El Paso: The Scenic City in Texas Blending US and Mexican Culture

El Paso is among the largest of the cities in the United States that stretch along the Mexican border. This scenic city is famous for offering a taste of Mexican culture and authentic food without needing to cross the border over into Mexico. With a number of incredible attractions and places to see around El Paso, here are our top picks that you need to check out.

1. Scenic Drive

Scenic Drive is an amazing uphill mountain drive offering spectacular views of El Paso and the surrounding towns. From the highest points along this drive you can see over 60 miles into Mexico. Here you'll find some of the most beautiful scenery around the city and in all of Texas. During night time the view is particularly picturesque, with flickering lights from each town lighting up the way. Along the road, you can also often find vending food trucks where visitors can sample some authentic El Paso style street food.

2. Wyler Aerial Tramway

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Wyler Aerial Tramway is located at the top of Franklin Mountains in El Paso. Perfect for those looking for a bit of adrenaline and adventure, the tramway offers beautiful 360 degrees views not only around El Paso but as far as New Mexico and Mexico as well. To get to the top of the mountain some people also choose to hike up, but to do this you'll need to register with the rangers first.

3. Plaza Theatre

Plaza Theatre is an entertainment mecca in the city center of El Paso. With a wealth of history, the building has since been renovated to bring back the life that it once had. The building was once used as a movie theater and a number of famous classical films were once shown there. Its architecture remains as beautiful as ever depicting some designs unique to El Paso itself. The theater is big in size and boasts a variety of restaurants that are well worth visiting. Due to its popularity, a number of musical events are often hosted here and tourists can get a taste of the musical talent El Paso has to offer.

4. El Paso Zoo

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Perfect for travelers with kids, El Paso Zoo hosts a variety of different animal species such as the popular Sumatran Orangutan. If for some reason you find you've had enough of the animals, there's also a food court and a great souvenir shop that are both well worth a visit.

5. Franklin Mountains State Park

With some of the most beautiful views in the United States, a visit to the Franklin Mountains is unmissable while in El Paso. There are a number of interesting caves and rocks along the trails that you can take time to explore as part of the hike. The desert south-west of the park offers breathtaking views, especially during sunset. Entry to the park is only about $5 but is well worth it for the incredible sights.

6. Hueco Tanks State Historic Site

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Hueco Tanks State Historic Site is an 860-acre stretch of rock basins locally known as 'huecos'. These basins have been supplying water to the region for centuries and have a huge historical significance to the area. The rock basins give the place an oasis desert feel. Hike around the area and enjoy the beautiful views over the rocky bolder landscape. Entrance is $7 and closes at 6 PM.

7. El Paso Holocaust Museum and Study Center

The El Paso Holocaust Museum and Study Center was established to enlighten the general public about the horrors of the Nazi holocaust and pay respects to those that suffered during this difficult time. While it might be quite a sobering experience, it's well worth it for anyone with an interest for World War II history. Admission is free but donations are recommended to keep the place running.

8. Chamizal National Memorial

Chamizal National Memorial is located close to the border in downtown El Paso. This national memorial hosts some beautiful murals around a small museum. The auditorium inside the memorial has many representations of work from famous people such as Shakespeare. The Chamizal hosts occasional art exhibitions and concerts in its amphitheater which are well worth checking out if it coincides with your visit to the city.

9. El Paso Mission Trail

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El Paso Mission Trail is a series of beautiful Catholic churches and old historic buildings at the edge of the city. These buildings date back to the late 1500s during the early settlement of the Spaniards. At the beginning of the trail, there's a visitor center where you can find information about the buildings and their history. The Mission de Corpus Christi de Ysleta del Sur is one of the most impressive of the beautiful structures found in the area with its gorgeous Spanish architecture.

10. Western Playland Amusement Park

Photo by Martin Lewison

Western Playland Amusement Park is an ideal option for those traveling with kids or just need a little entertainment during their visit. The park is famous to locals growing up around El Paso and it's usually not so busy even during the weekends. You'll find a number of different rides here along with several arcade style game areas to use.

Conclusion

El Paso offers more than just places of history, the unique mix of Texan and Mexican culture around the area is well worth experiencing as you get a feel for what it's like to be a local there. If you're traveling around Texas and want to see a bit of Mexican culture, then El Paso is the best place to head to.

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