El Paso, Texas Weekend With Kids

El Paso offers a wide variety of tourist attractions, outdoor activities and cultural groups. Its located on the Mexican border right next to Juarez, one of Mexicos largest cities. When I originally planned to visit El Paso, I wanted to take advantage of this fact by planning at least one day in Juarez to see the sights and do some shopping in Mexico. I found that it was very easy to visit. There is plenty of parking on the American side of the border, so you can just walk across. However, I was pleasantly surprised by the abundance of outdoor activities existing near El Paso. There are lovely parks along the Rio Grande, and just outside the city is the Franklin Mountains State Park, making it the obvious choice of destination if you are looking for mountains in Texas.

1Web-4404040783_d115f5faee_z
Franklin Mountain State Park
Franklin Mountains State Park is a pleasant surprise in the city of El Paso. Apparently it is the largest urban park in the country, with about 37 square miles of hiking, biking and scenic driving, all within the city limits. The Franklin Mountains are the only sustained mountains in Texas, making it unique in the big state. Take no... More >
Franklin Mountains State Park is a pleasant surprise in the city of El Paso. Apparently it is the largest urban park in the country, with about 37 square miles of hiking, biking and scenic driving, all within the city limits. The Franklin Mountains are the only sustained mountains in Texas, making it unique in the big state. Take note that they charge a fee of $4.00 per person, but it is more than worth it. I recommend taking the hike to the Aztec Caves. It is moderately challenging terrain and only 1.5 miles round trip. When I went in the hot summer, this hike provided a needed escape from the heat in the city below, as well as beautiful scenery and good exercise.
2Web-bigphoto_rgn_bb003
Wyler Aerial Tramway
The Wyler Aerial Tramway is located inside the Franklin Mountains State Park. It is a Swiss gondola that takes you to the top of Ranger Peak. During the ride, I was fascinated by the views it offered of Mexico, New Mexico and El Paso. It costs $7.00 in addition to the $4.00 regular admission fee, but well worth it in my opinion, esp... More >
The Wyler Aerial Tramway is located inside the Franklin Mountains State Park. It is a Swiss gondola that takes you to the top of Ranger Peak. During the ride, I was fascinated by the views it offered of Mexico, New Mexico and El Paso. It costs $7.00 in addition to the $4.00 regular admission fee, but well worth it in my opinion, especially if you have kids with you, or people who are unable to hike or dont want to hike. At the top, there is a great observation deck where you can get food, souvenirs, and gifts. I recommend riding the tramway after dark if you want to see a panoramic view of El Pasos lights against a gorgeous desert backdrop.
Admission to the museum is cheap, too, at only $6.00 for adults, making it a really good deal.
3Web-4415735187_8891ae3119_z
El Paso-Juarez Trolley
The El Paso-Juarez Trolley Company offers Border Jumper Tours that leave the Civic Center in El Paso every hour from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., seven days a week. These trolleys are a fun and affordable way to see some of the more popular sights in Juarez. There are seven stops along the route, each of which is at a decent tourist attraction... More >
The El Paso-Juarez Trolley Company offers Border Jumper Tours that leave the Civic Center in El Paso every hour from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., seven days a week. These trolleys are a fun and affordable way to see some of the more popular sights in Juarez. There are seven stops along the route, each of which is at a decent tourist attraction. However, what I really loved about the trolley is that you can spend as long as you want at any given stop, explore to your hearts content, and just catch any trolley that stops there later, at no extra cost. We had a blast wandering around Juarez, finding a great little place to eat that had live music playing. When we were ready to move on, we just walked back to the same stop where we got off and finished out the route.
4
Holiday Inn El Paso Sunland Park
The Holiday Inn at Sunland Park Shopping Center in El Paso is a great value, especially if you are traveling with kids. The food is surprisingly good, as far as hotel food goes. They have a great exercise facility, so bring your workout clothes. For keeping the kids entertained, you cant beat the outdoor pool. I understand the hotel was recently refurbished, which comes as no surprise because the rooms are clean and comfortable. The affordable rates and friendly staff added to my overall happiness with our choice to stay here.
5Web-insights
Insights Science Museum
I enjoyed my visit to Insights Science Museum more than I expected to. I thought it would be a bunch of exhibits for children. Its true, the museum does cater to the kids, but everything is presented in such a way, I couldnt help but be fascinated with them. Make sure you check out the Tesla coil while you are there. I also liked t... More >
I enjoyed my visit to Insights Science Museum more than I expected to. I thought it would be a bunch of exhibits for children. Its true, the museum does cater to the kids, but everything is presented in such a way, I couldnt help but be fascinated with them. Make sure you check out the Tesla coil while you are there. I also liked the exhibit about optical illusions a lot. Admission to the museum is cheap, too, at only $6.00 for adults, making it a really good deal.
However, what I really loved about the trolley is that you can spend as long as you want at any given stop, explore to your hearts content, and just catch any trolley that stops there later, at no extra cost.
6
L & J Cafe
I had heard good things about L & J Caf in El Paso long before I tried it, so my expectations were high. I would say I was only somewhat impressed. I can see why it is so popular with the locals, the food was delicious, authentic Mexican served in large portions. However, the place looks like a dive on the outside. Unfortunately, what they lacked in atmosphere they did not make up in the service. The place was crowded ... More
I had heard good things about L & J Caf in El Paso long before I tried it, so my expectations were high. I would say I was only somewhat impressed. I can see why it is so popular with the locals, the food was delicious, authentic Mexican served in large portions. However, the place looks like a dive on the outside. Unfortunately, what they lacked in atmosphere they did not make up in the service. The place was crowded and it took a long time to get our food. Overall, L & J is worth it if you like good food at decent prices.
Map View Hide Map

About the Author

Ross Pincock
Ross Pincock
I love music! I have spent most of my life either playing and writing music or listening to a live performance. I also love the outdoors, particularly camping, hiking, bicycling and sitting around the campfire. I am a father and I love spending time with my kids.
Websitemyspace.com/rosspincock
More Lists by Ross Pincock
×

© 2006 - 2012 Uptake Networks, Inc.

Uptake

Get the best tips and advice by discovering which of your friends have been to El Paso, and also reach our helpful and experienced Uptake travel community. Sign in!

×
Uptake

Did you know that your Internet Explorer is out of date?


To get the best possible experience using our website we recommend that you upgrade to a newer version.

Close