
Unusual & Offbeat Destinations in El Paso, United States
1. El Paso Museum of Art
Home to over 7,000 works from the 15th century to today, this museum offers a unique blend of traditional and contemporary art.
- Diverse Collection: Features an array of works by renowned artists like Picasso and O'Keeffe.
- Community Engagement: Hosts free exhibitions, educational programs, and community events.
- Architectural Marvel: Housed in a stunning, modernist building designed by Louis Kahn.
2. Scenic Drive on Mt. Franklin Road
A breathtaking drive offering panoramic views of the city, Mexico, and both mountains and desert landscapes.
- Natural Beauty: Offers stunning sunrises and sunsets over the landscape.
- Outdoor Adventure: Ideal for hiking, birdwatching, and photography enthusiasts.
- City and Country Views: Provides a unique blend of urban and rural landscapes in one drive.
3. El Paso Zoo's Asian-themed area
A serene oasis showcasing endangered species like Sumatran tigers, red pandas, and Asian elephants.
- Endangered Species Focus: Supports conservation efforts for endangered species.
- Cultural Immersion: Includes beautiful Asian architecture and art, providing a rich cultural experience.
- Family-Friendly Fun: Offers educational programs, interactive exhibits, and fun for visitors of all ages.
4. El Paso's Chihuahuan Desert Gardens
A unique botanical garden showcasing desert flora and fauna from the Chihuahuan Desert region.
- Educational Experience: Features interactive exhibits, guided tours, and educational programs about the desert ecosystem.
- Native Plant Conservation: Conserves rare and endangered species of plants found in the Chihuahuan Desert.
- Beauty and Tranquility: Provides a peaceful, picturesque setting for relaxation and reflection.
5. The Wyler Aerial Tramway
A unique cable car ride offering breathtaking views of Franklin Mountains State Park.
- Scenic Views: Provides stunning panoramic views of the city, desert, and mountains.
- Educational Experience: Offers guided tours, exhibits, and information about the local ecosystem.
- Adventure and Thrill: An exhilarating ride up steep terrain, reaching an elevation of over 5,600 feet.
6. El Paso's Segundo Barrio Murals
A vibrant and colorful neighborhood adorned with stunning murals depicting local history and culture.
- Artistic Expression: Showcases the creativity and talent of local artists.
- Cultural Preservation: Highlights the rich history and heritage of El Paso's Mexican-American community.
- Community Engagement: Provides a platform for artists to express their stories and perspectives.
7. El Paso's Magoffin Homestead
A beautifully preserved 19th-century ranch house offering a glimpse into the region's frontier past.
- Historical Preservation: Serves as a living museum, preserving the history of El Paso and the Southwest.
- Architectural Marvel: Features an elegant Victorian-style house with beautiful gardens and outbuildings.
- Educational Experience: Offers guided tours, exhibits, and interactive programs about frontier life and ranching.
8. El Paso's Museum of History
A museum dedicated to preserving the history of El Paso, the border region, and the Southwest.
- Historical Insight: Features exhibits on local history, including the region's indigenous peoples, Spanish colonization, and frontier life.
- Community Engagement: Hosts educational programs, lectures, and special events for visitors of all ages.
- Architectural Marvel: Located in a stunning, modernist building designed by Henry C. Trost.
9. El Paso's Plaza Theatre
A historic theater offering live performances of music, comedy, and more.
- Live Entertainment: Hosts a variety of performances, including concerts, plays, and comedians.
- Architectural Marvel: A beautifully restored Art Deco theater with stunning architecture.
- Community Engagement: Serves as a venue for local arts organizations and community events.
10. El Paso's Fort Bliss Military Museum
A museum dedicated to the history of Fort Bliss, one of the largest military installations in the world.
- Military History: Features exhibits on Fort Bliss's rich history and its role in U.S. military operations.
- Educational Experience: Offers guided tours, interactive exhibits, and educational programs for visitors.
- Community Engagement: Provides a glimpse into the role of Fort Bliss in the El Paso community.
11. El Paso's Scenic Drive on Hueco Tanks Road
A scenic drive offering stunning views of the desert and the historic Hueco Tanks State Park.
- Natural Beauty: Features breathtaking sunrises and sunsets over the desert landscape.
- Outdoor Adventure: Ideal for hiking, birdwatching, and photography enthusiasts.
- Historical Significance: Passes by the ancient rock art site of Hueco Tanks, which is sacred to local Native American tribes.
12. El Paso's El Paso Chihuahuas Baseball Game
Watch a minor league baseball game while enjoying the unique atmosphere of Southwest University Park.
- Sports Entertainment: Enjoy a competitive baseball game between the El Paso Chihuahuas and their opponents.
- Unique Atmosphere: Southwest University Park offers a fun, family-friendly atmosphere with unique food options.
- Community Engagement: Provides an opportunity to engage with locals and enjoy the vibrant El Paso culture.
13. El Paso's Railroad and Transportation Museum
A museum dedicated to preserving the history of transportation in El Paso and the Southwest.
- Historical Insight: Features exhibits on the role of railroads, automobiles, and airplanes in regional history.
- Educational Experience: Offers guided tours, interactive exhibits, and educational programs for visitors.
- Architectural Marvel: Located in a historic Santa Fe Railway depot built in 1912.
14. El Paso's National Border Patrol Museum
A museum dedicated to the history and mission of the U.S. Border Patrol along the U.S.-Mexico border.
- Historical Insight: Features exhibits on the evolution of border security and immigration policies.
- Educational Experience: Offers guided tours, interactive exhibits, and educational programs for visitors.
- Community Engagement: Provides a unique perspective on the role of border security in El Paso and the region.
15. El Paso's Sunset Cruise on the Rio Grande
A unique cruise offering stunning sunsets over the Rio Grande River and a glimpse into life along the border.
- Natural Beauty: Offers breathtaking sunsets and views of the desert landscape.
- Cultural Experience: Provides a glimpse into life along the U.S.-Mexico border, including local customs and traditions.
- Relaxation and Reflection: A peaceful, scenic cruise ideal for relaxation and reflection.