Texas, USA
El Paso's desert landscape and mountain ranges present a rugged playground for outdoor enthusiasts.
Franklin Mountains State Park offers trails from easy (McKelligon Canyon) to strenuous (North Franklin Peak Trail, 9-10 miles round trip). Hueco Tanks State Park has trails around rock formations.
Hueco Tanks is an internationally renowned bouldering destination. Reservations and often guided tours are needed, especially for protected pictograph areas.
Franklin Mountains State Park offers designated mountain biking trails, ranging from moderate to challenging, with rocky terrain.
Always carry ample water for any outdoor activity in El Paso. The desert climate makes hydration paramount.
Connect with El Paso's rich cultural fabric through various immersive activities.
Spanish is widely spoken due to the border location. Use the opportunity for informal language practice. Locals appreciate visitors attempting a few Spanish phrases.
Fiesta de las Flores (summer), Dia de los Muertos (late Oct/early Nov), Winterfest (holiday season), Sun City Music Festival (EDM, Sept), Way Out West Fest (country music), El Paso Downtown Street Festival.
Check the Visit El Paso website for current event calendars to plan your cultural immersion.
Many upscale hotels feature on-site spas (e.g., Desert Spirit Spa at The Hotel Paso del Norte). Independent day spas across the city offer massages and facials. Local yoga studios conduct drop-in classes.
Enjoy live music at venues like The Plaza Theatre (major concerts) or Lowbrow Palace (indie bands). Union Plaza District and Cincinnati Street offer concentrations of bars and nightclubs with lively atmospheres. Explore local breweries for craft beer.
Discover unique finds at the El Paso Downtown Artist and Farmers Market or Mercado de El Paso for traditional Mexican goods. The San Elizario Art District features local artists. Souvenirs include chile products, Southwestern art, and custom boots.
Find opportunities for rest and rejuvenation in El Paso.
El Paso, a desert city, has no beaches. Visitors seeking water recreation will find pools as their main option.
Many hotels feature outdoor swimming pools for guest use, providing a refreshing escape, especially during warmer months.
Public swimming pools operate during the summer months, offering additional options for cooling off and recreation.
The Plaza Theatre hosts major concerts and touring Broadway shows. Lowbrow Palace presents indie and alternative bands. Speaking Rock Entertainment Center combines a casino with a concert hall.
The Plaza Theatre stages Broadway productions. El Paso Playhouse is a community theater. UTEP departments often host drama, musical, and dance performances.
Union Plaza District downtown holds several bars and nightclubs. Cincinnati Street, near UTEP, offers college-oriented bars. Most nightclubs stay open until 2:00 AM.
Discover unique local finds and common retail options in El Paso.
The Fountains at Farah offers national retailers and boutique shops. Sunland Park Mall is an enclosed mall with department stores. Downtown also holds smaller boutiques.
Support local by choosing independent shops. Inquire about the origin of crafts to confirm they are handmade or ethically sourced.
Domestic shipping is available via USPS, UPS, and FedEx. For international shipping, be aware of customs duties and restrictions in your home country.
El Paso's diverse activities invite planning to make the most of your visit. Staying hydrated for outdoor adventures remains a top priority.
