10 Things to Do In and Around El Paso, TX
If you read the recent Big Bend Tour, then you might be planning a ride to this beautiful area of Texas. With lots to see and do, it's a great destination for a motorcycle ride.
If you find yourself near El Paso, Texas, here are some places you'll want to check out.
San Jacinto Plaza
The real alligators that once swam in El Paso’s downtown plaza have been replaced by sculptures, but there’s still plenty to see and do in this part of town. Beyond enjoying the park’s open spaces, some of the city’s best restaurants, hotels, stores, and museums are nearby.
El Paso Museum of History
This downtown museum highlights the region’s history and culture, with vibrant displays of art and artifacts. A changing slate of temporary exhibits compliment the permanent “Changing Pass: People, Land, and Memory” display. The museum also showcases the contributions of native El Pasoans to their community and the world. Find it at 510 N Santa Fe St, El Paso, TX.
Scenic Drive
Starting just 2.5 miles outside of downtown El Paso, Scenic Dr awards elevated views of the city. The two-mile road winds through the foothills of the Franklin Mountains and has two overlooks with parking, along with some of the city’s most interesting residential architecture.
Border West Expressway and Cesar Chavez Border Highway
The southern part of the SR 375 Loop follows the U.S.-Mexico border and the Rio Grande River. Ride the highway for glimpses into Ciudad Juarez, including the gigantic red La Equis sculpture just across the border, downtown El Paso, and the University of Texas.
Woodrow Bean Transmountain Drive
The 10-mile-long northern section of the SR 375 Loop, which skirts the perimeter of El Paso connecting US 54 and I-10, is carved into the hillsides as it cuts through Fort Bliss and the Franklin Mountains State Park. In addition to the two overlooks, there are several hiking trailheads along the road.
Fort Bliss Museum
This museum highlights the role of Fort Bliss from 1849 to present, along with its resident 1st Armored Division unit, in the El Paso area and around the world. Both indoor and outdoor displays include objects from tanks to V2 rockets. Find it at 1735 Marshall Rd, Fort Bliss, TX.
Museum Trio
Three museums are located side-by-side on El Paso’s northern edge along Woodrow Bean Transmountain Dr. The Border Patrol Museum highlights the history and equipment of the law enforcement agency. The Museum of Archeology showcases the history and artifacts of the region’s earliest inhabitants, while the Chihuahuan Desert Nature Hike takes you to see the current landscape, plants, and wildlife. Find them at 4301-4315 Woodrow Bean Transmountain Dr, El Paso, TX.
Rosa’s Cantina
Yes, there really is a Rosa’s Cantina in El Paso, along with a chicken or egg debate over whether the restaurant or the famous song inspired the other. Located in the city’s industrial area, the historical restaurant offers Tex-Mex fare and Marty Robbins-themed decor. Find it at 3454 Doniphan Dr, El Paso, TX.
Lucchese Bootmaker Company Factory Store
Founded in San Antonio by a pair of Italian immigrant shoemakers in 1883, Lucchese moved its operations to El Paso a century later. Visit one of the factory stores to be mesmerized by the variety of styles, materials, and colors a pair of cowboy boots can be made in. Find it at 11751 Gateway Blvd W, El Paso, TX.
El Paso Mission Trail
El Paso was once a stop on the Camino Real, a trading route that connected Mexico City with other parts of the Spanish North American empire. Nine miles along Socorro Rd follow the path of the original trail, with a museum, mission churches, and other historical buildings.