Know Before You Go: About El Paso
Two states and two countries converge at the western tip of Texas, forming the world's largest international megalopolis
Texas' contribution to this mélange is the bustling city of El Paso, with a history dating back to the last ice age. Your family will enjoy the city's unique cultural fusion whether you're out seeing the sights or noshing at the city's many restaurants.
El Paso's Desert Climate
Although tucked away in the Chihuahuan Desert, El Paso's location between the Franklin Mountains and the Rio Grande River means you can enjoy cooler weather than surrounding areas. You might even see snow in winter, although it rarely falls in amounts greater than 2 inches and quickly melts with no need for shoveling. Winter days reach as high as 60 degrees. No matter what time of year you visit, be sure to bring sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, because nearly 90 percent of El Paso's days are sunny. Your family's plans probably won't get rained out—the city gets a mere 8 inches of rainfall annually.
Step Back in Time
Learn how the early inhabitants lived in the area thousands of years before any modern conveniences at the El Paso Museum of Archaeology. Explore a walk-in pueblo, marvel at prehistoric tools and fossils and hike the outdoor nature trail to experience how the area looked many years ago. You'll find even more artifacts packed into 16,000 square feet of the El Paso History Museum. Head outdoors to the cool Franklin Mountains—ride the Wyler Aerial Tramway up Ranger Peak to gain a 7,000-square-mile view that sweeps across three states and two countries.
Life in the Prosperous City
A commercial hub, El Paso's streets hum with industry. Its position along the border with Mexico makes it convenient for international commerce, and the city enjoys a reputation as one of the largest manufacturing centers in the United States. Some of the items you'll find that are made locally include food, clothing, electronics, plastics and medical equipment. More than 70 Fortune 500 companies make their home in the city, and the United States Army's Fort Bliss maintains more than a million acres dedicated to soldier training.
Getting There Is Half the Fun
If you're driving into El Paso from points west, a scenic way to enter the city is via the Trans Mountain Highway—part of Loop 375. The road climbs to more than 5,000 feet, so get ready to enjoy the natural beauty of the Franklin Mountains and unparalleled views of the city. Pull over at the scenic overlook along the way where you can safely take selfies or time-lapse photos of towering summer clouds rolling over the city. Getting around the city itself is easy. El Paso International Airport lies within the city limits and connects to public transit that takes you just about anywhere you want to go.
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The desert city of El Paso thrives from its multicultural population.