on Sunday evening, so get your friends and family and have a weekend picnic while listening to some quality music. Dia de Los Muertos Festival For a different kind of celebration, there's the annual Dia de Los Muertos festival hosted by Concordia Cemetery. The event is a tribute to the classic Mexican tradition of celebrating the loved ones who are no longer with us. Although the premise may not be the happiest one, this is indeed a celebration in both cultural and spiritual ways, as it celebrates their existence instead of mourning their loss. Attendees will be treated to food trucks, live music, Mexican performers, poetry readings, and participants wearing traditional Mexican clothing with the famous painted skulls on their faces called calaveras. El Paso Chopin Music Festival For the past 24 years, some of the best pianists in the world have gathered in El Paso's Chamizal National Memorial Theater to celebrate the works of legendary composer and pianist Frederic Chopin. Throughout the years, this festival has enjoyed excellent reviews from critics, and its concerts have been played in front of packed auditoriums. This year's edition sees performers from all over the world, featuring famous pianists such as Eric Zuber or Richard Dowling and also El Paso local Lucy Scarbrough. Concerts are scattered all over the fall period, and entrance is free. La Viña Winery Harvest Festival New Mexico's oldest and most famous winery hosts this lively and cheerful festival that takes place this year in mid-October. Celebrating the fall harvest, this event offers 20 different types of wine to be tasted or bought by participants. Included in the admission fee are a souvenir glass and the chance to taste nine different types of wine. For people in and around El Paso, summer doesn't have to end in September. Thanks to the wonderful mix of events happening here each fall, outdoor fun can stretch way beyond Thanksgiving, and each evening or weekend can be a different kind of celebration that can be shared with friends or family. Image via Visit El Paso | Licensed by CC BY 2.0

El Paso is a great area for hiking. With an average of 200 days of sunshine each year and a point near the city that reaches over 7,000 feet, there are plenty of options for both beginners and experienced hikers. The Franklin Mountains State Park offers several hiking trails, and Billy Rogers Arroyo Park also has some trails. Check out these hiking trails in El Paso, Texas for your next day out. The Window on the Ron Coleman Trail The Ron Coleman trail is the perfect length for a day hike, and The Window is a well-known rock formation. The trail runs for 7 miles round trip with an elevation of 3,000 feet, and even though it is one of the more challenging trails in the area, the views from The Window are well worth it. Many hikers think that it offers the best view of the Franklin Mountains. more The El Paso Tin Mines Trail If you want a hike that the whole family can enjoy, head to the El Paso Tin Mines Trail. This hike keeps you in the lower elevations, but it still runs for over 6 miles, and it is a pet-friendly hike, so you can even bring your four-legged hiker with you. If you want to bring a flashlight, you can explore some of the mines along the way. Aztec Cave Trail The Aztec Cave Trail is a short hike, and it leads to caves where Native Americans once lived. You'll find the trailhead near the Tom Mays trail, and there is plenty of parking. The trail is mostly a straight shot up to the caves, which you can see from the base. The final section of the trail is fairly steep, and you might need to do some scrambling. Once you get to the caves, you can go inside. They are not too deep and have just enough room to get you some shade. Lost Dog Trailhead Check out the Lost Dog Trailhead for a good workout. This hike doesn't have a huge incline, making it a good choice for beginners, and it is also a favorite with the mountain bikers. The Lost Dog trails feature over 41 miles of trails, and for a long but doable hike, try the Tour de Lost Dog. This is a 14-mile hike with hills, vistas, and canyons to explore. There are even some views along the way where you can see three different states. Hueco Tanks State Historical Park History buffs should check out the 3-mile hike that runs through Hueco Tanks State Historical Park. This is an easy loop trail with rocks to climb up and over, along with some beautiful sights. Keep in mind that only 70 guests can enter the self-guided area of the park at one time, but you can call ahead to make a reservation. Make sure to check out these hiking trails in the El Paso area for your next hiking trip and enjoy the beautiful Texas scenery and weather. Image via Rolf Dietrich Brecher | Licensed by CC BY-SA 2.0

El Paso doesn't get the same recognition as Austin, Dallas, San Antonio, or Houston, but that doesn't mean that it's not one of the best places in Texas to live or visit. With about 680,000 residents, it's smaller than other cities, making it easy to explore on your own. However, a tour of El Paso is one of the best ways to experience everything the city has to offer. From food and drink to landmarks and attractions, these El Paso tours are worth the price of admission. GeoBetty Tours If fitness and exercise are an important part of your life, explore El Paso on foot or mountain bike with GeoBetty Tours. When you book a tour with GeoBetty, a guide will take you through the most beautiful parts of the Chihuahuan Desert and the Franklin Mountains. Both of these amazing geographic locations feature diverse ecosystems with a variety of flora and fauna such as mountain lions, mule deer, coyotes, cacti, and succulents. GeoBetty offers packages or customized tours based on your interests, fitness level, skills, and times. Both hiking and mountain biking tours range from two to five hours with skill levels ranging from one to five. Prices start at $75 per person, $25 for each additional person, and $15 for youths (12-17). A Taste of El Paso Dining Tours A melting pot of cultures converges in El Paso, creating a diverse culinary scene unlike any other. With A Taste of El Paso Dining Tours, you can get your hands on some of the most delicious food in El Paso while learning about the culinary and historical influences of the city. Choose from an authentic Mexican dining experience or the Trail Hands Tour, which provides a trip to a ranch, a delicious steak, and a view of both El Paso and Juarez, Mexico, from Scenic Drive. The tours are available by appointment every day from 4 to 9 p.m. The cost is $95 per person. Self-Guided Downtown Walking Tour Some travelers like to explore at their own pace. With the self-guided downtown walking tour, you can do just that. Created by the Visit El Paso tourism board, this self-guided tour takes you through some of the most important buildings, parks, and architectural marvels that are part of the city's urban revitalization project. Just download the Visitor's Guide app for directions on the 90-minute tour, and stop off at the other shops and restaurants to your heart's content. Paso Del Norte Paranormal Society Ghost Tours One of the major cities in the Old West, El Paso has plenty of stories and secrets. Hop on board one of the Paso Del Norte Paranormal Society Ghost Tours to learn about some of the most ghastly, scandalous, and frightening events. This includes visits to haunted brothels and saloons, as well as places frequented by Billy the Kid, John Wesley Hardin, Doc Holiday, Wyatt Earp, and other Wild West lawmen and outlaws. Whether you're a fitness freak, a foodie, or just an adventurous explorer, you won't find any better way to soak in El Paso than through these exciting tours. You might just love them enough to take them on your next visit to the city. Image via uıɐɾ ʞ ʇɐɯɐs | Licensed by CC BY-SA 2.0

Are you on the hunt for a fun community race to get the family involved and fuel your passion for marathon running? El Paso residents are in for a treat. The city is hosting a variety of fun-themed 5Ks sure to excite everyone in town. Here are four upcoming events to keep in mind. Color Vibe 5K Run The Color Vibe 5K Run is a race like no other. Color stations are set up with paint launchers ready to douse runners in an airy mist of colored powder from head to toe. But don't worry — the powder washes out easily and is non-toxic, so all ages are welcome to join the fun. If interested, you can pre-register to secure your spot, enjoy discounted pricing, and enter an exclusive contest to win free goodies. Race packets are standard and include freebies like T-shirts, sunglasses, race bibs, and color packs. The race starts at 8 a.m., and you can check the Color Vibe 5K Run website for date and location updates. Date: TBD Dragons Zombies Skulls Run Despite the fantasy-packed name, you won't find any dragons or zombies at this El Paso race. However, you will find a Golden Sugar Skull, which will be given to top finishers in each age division. This glitzy reward goes hand in hand with the race's Dio De Los Muertos theme. The Dragons Zombies Skulls Run will offer everything from sideline entertainment like mariachis and traditional folk dancing to an after-party filled with children's activities and authentic Mexican and Latin American cuisine. Events are expected to kick off in the evening, but a location has yet to be announced. Date: Sept. 8 Downtown Running of the Bulls 5K The Running of the Bulls 5K event is a great way to take in the exciting sights and sounds of bustling downtown El Paso. The course begins at Franklin and Oregon Streets and offers a refreshing 3.1-mile trek past the downtown area. Opening events begin at 8:15 a.m. with the 5K run scheduled to start 45 minutes later. Awards will be given out to top finishers in each age group and teams of five or more. There will also be activity stations and door prizes available. Participants can opt to purchase a post-race meal ticket for $15, a single 5K run ticket for $25, or both for $30. Date: Oct. 20 Flying Horse Half Marathon, 10K, and 5K Head north of El Paso to Anthony for this next running event. The Flying Horse Half Marathon, 10K, and 5K will take place near the Henry Miramontes Memorial Park on Richard White and Franklin Street. From here you'll embark on a double-loop course that stretches from the Texas border into New Mexico and back. Admission ranges from $25 to $45 depending on date of registration, though all military members will receive a $5 discount. Included with that price are goodies such as a special race T-shirt, an athlete bag, snacks and beverages, a finisher medal, and more. The 5K portion kicks off at 8:10 a.m. with an award ceremony following at 9:15 a.m. Date: Nov. 17 There's nothing like a 5K to get your adrenaline pumping. Mark these El Paso runs on your calendar so you don't miss out! Image via Visit El Paso | Licensed by CC BY 2.0

August in El Paso, Texas, sets the stage for summer festivals and events. It's also the perfect time of year to keep the kids entertained before they head back to school. No matter the occasion, you'll find plenty of things to do this August in and around the El Paso area. Here are just four events we recommend adding to your summer to-do list. Plaza Classic Film Festival Classic films beckon movie aficionados everywhere and now's your chance to explore these cinematic gems up close at the annual Plaza Classic Film Festival. Hosted at the Plaza Theatre from August 2-12, you and your guests can enjoy screenings of more than 90 films. These range from childhood favorites like Aladdin and Lady and the Tramp to others such as the 1970 romantic drama Love Story starring Ali MacGraw. In fact, the Golden Globe-winning actress, activist, and author is a special guest at this year's festival and will be holding an exclusive autograph session for fans. more Third Annual Race for the Future 5K Are you interested in giving back to the community while fueling your passion for marathon running? If so, the Third Annual Race for the Future 5K is a can't-miss event for El Paso residents. Proceeds will go to local organizations such as Community Partners of El Paso, Inc., a nonprofit that works with mistreated and neglected children. The race will begin at the Up and Running sporting goods store on August 5 at 7:30 a.m. sharp. Sign up for a 1-mile walk while you're there or push your limits to a 5K (3.1 miles). Registration fees range from $25 to $30, though you'll be given a slight discount if you register as part of a team of 10 or more. For participating in this event, you'll be awarded with a special t-shirt, raffle prize opportunities, and a trophy or medal if you finish in the top three. All ages are welcome! Zootopia STEAM Summer Camp From August 6-10, bring the kiddos to the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) campus for some fun summer learning. The Zootopia STEAM Summer Camp serves as the perfect way to engage children in math and science exploration before the start of the upcoming school term. For a $100 fee, your kids will get to participate in engaging lessons and activities throughout the week. These include solving math problems, exploring plant and animal ecosystems, and building a scale model replica of popular attractions at the El Paso Zoo. Sounds like an exciting and stimulating way to keep your kids' brains active this summer! Victorian Sci-Fi Book and Tea Club Don your best steampunk attire and stop by the Magoffin Home State Historic Site on Aug. 18 for a Victorian Sci-Fi Book and Tea Club gathering. Here you can enjoy tasty pastries and tea while exploring the 1886 novel A Study in Scarlet by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. You can find a copy of the book online for free at Project Gutenberg. All ages are welcome to attend, and admission is only $5 per person. Whether you're a classic film buff or a fan of literature, these four events in El Paso deserve a spot on your August itinerary. Photo by Visit El Paso | Licensed by CC BY 2.0