Family Fun Ideas In and Around El Paso

El Paso and the surrounding areas offer some beautiful scenery, nature filled fun and cool museums and zoos. Check out our favorite top 10.

Here are the top 10 family friendly things to do in and around the beautiful Sun City:

1. El Paso Zoo: Locals recommend this as one of the top places to take your family. It sits on 35 beautiful acres touting exotic animals from 3 continents – which means there’s bound to be something for every animal lover! Open 9:30am-4pm daily.      

Address: 4001 E. Paisano, El Paso, Texas 79905

2. Franklin Mountain State Park: This park is the largest urban park in America, spreading out over 37 square miles. Many hiking trails of all levels of difficulty abound, and watch for the local wildlife to make an appearance while you experience the beautiful desert landscape.https://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/franklin-mountains

3. National Border Patrol Museum: This free museum offers exhibits showcasing the men and women who protect our borders. Memorabilia dating back to the 1920’s provides an interactive walkthrough to keep all ages interested. https://www.borderpatrolmuseum.com/

4. El Paso Museum of Archaeology: This Museum is also free and includes exhibits of American Indian culture dating back 14,000 years. There also are 15 acres of walking trails that showcase hundreds of varieties of Chihuahuan native plants. https://archaeology.elpasotexas.gov/

5. El Paso Mission Trail: Take a step back in time while on the 9 mile long Mission Trail, a historical trail connecting 2 of the oldest Missions in the US as well as a presidio chapel. Check out the website for additional ideas of local eateries and events related to the trail. www.elpasomissiontrail.com

6. Western Playland: While out and about enjoying the city, don’t forget to make a stop at Western Playland. Located just across the border in New Mexico this fun filled gem provides excitement and thrills for the whole family. Pay per ride or buy a wristband, either way it's guaranteed fun. 1249 FUTURITY DRIVE SUNLAND PARK, NM 88063. www.westernplayland.com

7. Armored Division and Fort Bliss Museum: This free museum gives you a glimpse into the history of the 1Armored Division and Fort Bliss from 1849 until the present. There are soldiers on hand to assist with touring and there are picnic tables located conveniently outside to take a lunch and enjoy the beautiful views of the mountains nearby.Building 1735 Marshall Road, Fort Bliss TX. https://home.army.mil/bliss/index.php/my-fort/all-services/fort-bliss-and-old-ironsides-museu

8. White Sands National Monument: This amazing national treasure is located approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes from El Paso, but is well worth the drive! Free for the military and only $25 per carload for civilians, this is guaranteed to be an experience you won’t soon forget. Don’t forget to take your sled or buy one conveniently located in the gift shop to sled down the majestic gypsum hills. https://www.nps.gov/whsa/index.htm

9. New Mexico Museum of Space History: This museum is complete with an indoor and outdoor portion dedicated to the early days of space travel through today. Marvel at the exhibits showcasing the United States race to space, and don’t forget to stop in for one of several choices of media available at the dome theater and planetarium located conveniently next door. 3198 State Route 2001 | Alamogordo, NM 88310. http://www.nmspacemuseum.org/

10. Alameda Park Zoo- This quaint zoo located in Alamogordo, NM is home to over 300 animals. With free admission for ages 4 and under and rates that vary from $2.50 - $4.00 per person (depending on age) this is perfect for a short spring break day trip with the littles and friends. 1321 N White Sands Boulevard, Alamogordo, NM 88310. https://ci.alamogordo.nm.us/477/Alameda-Park-Zoo
    
    

Whether you choose to stay right in the city or venture out, there is guaranteed to be something of interest for every member of the family. Get out and enjoy the area and don’t forget to tag us on Instagram or Facebook while you experience the fun things this fantastic area has to offer!