What To Do With 24 Hours in El Paso, Texas

Taking a quote directly from Lonely Planet, it seems that El Paso, Texas, has finally “found its cool!” In recent years, this once-sleepy town on the banks of the Rio Grande has become a holiday hub for those seeking something slightly different from the norm. With more and more hotels in El Paso appearing each year, it seems that this part of Texas is now firmly on the map. Check out eight reasons to visit this transformed city.

#1: El Paso In Texas Is One of the Safest Cities in the U.S.

For this reason alone, I truly believe that people should take the time to explore what possibilities El Paso has to offer. Whether you’re more of a city slicker or an outdoorsy type, this city is guaranteed to keep you entertained.

#2: El Paso Is Full of Fantastic Museums

El Paso is home to several highly rated museums, including those that focus on art, science, history, and the Holocaust.

#3: El Paso Has an Outstanding Zoo That Kids Will Love

With over 35 acres to explore, this is definitely a zoo that the kids will remember. Home to over 200 species from around the world, including elephants, tigers, bears, monkeys, and endangered species, the zoo is a place to educate youngsters on how to protect dwindling populations.

#4: El Paso Hasn’t Forgotten Outdoorsy Types

Not only does El Paso have the largest urban park in the U.S., but it also has two national parks and a national forest just minutes away. From El Paso, serious hikers can even reach Guadalupe Peak, which is the highest natural point in all of Texas. The city is also close to Franklin Mountains State Park, which has over 24,000 acres of scenic desert to explore and is home to coyotes, cacti, and golden eagles. Those visiting during the winter months should check out Hueco Tanks State Park, which is known for its wintertime rock climbing activities.

#5: El Paso Offers Stunning Views

Take a trip on Wyler Aerial Tramway up to Ranger Peak, some 5,600 feet above sea level, and you can catch a glimpse of the stark beauty of the area. This isn’t for the faint-hearted or those afraid of heights because from the safety of your very own Swiss-designed gondola, you can see out over three states and two countries on a clear day.

#6: You’ll Love the Regional Wine Trail

For a wine connoisseur, no trip to El Paso would be complete without sampling the local produce. Zin Valle Vineyards, the only winery in the area, invites visitors to sample several different estate wines, as well as many others from California and Europe.

#7: This is the Place to Visit for a New Pair of Boots

Not only is El Paso full of malls, outlet shops, and markets, but it’s also known as the Boot Capital of the World. With over 12 different manufacturers to choose from, there’s no chance of walking away empty-handed, whether you’re seeking a new pair of cowboy boots or a pair of city slickers.

#8: There’s Plenty to Do When the Sun Goes Down

Why not head out to explore the numerous local watering holes in search of great cocktails and truly delicious food? Just make sure that your evening includes a visit to L & J Cafe, known by locals as “the old place by the graveyard,” in order to experience a traditional, no-frills El Paso margarita.

Whatever your reason for visiting this far western corner of Texas, one thing is for sure: After your first visit, it won’t be long before you dream up a reason to return.

Have you visited El Paso? Would you recommend it to others? Perhaps you had an experience you would like to share with our readers.