A borderline city in western Texas, El Paso offers many things to do. The city is located in the Chihuahuan Desert along the Rio Grande river. With the city being located in a desert, it has many sites that incorporate the unique landscape of the desert. In this article, we’re going to be breaking down the top 5 things to do in El Paso, Texas and why you should consider doing them while visiting. Let’s get started!
1. Go visit Franklin Mountains State Park
If hiking is your favorite thing in the world, then why not go while visiting a new city! Franklin Mountains State Park is the place for you. The Franklin Mountains is a small mountain range that ranges from El Paso up into New Mexico. The state park is actually the largest urban park in the United States. The park is open year-round and has two trails for hiking purposes. For aesthetic appreciation, visit the park in the evening and watch as the sun sets behind the mountains for a beautiful sunset.
2. Take the Wyler Aerial Tramway
The Wyler Aerial Tramway allows you to see the beauty of the Franklin Mountains without having to stay on your feet. All you do is sit in a gondola which covers the eastern side of the Franklin Mountains. As you ride the gondola, make sure you take in the beauty of the mountains and overall landscape, for you won’t have the same view as if you were hiking. In a brief four minutes trip, the tram will elevate you 940 feet above the boarding station. Sometimes when the ride reaches Ranger Peak at 5,632 feet above sea level, you’ll be able to see three states along with two countries. In the end, the Wyler Aerial Tramway is a great option for those wanting to see the beauty of the desert but not wanting to hike to experience it.
3. El Paso Zoo
The El Paso Zoo is a 35 acre zoo with over 220 species within the zoo itself. In fact, the zoo carries both the Amur Leopard as well as the Aruba Rattlesnake, two critically endangered species. Despite being in the desert, the zoo offers a sea lion exhibit as well as many other shows. In recent years, the zoo has expanded and now includes an African exhibit, containing animals like giraffes, lions, and zebras. Overall, it’s a great site if you like zoos or just need something to do.
4. Mission Trail
If you’re a history buff, you may want to check out the Mission Trail. The oldest out of all the Missions is the Ysleta Mission being built by the Tigua Indians in 1682. You’ll be able to learn all about this part of the Texan culture as well as see the old, unique architectural structures the culture presents. Here, you’ll also be able to admire the desert scenery. The Mission area also has a lot of picnic areas where you and your family can enjoy lunch. Overall, it’s not the Alamo but it’s a pretty neat part of Texan culture that I’m sure you will enjoy.
If you’re planning on visiting Texas anytime soon, make sure you add El Paso to your itinerary. If you’re not, consider it. There are many fun things to do that the whole family will enjoy. If you have any problems with transportation needs, El Paso title loans have you covered.