Why El Paso is growing
El Paso has grown as the Sun Corridor's western anchor — aerospace and medical employers, the Franklin Mountains running through town, and a border food scene Texans drive hours for. The guide below connects the town to nearby parks, signature stops, local food and golf so it can anchor a full weekend instead of a quick pass-through.
Carry your passport to cross the river, and plan a full day; the mission trail is a quiet morning.
Things to do nearby
West Texas · Nature
Guadalupe Mountains National Park
Guadalupe Peak — the top of Texas at 8,751 feet — rising from an ancient fossil reef.
West Texas · Nature
Balmorhea State Park
The world's largest spring-fed swimming pool — crystal-clear, 72 degrees and full of tiny desert fish.
West Texas · Nature
Big Bend National Park
Desert, river and mountains in one park — the Chisos range, Santa Elena Canyon and the darkest skies in Texas.
Parks & recreation nearby
Connect the city with a trail, lake, historic site or open-sky day trip.
State park · El Paso
Wyler Aerial Tramway
Explore the landscapes, trails and stories around Wyler Aerial Tramway.
State park · El Paso
Franklin Mountains State Park
Explore the landscapes, trails and stories around Franklin Mountains State Park.
Historic site · El Paso
Hueco Tanks State Park & Historic Site
Explore the landscapes, trails and stories around Hueco Tanks State Park & Historic Site.
Where to eat
Aurora's Cantina
Border plates with a long family history.
Family friendlyGuzzo's Italian
An El Paso institution on the east side.
Family friendlyL&J Café
The Tex-Mex classic on the way to the mountains.
Things to do
Franklin Mountains State Park
Trails and a tram inside the range.
Family friendlyMission Trail
Restored seventeenth-century missions east of town.
Chamizal National Memorial
A free park telling the border's story.
Family friendly
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Where to stay
Places to stay near El Paso
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