From the remnants of ancient civilizations to the echoes of the Wild West, the border city of El Paso is a mosaic of the unusual and the extraordinary. Here are ten under-the-radar attractions in El Paso waiting to be explored:
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Discover the Chamizal National Memorial
The Chamizal National Memorial stands as a testament to peaceful conflict resolution between the United States and Mexico. This park is not only a green sanctuary in the midst of the city but also a cultural hub. Visitors can delve into the history of the Chamizal dispute through informative exhibits, enjoy local art displays and attend vibrant theatre productions that reflect the area’s rich cultural diversity.
Step into history at Magoffin Home State Historic Site
The Magoffin Home State Historic Site is a portal to the El Paso of yesteryear. This preserved 19th-century adobe home was the residence of Joseph Magoffin, a prominent figure in the city’s development. Today, it serves as a museum where visitors can explore period rooms filled with original furnishings and family memorabilia. Guided tours provide narratives of the Magoffin family’s life and contributions, offering a personal perspective on the region’s history.
Unearth the past at the El Paso Museum of Archaeology
At the El Paso Museum of Archaeology, visitors are invited to explore millennia of prehistory. The museum showcases an impressive collection of artefacts from the Indigenous peoples of the region, including pottery, tools and textiles. The surrounding trails and gardens feature native plants and archaeological replicas, providing a hands-on experience of the area’s natural and historical landscape.
Marvel at the Wyler Aerial Tramway
The Wyler Aerial Tramway is an adventure that offers unparalleled views of El Paso’s rugged terrain. The tramway takes visitors on a thrilling ride up to Ranger Peak, where they can enjoy 360-degree vistas that span across borders. At the summit, one can witness the stark beauty of the desert, the urban sprawl of El Paso and Ciudad Juárez, and the distant horizons of Mexico and New Mexico.
Contemplate life at the Lhakhang Cultural Exhibit
Located on the University of Texas at El Paso campus, the Lhakhang Cultural Exhibit is a piece of Bhutanese tranquillity. This traditional temple, gifted to the university by the Kingdom of Bhutan, is a masterpiece of hand-carved wood and vibrant paintings. It serves as a cultural bridge and a place of meditation, reflecting the university’s unique connection to Bhutanese architecture.
Admire the Casa de Azucar
The Casa de Azucar, or House of Sugar, is a whimsical creation by local artist Rufino Loya Rivas. This folk-art wonderland features a home and garden adorned with intricate, sugar-like sculptures. Each piece is a labour of love and a reflection of Rivas’ dedication to his craft. Visitors are welcomed into a fantastical world that celebrates the joy of imagination and the spirit of El Paso’s artistic community.
Visit John Wesley Hardin’s grave
John Wesley Hardin, the infamous gunslinger, finds his final resting place in Concordia Cemetery. This historic graveyard is the keeper of stories from El Paso’s Wild West era. Hardin’s grave is a stark reminder of the lawless days of gunfights and outlaws, drawing visitors who are fascinated by the tales of the Texas frontier.
Explore the B-36 bomber crash site
The B-36 Bomber Crash Site is a historic landmark located in the Franklin Mountains. It marks the spot where a Cold War-era bomber met a disasterous fate in 1953. Adventurous hikers can trek to the site, where they will find remnants of the aircraft scattered across the rugged landscape. The crash site offers a poignant glimpse into the tensions of the era and the sacrifices made in the name of national security.
Track dinosaurs at Sunland Park Dinosaur Tracks
Sunland Park is home to one of the most remarkable paleontological sites in the region. Here, visitors can walk alongside dinosaur tracks preserved for over 90 million years. These ancient footprints provide a direct connection to the prehistoric giants that once roamed the area, offering a unique and educational experience for visitors of all ages.
Sing along at El Paso’s famed Rosa’s Cantina
Rosa’s Cantina is a legendary establishment immortalized by Marty Robbins’ hit song “El Paso.” This iconic bar is a living piece of music history, where patrons can enjoy cold drinks, live country music and the ambiance of a classic Texan cantina. It’s a place where stories are shared, songs are sung and the legacy of the Old West lives on.
