30 Best & Fun Things To Do In El Paso (Texas)

El Paso is primarily known for its strong military presence, but with a growing culinary scene, many historical places to visit, and beautiful scenery, it’s no surprise that it’s slowly growing into a tourist haven.

Planning to visit this vibrant and multicultural city?

Here are our picks for the top 30 best and fun things to do in El Paso, Texas.

1. Hueco Tanks State Park

The Hueco Tanks State Park is one of the most famous El Paso attractions, known throughout Texas for its significance.

It covers 860 acres of land, which includes an interactive ranch house, lots of spots for wildlife watching, and, of course, the titular tanks themselves.

Located along the far edges of the Chihuahua desert, you’ll find the “Hueco Tanks” themselves – huge rock basins naturally carved overtime.

These unique formations of rock trap water in what would typically be nothing but an arid and barren land.

It is from here that humans have received reliable water for millennia on end.

You can see marks of the tanks’ history through the many pictographs carved into the thanks.

Some have been dated as far back as 6000 BCE.

Many of the most notable use a style known as Early Archaic, but more than 3,000 different drawings exist across the basins.

Some are by Mescalero Apache Plains warriors, various Native American cultures, and Jornada Mogollon agriculturalists.

One particular “genre” of drawing has a darker meaning – mask designs that bear the symbols of the Pueblan Katchina Cult, which is still active today.

More interested in checking out the local flora and fauna?

Freshwater shrimp arrive in the area seasonally, bringing with them a host of interested predators like reptiles, eagles, bobcats, and foxes.

You can also opt to go on a fun guided tour – or take a self-guided one – to learn more about the historic site and its rock formations.

The natural trails are packed with opportunities to hike and view the wonderful panoramas of El Paso!

Address: 6900 Hueco Tanks Road No. 1, El Paso, TX 79938, United States

2. El Paso Museum of Art

The El Paso Museum of Art was constructed in 1959 and is extremely popular because it’s the only art museum that’s accredited within 250 miles!

This is part of the reason it’s so popular, drawing in a hundred thousand individuals from Texas and beyond annually.

More than 7,000 art pieces are collected here, with a main concentration on 12th-century art and beyond from Europe, Mexico, and America.

The American collection hosts multiple interesting works mostly collected from the Southwest.

Overall, expect to see a mix of famous and relatively unknown artists’ creations.

You’ll spot things from the likes of Charles M. Russell, Frank Boggs, Gilbert Stuard, Henry O. Tanner, Frederic Remington, John Marin, Rembrandt Peale, Edward Bannister, Milton Avery, Max Weber, William Merritt Chase, and Thomas Sully.

Collections consist of more than just portraits and paintings.

Photographs, prints, posters, drawings, and more make up the incredibly extensive collection of the museum.

The museum also hosts events like storytelling sessions and exhibitions all throughout the year for you to enjoy.

Many people think of museums as stuffy, sort of half-boring locations, but this one caters to even children, providing hands-on, interactive activities of all kinds for them like workshops and classes.

Basically, it’s great for the whole family, especially if one or more of you is an art aficionado!

Admission is free, too, though you can always make a donation.

Do consider doing so – it’s one of the most loved places to visit in the city, after all!

Address: 1 Arts Festival Plaza, El Paso, TX 79901, United States

3. Franklin Mountains State Park

If you’re a lover of the great outdoors, one of the things to see is Franklin Mountains State Park.

With 27,000 acres under its belt, the Franklin Mountains State Park boasts more than a hundred miles of trails for hiking, biking, and even rock climbing, with five RV locations and 14 tent sites for those who want to rough it overnight.

There are plenty of fun ways to occupy yourself in this El Paso, Texas state park.

Go geocaching, look for wildlife to watch and observe, follow programs led by experienced rangers, or simply enjoy one of El Paso’s greatest tourist attractions to its fullest.

You’ll be impressed by great spots along the way, like the 12,000-year-old rock carvings left by Native Americans and Ranger Peak, which reaches 5,632 feet into the air.

Address: Tom Mays Park Access Rd, El Paso, TX 79930, United States

4. The Mission Trail and Old Ysleta Mission

The El Paso Mission Trail, situated in the lower valley area, has a rich and lengthy history of about four centuries.

Though it technically runs for longer than just the city and stretches across some parts of Texas, the trail does start in El Paso, and following it for a while is a fantastic way to learn about the heritage of this lovely multicultural locale.

Three adobe churches made with impressive architecture mark the main places to go along the route, each one reflecting different aspects of the lives of the city’s first settlers.

The first chapel, named the Elceario Presidio Chapel, was a military post at first, rebuilt in 1850 following its destruction in a 1684 flood.

The oldest structure in the state of its kind is the Ysleta Mission, which was erected by the Tigua Indians in 1682.

It’s the landmark of the Mission Trail and is considered its own unique historical landmark.

Other buildings you’ll spot are the San Elizario, from 1789, and the Socorro Mission, from 1691.

No matter how you choose to explore the Mission Trail, you’ll learn about cultural mixing, the history of the state, and even some of the desert scenery that encompasses the area.

It’s a highly educational experience with fascinating facets of all kinds.

Address: 131 S Zaragoza Rd, El Paso, TX 79907, United States

5. Plaza Theatre

The Plaza Theatre of downtown El Paso, Texas was built in 1930 and refurbished to perfection in 2006.

The Spanish Colonial Revival design makes for a grand and opulent appearance with a romantic atmosphere and intricate details.

Plush carpets, delicate banisters of wrought iron, painted ornate ceilings, and beautiful mosaic floors are just some of the stand-out features!

The Plaza Theatre was built to be a film house primarily with stage show options.

Today, it focuses mainly on stage, hosting concerts, Broadway productions, and performances of all kinds.

The grandeur speaks to the very best of the musical history of El Paso and is worth a stop in for a show!

Address: 125 W Mills Ave, El Paso, TX 79901, United States

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6. El Paso Zoo

The El Paso Zoo is one of the most fun things to do in El Paso, Texas, especially if you’re coming to visit the city with kids in tow.

Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, this zoo rests on 35 acres of lush land packed with beautiful greenery and plays host to numerous species of animals, both from within the nation and across the planet.

The zoo boasts a mix of different habitats, each designed to accommodate the most natural environments possible for the fauna thriving within.

Some of the great animals living their lives here that participate in daily up-close encounters with tourists are tortoises, sea lions, monkeys, and more.

There are also a number of programs and special locations offered at the zoo.

The Hunt Family Desert Spring, African Star Train, Giraffe Encounter, and Foster TreeHouse Playground are among the favorites.

There’s also an area for water play, a Wildlife Amphitheater with shows, and even seasonal events to check out.

Overall, if you’re in Texas, this is a zoo you should stop by if you’re near!

Address: 4001 E Paisano Dr, El Paso, TX 79905, United States

7. National Border Patrol Museum

The National Border Patrol Museum is one of El Paso, Texas’ more unique places.

Though set in a rather bland-looking building, its insides make up for that typical exterior.

The museum offers a unique look at the Border Patrol of the United States, dating all the way back to the times of the Old West.

This history progresses further, bringing you through the Prohibition, World War II, and all the way up to the modern era.

It was in 1928 that the Border Patrol of America was set up, with a group of Patrol Inspectors totaling an impressive 450.

Since then, it has seized numerous items from those attempting to pass through the border illegally, and many of the more unorthodox of these things are on display at the museum.

This includes the multitude of vehicles that have been used in these attempts, including a 9-person bicycle.

Other items of note displayed with the National Border Patrol Museum are the Piper Super Cub airplane, an OH-6 helicopter, various patrol vehicles, uniforms, weapons, badges, art, and photographs.

The National Border Patrol Museum charges no fee to enter – another reason that it’s one of the best things to do in El Paso, Texas, no matter what your budget is!

Address: 4315 Woodrow Bean, El Paso, TX 79924, United States

8. El Paso Holocaust Museum and Study Center

A harrowing and mournful site, the El Paso Holocaust Museum and Study Center make up for its lack of fun theme with educational, informational, and well-curated exhibits that teach visitors all about its titular event.

It was created by Henry Kellen, a survivor of the Holocaust, as a means for providing education and awareness regarding resistance and injustice during the Second World War.

An enlightening destination, the Holocaust Museum and Study Center provides detailed information conveyed through thoughtful exhibits, artifacts, and digital media.

Most of the items on display are part of a permanent exhibit, though some visiting ones are set up once in a while.

Among the many displays focused on the world under the Nazi regime are the dining room scene, honors for those who passed and survived those horrible years, and Third Reich exhibits that teach you about its beliefs and atrocities.

Docents on site are always happy to help you out.

There is no entry fee, making this one of the most historically significant free things to do in Texas.

Address: 715 N Oregon St, El Paso, TX 79902, United States

9. El Paso Municipal Rose Garden

The El Paso Municipal Rose Garden opened its doors to the public in the year 1959, growing steadily until 2006, when it reached its current four-acre size.

Known as one of the most beautiful places in America, it is filled with 320 different varieties of roses, with 1,460 individual bushes.

New roses are planted in the garden every year, after passing a special climate check that ensures they’ll be in tip-top shape.

The Municipal Rose Gardens boasts a number of lovely and relaxing features.

Trees and shrubs add serene greenery, a Koi pond and waterfall provide surprising tranquility, and raised beds make for easy viewing.

The whole area is nicely fenced in to prevent random passersby and volunteers are responsible for ensuring the roses are kept well, taking on responsibilities like inventory-checking, deadheading, pruning, and weeding.

When the park is in full bloom, the tours are some of the greatest options for what to do.

Seasonal events also take place regularly, including the educational kid-oriented Kids and Kows event that teaches children all about agriculture and growth.

This is easily the most magical place in Texas!

Address: 3418 Aurora Ave, El Paso, TX 79930, United States

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10. Viva! El Paso

In Texas at the right time?

You’ll want to check out Viva! El Paso, the town’s yearly occurring musical.

It’s a fun, bright celebration packed with exciting activities, all designed to celebrate the teeming history of the city through the use of song, dance, and drama.

For two hours, more than 50 dancers take part in the performance of the story of the town, dating back to Native American settlers to the Wild West to the conquest by Spain and the control of Mestizo Mexicans.

With cannon fire, acrobatics, and tricks of all kinds, the performance makes this one of the biggest points of interest in the area.

Performances occur from Thursday to Sunday for three months from June to August.

After each show, the Parade of the Six Flags is held to add even more glorious vibrancy to the incredible event.

There’s a reason it draws more than 25,000 audience members annually!

The mix of brilliant performance and informational education is simply wonderful.

11. Magoffin Home State Historic Site

The Magoffin Home State Historic Site is one of the best El Paso attractions.

It has a spot on the National Register of Historic Places and was built in 1875.

With 19 rooms, a Territorial architecture, and a rich story to tell, it’s an amazing place to tour, and even popping by tomorrow will reward you with a great experience.

The Magoffin Home State Historic Site was made for the Magoffin family, a multicultural unit that aided in the expansion of America.

The house itself (and the family) also played a role in the Civil War, in military service, and in assisting the relations between Mexico and America.

For more than a century, the Magoffin family roamed the halls of the home.

Much of the furniture they used back in the day continues to be on display now, reflecting style choices of the mid-Victorian period.

Walls are made from thick adobe to protect it from extreme weather, and there is even exhibited art – paintings, photos, and textiles galore!

This lovely El Paso, location is set on grounds of one-and-a-half acres, maintained and run by the Texas Historical Commission.

If you want a guided tour, stop by the Visitor Center first.

Whether you follow such a tour or explore on your own, you’ll learn about the Magoffin history and the first settler community in the city.

Address: 1120 Magoffin Ave, El Paso, TX 79901, United States

12. Western Playland Amusement Park

The Western Playland Amusement Park covers 25 acres of ground and is simply packed with exciting and fun adventures and rides for the entire family.

Even for those as young as one year old, there are rides available.

Some of the most known rides at the Western Playland Amusement Park is the El Bandido, a roller coaster that reaches impressive and heart-racing heights, and the Tsunami, which sends a tidal wave of 70 feet sloshing towards you!

Some of the other popular ones are the Bumper Cars, The Flying Scooter, the Drop Zone, the Scrambler, and the Tilt-a-Whirl.

Hungry?

Stop by food stalls for hamburgers, hot dogs, and all sorts of other yummy snacks.

The Western Playland Amusement Park is undoubtedly one of the places to visit you shouldn’t miss in El Paso, Texas, so head over this weekend with the children and you’ll have a blast!

Address: 1249 Futurity Dr, Sunland Park, NM 88063, United States

13. Chamizal National Memorial

The Chamizal National Memorial‘s name gives the impression of some regal El Paso statue, but it’s actually a peaceful urban park and one of the top most beautiful places you can head to this weekend in Texas.

It spans almost 55 acres and is a cultural center of sorts for the community of El Paso with galleries, a theater, and even a museum.

But what, exactly, is the Chamizal National Memorial a memorial of?

Well, it was designed to commemorate the settlement of a dispute between Mexico and America which lasted for more than a century!

It was known as the Chamizal Dispute and was primarily about the border between the two countries.

Now, the Chamizal National Memorial benefits from its unique border position, as it is home to special flora and fauna native to this environment.

Lots of open, lush green allows children to play to their heart’s content.

Events like concerts and other cultural performances take place seasonally, and the nature trails allow for excellent hiking and biking that rewards you with views of the Franklin Mountains.

Address: 800 S San Marcial St, El Paso, TX 79905, United States

14. Fort Bliss and Old Ironsides Museums

The Fort Bliss and Old Ironsides Museums are conveniently located near each other.

They’re the perfect place in El Paso for military enthusiasts and are packed with so many fun options for what to see.

Fort Bliss measures 1,700 square miles and is the second-largest American Army installation across the country.

It is also the site of the country’s biggest section of completely unrestricted airspace, making it a prime spot for training.

The exhibits within the museum are varied, discussing daily soldier life, family of the army, the world in times of peace and war, and much more, all dating back to 1849.

It is also here that the 1st Armored Division lives, the very same that had the task of staying in Germany for four decades – and that’s where the Old Ironsides Museum comes in!

This museum is dedicated to preserving the division’s history with vehicles and artifacts of all kinds.

Even outside of the Fort Bliss and Old Ironsides Museums, the excitement has already begun on the ground of El Paso, Texas.

A V-2 rocket from Germany, helicopters, and even artillery pieces sit around outdoors, waiting to be gawked at and appreciated!

Address: 1735, Marshall Rd, Fort Bliss, TX 79906, United States

15. Downtown Art and Farmers Market

The Downtown Art and Farmers Market of El Paso, Texas is a fantastic way to spend your time this weekend.

First set up in 2011, it arrives at the Union Plaza District every single Saturday morning from 9 in the morning to 1 in the afternoon.

Locals and tourists alike flock to this lively locale, purchasing fresh, locally-grown produce, and more.

Artisans sell their crafts and artwork here, which all make for awesome souvenirs.

Local food is also served, giving you the chance to sample the cultural fare.

There is also, usually, live entertainment in the form of music and other similar performances.

Even kids aren’t left out of the vibrance, with lots of options for ways for them to spend their time.

While they’re doing that, you can check out a health and wellness workshop just for yourself!

No matter what you come to the Downtown Art and Farmers Market for, you can be sure it’s one of the most delightful things to do in downtown El Paso.

Address: 117 Anthony St, El Paso, TX 79901, United States

16. St. Patrick Cathedral

Visiting the St. Patrick Cathedral is one of the top things to do in El Paso, Texas, offering sightseeing opportunities for a fairly significant historical landmark of the city.

It was on the 31st of July in 1914 that the very first stone for the cathedral was laid, having been blessed by Father Francis Roy and Father Edward Barry.

The St. Patrick Cathedral was designed with a unique mix of Roman and Byzantine influences, allowing for an overall impressive look that’s just a touch more fun and special than most other cathedrals.

The first Bishop of the Diocese of El Paso, named Reverend Anthony J. Schuler, chose to take this church as his Cathedral after being appointed in 1915.

Today, the St. Patrick Cathedral is still the seat for the city’s Roman Catholic diocese.

More than 670,000 people of the Catholic faith attend this church.

The exterior remains stunning as ever and the interior is arguably even more beautiful, with the Roman Revival style serving as an opulent blast from the past.

Don’t forget to bring your camera!

Address: 1118 N Mesa St, El Paso, TX 79902, United States

17. Centennial Museum and Chihuahuan Desert Gardens

The Centennial Museum and Chihuahuan Desert Gardens offer plenty of stuff to do and some of the best free options for a tourist destination.

The attractions are housed in The University of Texas at El Paso, or UTEP.

The Centennial Museum was opened in 1936, making it the first museum of El Paso and one of the university’s first structures.

It focuses heavily on culture and life at the border, with permanent exhibits that concentrate on the Chihuahuan Desert’s cultural, natural, and historical aspects.

The natural history display is particularly interesting, educating visitors on local geology, fauna, and even paleontology.

There are even lectures to attend.

Meanwhile, the Chihuahuan Desert Gardens provide the opportunity to view gardens, landscapes, flora, and fauna local to the desert specifically.

Over 800 different plant species native to the region are displayed and thriving across multiple themed gardens.

Some exhibits are more unique, such as ones focusing on water conservation.

Address: El Paso, TX 79902, United States

18. H&H Car Wash and Coffee Shop

H&H Car Wash and Coffee Shop is on our list of places to see in the great city of El Paso for its uniqueness and how loved it is among locals and tourists alike.

As its name suggests, it’s a mash of a coffee shop and a car wash, run by a family and catering to customers from pretty much all discernable walks of life.

Even if your car doesn’t need to be washed, there’s nothing wrong with enjoying a fun and delicious meal at the H&H Car Wash and Coffee Shop.

They’re known for scrumptious Tex-Mex lunches and great American breakfasts, with meals like the caldillo (a kind of steak soup with green chili), chili Colorado, picadillo, and chorizo burritos being among the favorites.

Though a little unusual, the H&H Car Wash and Coffee Shop is an amazing place to get a taste of home-cooked El Paso specialties.

The ambiance is worth even just dropping in for a cup of coffee!

Address: 701 Yandell Dr, El Paso, TX 79902, United States

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19. INSIGHTS El Paso Science

INSIGHTS El Paso Science takes the cake for what to do in El Paso, Texas for young, inquisitive children who love getting hands-on with their learning.

It’s pretty huge as far as tourist attractions go, providing fossils, dinosaurs, and bones in exhibits as well as a big interactive play area.

The front of the building boasts a firehouse and the rest of INSIGHTS is packed with other exciting things to experience.

Science-themed attractions range from those focusing on astronomy to biology to zoology, and though they’re meant for young kids, teenagers will likely still enjoy a lot of what INSIGHTS has to offer.

Address: Central Office, 4120 Rio Bravo St #117, El Paso, TX 79902, United States

20. El Paso Museum of Archaeology

The El Paso Museum of Archaeology might be one of the top cool things to do in this teeming Texas city.

Over 14,000 years’ worth of prehistory is preserved, celebrated, and examined here, with all sorts of activities to bring your back to the past.

The Museum of Archaeology covers a lot of information pertaining to both the local area and Northern Mexico, with exhibits that date back to the time of Native American settlers and even further back to the Ice Age when Paleo-Indian hunters roamed.

You’ll learn about the progression of civilization from that point to our more modern ancestors and beyond.

The Museum of Archaeology has 15 acres of land to its name, so those who want to explore are more than welcome to.

250 native plant species are spread throughout outdoor exhibits, including an Indian garden, and there’s a wonderful gazebo for picnics.

Address: 4301 Woodrow Bean Transmountain Dr, El Paso, TX 79924, United States

21. El Paso Museum of History

The El Paso Museum of History, located in the city’s downtown area, is pretty small compared to the other El Paso attractions we’ve mentioned, but it’s still a fun option within the Texas town!

The Museum of History provides some great education insights into the multinational history of the city and the Pass of the North, otherwise referred to simply as the border reason.

Programs and exhibits are often interactive, making them a great draw for children and those of all ages.

Workshops are available for adults, too, so don’t shy away if you don’t have kids!

Some of the Museum of History’s most intriguing exhibits are The Changing Past, For All The World To See, Sixth Wall Of Giants, Drawing On The Past, and Neighborhoods and Shared Memories.

A lot of the exhibits discuss the history of the city and its relationship with Fort Bliss, the Civil Rights struggle, and more.

Address: 510 N Santa Fe St, El Paso, TX 79901, United States

22. Keystone Heritage Park and Desert Botanical Gardens

The Keystone Heritage Park and Desert Botanical Gardens cover 52 acres of land, perfect for sightseeing and even more amazing for bird-watchers in El Paso, Texas!

More than 206 different bird species call the wetlands their general habitat and “home”, which is why it’s one of the best places to visit if you’re looking to spot some feathered friends.

The desert vegetation on display at the Archeological Site is nothing short of wonderful.

The Archeological Site was discovered by the Corps of Engineers in the 1970s during flood control dam construction, revealing a 4,000-year-old village that now serves as an interesting stop along the way through the Keystone Heritage Park and Desert Botanical Gardens.

Address: 4200 Doniphan Dr, El Paso, TX 79912, United States

23. Casa de Azucar

Casa de Azucar was built by Rufino Loya, a former employee of Levi Strauss of El Paso, Texas.

He was retired and has promised to build a beautiful structure just for his wife, and well – he certainly delivered!

In 1973, Loya began to use the area around his house to carve and chisel a masterpiece.

He began to hack away, designing little intricate patterns all throughout the cement surrounding his home.

Over 25 years, he slowly worked and worked for hundred and hundred of hours.

The uniformity and precision of his handiwork, and the delightful painting of it that followed, resulted in what we now call Casa de Azucar – or “Sugar House”.

The result of Loya’s hard work is truly one of the most fun and unique things to see in El Paso.

His love for the work and the talent and skill involved has created an elaborate and stunning work of art.

A lot of the themes of the carvings are religious, and there’s even a lovely altarpiece at his home’s entrance that took 300 hours to finish.

Leaves, flowers, and other nature motifs painted in pastel pink, pastel blue, and white primarily, provide a soft, romantic touch.

Many pineapples are also carved throughout as a symbol of Mexican hospitality.

Address: 4301 Leavell Ave, El Paso, TX 79904, United States

24. Ascarate Park

If you’re looking for more vacation places, you won’t go wrong with Ascarate Park – El Paso Country’s largest recreational park.

It boasts a 400-acre leisure area, which includes 48 surface lake acres and 280 golf course acres.

The golf course is 72 par with 18 holes, and there’s a separate course known as the Delta 9 that has 9 holes.

The park is one of the most peaceful places to go to in El Paso, Texas when you need a little break from all your adventuring.

Bring along a picnic basket or watch the ducks on the lake to truly maximize the whimsy of it all!

Address: 6900 Delta Dr, El Paso, TX 79905, United States

25. Southwest University Park

Southwest University Park can be found in the middle of downtown El Paso, Texas.

It’s the home of the El Paso Chihuahuas, the city’s Minor League Baseball team, and is a great place to have some fun watching a ball game.

Some big events are also held here, and the place is rentable for private functions.

Not much for baseball?

Southwest University Park still has you covered.

Walking along the Santa Fe Pavilion gives you gorgeous city views and you can even spot the Franklin Mountains from here!

With five acres of land, the unique design of the ballpark, with its arched concourse and red brick outer face, is a sight for sore eyes.

Address: 1 Ballpark Plaza, El Paso, TX 79901, United States

26. El Paso Symphony Orchestra

If you’re looking for fun things to do in El Paso, Texas, tonight, then you should check if the El Paso Symphony Orchestra is playing a show!

The orchestra is known for providing high-quality, talented entertainment and educational experiences.

As a non-profit organization, their concert music is inspiring and a great idea to support.

The orchestra was set up in the 1930s and is the area’s oldest group for performing arts.

The orchestra holds classes, events, and outreach programs to spread the joy of music across the city and even beyond.

If you arrive in this Texas city at the right time, you could catch a Young People’s Concert or even anniversary fundraisers and celebrations!

Address: 1 Civic Center Plz, El Paso, TX 79901, United States

27. L & J Cafe

Eating at the L & J Cafe might be one of the best things to do in El Paso, Texas that doesn’t involve typical tourist attractions.

It’s the best place in all of El Paso to get delicious Mexican food, which is near to the downtown area.

With a dive-bar type atmosphere about it, the L & J Cafe is usually packed with locals, which is always a good sign when you want authentic fare.

The cafe opened in 1927 and is actually situated across a graveyard, which somewhat adds to the old-timey neon atmosphere.

Some great options are the green chile and chicken enchiladas, queso and chips, and even their Tres Leches cake.

You can also head to the bar to buy some drinks, with the wine-based Margaritas being among the favorite options.

Address: 3622 E Missouri Ave, El Paso, TX 79903, United States

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28. John Wesley Hardin’s Grave

John Wesley Hardin was known as one of the most pernicious killers who lived in the Wild West, a gunslinger with a reckless streak and a trail of trouble following him wherever he went.

Even as a child, he’d often gotten in trouble with questionable activities and claimed his very first kill at the tender age of 15.

He traveled throughout Texas as a fugitive from then on.

In 1887, Hardin was caught and sent to prison for 25 years.

Surprisingly, he was quite the studious prisoner, reading theological works and studying law until he became the Sunday school superintendent.

He eventually was released eight years before the end of his sentence and became a bar-certified lawyer.

Eventually, he was shot in El Paso and killed, laid to rest at last in Concordia Cemetery.

It’s easy to imagine how fun he may have found his early daredevil years roaming Texas, and paying your respects to him is one of the many free things to do in the city.

Just be mindful of mourners and be polite to the dead!

If you plan to visit at night, make sure to watch your step.

Address: 768-798 N Stevens St, El Paso, TX, United States

29. Lhakhang Cultural Exhibit

The Lhakhang Cultural Exhibit is a rather unexpected sight in a place like El Paso, Texas.

Measuring 1600 square feet, it is a Bhutanese temple that was actually built first in Bhutan before being shipped here to be set up by both Bhutanese and Americans, working in a crew together.

The assembly process was full of fun and the workers sang merrily as they methodically assembled the temple, piece by piece.

But why was the temple being built in the first place?

It was actually for the Smithsonian Folklife Festival of 2008 in Washington DC.

It only ended up in El Paso due to multiple surprising and unlikely events!

Despite its amusing origins, it’s one of the best options for the more unique and unorthodox things to add to your list of what to do.

Address: El Paso, TX 79902, United States

30. Dave’s Pawn Shop

Dave’s Pawn Shop is one of the more interesting points of interest in El Paso, Texas.

Located on South El Paso Street, it is full of all sorts of unique and strange items, from artifacts to oddities.

Despite being around for decades, it’s rarely visited by locals, but is loved by tourists from across the country.

Dave’s Pawn Shop holds within it many fun sights, from skulls to mummies and from World War II paraphernalia to things as simple as wristwatches.

Upon arrival, an Elvis figure, life-sized, greets you, his music playing throughout the structure.

If you like architecture, you may appreciate the shops’ facade, which dates back to the turn of the 19th century.

It’s one of the only stores on its street to retain that style!

Address: 216 S El Paso St, El Paso, TX 79901, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To El Paso

There is no shortage of El Paso attractions to visit, whether you’re seeking the top free options or are willing to spend a little extra dough.

It’s hard not to have fun with so many places to visit throughout El Paso, and we hope that this guide has helped you find the very best that this delightful Texas city has to offer!