Sitting on the western tip of Texas and the left bank of Rio Grande, El Paso happens to be the biggest American City on this Mexican frontier. The city’s unique desert landscapes carry a diverse range of fauna and flora. El Paso is also rich in cultural and natural attractions. 

Places to visit and fun things to do in El Paso include Elpaso Museum of Art which carries a fine collection of Indian and pre-Colombian art, the Magoffin Home State Historic Site, the mission trail, and much more. In this detailed guide, we will help you discover what to do in El Paso today. 

Top-Rated Things to Do in El Paso Today

1. El Paso Mission Trail 

Taking visitors from Corpus Christi – and other parts of Texas – through the surviving Spanish mission stations, Mission Trail is one of the best ways to explore El Paso’s rich multicultural heritage. An important highlight is the Ysleta Mission, which was consecrated back in 1682 and is one of the most ancient structures in the whole of Texas. 

Others you will come across include the San Elizario which was first constructed in 1789 and Socorro Mission, first built in 1789. An El Paso limo service should also help you explore other authentic cultural highlights that surround the missions, including art galleries, local eateries, and even Indian cultural institutions. 

2. El Paso Museum of Art

If you are wondering what to do in El Paso today, you should consider using a Texas limo service to visit the El Paso Museum of Art. Housing over 7,000 pieces that focus on Mexican, European, and American art from the 12th century to the current times, the museum will keep your interest for hours. 

El Paso Museum of Art carries fine collections from the Southwest by Charles M Russell and Fredric Remington, along with portraits by Thomas Sully and Gilbert Stuart. Modernist artists represented in the museum include Max Weber, John Marin, and Milton Avery. 

3. Franklin Mountains State Park 

A common sight in the city’s skyline, Fraklin Mountains are a recreational outlet for the whole community. Usually accessed on the city’s north end, the 27,000-acre state park carries a wide range of things to do in El Paso this weekend, including hiking, rock climbing, and mountain biking. 

Other interesting things to do in the sprawling state park include wildlife watching, ranger-led programs, and geocaching. The park’s Wyler Aerial Tramway offers an excellent view of the surrounding desert scenery from atop its 5,632 feet tall Ranger Peak. 

4. Plaza Theater 

One of the popular El Paso TX tourist attractions, Plaza theater sits in the heart of downtown and is a proud testament of the city’s musical past. First built in 1930, and restored to its initial grandeur in 2006, the theater carries the best of live entertainment. 

Attracting visitors from Lubbock, the theater is constructed in the Spanish Colonial Revival style, and one of the experiences is just appreciating its intricately decorated auditorium space. The theater horsts numerous shows, including traveling mariachi bands, broadway performances, and big-name country stars. 

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5. Fort Bliss & Old Ironsides Museums

Started as a United States Army post in the 19th century, Fort Bliss later became a base for Confederate forces during the Civil War. Currently, the camp is used as an Army Air Defense Center, a combat training ground for the allied nations, and home to numerous museums. 

Fort Bliss Museum has missile and air defense exhibits, and a wide range of military artifacts from 1861 through to the Desert Storm. The Old Ironsides Museum preserves the 1st Armored Division history, and also has numerous fascinating vehicles and exhibits. 

6. El Paso Museum of Archaeology

One of the best things to do in El Paso TX today, the Museum of Archaeology carries galleries of life in the Texas region for the last 14,000 years and detailed dioramas. 

Even though it is one of the most visited El Paso tourist attractions, the museum is free, and visitors from Amarillo and other parts of the US are allowed to attend special events and lectures in its auditorium. With the museum overseeing 15 acres of land that surrounds the facility, tourists can explore walking trails that meander next to over 250 Chihuahuan Desert plants. 

7. El Paso Holocaust Museum & Study Center 

A memorial center for Holocaust victims, the Holocaust Museum also has permanent exhibits with information about all the aspects of world war II and life in Europe before the Nazis rose to power. 

The El Paso tourist attraction has a gallery of El Paso Holocaust survivors, with visitors getting presentations and educational workshops throughout the year. On-site, there is a Robert and Sara Shiloff Library & Study Center with research and books on the topic. 

8. Magoffin Home State Historic Site 

A 19-room adobe homestead constructed in 1875 in a territorial style, Magoffin Home State boasts 3 wings, each built in different periods. Constructed for one of the leading families in El Paso, the house has original textiles, photos, and furnishings, along with splendid mid-victorian décor and fine paintings. 

The pleasant 1.5-acre grounds on which the home is built are worth a visit for an El Paso sightseeing experience. Operated by the Texas Historical Commission, visitors can sign up for a guided tour. 

9. National Border Patrol Museum 

While the museum might appear unassuming on the outside, it offers a fascinating look at the US Border Patrol history on the inside. One of the best things to do in El Paso TX this weekend, a visit to the museum will allow you to view a collection of motorcycles, rudimentary boats, jeeps, patrol vehicles, and sophisticated helicopters. 

Static displays include a conquistador speedboat, a Piper Super Cub airplane, and an OH-6 helicopter. Also, of interest are artworks, photos, badges, uniforms, and exhibits of weapons. 

10. Centennial Museum & Chihuahuan Desert Gardens

Constructed as a commemoration of the 100th anniversary of Texas Independence from Mexico, Centennial Museum attracts visitors from Plano, Laredo, and other parts of the state. The museum has displays related to the cultural and natural history of Mexico and the Southwest. 

At the University of Texas, the museum carries both changing and permanent exhibits dealing with paleontology, geology, ethnology, and archeology. A visit will take you to Chihuahuan Desert Gardens, which has more than 800 native plants in specially themed gardens. 

11. El Paso Zoo 

An ideal option for people looking for things to do El Paso with their families, El Paso Zoo offers tourists an opportunity to explore Animals of Asia, Africa, and America. Each housing carries a large number of animals, both big and small. 

The zoo has fun adventure programs for both adults and kids, along with daily animal encounters where visitors get up close to eagles, tortoises, monkeys, sea lions, and much more. 

12. Hueco Tanks State Park & Historic Site 

A recreational hot spot, Hueco Tanks State Park caters to bird watchers, climbers, hikers, and offers an insight into the region’s history. 

The park got its name from the immense rock formations and numerous natural basins that collect rainwater. While the park is open to the public, there is a limit on the number of people who can visit daily, and most people have to call ahead of time to secure a reservation. 

13. Funtastic Punch 

If you bring your kids along, Funtastic Punch will have some of the best things to do in El Paso for them. Ideal for kids aged between 1 and 8 years, the play center draws on the knowledge of the benefits of imaginative play. 

Available to children are a wide range of play platforms that include a real-life stage, library, post office, animal hospital, and even a science lab. The spot also has special programs aimed at children and parents together, meaning that everyone will have a good time. 

14. Municipal Rose Garden 

For nature lovers who are looking for things to do in El Paso tonight, a visit to the municipal garden might be a good idea. Generally, in full bloom between March and October, the garden carries 1460 rose bushes, has more than 320 varied aromatic roses, with new roses being added each year. 

The roses receive the best care from volunteers, ensuring that the garden maintains its “welcome oasis” status in the El Paso desert heat. Benches are available throughout the garden where visitors can relax. 

15. Western Playland Amusement Park 

A top-rated destination, Western Playland carries roller coasters, ideal for both kids and adults. Visitors can have fun on the popular El Bandido roller coaster before moving on to the Tsunami, which shoots up a massive 50 feet, creating a huge 70 feet tidal wave. 

If your kids are aged between 1 and 8 years, they will be able to take advantage of the numerous young kiddies rides available. With numerous snack options being available in the park – including hamburgers, nachos, and hot dogs – getting hungry is not an option. 

16. Sun Bowl Stadium 

Famous for its impressive family experience, the Sun Bowl Stadium is home to the Late December college football bowl game – The Hyundai Sun Bowl – and the UTEP Miners of Conference USA. 

Featuring a seating capacity of 51,000, the stadium is nestled in the mountains adjoining the UTEP campus. Having undergone several renovations, the stadium has been remodeled to make it comfortable. 

17. Bob-O’s Family Fun Center 

A top-of-the-line El Paso tourist attraction, Bob-O’s is an ideal destination for those looking for entertainment for the entire family. Visitors enjoy Go-Karts, Double Go-Karts, kiddies’ rides that include a small train, thumber boats, and dizzy drums.

Adults who enjoy golfing can spend their time on an 18-hole miniature golf course. You can round off the fun with some tasty pizza served at the venue. 

18. Viva El Paso 

Putting on a show every year, Viva El Paso treats visitors to a musical that celebrates the rich cultural history through songs, dance, and drama. The 2-hour outdoor musical includes fifty dancers performing the story of an early Indian settlement. 

Dancers perform acrobatics, use cannon fire, with Indians shooting lit arrows to the mountain to facilitate the illumination of the VIVA sign. Performances take place between June and August, with tourists enjoying the event from Thursday to Sunday. 

19. Disaster Room 915

If you are looking for exciting things to do in El Paso this weekend, Disaster Room 915 may be an ideal option. The room features at least 2 pulse-quickening scenarios that you and your team have to work out, with minutes to spare before disaster befalls you. 

While examining pointers, deciphering codes, and solving mind stretching puzzles, you will bond and pull together. The room is ideal for adults and people in their mid-teens. 

20. Insights Science Museum 

A terrific venue for youngsters, the Insights Science Museum has numerous exhibits for both enjoyment and learning. Some of the available exhibits include dinosaurs, fossils, and bones. 

In addition to having a kid’s play area, the museum has a firehouse where the kids can have fun with numerous interesting science attractions ranging from biology and zoology to astronomy. 

FAQs

Q: Is El Paso Worth Visiting? 

A: El Paso, a top-rated city in Texas state is worth visiting. You can go for the rich culture, tasty food, the Chihuahuan desert, historical centers and museums, nature centers, hiking trails, and much more. In this article, we have outlined some of the best things to do in El Paso. 

Q: What is El Paso Famous for?

A: El Paso is famous for a wide range of things, including: 

• Franklin mountains state park 
• El Paso Zoo 
• El Paso Museum of Art 
• El Paso Mission Trail 
• El Paso Museum of Archeology

Limo Find Overview 

While El Paso is best known for its Tex-Mex cuisine, it has more to offer than food. Visitors enjoy a warm desert climate and sunshine as they explore its hiking trails, good interaction with history in its numerous museums, and fun in its numerous play areas. If you are new to the city, this guide should help you find the best things to do in El Paso.