El Paso: The Wild West’s Hidden Gem
El Paso sits in the far western corner of this massive state—so far west, in fact, that it’s the same driving distance from San Diego, California, as it is from Houston! This unique geographical position has shaped the city’s identity to such an extent that its residents proudly call themselves El Pasoans first and Texans second.
Perched on the northern bank of the Rio Grande, El Paso gazes directly across the river at Juárez, Mexico—a city unfortunately notorious for its sky-high crime rates. El Paso, however, boasts one of the lowest crime rates in the United States, consistently ranking among the country’s safest cities. Some credit the heavy presence of law enforcement and immigration officials, while others believe the city’s strong sense of community and open communication with authorities play a major role.
Formerly known as El Paso del Río del Norte, this sunbaked desert city bears a striking resemblance to its neighbour, New Mexico. Interstate 10 slices through it, making El Paso a perfect pit stop for cross-country travellers who’d rather skip the famed Route 66 (now I-40), which runs 400 km to the north.
A BIT OF HISTORY
This region was once part of New Spain and was explored as early as the 16th century by Spanish conquistadors, including the legendary Juan de Oñate. The historic Camino Real, now called Mission Trail, winds through the city from the Rio Grande’s northern bank to the foothills of the Franklin Mountains. The arrival of the American railroad transformed El Paso into one of the nation’s major railway hubs.
MUST-DO ACTIVITIES
1. Visit the Railroad & Transportation Museum
A tiny museum with a big heart, this spot showcases a stunning 1857 locomotive. A must-see for train enthusiasts!
2. Stroll through Downtown El Paso
Take in the sights, soak up the atmosphere, and browse the bustling street markets. The shops along El Paso Street, stretching from the border to the city centre, offer a taste of Mexico without having to cross the border. Expect vibrant bazaars, lively vendors, and an array of goods catering to the predominantly Mexican and Hispanic-American crowd.
3. Go on a Tour with a Local
We spent six hours exploring the region with Rudy, a larger-than-life guide whose Texan charm, humour, and passion for history made the experience unforgettable. We combined two tours—one covering the Spanish missions along the old Camino Real and the other showcasing El Paso’s most significant landmarks. For a very modest price, Rudy took us on an 80-km adventure, including stops at Fort Bliss military base and Concordia Cemetery, where many cowboys met their fate in a hail of bullets. We even got an up-close look at the U.S.-Mexico border.
FOOD & DRINK
El Paso offers a fantastic mix of authentic Mexican cuisine and classic American fare. Explore!
CULTURAL & HISTORICAL SITES
Ysleta del Sur Pueblo – The Tigua Indian Community
Visit the Ysleta del Sur Pueblo to witness traditional Tigua dances, explore a small but fascinating museum, and browse authentic Native American crafts.
Concordia Cemetery
Home to the bullet-riddled graves of infamous gunslingers like John Wesley Hardin, as well as Confederate and Union soldiers, Concordia is a Wild West history buff’s paradise. HELPFUL TIPS
✅ Carry ID at all times – If you’re not a U.S. or Canadian citizen, be prepared to show your passport and visa to immigration officers, who patrol the area regularly. This is especially important if you plan to go hiking.
🚫 Do NOT cross into Juárez on a whim – While tourists aren’t the primary targets of cartel violence, stray bullets are a real risk.
☀️ Bring sunscreen – Even in February, you can get sunburnt. This is the desert, after all, and the sun is relentless year-round.
🎖 Respect the soldiers – El Paso is home to Fort Bliss, one of the U.S. Army’s largest bases. Don’t be surprised if your seatmate on the plane has served in Iraq or Afghanistan. Feel free to chat with them, but remember: you’re not here to debate politics. Show respect and listen—you might learn something fascinating.
FINAL THOUGHTS
El Paso is Texas with a twist—a fascinating blend of cultures, history, and landscapes that make it stand out from the rest of the Lone Star State. Whether you’re here for the history, the food, or just passing through on a road trip, you won’t regret stopping in this borderland gem.