Sitting on the tip of Texas as the largest border city is the rich and diverse city of El Paso. The city boasts a wealth of attractions, historic sights, and cultural institutions. Here’s our selection of must-see landmarks!
1. Historic Mission Trail
The historic trail is nine miles long and encompasses three missions that date back to the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, which give it its name. The three churches – Ysleta Mission, Socorro Mission, and San Elizario Chapel – are the oldest churches in the entire state of Texas. These churches are still used for services. Along the trail, visitors will find museums and art galleries, along with restaurants and other sites.
The trail represents a segment of the oldest and what was once the longest road in North America. Once known as the El Camino Real de Tierra Adentro, the road started in Mexico City and ended in Santa Fe, linking farms, estates, and military. Today, visitors can experience and explore over 400 years of local history.
2. Museum of History
Founded in 1974, the Museum of History showcases the rich multicultural history of the city. Located in Downtown EP, the museum presents and educates its visitors about the past 400 years of the United States and Mexican border territory. In its 16,000 feet of exhibition space, the museum features permanent and traveling exhibitions that explore the history and development of the area.
3. Plaza Theatre
The Plaza Theatre was built in 1930 and is probably one of the city’s best-known destinations. The theatre is located downtown and is listed as a National Historic Building of Significance. The exterior is built in the style of Spanish mission-style architecture and features a three-tier domed tower. Inside, the Plaza features mosaic tiled floors, painted ceilings, wrought iron banisters, and extravagant Spanish antique furniture. Visitors can watch shows, concerts, and many other productions.
4. Hueco Tanks State Park & Historic Site
The Hueco Tanks State Park features thousands of ancient rock paintings, pictographs, and petroglyphs. Named after the immense rock formations, people have gathered here for thousands of years because of the natural basins that collect rainwater. Open year-round, visitors can join a guided tour to see the ancient rock art these people left behind.
It’s also a very popular destination for those who love hiking, rock climbing, scrambling, and bouldering. Follow one of the many routes up 250 feet of elevation to reach the top and enjoy breathtaking views of the Hueco Mountains and empty deserts.
5. Franklin Mountains State Park
As one of the most prominent features of the city’s skyline, the Franklin Mountains State Park spreads over 27,000 acres of land. The park welcomes residents and visitors wishing to escape city life and enjoy the beauty of mother nature. It’s very popular for hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, and wildlife watching.
The park features over 100 miles of trails, designated climbing areas, and campsites for those wanting to experience the park at night. Reach the top to witness incredible views of the desert surrounding the city. The Wyler Aerial Tramway takes you to the top of the 5,632-foot-tall Ranger Peak.
There are dozens of other must-see attractions in the city. To discover them all, you’ll need to get out and explore the city – so get to planning!
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