El Paso
Introduction
You will find yourself in El Paso, the county seat of El Paso County in Texas. Located in West Texas, this city serves as a significant hub within its metropolitan area.
Before you go
Prepare for the desert environment by staying hydrated and protecting yourself from the sun's intense UV rays at high altitude; wearing a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen is highly recommended. During the summer months, take the dry heat seriously to avoid dehydration or heat stroke. If you visit during the rainy season, be cautious of flash flooding in low-lying areas and underpasses, as local drivers are not accustomed to navigating wet roads. Between January and April, high winds can kick up dust and sand, potentially reducing road visibility.
Understand that El Paso is a diverse community where Spanish is the most common language spoken at home; while most residents understand English, it is helpful to know some Spanish for interacting with older residents. The city is divided into distinct sections with unique characters:
- The West Side features affluent neighborhoods and the growing Cincinnati Entertainment District.
- Downtown offers a historic atmosphere with small shops, cafes, and many buildings on the National Register of Historic Places.
- Northeast El Paso is heavily influenced by its proximity to Fort Bliss military base.
- The East Side is a rapidly growing area home to many working families near the Mission Trails.
Getting there
You can reach the city by air via El Paso International Airport, which is located northeast of the city center and surrounded by a large military base. Commercial flights arrive from various locations within the U.S., while connections from Mexico are made through Abraham González International Airport or other major hub cities. Once you land, you can take a taxi to downtown or utilize local bus routes. For those traveling from Mexico, crossing via international bridges is an option, though you should prepare for potential traffic during rush hour.
If you prefer to travel by road, I-10 serves as the primary interstate passing through the city, connecting it to East Texas and Las Cruces, New Mexico. For those arriving by bus, several companies provide service from cities such as Los Angeles, Denver, Dallas, and San Antonio, with many stations located near the western edge of downtown. You can also reach the area by train via Amtrak, which operates routes from Los Angeles and Chicago into a historic depot in the downtown district.
Getting around
You can explore much of the Downtown and UTEP area on foot, but be sure to carry water, sunscreen, and an umbrella to shield yourself from the sun during the summer months. If you prefer public transit, the Sun Metro bus network offers extensive routes with frequent departures, while the Sun Metro Streetcar provides a loop between uptown and downtown using restored cars from the 1950s and 1960s.
Renting a car may provide you with the most flexibility to reach various sites of interest located far apart. Alternatively, you can arrange for a taxi pickup in most areas of the city.
Where to stay
Depending on your preference for luxury or convenience, you can find various accommodations throughout the city. For a more upscale experience, stay in a renovated downtown hotel that aims to recapture its original luxury from the early 20th century.
If you prefer mid-range options, several locations offer amenities such as spacious suites with full kitchens, exercise facilities, and on-site laundry services. Other nearby choices include properties located near the airport or along major highways for easier transit.
- Budget options are available in the form of a hostel or hotel.
- Mid-range selections include hotels featuring suite layouts and valet service.
- Upscale accommodations provide a historic atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Food & drink
Explore the local flavors of El Paso by seeking out traditional staples like Menudo, a hearty soup made with hominy, chile, and tripe. For an authentic taste of the region, look for burritos made with homemade flour tortillas filled with options such as "chile con queso," chile relleno, barbacoa, or "deshebrada con chile colorado." You can also find these savory treats at Gut Trucks—large white vans that serve as mobile restaurants and are often found in parking lots or near construction sites. If you prefer a local tradition, visit a Chico's Tacos location for unique rolled tacos topped with cheese and red sauce, or enjoy El Paso-style hot dogs served on hamburger buns with chili.
Depending on your preference for atmosphere, the city offers diverse dining experiences:
- Experience unpretentious Mexican food and nachos in a downtown bar frequented by a mix of students and workers.
- Visit a historic family-owned restaurant known for its signature Chile con Queso and award-winning service.
- Enjoy fine dining with a Southwestern flair at a sophisticated restaurant that moved from Juarez to El Paso after Prohibition.
- Savor perfectly seasoned fajitas, carnitas, and margaritas at a piano bar just above the border.
- Visit a barbecue joint for meat-heavy dishes like "The Cowboy" T-bone steak in the nearby desert with sunset views.
The local drinking scene is vibrant across different neighborhoods:
- The Union Depot area features bars and clubs catering to young professionals and students.
- The Cincinnati Street area near the university offers a range of options from upscale lounges to dives.
- The Lower Valley and Central neighborhoods feature small bars and clubs often featuring Mexican music and dancing.
- Specific areas like North Stanton Street and Dyer Street offer clubs tailored to specific communities.
What to see and do
Explore the diverse cultural and natural landscape of El Paso through its unique museums and scenic landmarks. You can wander through the Centennial Museum and Chihuahuan Desert Gardens to see native plant species or visit the El Paso Museum of Archaeology, where you can walk trails featuring views of the Franklin Mountains. The city offers a variety of artistic experiences, from the International Museum of Art to local galleries showcasing the cultural essence of regional artists. For those interested in history, the El Paso Museum of History explores border relations, while Concordia Cemetery serves as the resting place for Old West icons and Civil War veterans.
Experience the outdoors and local traditions through these activities:
- Stroll through the El Paso Mission Trail to see historic Spanish missions and local crafts.
- Visit the El Paso Desert Botanical Garden or the Municipal Rose Garden to view various cultivars.
- Explore the campus of the University of Texas at El Paso, which features xeriscaped gardens nestled into rocky hills.
- Visit Licon Dairy for a petting zoo featuring camels, goats, and zebras, where you can also fish for catfish in a small pond.
- Attend performances or events at Chamizal National Memorial, located near the border.
When to go
You can expect a sunny desert climate throughout your stay in El Paso, characterized by minimal rainfall year-round. During the summer months, you will experience hot conditions under mostly clear skies.
The winter season offers milder temperatures with occasional light snow. You can enjoy the desert landscape during these cooler months when nighttime temperatures drop significantly.
Three days in El Paso
Day one, you can explore the historic atmosphere of Downtown and discover sites listed on the National Register of Historic Places. You might also spend time in the Cincinnati Entertainment District to experience the local culture.
Day two, travel toward the East Side or visit the Mission Trails to see the landscape of West Texas. If you prefer a different atmosphere, explore the area known as The West Side.
Day three, you can head toward Northeast El Paso or spend time near Fort Bliss. You can also prepare for your next journey by heading toward the airport area.