Khalid sings praises, “From the city of the 9-1-5” about his hometown of El Paso Texas. Generally speaking, El Paso isn’t one of those destination cities. However, we have discovered that this little pocket of Texas is a hidden gem. My sister lives in El Paso and we love visiting her family and discovering new places and things to do in El Paso and the surrounding area.
There is plenty of history and culture to absorb in this border town. El Paso also makes a great home base for some amazing day trips.
Whether you’re on a road trip through the Southwest, or just looking for a new place to explore, my hope is that this guide will inspire you to visit El Paso!
Top Things to Do in El Paso With Kids
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1. El Paso is rich in culture and history
Being a border town, El Paso has a large Mexican influence and is rich in history. From it’s humble beginnings as a mountain pass trading center, to becoming a frontier boomtown in the Wild West.
El Paso also played a role in the Mexican Revolution. The Downtown Historic District is filled with beautiful architecture and plenty of stories. In fact, El Paso High School is considered one of the most haunted high schools in America!
You can download the free Visit El Paso App for a variety of self-guided walking tours. Here are a few sites in the heart of downtown El Paso that are worth visiting.
What to see in El Paso’s Downtown Historic District:
The Plaza Theater
The Plaza Theater was constructed in 1929 and is one of the oldest buildings in El Paso.
The ornate details of the elaborate interior earned it the name, “The Showplace of the Southwest”.
The theater fell into a state of disrepair and closed down in 1974. After undergoing extensive renovations, the Plaza reopened in 2006.
Today you can experience a concert, Symphony Orchestra performance, Broadway show or film festival in the beautiful 10-story stage house.
It is one of the top things to do in El Paso for locals and visitors alike!
Camino Real Hotel
The Camino Real Hotel is a national historic landmark built in 1912. During the Mexican revolution, guests would gather on the rooftop to watch the chaos in the streets below.
The hotel was built to be one of the finest hotels in the Southwest, the place to see and be seen.
Over the years, renovations have brought it back to its original state of luxury.
Even if you aren’t staying the night, it is still worth popping in to gawk at the elegant dining hall and the elaborate attention to detail.
El Paso Museum of Art
Entrance to the El Paso Museum of Art is free. There are a variety of art exhibits on display and various activities scheduled throughout the month.
The museum is centrally located near the Camino Real Hotel and Plaza Theater.
It is worth stopping in while you’re in the area to admire the work of local and international artists.
San Jacinto Historic Plaza
This small manicured city plaza has had many uses over the years. It once served as a place for ranch corrals, a location for US Army to drills, and the site for Baptist revivals.
However, the most interesting use for this land was when an alligator pond was installed.
At one point there were 7 alligators living in the pond which attracted visitors from all over.
Sadly, several of the beloved alligators suffered abuse from vandals, and eventually those that survived were moved to the El Paso Zoo. Today there has been a fountain and statue erected in its place.
The plaza is lit up most nights and the annual lighting of the Christmas tree also takes place here each year to kick off the holiday season.
Mexican Markets
Just down the street from the plaza, you’ll find the Mexican markets lining the block.
These shops are fun to browse and pick up some inexpensive souvenirs and toys.
Be sure to stop by the Blue Seal Bakery and pick up some delicious .75-cent Mexican pastries as well.
El Segundo Barrio Street Murals:
El Segundo Barrio is a historic Hispanic neighborhood located about 1.5 miles from the Plaza Theater. It is also one of the oldest neighborhoods in El Paso.
Dozens of artistic murals have been painted on buildings to embrace the rich culture of the neighborhood.
Download the Visit El Paso app for a self-guided walking tour of the murals.
2. El Paso has the most delicious authentic Mexican food
You don’t need to cross the border to enjoy fresh and flavorful Mexican dishes. Eating your way through the city is one of the best things to do in El Paso! Here are a few recommendations:
- Forti’s Mexican Elder Restaurant: This restaurant has a warm and homey ambiance while serving up traditional Tex-Mex specials. Try the savory Chili Colorado, a traditional Mexican dish of beef simmered in a red chili sauce.
- L&J Cafe: This family-owned restaurant has been serving up flavorful dishes since 1927 and is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
- El Taquito: Serving freshly cooked tortilla chips and hand-made tortillas, this inexpensive and authentic restaurant is also known for its incredible flautas.
- Rivas Taco Shop: This modest local shop is home to the California 1/2-pound burrito. Along with delicious food, they also serve up quick and friendly service!
3. El Paso is the gateway to White Sands National Monument
Located an hour and a half outside El Paso, you’ll discover miles of magnificent rolling white sand dunes.
We have visited so many incredible places, but witnessing White Sands at sunset completely took my breath away.
This natural wonder is one of the most stunning places in the United States and is awe-inspiring to be able to experience the beauty in person.
It’s the perfect day trip from El Paso. Pack up a picnic and some sleds or body boards and head out for an amazing adventure! Be sure to check out our Tips for Visiting White Sands guide before you visit!
4. You can enjoy the beauty of the desert and the changing seasons in one day
We live in Arizona and love the predictable sunshine. The desert offers a unique soul-enriching beauty.
However, it’s normal to crave the change of seasons. There is something spectacular about experiencing the crisp fall air, or snowflakes drifting down from the sky.
What is great about El Paso is that you can soak up the sunshine and warmth, then drive less than two hours and find yourself in the charming mountain town of Cloudcroft, New Mexico.
Visit in the late spring and early summer to picnic in meadows dotted with wildflowers.
Discover the beauty of Ponderosa pines dusted with snow in a winter wonderland.
Soak in the magic of aspen leaves turning a golden yellow in the Fall.
Take a hike through the changing leaves at Lincoln National Forest, stroll down the idyllic main street and grab a bite to eat, and be sure to stop in at the Old Apple Barn for a slice of homemade pie!
For more things to do in Cloudcroft, be sure to check out our guide for visiting Cloudcroft New Mexico.
5. Discover a sacred desert sanctuary
Hueco Tanks State Park and Historic Site is located about 45 minutes outside of El Paso.
These rugged rock hills have served an important purpose for thousands of years. The natural rock pools provided fresh rain water, and the rock overhangs and caves provided shelter for native settlers.
The fertile ground also served as farmland as early as A.D. 1150. Today you can still see the stories of the early settlers portrayed through petroglyphs and pictographs.
What my kids loved the most was exploring the impressive rock formations. Scrambling under eaves, shimmying through crevices, jumping over cracks, hiding in caves, and climbing to lookout points. Nature really is the most incredible playground!
The kids spent hours getting lost in their imaginations, it really was the highlight of our trip and one of our favorite things to do in El Paso!
The visitor’s center offers a wealth of information and history. Visitors are required to watch an informational video briefly outlining the history, rules of conduct, and the importance of preserving the area.
Each visitor is required to have a permit, there is a limit of 70 permits released each day. Call up to 90 days in advance to reserve a permit.
Guided tours also require a reservation a minimum of one week in advance (click the link above for the phone number, fees, and visitor information).
There are several hiking trails throughout the park, but the kids were having so much fun that we never made it past these rock hills next to the visitor center!
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Other things to do in El Paso:
If you’re still looking for things to do in El Paso, here are a few more recommendations:
- Carlsbad Caverns National Park is also located a little over 2 hours east of El Paso. Exploring the massive cave system makes for a memorable day trip from El Paso.
- The 2-mile stretch of road known as Scenic Drive climbs along the edge of the Franklin Mountains until reaching the most beautiful lookout. At just over 4,000 feet above sea level, the overlook offers sweeping views across El Paso and into Juarez, Mexico. It’s especially spectacular at night to see the city lights sparkling for miles.
- Wyler Aerial Tramway: For $7 you can take the 4-minute ride up the rugged mountain cliffs where you will be rewarded with views over 3 states and 2 nations. *Please note: the tram has since closed, before planning a visit please check the website to see if it has re-opened.
- Cattleman’s Steakhouse: This restaurant has such a fun atmosphere, especially for families. Cattleman’s is actually a working ranch that includes a petting zoo. Your kids will also enjoy the Apache playground, Indian maze, buffalo, longhorns and rattlesnake pit! You can also roast s’mores at your table after enjoying one of the best steaks in all of Texas!
- Farmer’s Market: Every Saturday from 10 am -2 pm you can visit the local farmer’s market and browse the stalls for handcrafted gifts, original artwork and locally grown produce.
- Lucchese Boot Co Factory Store: Nothing says Texas like an authentic pair of boots! Embrace the culture and visit the Lucchese Boot factory store. Each boot is handmade from start to finish, the craftsmanship is truly a work of art. Even if you’re not in the market to buy a pair, you can call ahead and schedule a tour to see the fascinating process of making boots. (915-778-8060)
- El Paso Zoo: With exotic animals from around the world, along with a water feature and tree house playground, the El Paso Zoo is the perfect place to spend a day with the family.
- H& H Car Wash and Coffee Shop: This quaint little shop has become a favorite. Not just for the delicious Tex-Mex lunch and dinner options, but also for the unique atmosphere. The shop is attached to a car wash and the interior is decorated like a vintage diner.
- Chihuahuas Baseball Game: Grab a ballpark frank and root on the local home team as the sun sets on a warm summer evening. With tickets starting at only $5, it makes for an expensive evening of family fun!
- Border Patrol Museum: The Border Patrol Museum is the only museum of its kind in the United States. It is a fascinating place to learn the history of the border patrol, view artifacts and even climb on board some of the vehicles used to secure the border.
- Western Playland Amusement Park: For less than $25 you can get an unlimited wristband to enjoy all of the carnival rides. From the Loco 360 for the adrenaline junkies, to more tame rides like the train. You’ll find something for all ages!
- Wet ‘n Wild Waterpark: From thrill rides to chill pools, the best way to spend a hot Texas summer day is in the water!
- El Paso Star: A trip to El Paso isn’t complete without driving by the iconic star. The world’s largest man-made illuminated star lights up the mountainside every night. The star can be seen from the freeway while driving down I-10. It was originally made for the soldiers of Fort Bliss and was only lit during the Christmas season when the soldiers were returning home. It is now lit daily and has been a beloved feature in El Paso since 1940.
If you’ve never considered visiting El Paso, I hope this guide has inspired you to discover all the fun and unique things to do in El Paso!
If you are planning a road trip through the Southwest, be sure to check out our guide for 7 Underrated Spots in Arizona that You Need to Visit!
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Had no idea about all these places in El Paso! We stayed for a night once, but don’t really remember it! Well if I ever visit again this would be a handy guide!
It’s definitely not your typical destination, but we loved discovering cool places off the beaten path!
We loved Arizona when we visited, but we missed out on so many things. I especially loved reading about the white sand dunes, looks amazing.
Wow this place looks incredible. You had me at the best Mexican food 😉
Seriously! You probably don’t get much of that up in Seattle!
These are so many great suggestions. We haven’t been to El Paso, but have been to White Sands…amazing. Hope to get down that way to explore more.
I’m so glad you’ve had a chance to visit White Sands! It is such an incredible place that everyone should visit at least once in their life!
I definitely recommend visiting Flor de Barro Gallery for any pottery or Mexican art lovers! It’s a bit hidden but they have incredible pieces, we were blown away, especially by their Mata Ortiz collection.
Thanks for the recommendation!
Oh wow! I had no idea there was so much to do in that area! Definitely pending this for the next time that we are in Texas.
It’s so fun discovering less touristy places off the beaten path! I hope you get a chance to visit!
I am dying to go to White Sands!! There are so many other great things to do though too! Thanks for all of the tips!
Your family would love the backcountry camping and hiking in White Sands!
This is awesome! I have a new found respect for El Paso! And we love white sands
El Paso is definitely a hidden gem! And White Sands is such a dream, glad you’ve had a chance to experience it in person!
What a cool place, especially White Sands National Monument. I love all the photos you post
Thank you so much! I think it’s impossible to take a bad photo in White Sands, it is such an incredible place!
This is a topic which is close to my heart… Cheers! Exactly where are your contact details though?
Enjoyed every bit of your blog.Really looking forward to read more. Great.
I looove this article! I just went and visit El Paso 2 weeks ago and visited about 80% of your list.
One of my hobbies is photography, so I came back with the best pics. Many of my friends are amazing and want to visit now just by looking my posts from El Paso.
I love history. Nature is wonderful, plus I got many memories from childhood there, so this adds a good and sweet feeling being there.
Thank you so much Yamel! I’m so glad you enjoyed your trip and captured some great photos. It really is a fun and unique city, glad you had such a memorable experience!
I am not sure where you are getting your info, but good topic. I needs to spend some time learning more or understanding more. Thanks for wonderful info I was looking for this information for my mission.
I like this post, enjoyed this one appreciate it for putting up.