Why Go to El Paso
YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE
El Paso sits at the far western tip of Texas, right on the border with Mexico, and it blends two countries' cultures into something all its own. Ciudad Juarez lies just across the Rio Grande, and to the north are New Mexico favorites like White Sands National Park and Albuquerque.
El Paso's rich heritage reflects many influences: Mexican culture, the Tigua people, Spanish missionaries and the U.S. military at nearby Fort Bliss. Drive the historic Mission Trail to see some of the oldest missions in the country, explore the city's museums and murals and dig into authentic Mexican food that's some of the best in the U.S. For the outdoors, Franklin Mountains State Park, one of the largest urban parks in the country, sits right inside city limits, with great hiking and mountain biking. At sunset, drive Scenic Drive for sweeping views over two nations.
El Paso makes a great base for a Southwest road trip. I'll plan your stay and connect it with White Sands, Carlsbad Caverns and Guadalupe Mountains National Park.
BEST FOR
History buffs, hikers, foodies and desert-road-trippers
BEST MONTHS
March–May and October–November
EXPLORE
Downtown has museums and historic architecture; the Mission Trail follows important historic sites to the southeast; Franklin Mountains State Park frames the city.
SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE
El Paso
North America › Southwest › USA › Texas
Desert mountains and a rich borderlands heritage
Desert & Arid
Mexico
Mountains
History
SIX18 INSIDER TIP
Bring sun protection and water for desert walks; check park trail advisories during extreme heat.
Experiences Worth Exploring
THINGS TO DO
Bring sun protection and water for desert walks; check park trail advisories during extreme heat.
Franklin Mountains State Park
An extensive mountain park offers rugged trails and desert vistas within the city.
Bring sun protection and water for desert walks; check park trail advisories during extreme heat.
Scenic Drive Overlook
A hillside road viewpoint looks over El Paso and toward the border.
Bring sun protection and water for desert walks; check park trail advisories during extreme heat.
El Paso Museum of Art
A downtown museum showcases art from the region and beyond.
Bring sun protection and water for desert walks; check park trail advisories during extreme heat.
El Paso Museum of History
Exhibitions explore the culture and history of the borderland.
Bring sun protection and water for desert walks; check park trail advisories during extreme heat.
San Jacinto Plaza
A downtown public square surrounded by historic city buildings.
A landmark downtown hotel close to the Plaza Theatre and central cultural attractions. Its historic architecture suits travelers seeking an upscale city base; verify parking and event access.
Hotel Paso Del Norte, Autograph Collection
Downtown / Henry Trost Court
Hotel Tags
An Art Deco landmark in downtown El Paso with convenient access to restaurants, arts venues and the historic core. Check room and parking options before booking.
The Plaza Hotel Pioneer Park
Downtown / Mills Avenue
Hotel Tags
A boutique art-focused hotel within walking distance of downtown galleries, dining and theater attractions. Ideal for guests seeking a smaller property with contemporary character.
Stanton House
Downtown / Stanton Street
Hotel Tags
A centrally located hotel convenient to El Paso's arts and dining scene. Ask about parking, rooftop facilities and room location before arrival.
Hotel Indigo El Paso Downtown
Downtown / Kansas Street
Hotel Tags
A contemporary downtown hotel suitable for travelers prioritizing access to business venues and cultural sights. Confirm parking arrangements and local transportation needs.
Aloft El Paso Downtown
Downtown / Texas Avenue
Hotel Tags
Curated Accommodations
WHERE TO STAY
November in El Paso
High 67°F · Low 40°F · Rain 0.5 in
Mild weather makes November ideal for hiking.
Spring and fall are generally best for outdoor exploration in the desert.
Best Times to Visit El Paso
WHEN TO GO
06
Walking and Desert Conditions
Downtown is walkable in sections, but high temperatures and limited shade require careful planning. Carry water.
05
Rental Cars and Border Roads
A car helps reach Franklin Mountains trails and outlying attractions. Confirm any rental restrictions before cross-border travel.
04
Streetcar Downtown
The El Paso Streetcar connects downtown and the university area when operating. Confirm current service before making plans.
03
Sun Metro Buses
Sun Metro serves selected urban corridors. Check schedules and whether stops are convenient for your itinerary.
02
Local Travel Strategy
Bring sun protection and water for desert walks; check park trail advisories during extreme heat.
01
Arrival & Main Connections
A car is most convenient for mountain and outlying attractions; downtown also has buses and a streetcar loop.
A car is most convenient for mountain and outlying attractions; downtown also has buses and a streetcar loop.
Getting Around El Paso