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Nicknamed the “Sun City”, El Paso sprawls along the banks of the Rio Grande in the Borderland region of southern Texas. Mexican shops and restaurants line the streets, while the arid landscapes of the Chihuahuan Desert sprawl in the surrounds.

Things to do

Learn about the history of U.S-Mexico border relations at the National Border Patrol Museum, which exhibits weaponry and vehicles used by the organisation since it was established in 1924. There are fascinating exhibits on different ways people try to cross the border, as well as a display on the role of border patrol dogs.

Spend an afternoon exploring the Franklin Mountains State Park, which lies on the edge of El Paso and features quintessential Texan desert landscapes. Follow one of the many walking or mountain biking trails between barrel cacti and yucca plants while keeping an eye out for black bear, mule deer and golden eagles.

For some of the best views in El Paso, jump aboard one of the gondolas that travel to Ranger Peak along the park’s Wyler Aerial Tramway. On a clear day you can see across Texas and New Mexico, as well as over the border into Mexico.

Want to learn how plants survive in such arid landscapes? Visit the Chihuahuan Desert Gardens where more than 600 native and rare species are on display. It’s situated adjacent to the Centennial Museum, which explores the natural and social history of the Chihuahuan Desert and the culture of the Borderlands.

Getting around

El Paso International Airport is located around 15 minutes’ drive from downtown El Paso and long-distance buses and trains provide transport across Texas. Historic trolley tours and local taxis access many of the downtown sights.