El Paso. Poised just on the western tip of Texas, far from the rest of its own state, but bordering New Mexico and Mexico. A dusty desert city that is surprisingly the 19th most populous in the U.S.
The El Paso area is home to many destinations, whether you like to venture into the outdoors or like to add to your Yelp review list. We've listed some of our favorite and most popular destinations in and around El Paso and encourage you to explore as much of the area as you can during your visit.
El Paso is nicknamed "The Sun City." As a reminder, August in West Texas tends to get a tad sizzling (95° F/ 35° C) , so we would like to remind you to wear sunscreen and to drink plenty of water as you explore the area.
Eats
Texas Sized Margaritas at Carlos & Mickeys
Churro waffles anyone? Found at Crave
As a border city directly across Mexico, the number of Mexican food eateries can be overwhelming. There are tons listed on Yelp, with one sure to suit your fancy. L&J Cafe ("The Old Place by the Graveyard") is consistently recommended by bloggers and patrons. For lively atmosphere and Texas sized margaritas, try Carlos & Mickey's. Julios Cafe Corona is a large family sized restaurant, not lacking in taste. If you're looking for a light taco meal, Tacoholics has small but tasty tacos. And for large, but affordable burritos, try Bonny's Cafe.
For first time visitors to El Paso, venture to the local Chico's Tacos (at your own risk of like/dislike), an El Paso icon known for its tacquitos drenched in tomato sauce and served with crinkle french fries.
If you find yourself wandering downtown, stop by Tabla for some tapas. Downtown also has several pokestops for you hunters!
Whether you're craving brunch or a burger, Crave (with three locations) is one of our favorite restaurants in town. Toro Burger Bar is another burger joint we enjoy.
If you're looking for a good brew and pub food, we recommend either the Hoppy Monk or Block, Table, and Tap, both located on the west side of town, or Craft & Social, located in downtown El Paso.
Super Wraps at Bonny's Cafe bigger than you
Chico's Tacos
Shopping & Entertainment
If you're in the mood to do some shopping (it will be tax-free weekend!), you could visit the Fountains at Farah shopping center or the Outlet Shoppes. Swing by Cavender's Boot City, Justin Boots, or Tony Lama Boots if you're looking for some authentic cowboy / cowgirl gear.
Located just across the state border in Sunland Park, New Mexico are Western Playland for family entertainment and Sunland Park Racetrack and Casino for some adult fun.
If you're looking to see a movie, El Paso now has an Alamo Drafthouse on the west side of town.
Also starting this weekend is El Paso's Plaza Classic Film Festival. Check it out if you're interested!
Outdoors
The Franklin Mountains overlooking El Paso are a short drive away and offer scenic overviews of El Paso and beyond. Take the aerial tramway to really get a look at El Paso and the surrounding areas. The Franklin Mountain State Park offers hiking, as well as the desert basin Hueco Tanks, which is about 30 miles northeast of El Paso.
White Sands National Monument is home to white sand dunes unlike anything you've likely seen before and is located 1.5 hours northwest of El Paso in New Mexico. Located only 30 minutes from here is the City of Rocks State Park, known for its rock formations resembling a small city.
Two hours north of El Paso are the picturesque Cloud Croft and Ruidoso, New Mexico. Due to their elevation, their greenness stands in stark contrast to the surrounding desert.
You can also choose to visit Carlsbad Caverns National Park and Roswell, New Mexico, including the Roswell UFO Museum, located about three hours northeast of El Paso.
Lastly, the City of Marfa, located about three hours southeast of El Paso, is a historic town home to a burgeoning art scene. Also relatively close by are Fort Davis and the McDonald Observatory.