Out in the west Texas town of El Paso, magic awaits. Nicknamed the “Sun City” for its year-round sunshine and technicolor sunsets, El Paso captivates visitors with rich culture, dynamic outdoor adventures, delicious cuisine, and friendly locals. Nestled against the base of the Franklin Mountains, this bustling city blends rugged natural beauty with urban charm.

Ready to plan your El Paso escape? Let’s go!

Step 1: Book the Perfect Stay

El Paso offers accommodations for every style and budget. Choose from well-known hotel brands, boutique stays, budget stays, RV parks, glamping, and weekend rentals. One standout is the iconic Hotel Paso Del Norte, built in 1912 and outfitted with design elements that showcase the cultures of Texas, Mexico, and North America. After a day of exploring, unwind with gourmet dining or a soothing spa treatment.

Visitors also love El Paso’s only Michelin Key Hotel, the Art Deco Plaza Hotel Pioneer Park. This luxury boutique property features rooftop dining, authentic Mexican cuisine, and an unmatched collection of agave spirits. Another popular option is the Hotel Indigo, walkable to some of El Paso’s top sites with a fifth floor pool serving up a healthy dose of El Paso sunshine.

Other options include the smart Stanton House, offering modern gastronomy and chic charm, and the DoubleTree by Hilton Downtown, located near popular attractions and welcoming guests with their signature chocolate chip cookies. On the hunt for something trendy? Check out the Aloft El Paso Downtown, complete with stylish rooms and a hip bar scene. Families will love the Courtyard by Marriott Downtown with an outdoor pool and onsite dining at The Bistro.

Step 2: Explore Downtown El Paso’s Best Attractions

Once settled in, dive into El Paso’s vibrant downtown scene for all sorts of things to do. Start the morning at the La Nube STEAM Discovery Center, where interactive exhibits across four floors ignite curiosity and creativity for all ages. Don’t miss the 50-foot climber—a hit with kids and adults alike.

Springtime visitors won’t want to miss the El Paso Chihuahuas in action at Southwest University Park. Nothing beats the thrill of minor league baseball and its essential hotdogs, peanuts, Cracker Jacks and cheering fans.

Enjoy the grandeur of the performing arts at the historic Plaza Theatre. The beautifully restored venue with a noted Spanish Colonial Revival, hosts an impressive lineup of year-round shows, including the Broadway in El Paso Series. Sit back and enjoy well-known marquee productions in this inspiring space.

Step 3: Immerse Yourself in Nature

El Paso’s breathtaking outdoors are impossible to resist. The Franklin Mountains State Park, towering over the city, offers 125 miles of multi-use trails for hiking, mountain biking and nature exploration. Camp, picnic or simply take in the expansive desert views at this urban oasis, the country’s largest urban state park in the continental U.S.

Next, satisfy your adventurous side at Hueco Tanks State Park & Historic Site, known for its world-class bouldering opportunities. Explore unique land formations known as “huecos” that catch rainwater in the desert. Take a self-guided or guided tour, and enjoy rock climbing, birding, picnicking, hiking, and stargazing. Finally, take a day trip to explore the gleaming white sand dunes at White Sands National Park. Stroll along plank pathways for a better view or bring your own sled or snowboard for the truly unique experience of dune sledding.

Step 4: Savor El Paso’s Flavors

No trip to El Paso is complete without indulging in its culinary delights. Start with tacos—a local staple. Four El Paso taquerias made Texas Monthly's 2024 list of Best 50 Taco restaurants, with three named in the Top 10! Those must-try spots include Elemi, Taqueria El Tiger, Taconeta, and El Botanero Mariscos. Sink your teeth into homemade tortillas filled with carefully curated fillings and condiments that blissfully transport your taste buds.

Craving Texas BBQ? Head to Desert Oak Texas Barbecue for tender, pit-smoked meats sold by the pound, stuffed in sandwiches or accompanied by home cooking sides. For steak lovers, Cattleman's Steakhouse at Indian Cliffs Ranch is a bucket list destination offering juicy, premium cuts in a truly Texan setting. Don’t forget authentic Mexican favorites. L&J Café is a casual, authentic option for breakfast, lunch or dinner, while Carlos & Mickey's Restaurant and Cantina, serves up classic platters, along with seafood and margaritas the size of Texas.

With its variety of accommodations, exciting attractions and mouthwatering cuisine, El Paso offers the perfect weekend escape. Plan your Sun City adventure today.