El Paso, Texas is a city rich with gorgeous natural attractions, a vibrant arts and culture scene, and a fantastic history rooted in Southern American and Mexican cultures. Those planning a trip here will have plenty to fill out their day-to-day itineraries including scenic hikes, engaging exhibits, and visits to historic sites. 

For some more specific examples, check out this brief guide to five must-visit places in El Paso. 

1. Franklin Mountains State Park

Franklin Mountains State Park is the largest urban park in the nation, covering nearly 25,000 acres of land inside the city limit. This is a beloved location for hiking, mountain biking, and scenic drives to memorable overlooks and vistas. The park is also a destination for geocache adventurers, bird watchers, and rock climbers who frequent McKelligon Canyon and Sneed’s Cory. 

Franklin Mountains State Park. El Paso, TX

2. El Paso Museum of Art

The El Paso Museum of Art has been the leading institution championing the arts in the region over the past sixty years. The free-to-attend attraction features a number of impressive collections of European, Latin American, and American origin. The museum is also home to a stellar contemporary collection, and a rotating exhibitions program that discovers brilliant work from around the region and world. This is also one of few institutions out there with its own Kress Collection, which is a special selection of European artworks most well known for having a standout variety of Italian renaissance paintings. 

El Paso Museum of Art. El Paso, TX 

3. Hueco Tanks State Historic Site

Hueco Tanks State Historic Site has been a destination for West Texas travelers for thousands of years. The collection of rock hills used to draw people in with its rainwater pools in natural rock basins. Today, the formations have accumulated brilliant molds, and beautiful artwork left by visitors over the centuries. Visitors come to hike, rock climb, stargaze, and birdwatch. 

Hueco Tanks Historic Site. El Paso, TX

4. The Plaza Theatre

If you have a chance on your upcoming trip to El Paso, Texas, be sure to catch a show at this gorgeous venue. The Plaza Theatre is a historic building dating back to 1930, and today it welcomes the best traveling musicians, speakers, and comedians traveling through town. This building inspires from its brilliant neon marquee, to the regal auditorium, and historic finishings throughout. 

The Plaza Theatre. El Paso, TX

5. The Plaza Hotel Pioneer Park

When you visit El Paso, Texas, book yourself a stay with The Plaza Hotel Pioneer Park, where the city’s history and future converge on one property. Originally a hotel that debuted in the 1930s, The Plaza has been reborn into the city’s most luxurious boutique hotel. The new and refreshed hotel features its own boutique shop, state of the art fitness center, as well as two onsite restaurants and bars. 

DISCOVER MORE OF EL PASO

Planning a visit to El Paso? Tap into the local experience with our insider’s guide at The Plaza Hotel Pioneer Park blog!