Once upon a time in the West… El Paso, a border town at the crossroads of Texas regional history and cultures. Nestled in the foothills of the Franklin Mountains, the "Sun City" offers an escape bubble, whether you seek outdoor activities, arts, traditions, or culinary discoveries.

History

Native Americans inhabited the El Paso region before European settlers came to colonize their lands. It was Spanish conquistadors who founded the settlement at a mountain pass and gave it the name El Paso del Norte, or "The Passage to the North." Once part of New Mexico, the town was a hub for agricultural activities in the area. At the same time, it maintained economic ties with Santa Fe and the mining districts of Chihuahuan. The creation of railroads greatly contributed to its growth. From the Pueblo Revolt to the annexation of Texas by the United States, and through the Mexican-American War, El Paso witnessed major episodes of the Old West.

Discovering El Paso

It's easy to forget the rest of the world once you arrive in El Paso. Time hasn't stood still here, as evidenced by the construction boom that has revitalized the downtown area. Yet the legacy of the past remains deeply rooted in the landscape—you'll notice this during a stroll through the Sunset Heights neighborhood to the north, where grand mansions still stand proudly. Elsewhere, it's much the same: you'll find a hint of history in an ever-evolving environment. Here's what you shouldn't miss.

Arts and Culture in El Paso

The melting pot of cultures is ever-present in the Sun City, displayed on the walls of the El Segundo Barrio neighborhood by street artists from around the globe. To learn more about the city's multicultural past, visit the museums. While the Wilderness Park Archaeology Museum highlights Native American culture, the Centennial Museum traces Western history in the region. Then take a tour of the El Paso Art Gallery to discover paintings by European masters.

Shopping in El Paso

In El Paso, shops are everywhere! El Centro, the city's commercial district, has something for everyone: ethnic dresses, cowboy boots, costume jewelry, vintage guitars… Stores and open-air stalls line the main thoroughfare of El Paso Street in a vibrantly colorful setting. On weekends, the atmosphere comes alive when vendors turn up their speakers to play Mexican music. Take advantage of your stroll to sample local specialties: churros, papas locas, elote en vaso…

Hiking Around El Paso

Around El Paso, the splendid desert landscape beckons adventure seekers. It's a playground for hiking enthusiasts. Start by exploring McKelligon Canyon, then venture onto the trails of the majestic Franklin Mountains. Further out, Hueco Tanks will leave you in awe with its collection of natural rocky basins. It's said that Native Americans once had a spiritual center here.

When to Visit?

Hilo sometimes gets a bad reputation for being on the "wet" side of the island. While this is true and Hilo doesn't receive the constant sunshine and clear skies typical of the west side (Kona), it doesn't mean you should stay away. Simply be prepared to get wet once or twice and take advantage of the lush tropical forest that thrives because of the rainfall.

Airplane

Located about ten kilometers from downtown, El Paso International Airport welcomes regular flights from Delta, Southwest, and United. Upon leaving the terminal, take bus number 33 or 50, or alternatively opt for a taxi.

Train

Thanks to its position on the Amtrak rail network, it's easy to reach El Paso by train. The station is located at 700 San Francisco Street on the Sunset Limited route, which connects Los Angeles to New Orleans.

Car

Whether coming from the east or west, follow I-10 to reach downtown El Paso. From New Mexico, take US 54. If driving from the north, take I-25.

Bus

Greyhound provides regular service between El Paso and regional cities such as Phoenix, Houston, and San Antonio. Tornado Bus offers round-trip service from Dallas. Autobus Americanos handles connections to Mexico.

Public Transportation

El Paso's bus network is managed by Sun Metro. Don't expect extensive coverage—buses are primarily useful for getting around downtown. A ticket costs around $1.50 per ride. Additionally, there are free buses, namely the Circulator routes 4 and 9, which serve the area's main attractions.

Taxis

When bus routes don't cover your destination, taxis are a good way to get around El Paso. Checker Cab and Yellow Cab are the main companies operating in the city, but you can also use UberX services.

Car Rental

At the airport, you'll find car rental services if you plan to explore the desert around El Paso. On average, rates are around $15 per day. As for parking, it's not difficult to find a spot downtown thanks to over 2,000 square meters of parking. You can download the Park El Paso app to handle payment.

What to Do in El Paso?

• Try on a cowboy look
• Discover the relics at the Wilderness Park Archaeology Museum
• Find souvenirs in the El Centro shopping district
• Go hiking in the Franklin Mountains
• Refresh yourself in the pools at Hueco Tanks, and more.