Things To Do
Itineraries
Back-Road Adventure
The valley of the Rio Grande winds like a green snake
through the brown desert from Colorado through New Mexico and Texas, forming the enormous border between that vast state and Mexico. By providing water, cover, comfort, and sustenance in an otherwise arid land, this green corridor has been a lifeline for animals for eons and for humans for a few thousand years.
Crossing Into Mexico Made Easy
Don't bother getting stuck in your car waiting to cross into Mexico, take public transportation or your feet. Download this guide to find easy ways to access Mexico without a car.
Downtown Walking Tour
This self-guided walking tour (about 90 minutes) begins in the southwest corner of San Jacinto Plaza, at the 1910 E. Howard post clock.
The pdf download may take up to ten minutes to open - please be patient. Otherwise, stop by the El Paso Visitors Center for a brochure copy of the tour.
El Paso’s Mission Trail
The historic Mission Trail area on El Paso’s far-east side is worthy of a half-day trip for a look at three very old churches, originally built during the 1600-1700s. Some are still used regularly for services, and reconstruction on them, given their age, seems to be eternal. Located in front of each church is a marker, giving the long history of that particular mission. The missions are still owned by the
Catholic Church and are usually open during daytime hours, but this is always subject to change.
Fine Art for Free
Of course, one doesn't have to own a piece of art to enjoy it, and in El Paso there is a lot of art to look at and plenty available to buy.
Funky Downtown Shopping
El Paso is no less culturally unique than New Orleans, or San Francisco, or Nantucket Island. Nowhere else in the world do the United States and Mexico collide to produce the singular mix we enjoy in El Paso. And downtown El Paso is the epitome of this synthesis.
Highs and Lows of Central El Paso
This tour starts in Downtown El Paso, where you'll visit an old home, and takes you to other historical and fun sites as well as to the canyons and the crest of the beautiful Franklin Mountains. It will give you a chance to stroll around, stretch your legs and acquaint yourself more closely with our desert terrain.
Journey into El Paso’s West Side
The west side of El Paso is home to many of the best visitor attractions in the area. In a half- or full-day tour, you can enjoy anything from spectacular views and unique architecture to bargain hunting and even a trip to the desert outback.
Mountains To Do
Rising above the rest of Texas, the rugged mountains in far West Texas provide scenic beauty,
historical sites and quaint, relaxing locales contrasting cowboy charm with big city chic.
Ruidoso, High Among the Pines
Up the road a bit, in Southern New Mexico, are the Sacramento Mountains which run north and south, and are heavily populated with forests. Nestled among their pines are a few villages and one large resort town named Ruidoso.
San Elizario Walking Tour
The San Elizario Historic
District, was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in
1997. The stops on this tour do not show every historic
structure in San Elizario, they are a representative sample of
the buildings and sites that formed one of the oldest villages
in the United States.
Savor Local Flavor
In many people’s imaginations, enjoyment of El Paso’s
shopping scene is relegated to aficionados of ten-gallon hats,
fancy cowboy boots, and giant belt buckles. Although the city
may be famous for all those things, there are plenty of hidden
treasures to discover. From unique clothing, delicious treats,
and one-of-a-kind housewares to custom motorcycles and
handmade beauty products, there is a bit of something for
everyone. But don’t be surprised if you find yourself toting
home some of that cowboy gear after all.
Texas Avenue Boasts Local Charm
Texas Avenue is known for its range in locally owned businesses and stores that are filled with enriching experiences for visitors. Meandering through this street will give you more than just a chance to purchase a souvenir; it will tell you the story behind El Paso’s heritage, growth and success.
Walking to Juárez
From El Paso, a walking tour of downtown Juárez can easily be accomplished in an afternoon, with plenty of time for tacos and margaritas. I’ve even included an option for some of the finest fine dining on either side of the border. So, slap your shoe leather on the sidewalk and print out the pdf to take this walking tour of downtown Juárez.