field trips el paso tx

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El Paso Field Trips

The FieldTripDirectory.com is a resource for field trips for students, camp groups, homeschool groups and scout troops for day field trips, overnight field trips and youth retreats. Learn about Texas’s museums, zoos and aquariums, botanic gardens, nature centers, historic sites, amusement parks, recreation, performing arts and more in Metro El Paso. CLICK on the ACTIVITY FILTER below to learn about these types of field trips.

• Financial Support
• History Museums, Exhibits & Sites
• Multicultural & Heritage
• Botanical Gardens & Arboreta
• Planetariums & Astronomy
• Science Museums & Exhibits
• Zoos, Wildlife, Safari Tours, Reptiles, Animal Shows, Vertebrates
• Art Museums, Design, Exhibits, Photography & Films
• Theater, Dance, Music, Movies, Shows
• Early Childhood
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El Paso Holocaust Museum

The El Paso Holocaust Museum and Study Center is the only fully bilingual Holocaust museum. The museum teaches the history of the Holocaust in order to combat prejudice and intolerance.

El Paso Museum of Archaeology

The El Paso Museum of Archaeology, located in Wilderness Park, presents 14,000 years of prehistory in the El Paso area, the greater Southwest, and northern Mexico.

El Paso Museum of Art

El Paso Museum of Art has over 5,000 collections of exhibits on Mexican, European, North American, Pre-Columbian art, and more. Guided tours are available by appointment.

El Paso Museum of History

The El Paso Museum of History , with 16,000 ft of exhibition space, promotes the understanding of the rich, multicultural and multinational history of the border region known as, The Pass of the North.

El Paso Symphony Orchestra Association

El Paso Symphony Orchestra’s Young People’s Concerts exposes students to live classical music in a fun, energetic, and interactive environment. Also family friendly concerts.

El Paso Zoo

The El Paso Zoo on 35-acre is Zoo is home to over 600 animals with 175 species in natural habitats. Learn about our animals of Africa, Americas, and Asia!

Gene Roddenbery Planetarium

The Roddenberry Planetarium offers dynamic educational opportunities in STEM- science, technology, engineering and math through sky shows and exhibits.

Keystone Heritage Park and El Paso's Desert Botanical Garden

Keystone Heritage Park and El Paso’s Desert Botanical Garden consists of a 52-acre park that preserves, protects and study the Keystone Wetlands, the Archaeological site about the Archaic Period civilization, and the El Paso Desert Botanical Garden.

TecHO2 Center

The TecH2O Water Resource Learning Center offers a museum-like experience with many interactive exhibits focusing on Conservation, Culture of Water, Desalination, Chihuahuan Desert, Our Groundwater, and more.

FieldTripDirectory.com (formerly ClassTrips.com and CampDirectorsResources.com) offers field trip ideas for class trips, scout group trips, camp group field trips, and homeschool group field trips in El Paso—early childhood through college. Search for class trips in El Paso by by group type, cost, activity/curriculum type, grade level, distance, and venue name or keyword. Day class trips are divided by curriculum and subject area:

• ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Find El Paso art museums, theater, dance, and music concert field trips.
• EARLY CHILDHOOD Find El Paso class trips to children’s museums, petting zoos, and kids’ shows.
• HISTORY/SOCIAL STUDIES View El Paso history museums, government & civics, historic sites, living history museums, and multicultural field trip ideas.
• LIFE SKILLS Find El Paso team building field trips, health & safety exhibits, and character education experiences.
• SCIENCE & NATURE Find El Paso aquariums, botanical gardens, environmental studies & nature centers, farms & mazes, planetariums, science museums, STEAM & STEM field trips, dinosaur exhibits, and zoos.
• RECREATION Find El Paso field trip ideas for adventure parks, ropes courses, ziplines, boat excursions, amusement parks, waterparks, kayaking, rafting, tubing, laser tag paintball, roller skating rinks, ice-skating rinks, mini-golf attractions, indoor amusement & recreation centers, and outdoor amusement & recreation centers.

Overnight field trips include trips to NYC, trips to Boston, trips to Washington, DC, trips to Chicago, trips to Atlanta, and other historic cities throughout the US. Retreats are available for environmental education, team building, and recreation. We created field trip lesson plans to help teachers, scout leaders, camp counselors, and homeschool parents provide an enriching experience for their groups. We know funds for class trips are limited, so we’ve included grants for field trips that cover admission, transportation, and more. It’s important that students and youth explore new environments, learn about other cultures, and develop an understanding of inclusivity as part of the educational process. People learn in different ways—through hearing, seeing, touching, talking, or doing. Class trips can provide a multi-dimensional learning experience. FieldTripDirectory.com can help you find the right trip for your group. A world of experiences is just a click away at FieldTripDirectory.com.

• Kid-Friendly Activities

Things to Do with Kids in El Paso, TX

• TripBuzz found 22 things to do with kids in or near El Paso, Texas.
• From Southwest University Park to El Paso Zoo, the El Paso area offers 28 different types of family activities, including: History Museums, Family Fun Center, Historic Sites and Amusement Parks (All Ages).
• El Paso, located in west Texas, is located across from Chihuahua, Mexico. El Paso is the 19th most populated city as of 2010, located on Rio Grande. Home to some of the largest United States military complexes; this city has a large federal and armed forces presence. A variety of art and music festivals also bring entertainment to the streets of the city.

Up to 50% Off Arcade Credit at Oasis Lanes

Southwest university park, el paso zoo, bob-o's family fun center, wet n' wild waterworld, jungle jaks, adventure zone, fiesta lanes, the el paso holocaust museum, franklin mountains state park, u.s. army air defense artillery museum.

elpasoexploreum.org

Come, discover, and be inspired!

Exploring Education Beyond the Classroom: El Paso School Field Trips Unleash Learning Adventures

El Paso School Field Trips: Unlocking the Power of Experiential Learning

Field trips are an integral part of a well-rounded education, and in El Paso, they hold a special place in the hearts of educators, students, and parents alike. These excursions outside the classroom walls provide invaluable opportunities for students to explore, discover, and learn in a hands-on and immersive manner.

El Paso is fortunate to be home to a wide array of educational destinations that cater specifically to school field trips. From museums and historical sites to nature reserves and science centers, these venues offer unique experiences that bring classroom lessons to life.

One such destination is the El Paso Exploreum. With its interactive exhibits, engaging programs, and knowledgeable staff, the Exploreum has become a favorite choice for school field trips. Here, students can embark on scientific adventures through various exhibits that cover topics ranging from space exploration to environmental conservation. The Exploreum’s commitment to making learning fun and accessible ensures that every student leaves with a newfound curiosity about the world around them.

But it’s not just the Exploreum that makes El Paso an ideal location for school field trips. The city boasts historical sites like Chamizal National Memorial, where students can delve into the rich cultural heritage of the region. They can also visit Mission Trail where they can step back in time and learn about Spanish colonization in Texas.

For those seeking outdoor experiences, Franklin Mountains State Park offers breathtaking vistas along with opportunities for hiking and wildlife observation. Students can witness firsthand the beauty of nature while gaining an appreciation for environmental conservation.

The benefits of school field trips extend far beyond simply getting out of the classroom. These excursions provide students with real-world context for what they learn in textbooks. They foster critical thinking skills as students encounter new environments and situations that challenge their perspectives.

Field trips also promote social interaction among students as they collaborate and engage with their peers outside of traditional classroom settings. This interaction helps develop teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills that are essential for success in the future.

Additionally, field trips can ignite a passion for learning within students. The experiential nature of these trips often sparks curiosity and inspires further exploration of subjects that may have seemed abstract or distant before.

To ensure the success of school field trips in El Paso, collaboration between educators, parents, and the community is crucial. Schools can work closely with venues to tailor experiences that align with their curriculum goals. Parents can support these initiatives by actively engaging with their children before and after the trip, discussing what they learned and encouraging further exploration.

In conclusion, school field trips in El Paso offer an incredible opportunity for students to learn beyond the confines of a classroom. These experiences foster a love for learning, promote social development, and provide real-world context to academic concepts. With its diverse range of educational destinations, El Paso truly shines as a city committed to unlocking the power of experiential learning through school field trips.

Frequently Asked Questions: El Paso School Field Trips

What are the requirements for el paso school field trips, how much does a field trip to el paso cost, what safety precautions are taken for el paso school field trips, when should i book an el paso school field trip, are there any restrictions on what students can bring on an el paso school field trip, who is responsible for organizing and coordinating an el paso school field trip, where can i find information about upcoming el paso school field trips, is there a way to reduce the cost of an el paso school field trip.

To ensure a successful and enjoyable school field trip in El Paso, there are several requirements that need to be considered. While specific requirements may vary depending on the destination and educational institution, here are some common considerations:

• Permission Slips: Schools typically require parents or guardians to sign permission slips allowing their child to participate in the field trip. These forms often include emergency contact information and any necessary medical details.
• Transportation Arrangements: Schools usually organize transportation for field trips, whether it’s by bus or other means. Students may need to arrive at a designated meeting point at a specific time before departure.
• Chaperones: Depending on the age of the students and school policies, a certain number of chaperones may be required for supervision during the field trip. Chaperones play a vital role in ensuring student safety and behavior management.
• Student Conduct Guidelines: Students should be familiar with conduct expectations during the field trip. This includes following instructions from teachers and venue staff, respecting exhibits or sites, and behaving appropriately towards peers and others.
• Dress Code: Schools may have specific dress code guidelines for field trips, such as wearing comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities or closed-toe shoes for safety purposes.
• Lunches or Snacks: Depending on the duration of the field trip, students may need to bring their own lunches or snacks unless arrangements have been made for meals at the destination.
• Educational Objectives: Teachers will often provide students with pre-field trip materials or assignments to prepare them for the visit. It is essential for students to understand the educational goals of the trip and actively engage in learning during their visit.
• Timeliness: Students should arrive on time at school on the day of the field trip to ensure smooth departure and avoid delays that could impact scheduling at the destination.

It is important for parents/guardians to stay informed about any specific requirements communicated by their child’s school regarding field trips. By adhering to these requirements, students can have a safe and enriching experience during their educational adventures in El Paso.

The cost of a field trip to El Paso can vary depending on several factors, including the destination, the number of students participating, transportation expenses, and any additional activities or services included in the trip.

It is best to directly contact the specific venue or organization you are interested in visiting for accurate pricing information. They can provide details on admission fees, group rates, and any available discounts for educational institutions.

Additionally, schools often have their own budgeting processes and may allocate funds specifically for field trips. It is recommended to reach out to your school administration or parent-teacher association to inquire about financial support or fundraising opportunities that may be available to help offset the costs.

Remember that many educational destinations in El Paso understand the importance of school field trips and strive to make them accessible to all students. They may offer special rates or scholarships for schools with limited resources. Don’t hesitate to inquire about any available financial assistance options when planning your trip.

The safety and well-being of students are of paramount importance during school field trips in El Paso. To ensure a safe and secure experience, several precautions are taken by schools and venues:

• Planning and Preparation: Schools carefully plan field trips, conducting thorough risk assessments and selecting destinations that meet safety standards. They consider factors such as transportation logistics, emergency procedures, and the suitability of the venue for students.
• Qualified Staff and Chaperones: Trained teachers and staff accompany students on field trips to provide supervision, guidance, and support. Chaperones are selected based on their ability to ensure student safety while maintaining a positive learning environment.
• Transportation Safety: Schools arrange transportation through licensed and reputable providers who adhere to safety regulations. Buses or vehicles used for transportation are regularly inspected for maintenance and equipped with appropriate safety features.
• Venue Safety Measures: Educational venues prioritize visitor safety by implementing various measures such as clearly marked emergency exits, first aid facilities, fire extinguishers, and trained staff who can respond to emergencies promptly.
• Guidelines and Rules: Before the trip, students are provided with clear guidelines and rules to follow during the excursion. This includes instructions on behavior expectations, staying with designated groups or partners, respecting the venue’s rules, and reporting any concerns or emergencies immediately.
• Communication: Open lines of communication are established between schools, parents/guardians, chaperones, and venue staff to address any concerns or provide updates during the trip if necessary.
• Emergency Preparedness: Schools ensure they have emergency plans in place for field trips that include procedures for incidents such as accidents or natural disasters. They may also require students to carry emergency contact information or medical consent forms.
• Health Considerations: Schools take into account any health considerations of students participating in field trips. This may involve collecting necessary medical information from parents/guardians prior to the trip or ensuring access to necessary medications or accommodations.
• Venue Accreditation and Safety Certifications: Schools often choose venues that have appropriate accreditations, certifications, or licenses to ensure compliance with safety standards and regulations.

It is important for parents/guardians to stay informed about field trips, review permission slips, and communicate any specific concerns or considerations regarding their child’s safety. By working together, schools, venues, parents/guardians, and students can create a safe and enjoyable experience during El Paso school field trips.

To ensure a smooth and successful school field trip in El Paso, it is recommended to book well in advance. The timing of your booking will depend on various factors, including the availability of the desired venue, transportation arrangements, and the number of students participating. Here are some guidelines to help you determine when to book:

• Plan ahead: Start planning your school field trip as early as possible. This will give you ample time to research different venues, coordinate with teachers and administrators, and make necessary arrangements.
• Check venue availability: Contact the venue or destinations you wish to visit for your field trip and inquire about their availability during your desired dates. Some popular venues may have limited availability, especially during peak times such as holidays or weekends. It is advisable to have a few alternative dates in mind in case your first choice is not available.
• Consider the school calendar: Take into account the school calendar when scheduling your field trip. Avoid conflicting with important exams, standardized testing, or other significant events that may disrupt the learning schedule.
• Transportation arrangements: If transportation is required for your field trip, make sure to secure transportation services well in advance. Bus companies and other transportation providers often have limited availability during certain times of the year.
• Communicate with parents: Once you have finalized the details of your field trip, inform parents about the date(s) and provide them with any necessary permission slips or forms well ahead of time. This allows parents sufficient time to make arrangements and ensures a high participation rate.

By booking your El Paso school field trip early, you can secure your preferred venue, make necessary arrangements smoothly, and give everyone involved ample time to prepare for an enriching educational experience outside of the classroom.

Yes, there are typically restrictions on what students can bring on an El Paso school field trip to ensure the safety and smooth operation of the excursion. These restrictions may vary depending on the specific venue and the nature of the trip. Here are some common guidelines:

• Personal Belongings: Students are usually advised to bring only essential items such as a backpack, lunch, water bottle, and any necessary medications. It’s important to check with the school or trip organizer for specific instructions regarding personal belongings.
• Electronics: In many cases, students are discouraged from bringing electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, or gaming devices unless explicitly permitted by the school or trip organizer. This helps minimize distractions and ensures that students fully engage with the educational experience.
• Restricted Items: Students should avoid bringing items that may be considered dangerous or disruptive. This includes weapons, sharp objects, flammable materials, illegal substances, or any item that violates school policies.
• Food and Drinks: Some venues may have restrictions on outside food and drinks due to safety regulations or to support their own concessions services. Students may be required to leave snacks and meals at designated areas or follow specific guidelines regarding food consumption.
• Valuables: It is generally recommended that students leave valuable items such as expensive jewelry, large sums of money, or sentimental objects at home to prevent loss or theft during the field trip.

It’s important for parents and guardians to review any guidelines provided by the school or trip organizer before sending their child on a field trip in order to ensure compliance with all rules and regulations. These guidelines prioritize student safety while allowing them to fully enjoy and benefit from their educational experiences outside of the classroom.

The responsibility of organizing and coordinating an El Paso school field trip typically falls on the shoulders of the school administration, teachers, and sometimes parent volunteers. The process usually involves several steps to ensure a smooth and successful trip.

Firstly, the school administration, in collaboration with teachers, determines the educational objectives and destination for the field trip. This decision is often based on curriculum relevance and the specific learning goals they want to achieve outside of the classroom.

Once the destination is chosen, teachers work closely with administrators to plan logistics such as transportation, permission slips, and scheduling. They may also coordinate with the chosen venue to arrange specific activities or guided tours that align with their curriculum.

In some cases, schools may seek assistance from parent volunteers who can help with tasks like chaperoning students during the trip or managing administrative aspects such as collecting permission slips and organizing lunch arrangements.

It’s important for all parties involved to communicate effectively throughout the planning process. Teachers should provide clear instructions to students and parents regarding expectations, behavior guidelines, and any necessary preparations for the field trip.

Ultimately, it is a collaborative effort between school administrators, teachers, and sometimes parent volunteers to ensure that all logistical details are taken care of and that students have a safe and enriching experience during their El Paso school field trip.

To find information about upcoming El Paso school field trips, there are a few resources you can explore:

• School District Websites: Check the official websites of the El Paso Independent School District (EPISD), Ysleta Independent School District (YISD), Socorro Independent School District (SISD), and other local school districts. They often provide information about upcoming field trips, including dates, destinations, and registration details.
• School Newsletters and Announcements: Stay updated with your child’s school newsletters, bulletins, or announcements. Schools typically communicate field trip information directly to parents through these channels.
• Teacher Communication: Reach out to your child’s teacher directly to inquire about any upcoming field trips. Teachers usually have the most up-to-date information regarding educational outings planned for their specific classes.
• Educational Venues’ Websites: Visit the websites of popular educational venues in El Paso such as the El Paso Exploreum, Chamizal National Memorial, Mission Trail, or Franklin Mountains State Park. These venues often advertise their upcoming school programs and field trip opportunities on their websites.
• Local Event Listings: Keep an eye on local event listings and community calendars that feature educational events and activities in El Paso. These listings may include information about upcoming field trips organized by schools or educational institutions.

Remember to stay in touch with your child’s school administration and teachers for the most accurate and current information regarding upcoming field trips.

Reducing the cost of an El Paso school field trip can be a worthwhile endeavor, as it allows more students to participate and ensures that financial constraints do not hinder access to valuable educational experiences. Here are a few strategies that can help in reducing the cost of a school field trip:

• Seek Funding Opportunities: Look for grants, sponsorships, or funding programs specifically designed to support educational field trips. Local businesses, community organizations, and educational foundations may offer financial assistance or grants for schools in need.
• Collaborate with Other Schools: Consider joining forces with other schools in the area to organize a joint field trip. Sharing transportation costs and splitting other expenses can significantly reduce the overall cost per student.
• Plan Well in Advance: Start planning the field trip well ahead of time to take advantage of early bird discounts or special rates offered by venues or transportation providers. Booking early can often result in substantial savings.
• Explore Free or Low-Cost Options: Research destinations that offer free or low-cost admission for educational groups. Museums, parks, and cultural centers sometimes have specific days or programs dedicated to school visits at reduced rates.
• Fundraising Efforts: Organize fundraising activities within the school community to generate funds for the field trip. This can include bake sales, car washes, auctions, or partnering with local businesses for sponsorship opportunities.
• Seek Parent Involvement: Engage parents and guardians by seeking their support through donations or volunteering their time during fundraising events. Their involvement can contribute significantly to reducing costs.
• Transportation Alternatives: Explore options beyond traditional buses for transportation. Consider public transportation if feasible and safe, as it may be more cost-effective than hiring private buses.
• Pack Lunches: Instead of relying on expensive catering services during the trip, encourage students to bring bagged lunches from home. This small adjustment can save a significant amount of money without compromising on the experience.
• Look for Educational Grants: Research educational grants that specifically support field trips or experiential learning opportunities. Many organizations offer grants to schools for such purposes, which can help offset costs.

Remember, open communication with school administrators, parents, and the wider community is essential in finding creative solutions to reduce the cost of a school field trip. By working together and exploring various options, it is possible to make these valuable educational experiences more accessible and affordable for all students.

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5 Field Trips Every El Paso Kid Went On Back In The Day

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I can remember the last time I went on a field trip. I was in the eighth grade and we went to the planetarium. This was before it moved to its new location on Wren Ave., it was still on Boeing Dr!

I also recall our eighth grade science teacher saying that it would probably be the last time we had a field trip to the planetarium. I thought he meant that the planetarium was closing down- turns out it just meant that in high school field trips are almost non-existent!

I used to love field trips- you have to admit, it is one of the coolest parts about school. The air on the mornings of field trips just hit different. El Paso didn't have aquariums or scientists labs to visit, but we had some pretty good field trips like:

The Gene Rodenberry Planetarium 

Was it just me or was this a cool field trip? I remember sitting in that auditorium and learning about light pollution and just how close Venus and Mars are to us.

The Coca-Cola Vending Plant

If you didn't go to this plant you missed out! You got to see Coca-Cola be distributed and at the end of the trip you got a free Coke- it was the coolest thing in my 2nd grade year!

El Paso Zoo 

Everyone went to the zoo- and it was great! You got to hang with your friends at the zoo, eat lunch outdoors and then visit the gift shop? So much fun!

El Paso Courthouse

I never fully understood why they would take us on a field trip to the Court House, but it was a day out of class and sometimes you got to see some guy in handcuffs and think that maybe he was a big time criminal! Perhaps this is where all our obsessions with "Law & Order" derived from.

Insights Science Museum

Kids today will never know how cool Insights was! The original location on Santa Fe was demolished in 2013 to make way for Southwest University Park. But that old location was the coolest.

Field trips are wasted on kids! Can you imagine taking a whole day off of work to go to the planetarium? Or to the Coca-Cola factory and at the end of the tour you got a Coke?

You Had to Be There: El Paso Edition

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Fab Lab El Paso

Imagine. Innovate. Invent.

SY2023-2024 School Offerings

Fall 2023 – spring 2024 makerspace field trips and services, unlock your students’ creativity and technical prowess with a field trip to our downtown el paso makerspace and stem lab. bookings are available for grades 3-12 , monday to friday, with content and exercises differentiated for grade levels 3-5, 6-8, 9-12., field trip topics, 3d printing: an engineering epic, ai and robotics: robo-revolution, physics: atomic adventures, professional development, 3d printing 101, *scroll down for program descriptions and to register for a quote*, * there is a 10 student minimum to book a field trip and 30 student maximum per day. *, fee schedule , vendor and contractor of allied states cooperative esc region 19, el paso isd, socorro isd, ysleta isd, san elizario isd, canutillo isd, field trip descriptions, an engineering epic, content: 3d printing, modeling, social studies, green engineering.

Grades: 3-5, 6-8, 9-12

Description:

Travel throughout time to a world where ancient marvels meet cutting-edge technology. In this hands-on experience, students will pay homage to ancient Greco-Roman engineering and explore the fascinating intersection of 3D printing, automation, and nature. They will learn how to cultivate sustainable building practices, nurture their creativity and problem-solving skills, and create bioplastic pottery! Join us on this educational journey to empower the next generation of eco-conscious innovators.

Robo-Revolution   

Content: machine learning, technology, coding .

Unravel the enigma of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics as we embark on a journey into the future of technology and humanity! Although AI has long been the center of dystopian sci-fi entertainment, it is now quickly being adopted into every major industry. Students will gain the upper hand at understanding and utilizing these technologies to prepare them for jobs of the future by programming humanoid robots to move, speak, and process new information. Become a part of the robo-revolution and help shape the world of tomorrow! 

Atomic Adventures   

Content: physics, motion , coding .

Grades: 3-5, 6-8

Venture into the mysterious microcosm of particles and atoms, the building blocks of matter! Students will discover one of the most revolutionary ideas in science – the world we can see directly consists of a hidden realm of unimaginably small particles. Through engaging activities, students will learn about how the unseen fundamental particles of the universe determine the nature of our reality. Unleash your potential and experience physics in full force!

Professional  Development

Designed for educators with little to no prior experience in 3D printing, this course will focus on building foundational knowledge and practical skills that can be seamlessly integrated into various subject areas. By the end of this course school teachers will be equipped with the knowledge and confidence to effectively incorporate 3D printing into their classrooms. Whether it’s bringing history to life with 3D-printed artifacts or engineering prototypes for science projects, this PD experience will empower educators to unleash their students’ potential by fostering a culture of creativity, innovation, and problem-solving, preparing them for the challenges of the future. Participants will explore the following key areas:

• Introduction to 3D Printing 
• 3D Design Fundamentals 
• Integrating 3D Printing Across Subjects 
• Classroom Management and Safety
• Preparing prints and post processing

Know of someone in need of a warm meal? How To Help!

Plan Ahead for Spring Field Trips!

February 3, 2023

The Mustard Seed Cafe and Amigos Garden is a wonderful place to  bring your school-age kids for an interactive field trip at a thriving garden in the middle of the El Paso desert!

We begin with an hour-long tour of our garden , followed by a delicious lunch at the cafe .

In the garden, the children learn a variety of things through  hands-on activities, taste-testing, and asking questions . At the end of the garden tour, the children leave knowing what our gardeners and volunteers are growing and harvesting, the benefits of eating a diet high in fruits and vegetables, the importance of bees and other insects to our ecosystem, and how compost enriches the soil. Bringing their knowledge to life as they experience the garden is invaluable!

After the tour, the kids will head into the cafe to clean up. Then comes a delicious and nutritious lunch , where everyone is able to enjoy a warm welcome and the gift of a tasty meal. It’s perfect for classes and homeschool groups of all ages!

Contact us if you are interested in setting up a field trip to the garden!

(915) 440-7333

201 E. Sunset Rd. El Paso, TX 79922

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The Mustard Seed Cafe is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, with a mission to serve warm delicious meals to those in need!

10 Fun Weekend + Day Trips from El Paso, TX

For hundreds of years now, the far West Texas city of El Paso has been a place standing on its own–but even so, there are a number of weekend getaways and fun day trips from El Paso to consider.

Like any other great Texas city, El Paso has plenty of fun things going on in and around it for everyone. 

With so much area to cover in the region, we’ve broken down each of our short road trips from El Paso into categories of under 3-hour distance and longer trips over 3 hours distance from the city center. 

Whether you’re looking for a hike, a museum to explore, or a cultural exchange, there are no doubt a few great places to visit near El Paso that will be perfect for your next getaway.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

The Best Day Trips from El Paso (Under 3 Hours)

For those who live in the El Paso Area,  borders are a bit arbitrary. This is especially true of the state border between Texas and New Mexico.

With El Paso sitting on both a state and international border, day and weekend trips can mean visiting outside of Texas with only a few miles of driving. 

Here are some of the best El Paso day trips that you can tackle within 3 hours of driving or less!

Las Cruces, New Mexico

One of the most popular places to visit from El Paso is Las Cruces, New Mexico.

Located along the Organ Mountains and in the fertile Rio Grande Valley, Las Cruces has somewhat of a small-town feel, although its size does not suggest it. 

Don’t worry; there are plenty of things to do in this wonderful southern New Mexico city.

From some of the best Mexican food in the world to a fun-filled nightlife, Las Cruces is a must-visit for either a single night or a weekend trip. 

Driving Distance from El Paso

50 minutes.

Carlsbad, New Mexico

Most people have probably heard of the Caverns of Carlsbad, New Mexico, but many may not realize just how close they are to El Paso. 

Spending time exploring underground caves’ natural wonders at the famous Carlsbad Caverns National Park is a must.

However, you should know there is much more to the Carlsbad area than caverns. 

If you enjoy the outdoors, Carlsbad also offers the fun of visiting one hundred million-year-old waterfalls, a lake for boating and swimming, a zoo and natural area, and a state park to enjoy a hike, plus many more things that are overshadowed by the caverns. 

There is certainly enough to see and do here to make a full weekend getaway from El Paso. 

Plus, of course, there’s Texas’ own Guadalupe Mountains National Park to check out in the area as well!

2 hours, 25 minutes.

Franklin Mountains State Park

There are not many cities in Texas or the U.S. that can boast of having their own state park nestled within the mountains seen from their kitchen windows. 

The Franklin Mountains are a part of El Paso and have helped make the city what it is today. 

The Franklin Mountains State Park may be the perfect spot for those last-minute day trips from El Paso.

Whether you are looking for a day hike at one of its many hiking trails, a campsite for the weekend, or for a few hours to have a picnic in nature, this state park is the perfect choice

30 minutes.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park

The Guadalupe Mountains National Park happens to be the closest National Park to El Paso.

While the Franklin Mountains offer fun in the city’s backyard, the Guadalupe Mountains are perfect for a weekend adventure. 

If getting out and into nature without the safety net that sometimes accompanies state parks is your type of adventure, then these mountains are for you. 

After entering the park, you’ll find yourself driving for miles away from any semblance of civilization to find the trail or camping spot you are looking for.

With 86,000 acres to explore, this park offers some of the most rugged yet serene atmospheres around.

If you’re up for the challenge, you can even climb the highest peak in Texas!

1 hour, 50 minutes.

Fort Bliss and Old Ironsides Museums

The shortest road trip from El Paso on our list is still a place to spend an entire day of fun, especially for history and military buffs. 

Fort Bliss has had a long history serving the area of El Paso, dating back to the 19th century. 

With the advent of mechanized warfare, Fort Bliss became even more necessary for training armored divisions. 

Today, this still active military base lets you enjoy the day browsing through its history in the form of displays of actual military equipment like tanks and missiles. 

The base also offers a park and outside tables to enjoy a picnic during your visit. 

20 minutes.

Juarez, Mexico

El Paso would not be the city it is without its sister city south of the border.

In fact, without the presence of the border, these two distinct but related cities would have merged long ago. 

Although Juarez has had a checkered past in recent years, and while some still consider it a risky place to visit, it has come a long way to recover its reputation. 

If a day trip into Juarez is on your bucket list, follow locals’ advice and visit during the daytime, don’t wander off the beaten path, and use common sense, just as you would in any other city. 

Juarez offers a chance to visit the Mexican culture of the Chihuahuan Desert with its historic buildings and museums.

Book a tour and enjoy your day across the border. 

Visit the Pecan Groves.

After the great Dust Bowl era in the United States during the 1930s, states began programs to build windbreaks dividing farmland.

The Rio Grande area near El Paso was one such place where this plan was established. 

Thankfully, the area’s people decided to plant pecan trees instead of any shrubbery that would do the same job. 

Today this has created several miles of pecan groves and private pecan farms outside of El Paso. 

While visiting El Paso, be sure to take a drive out and enjoy these Texas delicacies.

You’ll find you can purchase pecan products prepared in dozens of different ways. 

25 minutes.

Weekend Getaways + Road Trips from El Paso (3+ Hours)

With wide-open spaces and the fact that even your neighbors may live a few miles away in West Texas, it’s no surprise some of the best spots to visit from El Paso take a bit of driving to reach. 

The following places are certainly worth a few hours of your time and make great weekend trips from El Paso. 

Did you know West Texas is home to the Sahara Desert?

Just kidding, but it is home to a place that makes you feel as if you were visiting the great African desert. 

When you hear the name Monahans, two things come to mind, a traditional West Texas town and Monahans State Park with its enormous sand dunes that appear to go on forever. 

Spend the day gliding down the slick dunes on a plastic tub or bring a picnic and enjoy the outdoors.

Don’t forget to run into town and visit the Roy Orbison Museum for a bit of the legend’s music history. 

3 hours, 40 minutes.

The Davis Mountain Triangle

We will admit, we made this name up, although there is no doubt it fits the description of the towns of Alpine, Fort Davis , and Marfa in the Davis Mountains of West Texas. 

Each of these towns has its own character, but taken as a whole, if you experience one, you must also take in the others. 

The scenic drive connecting all of these towns is as good as any in the USA.

T he only way to describe the area is where a big sky country meets the land under it. 

Enjoy a night at the “star party” of the McDonald Observatory outside of Fort Davis, engage with world-class art galleries in the quirky town of Marfa, or fill a full day visiting unique shopping venues in Alpine. 

3 hours, 30 minutes.

Tucson, Arizona

The distance between East and West Texas is evident when we consider a visit to Tucson, Arizona, is a much shorter road trip from El Paso to Houston. 

For lovers of the desert, there may be no better short road trip than one from the Chihuahuan Desert to the Sonoran Desert.  

Tucson is a fun weekend getaway with plenty of shopping, food, and attractions to enjoy, but the best part is undoubtedly the stunning Saguaro National Park, which is packed full of gigantic Saguaro cacti that tower over the humans admiring them.

Be sure to stop in Tombstone, Arizona, during this weekend getaway from El Paso!

4 hours, 30 minutes.

4 thoughts on “10 Fun Weekend + Day Trips from El Paso, TX”

You failed to mention White Sands national Park in New Mexico and Ruidoso New Mexico with the mascalero Indians., The Gila wilderness. All of these are very close to El Paso

You forgot to mention Cattleman’s restaurant in Fabens, Texas. It is 30 minutes from El Paso.

Chamizal is a national park IN el paso. Deming, Silver City, Elephant Butte and Caballo Lake are ALL within 3 hours of El Paso. Good article though and informative!

Forgot Pecos Texas, home of the world’s first rodeo. Also Balmorhea State park

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One Day in El Paso: Our Itinerary

Last Updated on September 5, 2023 by Grant

As part of our quest to see all of the national park sites, we finally made it to El Paso, Texas on Christmas Day 2019. With just one park site, Chamizal National Memorial, we didn’t stay long. In fact, one day in El Paso was just about perfect. Even though it was a short stay, we quickly fell in love with this city.

If you’re coming from the eastern United States, like us, getting to El Paso isn’t exactly easy. Yes, there is an airport and flying in certainly would be a good option. We always love a good road trip, though, so that’s exactly what we did! Our trip started in Tallahassee, FL after an early Christmas visit with my family. From there, it took two days of driving I-10 to get to El Paso. It was a long drive, but it was definitely worth it!

Our visit to El Paso was part of a nearly two-week Christmas road trip through the southwest. We’ve been yearning to visit this part of the country for a while but the distance from home and summer heat have kept us away until now. Two weeks isn’t nearly long enough for all the national parks in the southwest region but at least it’s a start. 

Whether you’re on a national parks quest or just looking for a fun weekend getaway, El Paso is a great place to visit. Our itinerary for one day in El Paso covers historic sites, scenic views and where to eat and drink.

(Disclaimer: When we link to places where you can buy our stuff or places we stayed, we are using special codes that earn us commissions on the sales at no additional cost to you. Please see our  Review Policy   for more information.)

Where to Stay in El Paso

As the sixth-largest city in Texas, you will have plenty of hotel options in El Paso. We found a great rate at the DoubleTree , located right in downtown, and were very happy with our choice. The hotel is located not far off the interstate which made it easy to get to. It is also walking distance to several downtown must-see attractions.

Perhaps the only negative to the DoubleTree was the tight parking garage, especially for anyone driving a large vehicle like our truck. That is a somewhat common problem for any downtown hotel, though, so it wasn’t completely unexpected. 

We arrived at the hotel early in the evening on Christmas Day and were pleasantly surprised to find the onsite restaurant, Fire, open for dinner. Traveling on Christmas Day is always a bit of a gamble but this year it wasn’t a problem at all for us.

Book the Hotel | Read Trip Advisor Reviews

Things to Do in El Paso

San jacinto plaza.

After dinner, we walked just a couple of blocks from the hotel to San Jacinto Plaza, a historic park in the heart of downtown El Paso. Taking up a full city block, the park is a great place to relax and breathe in some fresh air. 

At Christmas, the park is covered in lights and other decorations making it an even more popular destination. When we arrived on Christmas night, we found the entire park covered with people snapping photos and admiring the sights. From white lights lining the trees to a giant ornament-covered tree, there were plenty of photo opportunities throughout the park.

In the center of the plaza is an alligator statue, a throwback to when live alligators lived in a small pond in the park.

After taking a few pictures at San Jacinto, we wandered around a bit checking out all the lights and WinterFest festivities. The ice skating rink was somewhat tempting, but we were tired after a long day of driving and decided to just head back to the hotel.

Digital Wall

We started our one day in El Paso with another walk through downtown. After two days of driving, we really wanted to get in a little exercise! Our first stop was, again, just around the corner outside the Museum of History to see the Digital Wall, aka DIGIE (Digital Information Gateway). 

This interactive touch screen is the only one of its kind in the United States. It includes photos and videos covering El Paso’s history and culture. This is a great place to learn more about the city and find other things to do in El Paso.

We spent a few minutes playing around with it and looking at information on our next stop, the Magoffin Home State Historic Site. Whether you’re interested in finding information or just playing around with a unique digital landmark, DIGIE is a great place to start your visit to El Paso. 

The Digital Wall is located outside the Museum of History but we did not visit the museum. In fact, I don’t think it was even open the morning we visited.

Magoffin Home State Historic Site

To learn more about El Paso history and architecture we took a tour of the Magoffin Home State Historic Site. The adobe structure dates back to the 1870s and is a near-perfect example of Territorial-style architecture.

Mexican-born Joseph Magoffin lived much of his life in the United States and even served in the US Civil War while living in Kentucky. He later helped to develop the city of El Paso, bringing railroads and utilities to the area. 

Magoffin and his wife, Octavia, built this home in 1875 and three generations of Magoffins lived in the home for more than 100 years. The vast majority of the furnishings are family pieces. On the tour, we enjoyed learning about the history of the family, how they helped shape El Paso and seeing the changes in the home over its 100 years of housing the family.

The Magoffin Home is located about a mile from the DoubleTree. It took us about 30 minutes to walk each direction. The walk itself was very easy and we enjoyed getting to see a bit more of downtown El Paso.

Chamizal National Memorial

At the end of the Mexican-American War in 1848, the United States gained much of its current western land. At the same time, the two countries established the Rio Grande as the Texas-Mexico border. Unfortunately, massive flooding in the 1860s changed the course of the river sparking a dispute over the international border. 

The area in question was originally Mexican farmland known as the Chamizal tract. A “chamizal” is an area where the Spanish scrub bush chamizo grows. Over the years, both countries worked to establish a permanent boundary, straightening the river channel in the process. 

This, of course, was not an easy process and still left the ownership of the original Chamizal tract and the newly created Cordova Island in question. It took nearly 100 years but in 1962, US President John F. Kennedy met with Mexican President Lopez Mateos to finally resolve the dispute. 

Ultimately, President Lyndon Johnson signed the Chamizal Convention in 1963. This treaty settled the dispute, a four-mile-long concrete-lined channel was built and the two countries exchanged parcels of land. Chamizal National Memorial celebrates this peaceful settlement and fosters cultural understanding. 

Things to Do at Chamizal National Memorial

The 55-acre park sits on the US-Mexican border, with clear views of El Paso and Ciudad Juarez. Inside the visitor center, you’ll find a short film, exhibits on the dispute and friendly settlement, gallery space and a theater. The grounds have several walking trails and an amphitheater. 

You’ll find cultural performances throughout the year, including a summer concert series at the outdoor stage. Unfortunately, there were no events while we were in town. 

Expect to spend about 30 minutes viewing the exhibits at the visitor center. Be sure to pick up the self-guided trail tour brochure to help you better understand the Chamizal story as you walk the park grounds. The park trails are easy to navigate and provide a great place to get some exercise and enjoy the views of this once disputed land.

Plan to spend at least an hour at the park; you could easily spend more time enjoying a picnic or walking the park grounds.

Lunch at Chico’s Tacos

Following our visit to Chamizal NM, we were ready for some lunch. I turned to the Visit El Paso app to search for a local favorite and came up with Chico’s Tacos. This no-frills restaurant boasts itself as “an El Paso tradition” and has been featured on the Food Network’s The Best Thing I Ever Ate .

We opted for their signature dish, rolled tacos. A single order is served with three rolled taquito-style tacos drenched in a soupy red sauce and smothered in shredded cheese. The tacos were tasty if a little difficult to eat. I was most impressed at how crispy the tacos stayed even while soaking in the sauce. 

You will need cash but you won’t need much of it. We got two “single orders” and two medium drinks for less than $9. Even though the restaurant was busy, the line moved fast and we received our food much quicker than anticipated.

I don’t know that I would say this was the greatest lunch I’ve ever had, but it was something unique and tasty. Whether you stop in for their signature rolled tacos, a hamburger or a hot dog (uniquely served on a hamburger bun), Chico’s Tacos is a great local restaurant to check out.

National Border Patrol Museum 

Located on the northern outskirts of El Paso, the National Border Patrol Museum is the only one of its kind in the United States. The museum shares the history of the Border Patrol and its operations. Displays include vehicles and weapons both used and seized by agents.

You’ll also see pictures and interesting artifacts from some of the more interesting illegal border-crossing attempts. 

This small museum is free and will keep you entertained for about an hour. 

Transmountain Road

From the Border Patrol Museum, we continued west across Transmountain Road back to I-10. There are a few turnouts along the way, with picnic tables and nice views of El Paso from above.

If you’re interested in a little hiking, there is a parking area where you can get out and stretch your legs. There are also a couple of picnic areas along the road. Since we had walked all over downtown El Paso earlier in the morning, we skipped the hike but did stop for a quick picture of the city.

Along this road, you feel lightyears away from the city but it’s really only about 10-15 minutes outside of town. It really is a great place to escape the city.

Ode Brewing

Our next stop was Ode Brewing on the northwest side of town. This was a great place to kill a couple of hours and enjoy some tasty beer. We didn’t get any food, but the menu did look interesting.

I had the Juicy J (an East Coast Pale Ale), which is brewed with Citra, Mosaic and Simcoe hops. While I typically don’t like “hoppy” beer, I have discovered that I like these hops and the complex, fruity notes they produce.

Grant enjoyed the Porch Pounder Pils and the Hueco Wit (a Belgian Wit). He described both of these beers as easy-drinking and refreshing. 

Scenic Drive

On our way to dinner, we decided to check out the official Scenic Drive of El Paso. Seriously, the road is actually named “Scenic Drive” on Apple Maps and Google Maps. 

I’ll be honest, after driving across Transmountain Road we were a little skeptical that Scenic Drive would live up to its name. We were wrong. It actually was a better drive.

From Mesa Road, where Ode Brewing is located, you’ll take Kerby Avenue to Rim Road through an older neighborhood with small but well-kept homes. As you turn to Scenic Drive, the houses become much bigger and nicer. Quickly, though, you’re driving on the edge of the mountain overlooking the city with dramatic views.

A small parking area and overlook park provide amazing views of El Paso and Ciudad Juarez. What makes this view better than those along Transmountain Road is the distance. From Scenic Drive, you are literally on the edge of town and can clearly see just about everything in town. You can even see the “big red X” of Ciudad Juarez, which is located on a piece of land that was exchanged in the Chamizal Treaty.

The drive is a great one and well worth the 5-10 minutes that it takes to get there from downtown El Paso.

Dinner at Cattleman’s Steakhouse

To finish off our day in El Paso we drove out to Cattleman’s Steakhouse for dinner and one last bit of exploring. Located about 30 minutes south of town at Indian Cliffs Ranch in Fabens, Cattleman’s Steakhouse is more than just a restaurant. It sits on a working ranch which is home to a large variety of animals and scenic desert vistas.

Indian Cliffs Ranch

We arrived early, shortly after 4:00, to give ourselves time to explore the ranch before sitting down to an early dinner. As we wandered through the grounds we saw all kinds of animals – rabbits, sheep, goats, deer, bison, llama, longhorn cattle, rattlesnakes and many different kinds of birds including peacocks, ostrich, pheasants, prairie chickens and several we couldn’t identify. 

This ranch really is a great place to explore and enjoy an afternoon. A small lake and badlands-style terrain make it easy to see why a number of movies have been filmed here.

There were a good number of people wandering around the grounds, but it really wasn’t too busy. I imagine that changes with warmer weather. It also probably helps that we arrived early.

At dinner, I got a sirloin and Grant opted for a New York strip. All entrees are served with a side (we both chose for a loaded baked potato). Additionally, you’ll get unlimited ranch beans, pineapple coleslaw and bread served family-style. 

I have to say, the steak was one of the best I’ve ever had. There was nothing fancy about it, but it was cooked just right and the flavor was perfect. A close second in terms of taste was the ranch beans, which had a chili-style sauce. Both the steak and the beans were a great complement to the bottle of Malbec that we enjoyed with our meal.

Cattleman’s Steakhouse was a great finish to our one day in El Paso and I highly recommend it for dinner, great desert scenery and entertainment. 

A Quick Return for the Sun Bowl

While not part of our official one day in El Paso itinerary, we did have the opportunity to return a few days after our original visit for the Sun Bowl. It was pure coincidence that we planned to still be in the area, in southern New Mexico, and were able to fit in a day trip back to El Paso for the Florida State vs. Arizona State football bowl game. 

As a Florida State alum, the outcome of the game wasn’t what we hoped for (Arizona State won 20-14) but we did have a good time. This actually was the first FSU game and first bowl game for Grant! Hopefully, our next football game together will have a better outcome.

Final Thoughts on Our One Day in El Paso Itinerary

Before our visit, I really wasn’t sure what to expect from El Paso. Sitting right on the border of both Mexico and New Mexico, on the far west side of Texas, I figured it would have its own identity, separate from the rest of Texas. I certainly was not wrong. 

El Paso definitely is not like most other cities in Texas. It is not necessarily a better city or a worse city; it’s just different. El Paso holds more of a southwest flair, which we enjoyed.

We found El Paso to be a very clean and welcoming city. As we walked through downtown, we saw little to no trash or graffiti. The roads and highways were well-maintained. I even commented on how nice the interstate was as we drove into town. 

For us, one day in El Paso was the perfect amount of time to see the highlights and enjoy the city. If you’re looking to do a lot of shopping or have any other specific interests, you could certainly spend more time here. El Paso is a great city with a lot to offer.

There are two state parks in the immediate area with opportunities for hiking, biking and other outdoor adventures. Within a couple of hours, you’ll find three National Parks: Guadalupe Mountains, home to the highest peak in Texas and Carlsbad Caverns and White Sands in New Mexico. While only White Sands NP was on our itinerary for this trip, we’ll certainly visit the others one day and would love to return to El Paso when we do.

Travel Resources

What do you use to find a flight.

We use Skyscanner to find deals on flights. Skyscanner has a great interface and compares tons of airlines for the best pricing and routing. That said, it does not always have every airline and some airlines will have better deals on their website. Still, Skyscanner is a great place to start. Click here to search for a flight.

What do you use to find a hotel?

We typically stay at Hilton properties , so we use the Hilton website . You can find good Hilton Honors discounts or AAA discounts for a hotel there. We make great use of our free night certificates from our Hilton Honors American Express. Click here to book a Hilton property.

If there are no Hilton properties available, we use TripAdvisor to read reviews and book the hotel. We find we can get the best price that way. Click here to search for a hotel.

We recently partnered with Stay22 to add interactive maps to each of our destination posts. This will allow you to see a plethora of hotels and vacation rentals all in one responsive map of the area.

What if I need more space than I can get at a hotel?

We use Vrbo for the times when we have rented a cabin for a weekend getaway, like this cabin in Townsend, TN , or needed to rent a house for a large family vacation. We had a great experience with them in terms of refunding deposits when COVID hit and will continue to use them. Click here to search for a vacation rental.

Who do you use for rental cars?

As a general rule, we book with Hertz for rental cars. We have had nothing but good experiences with them. Plus, we really like unlimited mileage and not worrying about crossing state lines. We have even rented from Hertz overseas in both Slovenia and Croatia . Click here to book a rental car.

How about booking a cruise?

We have found some amazing prices for booking a cruise through Cruise Direct . We have saved a lot of money on our cruises compared to what we found elsewhere, making a last-minute Bahamas cruise even cheaper. Click here to book a cruise.

What if I want to rent an RV?

We highly recommend Outdoorsy for RV rentals. We rented a camper van for a week to visit Rocky Mountain National Park for the elk rut and Custer State Park for the Buffalo Round-Up and had a blast. The program was easy to use and we really enjoyed the freedom of having a camper van for that trip. Click here to rent an RV.

What do you use for booking tours?

We don’t often book tours. Typically, we like to do stuff on our own. That said, there are some experiences you can’t have any other way. So, when we do want to book a tour, we always check Viator first. Click here to book a tour.

Do you use anything to get discounts on the road?

We make extensive use of both Good Sam and AAA on the road. Good Sam is normally regarded as a discount card for RVers at campgrounds and Camping World but anyone can use the 5 cents off a gallon at the pump at both Pilot and Flying J. Click here to get a Good Sam membership. We have had AAA as long as we have been married and it has more than paid for itself in discounts at hotels, aside from the peace of mind of having roadside assistance. Add in paper maps and the ability to get an international driver’s license and it is more than worth it for any traveler out there. Click here to get a AAA membership.

2 thoughts on “One Day in El Paso: Our Itinerary”

Hello! I am the site director for the Magoffin Home State Historic Site. I wanted to thank you for your visit to our museum and for leaving this excellent review of our site and city. We appreciate the attention. The photograph you took of our museum is also quite remarkable. I’d like your permission to use it to market our museum and its public events. Please email me or call the site if you’d like to discuss it. -Danielle

Thanks so much! We will be in touch!

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7 Fantastic Day Trips From El Paso

• Destinations
• United States

Sun City, better known as El Paso, the farthest point in west Texas flanked by the Franklin Mountains on the east and the Rio Grande on the west, has a rich history, which includes the native Tigua culture, notorious outlaw John Wesley Hardin, and Spanish Franciscan friars. 

El Paso is also home to first-class museums, art galleries, annual film festivals, farmers markets, Mexican food, breweries, wineries, vineyards, and Margarita trails. Enjoy exploring the St. Patrick Cathedral, El Paso Mission Trail, and the most scenic city view shining brightly at night viewed from Rim Road.

Let’s explore seven day trips from El Paso that enhance the area’s history, culture, and adventure.

1. Las Cruces

Mexican traditions combined with Spanish culture, infused cowboy, and farming roots keep the heritage alive and well in Las Cruces, 45 miles north of El Paso. 

For wannabe astronauts, arrange a private tour of Spaceport America in advance through Final Frontier Tours beginning at the Las Cruces Visitor Center or directly with the Spaceport America facility. Read all about the excursion here .

Las Cruces Museum Mile comprises four museums: Branigan Cultural Center with historic exhibitions and the Museum of Art showcasing traveling and invitational exhibits. The Museum of Nature and Science inspires the environment of the southern desert. The Railroad Museum preserves the heritage of railroading in a historic Santa Fe Railroad Depot.

Visit Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park for picnicking, scenic wildlife viewing, birding, stunning gardens, a theater, and a visitor center. Spend an afternoon in Mesilla exploring museums, art galleries, restaurants, and San Albino Church .

The Mesilla Valley Las Cruces Wine Trail features 10 wineries in the oldest wine-producing region in North America. Visit La Vina , New Mexico’s oldest “modern” winery established in 1977. St. Clair Winery & Bistro offers sparkling wines crafted by the Lescombes Family Vineyards. Download the Wine and Ale Trail map here .

Pro Tip: Capturing the Spanish and Mexican colonial history and tradition, Hotel Encanto de Las Cruces offers luxurious accommodations and the Mezcla restaurant and bar.

Deming, named for Mary Ann Deming , is 60 miles west of Las Cruces.

Rockhound State Park boasts a peaceful campground, wildflower displays, unique geology, and hiking trails. Named for the abundance of minerals in the park, search for dazzling quartz crystals, agate, perlite, geodes, and jasper.

In the 1916 red-brick National Guard Armory, Luna County Mimbres Museum houses a tack room, toys and dolls, a quilt display, and military memorabilia. The Mimbres room displays extensive Mimbreno Indian Pottery. Don’t miss the army tank outside.

Pro Tip: For the best steak west of El Paso, this remote place is worth finding. Take Highway 549 SE east and turn right on Lewis Flats Road. Adobe Deli is about 9 miles east down a lonely desert road. Look for an old windmill and a small collection of broken-down buildings. The classic French onion soup is the real thing. Plate-sized T-bones and thick and juicy ribeyes are to die for. For lunch, the mile-high deli sandwiches with a side of potato salad or onion rings need a to-go-box. The hamburger deluxe is a monster, and the barbecue sandwich, yep!

3. Lordsburg

58 miles west of Deming, Lordsburg is the birthplace of the official New Mexico State song “O Fair New Mexico,” written by Elizabeth Garrett, the blind daughter of famed Sheriff Pat Garrett.

Twenty miles north of Lordsburg, Gila Lower Box Canyon is a lush oasis in the desert. Fish for smallmouth bass and catfish, view wildlife and over 200 species of birds, including winterizing bald eagles. Find camping spots under the cottonwoods at Nichol’s Canyon and hiking at Spring-on-the-bluff.

Lordsburg-Hidalgo County Museum features a POW and World War II exhibit plus area ranching heritage, antique tools, mining, rocks, and minerals.

Three miles southwest of Lordsburg, Shakespeare Ghost Town is a gold-mining town and historical site, now privately owned and occasionally open for tours.

Stein’s (Steens) Ghost Town , 19 miles west of Lordsburg, near the Arizona-New Mexico border, is a mining and railroad ghost town with a sordid history and an unsolved murder hanging over it. Beware of trespassing.

Pro Tip: Kranberry’s Chatterbox Family Restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Order hearty skillet breakfasts, three-stack pancakes, and three-egg omelets. Savor Mexican food, salads, sandwiches, chicken, or ribeye for lunch or dinner.

4. Alamogordo

Alamogordo means “fat cottonwood.” Download the Alamogordo app for up-to-date activities in the city. The town transformed from a railroad, farming, and ranching crossroads to a vibrant community with military neighbors at Holloman Air Force Base and White Sands Missile Range.

The glistening white hills of gypsum at White Sands National Park rise like great surreal waves of bleached sand. Visit at the close of the day. As you take off your shoes, feel the texture of the sand change from soft billows to wind-firmed walkable crusts. The 145,000 protected acres became a national park in December 2019.

Founded in 1994, White Sands Missile Range Museum preserves the artifacts and history of the Army and New Mexico. Oliver Lee State Park features the historic ranch house, hiking trails, wildlife and bird viewing, camping, and an oasis of water pools under the cottonwood trees in Dog Canyon.

The World’s Largest Pistachio is a tribute to Thomas McGinn, founder of PistachioLand, a 111-acre orchard and vineyard started from bare land in 1980. You’ll find over 12,000 pistachio trees and 14 acres of wine grapes, McGinn’s Country Store, and Arena Blanca Winery.

575 Brewing Company offers house brews, wine, and alcoholic slushies. Tall Pines Beer & Wine Garden serves brewed beers at three Alamogordo, Ruidoso, and Pagosa Springs locations.

5. Cloudcroft

Cloudcroft is known for its 9,000 feet elevation, comfortable cabins, excellent fishing, horseback riding, hiking, camping, biking, and winter downhill and cross-country skiing.

Ski Cloudcroft , the country’s southernmost ski resort, has a base elevation of 8,400 feet with a 700-foot vertical rise, ski classes, and equipment rentals. 

New Mexico Rails-to-Trails converts abandoned railroad lines in the Sacramento Mountains into multi-use, multi-access recreational trails. A 68-mile-long trail leads to Sunspot, Alamogordo, La Luz, High Rolls, and back to Cloudcroft.

Rebecca’s At The Lodge , named after the resident ghost, serves the award-winning chef’s breakfast, lunch, and dinner. 

The Lodge Resort and Spa at Cloudcroft is a charming historic hotel with 59 luxurious guest rooms plus antique furnishings offering a Victorian combination of charm, intrigue, and history. Visit the haunting presence of the resort and explore its ghostly past.

Step into history at The Western Bar and Café , serving Cloudcroft for over 100 years. Order the green chile cheeseburger with sweet potato fries or the turkey bacon green chile sandwich, all with your favorite local brew.

6. Silver City

Located in the sunny southwest corner of New Mexico, Silver City thrives on Old West heritage, distinctive arts, and a vibrant “small-town” style. The downtown historic district has more than a dozen restaurants, murals, galleries, and artist studios. At 6,000 feet elevation, the town boasts clear mountain air and a combination of desert and mountains. Plus, it’s the gateway to the Gila wilderness.

City of Rocks State Park looks like gigantic boulders dumped in a one-square-mile area in the desert. This must-see park offers hiking, mountain biking, camping, and wildlife viewing. Visit the monthly Star Observatory programs in this Dark Sky place.

In the late 1200s, the Mongollons built rooms, crafted pottery, and raised children for about 20 years, forming the Gila Cliff Dwellings, then they moved on. 44 miles from Silver City, the trail is a one-mile round trip taking two hours to complete. There is no cell service in the region, so make self-sufficient plans for hiking in the area.

The 1938 Murray Hotel offers 53 Art Deco guestrooms and suites. Your stay includes a complimentary continental breakfast each morning.

Hire Joe Saenz, a legendary Apache guide with Wolfhorse Outfitters , for a horseback tour of the Gila wilderness, experiencing Apache history, petroglyphs, and a new connection with the land you won’t forget.

Pro Tip: Diane’s Restaurant, Bakery & Deli, serves brunch, lunch, and dinner. For brunch, enjoy hatch Benedict or lemon blueberry pancakes, plus burgers, hot and cold sandwiches, or stir-fries for lunch. Savor steamed mussels or clams, shrimp scampi, or New York strip at dinner with an extensive collection of beer, wines, Diane’s signature chocolate cake, plus pies and pastries.

7. Truth Or Consequences

Cowboys named the town Palomas Hot Springs, then Hot Springs. The city changed its name in 1950 to Truth or Consequences (locals call it TC) after Ralph Edwards’ successful game show on NBC radio.

Hot Springs Historic District features over 10 thermal springs at 98 to 115 degrees, 38 trace minerals, and a neutral PH of 7. The water’s main ingredient is chloride, ensuring the purity of the water, plus there is no unpleasant odor. 

Choose from various Lodgings with Hot Springs offering hot spring baths and pools. Take the 21 Day Soak to cure anything that ails you if you have time. 

Sierra Grande , a Ted Turner Retreat, offers a charming 17 guestroom lodge with southwestern accents, historic décor, or the luxurious casita. Spend a day on the 360,000-acre Armendaris Ranch exploring bison, desert bighorn sheep, or African oryx. Climb the Fra Cristobal Mountain Range or hike the canyons or caves. Take the bat flight expedition to see a million free-tailed bats exit the Jornada lava flow caves at sunset. Wander the mountain ranges and canyon creeks on the 156,000-acre Ladder Reserve amid a conservation legacy. With over 550,000 acres, explore the four peaks in 5 days of Vermejo hiking events during the summer. Elephant Butte , 10 minutes north of TC, is New Mexico’s largest lake. Visit glistening coastline views, diverse marine life, and water activities like paddleboarding and chartered fishing excursions.

Before venturing out on day trips, be sure to experience all that El Paso has to offer:

• 10 Fantastic Things To Do In El Paso, Texas
• 5 Unique Stays In El Paso, Texas
• 9 Best Mexican Dishes To Try In El Paso And Where To Find Them

Janie H. Pace is a travel writer and photographer based in Fort Worth, Texas. Her culinary, wine, and travel photography adventures have led her across Peru from Cusco through the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu; up the Canadian Icefields Parkway from Lake Louise to Banff and Jasper, indulging in Fairmont luxury hotels; and to the four largest islands of Hawaii. Her latest adventure was a Viking Cruise to the Norwegian Homelands. After a career in advertising and sales, Janie knows what makes compelling, substantial content. Whether she's participating in a wine tasting, restaurant review, or local craft beer or distillery tour, Janie posts her adventures at Journey Mapped .

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The 9 Best Weekend Road Trips from El Paso, Texas

Posted by Cindy Brzostowski May 01, 2022 Updated November 16, 2023

At the western tip of Texas, El Paso stands as a gateway to adventures across multiple states. We listed some of the best road trip destinations you’d love.

Over by the city of El Paso, the borders of Texas, Mexico, and New Mexico unite, and for those headed west on I-10, it’s that final point where you’ll have to say goodbye to the Lone Star State. Just to give you a better idea of what it really means to be that far west within the state: El Paso is actually closer to San Diego (three states over) than it is to Houston.

All of this is to say, if you’re looking for a domestic road trip from El Paso, you don’t have to limit yourself to solely what’s in Texas with the additional options in New Mexico and even Arizona within easy driving distance too.

Our Top Picks for Road Trips from El Paso

Whether you’re dreaming of spending the weekend at a picturesque national park, or camping near El Paso , at least one of these top weekend road trips from El Paso is sure to catch your attention.

Related Read:   5 Must-Do Scenic Train Rides in Texas

1. Las Cruces, New Mexico

In less than an hour, you can make your way from El Paso over to Las Cruces, the second-largest city in New Mexico. Las Cruces is known for its rich history having served as the homeland for many Indian Nations and their descendants, and having been a stop along the Camino Real. You can learn about the local history at New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum , the Zuhl Museum , and Old Mesilla village .

Las Cruces is also a place where nature lovers can roam and experience for themselves why New Mexico is called the Land of Enchantment. Go for a hike to an abandoned mountain camp or a cave in the Dripping Springs Natural Area . See Paleozoic-Era fossilized footprints at Prehistoric Trackways National Monument . Explore acres of Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument . You’ll find more than enough to do for a weekend.

• Distance from El Paso: 47 miles
• Drive time without stops: 60 minutes

Related Read:   9 Beautiful Hikes Near Albuquerque, New Mexico

2. White Sands National Park

Who said you need to go to the beach to enjoy some gorgeous white sand? Rather than offering its visitors forests or mountains, White Sands National Park in New Mexico features 275 square miles of sand dunes, making it the largest gypsum dune field in the world. Don’t even think about bottling up any of that beautiful sand as a souvenir since that’s a federal crime. What you can do, however, is sled down the sand with one of the plastic snow-saucers you can get at the gift shop, hike one of the established trails, and ride along the scenic Dunes Drive by bike or car.

The park does offer primitive backcountry camping—unfortunately just not right now. Don’t fret though since you can find a few other campgrounds in the area to post up for the weekend.

• Distance from El Paso: 95 miles
• Drive time without stops: 1 hour, 30 minutes

Related Read:   9 Best Hot Springs in New Mexico for Soaking Your Worries Away

3. Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Everyone talks about Big Bend National Park, but many forget that Texas has another national park within its borders: Guadalupe Mountains National Park .

One of this park’s claims to fame is that it has the highest natural point in the state, Guadalupe Peak, which stands at 8,751 feet above sea level. It normally takes between six and eight (mostly strenuous) hours to hike to the top and back, but boy, are the views from up there worth it. If you’re looking for something less challenging there are over 80 miles of trails to choose from.

The park has three developed campgrounds for tents and RVs as well as wilderness campgrounds for backpackers. Anyone staying at the park should get excited for some pretty spectacular starry skies.

• Distance from El Paso: 113 miles
• Drive time without stops: 2 hours

Related Read:   13 Awesome Things to Do in Lubbock, Texas

4. Carlsbad Caverns National Park

Keep going past Guadalupe Mountains National Park, and you’ll be at another national park in no time—this one being Carlsbad Caverns National Park . Close to half a million people visit this spot each year to see the incredible rock formations underground. A nice aspect of the experience is that you don’t need to be on a guided tour to explore the cavern. Instead, you can set your own page along one of the two 1.25-mile trails: the Big Room Trail and the steeper Natural Entrance trail.

To make sure your visit goes off without a hitch, make a reservation ahead of time online or by phone. There’s no entering without that reservation and you can’t make one at the park! Also, if you want to camp know that there’s only primitive backcountry camping available on the premises. Otherwise, it’s off to accommodations in White’s City or Carlsbad for you.

• Distance from El Paso: 156 miles
• Drive time without stops: 2 hours, 30 minutes

Related Read:   8 Secluded New Mexico Cabins for a Relaxing Getaway

5. Ruidoso, New Mexico

Situated next to the Sierra Blanca mountain range, Ruidoso is popular among ski bums who come in droves to visit the Ski Apache resort for some warm-weather powder skiing. But Ski Apache isn’t just fun during the wintertime. During the summer season, the resort opens up mountain biking trails, ziplining, and a gondola. Another local place for some family-friendly activities is Ruidoso Winter Park , which offers tubing year-round.

For more to do in Ruidoso, learn about the area’s early residents at The Hubbard Museum of the American West, swim at Grindstone Lake, go on a trail ride from Grindstone Stables , and hike around the Lincoln National Forest or Two Rivers Park . With all these options at your fingertips, you won’t have any time to get bored.

• Distance from El Paso: 139 miles

Related Read:   10 Relaxing Cabin Rentals Near Taos, New Mexico

​​If there’s one town that seems to embody the magic of West Texas then it’s Marfa. Despite its small size and relative remoteness, Marfa has continued to attract more and more tourists with its eclectic charm and unique attractions.

For starters, there’s all the incredible art including at the Chinati Foundation , Ballroom Marfa , Judd Foundation , and Ayn Foundation . Then there’s the whole mystery of the Marfa Lights that lures people in. Come out to the Marfa Mystery Lights Viewing Area at night and see if you too can spot the mysterious, far-off glowing orbs that have puzzled people for over a century. As you make your way back to El Paso, you have to stop by Prada Marfa, the famous installation built to resemble a Prada store in the middle of the desert.

• Distance from El Paso: 194 miles
• Drive time without stops: 3 hours

Related Read:   10 Best Hikes in Texas for Top-Notch Lone Star State Scenery

7. Monahans Sandhills State Park

No, Monahans Sandhills State Park isn’t as big as White Sands, but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth visiting. As you stand among dunes of soft sand that stretch to the horizon, you may find yourself in disbelief that you’re still in Texas. To fully enjoy the unique environment, rent a sand disk from the headquarters and slide on down. Otherwise, you’re free to roam wherever you want since there are no designated trails.

Monahans Sandhills State Park does have campsites with electricity, and you can make a reservation for one of them online. Otherwise, you’ll find some affordable hotels in the city of Monahans. While in the city proper, you might want to check out the Million Barrel Museum , where you can see a giant oil tank that matches the size of three football fields.

• Distance from El Paso: 253 miles
• Drive time without stops: 3 hours, 45 minutes

Related Read : 10 Places to See Native American Pictographs & Petroglyphs in the West

8. Big Bend National Park

Big Bend National Park may not be one of the most well-visited parks in the country, but that says more about its remoteness than it does about the wonders it has to offer. And there’s really a lot considering the park is larger than the whole state of Rhode Island.

Here, you can hike up mountains, along the river, and across the desert. You can kayak, canoe, or raft through river canyons. You can see an astonishing amount of stars in the night sky. You can go for a drive along one the scenic roads, some paved and some not. Basically, you’ll realize early on in your visit that one weekend just isn’t enough to experience Big Bend. But two days is certainly better nothing, and there’s camping within the park so you can spend more time adventuring and less time traveling back and forth from your accommodations.

• Distance from El Paso: 318 miles
• Drive time without stops: 4 hours, 45 minutes

Related Read:   12 Awe-Inspiring Airbnbs Near Big Bend National Park

9. Tucson, Arizona

About the same amount of time it would take you to drive from El Paso to Big Bend National Park, you can head in the other direction and get to Tucson. This large city is chock full of attractions for all ages. The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum , Pima Air & Space Museum , and Tucson Botanical Gardens are just some of the popular destinations for visitors and locals alike.

If you’re craving some more rugged nature amid all that big city action, take the short trip up to Saguaro National Park where you can say hello to the nation’s largest cacti: the giant saguaro. Another option would be to visit Sabino Canyon Recreation Area , which has great opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing (try to spot a Gila monster!).

Related Read:   4 Incredible Campervan Rentals in El Paso for Your Next Adventure

Explore More

7 Awesome Scenic Drives in New Mexico

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10 Adventurous Glamping Destinations New Mexico

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11 Best Resorts in Texas for a Rejuvenating Getaway

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Seen in: Arizona , Big Bend , New Mexico , Road Trips , Southwest , Texas , West

Posted by Cindy Brzostowski

Cindy Brzostowski is a freelance writer focusing on travel and other lifestyle content. Originally from Texas, she is currently based in Berlin. Her work has been featured in Travel & Leisure, Thrillist, TripSavvy, Food & Wine, The Infatuation, and more.

When not writing, reading, or eating, you can probably find her making an itinerary for her next adventure or dreaming about pizza.

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Hiking safety tips for El Pasoans

EL PASO, TX (KVIA) -- As warmer days are on the horizon, El Pasoans are getting ready to hit the trails. 

The City of El Paso is hosting a hike tomorrow, part of their “Hike-A-Thon” series. The hike will begin at 7:30 a.m. at Knapp Land (8540 Mountain View Dr.). The series consists of a total of five hikes, those who complete four will receive a prize. To sign up and get a Hiking Passport, participants are encouraged to fill out an  online form found in this link.

Hike-a-thon is a great opportunity for the community to go out in a big group, the strongest safety recommendation from El Paso Fire Department. 

Enrique Dueñas, spokesperson for El Paso Fire Department told ABC-7 this keeps ensures everyone is safe, “It's best if you go with somebody else. Even better if you go with the group. That way everyone takes care of each other.”

Before heading to the trails, Dueñas says hikers should pack essential items like:

• Water 
• Fully charged phone
• First Aid Kit

Dueñas stresses the importance of staying on designated trails, which are made by Texas State Parks Police to prevent hikers from getting lost, “We've had a lot of people have gotten lost. Maybe they want to find a cave or I know that there a lot of legends about things that can be found on the mountain, but a lot of times those either are nonexistent or they are pretty dangerous places,” he emphasizes.

Dueñas also reminds people to not touch animals or plants and urges caution when hiking with children, “Keep them in your eyesight so that way they are not going outside of their path.”

In addition to packing the right gear and staying on marked trails, hikers are encouraged to wear loose, comfortable clothing, long sleeves, and proper hiking boots.

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