3 Days of Budget-Friendly Fun in El Paso

Discover the charm of El Paso without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

El Paso, located in West Texas along the border of Mexico, offers a variety of affordable activities for travelers on a budget. Tourists can visit the historic downtown area, hike through Franklin Mountains State Park, and explore the border town of Ciudad Juárez across the Rio Grande. With a variety of budget-friendly accommodation and dining options, El Paso is the perfect destination for a budget-conscious traveler looking to experience the unique culture and landscapes of the American Southwest.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring El Paso's Cultural Scene

  • Start with a hearty breakfast at the L & J Cafe, known for their authentic Tex-Mex cuisine
  • Visit the El Paso Museum of Art, which offers a diverse collection of paintings, sculptures, and ceramics from around the world
  • Wander through the Plaza Theatre, a beautifully restored historic venue which hosts concerts, plays, and ballets
  • Grab lunch at Kiki's Mexican Restaurant for some mouth-watering tacos and enchiladas
  • Head to the Chamizal National Memorial, where you can learn about the history and culture of the border region
  • End the day with dinner at the H & H Car Wash and Coffee Shop, an unconventional spot that also serves delicious burgers and fries
  • Hotel Recommendation: Motel 6 El Paso Central
Day 2

Hiking and Nature in El Paso

  • Start the day with breakfast at Crave Kitchen and Bar, a trendy spot with a fantastic brunch menu
  • Head to the Franklin Mountains State Park, where you can hike, bike, and enjoy panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape
  • Stop by the Keystone Heritage Park and Botanical Gardens, which has a variety of gardens and a living desert museum
  • Grab a quick lunch at Chico's Tacos, a local staple known for their flautas and hot dogs
  • Visit the El Paso Zoo, which showcases over 220 species of animals from around the world
  • End the day with dinner at L & J Cafe (yes, again), for some more mouth-watering Tex-Mex dishes
  • Hotel Recommendation: Super 8 by Wyndham El Paso Airport
Day 3

Shopping and Dining in Downtown El Paso

  • Begin with breakfast at the International House of Pancakes, a classic American staple
  • Head to the El Paso Downtown Artist and Farmers Market, where you can purchase local goods, crafts, and art
  • Take a stroll through the San Jacinto Plaza, a beautiful public square that features a lit-up fountain at night
  • Grab lunch at the Cafe Central, a gourmet restaurant that offers delicious burgers, sandwiches, and salads
  • Tour the El Paso Museum of History, which showcases the city's rich history and cultural diversity
  • End the day with dinner at the Anson 11, a chic restaurant known for its modern American cuisine
  • Hotel Recommendation: Econo Lodge Inn & Suites El Paso Airport Area
  • El Paso's lively culture, natural beauty, and delicious food makes it a unique destination for travelers on a budget. Don't forget to try the local flavors and immerse yourself in the city's rich heritage.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to El Paso is by plane. The nearest airport is El Paso International Airport, and there are several airlines that fly there including American Airlines, Delta, and Southwest.

Car

Driving is another option for getting to El Paso. The city is accessible by several major highways including I-10, US 54, and TX 20.

Train

There is no train station in El Paso, so unfortunately, it is not possible to get there by train.

Boat

Since El Paso is located inland, there are no nearby bodies of water that can be used for boat transportation. Therefore, it is not possible to get there by boat.

Bus

El Paso has a Greyhound bus station that provides service to the city. Their buses travel to and from many major cities in the United States.

More travel plans

El Paso on a Budget: 5 Days of Adventure

El Paso is a vibrant city in the southwestern United States, situated on the border of Mexico. Despite being a popular tourist destination, it's certainly possible to enjoy this vibrant city on a limited budget. There are plenty of amazing free activities to take advantage of, such as hiking in Franklin Mountains State Park or exploring the fascinating history of the El Paso Mission Trail.

Discover Downtown El Paso on a Budget

Discover the rich history and culture of El Paso, Texas on a tight budget. Explore the city's iconic landmarks, including the El Paso Museum of Art and the infamous San Jacinto Plaza. Experience the delicious local cuisine and cheap shopping options that make this city a hidden gem for budget travelers.

3 Days of Budget-Friendly Fun in El Paso

El Paso, located in West Texas along the border of Mexico, offers a variety of affordable activities for travelers on a budget. Tourists can visit the historic downtown area, hike through Franklin Mountains State Park, and explore the border town of Ciudad Juárez across the Rio Grande. With a variety of budget-friendly accommodation and dining options, El Paso is the perfect destination for a budget-conscious traveler looking to experience the unique culture and landscapes of the American Southwest.

Discover El Paso: A 2-Day Adventure for the Whole Family

A family friendly trip to El Paso, United States offers a diverse range of attractions for everyone. Explore the stunning Franklin Mountains State Park, where you can go hiking, biking, and enjoy panoramic views of the city. Visit the El Paso Zoo, home to over 220 species of animals, and let your little ones have a memorable experience with interactive exhibits and wildlife encounters. Lastly, don't miss a chance to visit the Wyler Aerial Tramway, where you can take a gondola ride to the top of Ranger Peak and marvel at the breathtaking vistas of El Paso and its surroundings.