Are you planning a West Texas road trip? Whether you’re looking into a cross-country road trip from Los Angeles or flying into El Paso to visit Marfa or Big Bend for an extended weekend, make sure your journey includes the Lone Star State’s vibrant border city of El Paso. From stunning architecture to post-modern art galleries and installations by some of the hottest artists, El Paso has something for everyone who is looking for a culturally rich travel experience. 

Here are five reasons why staying in El Paso during your next West Texas road trip could end up being one of your most memorable vacations yet!

Central Location

El Paso is a major transportation hub, making it easy as a starting point for road trips. The city is served by three interstate highways, I-10, I-20, and I-25, and is within a day’s drive of Albuquerque, Dallas, Denver, Phoenix, and San Antonio. El Paso International Airport offers nonstop service to 18 destinations, and the city is also served by Amtrak and Greyhound.

Vibrant Food Scene

El Paso is home to a diverse and vibrant food and beverage scene. Mexican food is certainly the local favorite but styles range from New Mexican to Tex-Mex, and modern Mexican, and while you’re here, you can try them all—even the restaurants that have been featured on Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives hosted by Guy Fieri.

Whether you’re looking for a casual meal or a special night out, El Paso has something to offer everyone. For starters, our signature restaurant Ámbar features wood-fired Mexican recipes and is home to the largest and rarest collection of agave spirits in Texas. Additionally, our contemporary rooftop bar La Perla showcases reinvented classic cocktails against the majestic backdrop of the Rocky Mountains. While you’re in El Paso, don’t miss L&J Cafe, a local Tex-Mex staple that is located next to a cemetery. Also, make sure to stop by Taconeta, an unpretentious taqueria with a veggie-forward menu and patio. 

The Arts and Culture

El Paso is a city rich in art and history. When you step into downtown El Paso, you’ll first notice the distinct Pueblo Arts architecture by renowned Southwest architects Trost & Trost. There are also many places to visit to learn more about the city’s past and see its impressive art collection. The El Paso Museum of Art is home to a wide variety of art, from ancient pottery to contemporary paintings, and rotating exhibitions. Located in the oldest continuously inhabited community, the Ysleta del Sur Pueblo Museum is another great place as it features exhibits on the history and culture of the pueblo’s residents. El Paso also features more than 100 murals around Lincoln Park and El Segundo Barrio districts. 

Boot Capital of the World 

Gorgeous custom boots have been making their way to the red carpets and magazine covers thanks to El Paso, which is often referred to as the boot capital of the world. Many Hollywood celebrities and music entertainers, such as Sylvester Stallone and Kendrick Lamar, have purchased their own custom pair from Rocketbuster Boots, which boasts a two-year waitlist. Not willing to wait that long? Well, you can find the factory outlets for Justin Boots and Lucchese in El Paso, too. 

Surrounded by Nature

Many people are surprised to learn there are actually mountains in Texas. However, El Paso is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including the Franklin Mountains and the Rio Grande, making it a great place for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and fishing. To name a few more options: Hueco Tanks State Historic Site, the Davis Mountains State Park, and the Big Bend National Park. 

The Plaza Pioneer ParkAnd of course, The Plaza Pioneer Park, named El Paso’s most luxurious hotel, is the perfect place to stay during your West Texas road trip. The hotel’s newly renovated interiors have been inspired by the city’s rich history, desert landscape, and vibrant West Texas art scene. After your road trip, you can rest and recharge at our hotel. Plus, if you stay longer, you can take advantage of our ‘West Texas Escape’ offer and save up to 25% on your stay. Start planning for your trip today.