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Accommodation Guide

Accommodation Guide

Texas, USA

Accommodation Types

Lodging Spectrum

  • Hostels:

    Dedicated hostels are limited in El Paso. Basic, no-frills private rooms in budget hotels might cater to budget-conscious travelers, sometimes with shared bathroom options.

  • Budget Hotels/Motels:

    Widely available, especially near the airport and along major highways. Chains like Motel 6 and Super 8 offer simple, clean rooms at lower price points.

  • Mid-range Hotels:

    This category holds the most options. Popular chains like Hampton Inn and Courtyard by Marriott typically include comfortable rooms, complimentary breakfast, pools, and fitness centers.

  • Luxury Hotels:

    El Paso features a few upscale hotels, notably downtown. These properties hold higher-end amenities, refined dining options, concierge services, and often historical significance.

Unique & Outdoor Options

  • Boutique Hotels:

    Smaller, independently owned hotels with unique character, often in historic buildings. These offer a personalized and local experience.

  • Bed & Breakfasts (B&Bs):

    A few charming B&Bs operate in El Paso, notably in older, historic districts. They offer a cozy atmosphere and often include homemade breakfast.

  • Vacation Rentals:

    Platforms like Vrbo and Booking.com provide a wide selection of apartments and houses. These are excellent for families or groups seeking more space or kitchen facilities.

  • Camping & RV Parks:

    Primitive sites at Franklin Mountains State Park and Hueco Tanks State Park offer rugged outdoor stays. Commercial RV parks are available with more amenities.

Neighborhood Guide

Each area presents a different atmosphere and access to specific attractions.

Downtown/Union Plaza

Highlights
  • Historic core, museums, nightlife.
  • Central location, walkable, near public transit.
  • Good for exploring historic sites and accessing city transport.
Considerations
  • Can be busy during business hours.
  • Limited green spaces.
  • Exercise normal caution at night.

West Side

Highlights
  • Modern, upscale residential and commercial area.
  • Newer hotels, good views of Franklin Mountains.
  • Convenient for modern shopping and outdoor activities.
Considerations
  • Less walkable; a car is generally useful.
  • Further from downtown attractions and the Mission Trail.
  • Suburban feel.

East Side

Highlights
  • Commercial and residential, diverse dining.
  • Convenient for airport access and Fort Bliss visits.
  • Often features budget-friendly and mid-range hotels.
Considerations
  • More spread out, requiring driving.
  • Less distinctive character compared to downtown.
  • Mainly commercial.

Additional Neighborhoods

Mission Valley (Lower Valley):

Authentic, historic El Paso experience with access to the iconic Mission Trail. Quieter and more laid-back, but limited accommodation and typically requires a car.

Central El Paso (Near UTEP):

University town atmosphere with historic homes and cultural institutions. Close to UTEP events, offers diverse bars and eateries, generally quiet residential areas.

Booking Strategies

Plan your stay with these booking tips.

Advance Booking Suggestions

  • High Season (March-May & September-November): Book 1-3 months ahead, especially for popular weekends, major events, or festivals. Prices can increase closer to your travel date.
  • Shoulder (February & December) and Low Season (June-August & January): More flexibility exists. Booking 2-4 weeks ahead usually suffices. Last-minute bookings are often possible, with good deals.

Booking Platforms & Policies

  • Online Travel Agencies (OTAs): Use Booking.com, Agoda, Expedia, or Hotels.com for wide selections and price comparisons.
  • Direct Booking: Booking directly with hotel websites like IHG Hotels can offer loyalty points or special member rates.
  • Vacation Rentals: For apartments or houses, use Vrbo or Airbnb. Read reviews carefully.
  • Camping: For state parks, reserve through the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department website. Consider Hostelworld for budget stays.

Important Considerations

Negotiation & Policy:
  • Negotiating walk-in rates is not a standard practice in U.S. Hotels; prices are fixed. Online last-minute deals might be better.
  • Policies vary by property; always review deposit and cancellation terms. Most hotels offer free cancellation 24-72 hours before check-in.
  • Some bookings may involve full or partial prepayment, especially for discounted rates.
  • Vacation rentals often hold a security deposit, refundable after your stay.
Seasonal Pricing:
  • Accommodation prices rise during peak demand periods, including major holidays, large conventions, and popular festivals.
  • During these times, book early for better prices and availability.
  • Prices are generally lowest in the summer (due to heat) and mid-winter (January).

House Sitting

TrustedHousesitters:

Consider TrustedHousesitters for unique accommodation. This platform matches pet owners with sitters for free lodging in exchange for caring for pets and homes.

Homestays:

Organized homestay programs for tourists are not a common or widely advertised tourism offering in El Paso. For local interaction, consider booking a private room in an Airbnb with a local host.

Local Interaction:

Direct engagement with local hosts through platforms like Airbnb for private rooms can facilitate genuine local interaction.

Accommodation Recommendations

Specific recommendations for different traveler types and budgets.

Top Picks by Budget

Budget Options $60 - $100/night

Motel 6 El Paso - Airport East: A clean, basic option close to the airport. Super 8 by Wyndham El Paso Airport: Provides good value with standard amenities.

Luxury Options $200 - $400+/night

The Hotel Paso del Norte, Autograph Collection: A beautifully restored historic hotel. Camino Real Hotel: Another iconic, historic hotel by Henry Trost.

Mid-Range Options $100 - $200/night

Hampton Inn & Suites El Paso Downtown

Offers comfort, good service, complimentary breakfast, and a convenient downtown location.

Courtyard by Marriott El Paso Airport

A reliable choice with modern amenities, pool, and close proximity to the airport.

Family-Friendly & Solo Traveler Options

  • Family-Friendly:

    Hotels with pools and complimentary breakfast like Hampton Inn or Embassy Suites provide space and amenities for families. Vacation rentals (Airbnb/Vrbo) offer more space and kitchen facilities.

  • Solo Traveler:

    Mid-range hotels in Downtown offer walkability and public transport access. Airbnb private rooms provide a personal experience and local connection.

Long-Stay & Historic Properties

  • Long-Stay:

    For weeks or months, consider extended-stay hotels like Extended Stay America or Residence Inn. These often feature kitchenettes and laundry. Furnished apartments through Airbnb or Vrbo also present fine long-term options.

  • Cultural/Historical Significance:

    The Hotel Paso del Norte, Autograph Collection (built 1912) and Camino Real Hotel (designed by Henry Trost) are landmarks of El Paso's architectural and historical past.

Accommodation Table Approx. $/Night

Budget & Mid-Range

Hostel/Dorm: $40 - $70 (limited). Budget Hotel/Motel: $60 - $100 (chains like Super 8). Mid-Range Hotel: $100 - $200 (Hampton Inn, Courtyard by Marriott, often include breakfast).

  • Camping (State Park): $10 - $25 (primitive sites).
Luxury & Rentals

Luxury Hotel: $200 - $400+ (Hotel Paso del Norte, Camino Real). Vacation Rental (Airbnb/Vrbo): $70 - $150 (room/small apt), $150 - $300 (full house/apt), $300 - $600+ (premium/large).

  • Prices vary greatly by size, location, and amenities.

Considerations for Your Stay

Car Rental

Consider renting a car if you plan to stay outside downtown or explore widely. Public transport covers downtown and central areas effectively.

Seasonality

Prices are higher during peak demand periods like major holidays or popular festivals. Book early during these times to secure availability and better rates.

Flexibility

Many hotels provide flexible cancellation policies, often allowing free cancellation up to 24-72 hours before check-in.