I love beaches. But, also, I really love Nashville. So, you can guess the sad part here. The last time I went to Nashville, I had to come back dry and without a tan.
But I thought there must be some beaches close to Nashville, right?
Also, why stick to the same beaches in the Nashville area, or even in and around? Have you thought about venturing out to beaches a little farther away?
Additionally, you can also check out the closest beach to Nashville or even some of the closest beaches near Nashville.
Additionally, Nashville is a popular tourist attraction on prestigious lists like the New York Times’ 52 Places to Go.
Also, I must say that it has a colorful history, great heritage, and architectural excellence.
However, if you want some coastal fun and some sultry sunbathing seasons, the beaches around Nashville will be your ultimate call!
What Is The Closest Beach To Nashville? Top 10 Beaches You Can Visit
So here you are, searching for the closest beach to Nashville, TN! And here we are with a curated list featuring the best beaches near Nashville.
Also, “The Music City” is the door to cool sand and water pursuits. Let’s check out the names.
1. Dauphin Island, Alabama:
Dauphin Island in Alabama is fairly close to Nashville, and it will take you about 7 hours to drive to Mobile since the island is located in the southern part of Mobile. You can also fly to Mobile.
Spend time playing with the waves and collecting seashells, or take a ferry and visit the beautiful Fort Morgan to check out some dolphins.
Also, you must not miss out on other prime tourist spots nearby, like:
Fort Gaines,
Bird Sanctuary, and
The Estuarium.
So, it is quite idyllic and a family-friendly island with beautiful attractions such as the Alabama Aquarium, Mobile Bay Ferry, and others.
Additionally, excitement, wildlife, and southern culture are quite apparent in and around Dauphin Island, which has white sand and blue water.
Best Time To Visit
Estimated Cost
Driving/flying hours from Nashville
Spring (March-May), Fall (October-November)
$350 to $1,000
560 miles
2. Gulf Shores, Alabama:
While looking for beaches near Nashville, TN, there’s no way you can forget about the Gulf Shores in Alabama.
It’s pretty popular among tourists, especially Tennessee residents. Located only a seven-hour drive away from Nashville, the area boasts several lodging options, activities, and fresh seafood.
The area has amusement parks, entertainment zones, shopping opportunities, and more.
Plus, if you love educational activities and history, there’s much to do in this area. So just pack your bags already – because the beach awaits you!
With its warm and soothing water, Gulf Shores also has bright white beaches. You can perform daytime activities such as dolphin-watching, hiking, and scenic cruises.
There is an Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo and a recreation center with bumper boats called The Track, where you can visit with your family.
Best Time To Visit
Estimated Cost
Driving/flying hours from Nashville
Fall (September to November) and spring (March to May)
$210
7-8 hours
Gulf Shores is about to get a Goodwill Center. The 50,000-square-foot facility in Foley will offer job and employment training to the local people.
With time, it will likely be developed as a community development center. The center is likely to open its doors in the fall of 2025. Then, it will be an added attraction to the places of interest.
3. Pensacola, Florida:
There are several beaches close to Nashville, but Pensacola, located in Florida, stands out because it will take you less than seven hours to drive from Nashville!
Popular for its charming historic culture and exquisite natural beauty, Pensacola is a must-visit. Spanning over eight acres, the historic village of Pensacola is timeless.
From golfing and go-karting to other fun activities, there’s so much to do when you are bored with the beach.
Pensacola is also known as ‘the city of five flags’ since it was passed around in History – you will spot British, French, Confederate, American, and even Spanish flags all over this charming city.
The beach is in the panhandle of Florida, surrounded by coastline across 50-plus miles.
There are crystal clear bay areas and emerald-green Gulf of Mexico waters; thus, when you visit the beach, you can find a vibe that mixes a bustling metropolitan center and a relaxing beach town!
Best Time To Visit
Estimated Cost
Driving/flying hours from Nashville
Spring (March-May) and Fall (September-November)
$340
6 hours 39 minutes
4. Destin, Florida:
Why aren’t you considering Destin, located in Florida? Driving to Destin from Nashville will take only around seven hours!
Destin has been a prime vacation spot for families! There are several places to eat – you could check out the popular chain dining, Whataburger!
Then there are so many outlet stores for you to visit if you love shopping. If you are traveling with kids, then you have to check out the following places,
The Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park,
Local Zoo, and
Big Kahuna Water Park (only if you travel to Destin during the summer!)
Located in northwest Florida, the area of Destin Beach is called the Panhandle! There are natural trails through the dunes of Henderson Beach State Park. There are beautiful oak and pine trees that provide shelter for wildlife.
Also, there are waterfalls, pools, tall slides, and Big Kahuna’s water park, so you can explore all these places. The emerald-green waters of the beach are breathtaking, and the geology is unique!
Best Time To Visit
Estimated Cost
Driving/flying hours from Nashville
Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-November)
$105
7 hours
5. Panama City, Florida:
It’s not like there are no beaches in Tennessee. Of course, Tennessee has beaches, but sometimes, venturing a little away from home feels so much better!
And how can you ignore Panama City, located in Florida? Famed as a destination for Spring Break, it will take you about 7.5 hours to drive to Panama City from Nashville. You can also opt for direct flights.
The beaches span 27 miles, and Panama City has about a hundred public accesses.
While you are in Panama City, you must visit Pier Park – you will spot several restaurants, playing areas, bungee jumping opportunities, bumper boats, sky wheels, passenger trains, and plenty of places to shop.
Best Time To Visit
Estimated Cost
Driving/flying hours from Nashville
Fall (September-November) and Spring (March-May)
$106
7.5 to 8 hours
6. 30A, Florida:
People in the Middle Tennessee area either have or know others with bumper stickers with 30A on them. This is because 30A has now become perhaps one of the most well-known getaway spots for most residents of Nashville! And that too throughout the whole year.
30A is not your regular Nashville beach! Instead, it’s a pretty coastal highway with solid touristy spots, like,
Miramar Beach,
Rosemary Beach,
Santa Rosa Beach, and
Blue Mountain Beach.
Best Time To Visit
Estimated Cost
Driving/flying hours from Nashville
Spring (March-May), Fall (October-November)
$105
7 hours 25 minutes
7. Tybee Island, Georgia:
Tybee Island might not be the closest beach to Nashville, but that doesn’t mean it’s that far away – you can either drive to Tybee Island in the Savannah region or even directly fly to Savannah.
If you drive, it will take you more than eight hours; if you take a flight, it will take a little less than two hours.
An Atlantic getaway that’s historical – this is exactly what Savannah stands for! Steeped deeply in culture and history, there’s so much to see and do.
Explore the local restaurants and shopping outlets at the lighthouse near Tybee Island to make the most of your stay here.
Best Time To Visit
Estimated Cost
Driving/flying hours from Nashville
Spring and summer
$210
8 hours 6 mins
8. Gulfport, Mississippi:
While looking up the closest ocean beach to Nashville, TN, it’s impossible not to stumble upon Gulfport, located in Mississippi. The entire Mississippi coastline is unforgettable. It takes about seven hours to drive from Nashville, or you could also do something adventurous and fly to New Orleans – it will be worth the trip!
The area boasts miles of beaches known for their beautiful sand, fun attractions, and exciting water activities. Once you are done spending time on the beach, don’t forget to check out,
The Gulfport children’s museum,
INFINITY Science Center, a space facility by NASA,
A famous aquarium,
Drag racing,
Waterparks, and
The railroad museum.
Best Time To Visit
Estimated Cost
Driving/flying hours from Nashville
March through May
$200
1 hour 21 minutes
9. Charleston, South Carolina:
Move any beach in Tennessee over, because it’s time for Charleston to shine! Yes, it will take you more than 8 hours to drive to Charleston, located in South Carolina, or a flight of 1.5 hours, but who cares? It will be worth the journey.
Another coastal town in the Atlantic steeped deeply in history, this place is perfect for visiting with your family, especially kids.
If you love visiting historical spots, you have to visit Fort Sumter. And that’s not all! Pamper yourself with some spa time and some golfing, while your kids can enjoy the children’s museum and the aquarium.
You will also get to see some world-class restaurants, sandy beaches, and cobblestone paths.
The easiest way to enjoy South Carolina is to dip your toes in the white sand and enjoy the beautiful weather.
It is perfect for frolicking, as you can walk across the sand and visit the lighthouses. The beaches are wild, you gotta have a towel and sturdy shoes to enjoy your best!
Best Time To Visit
Estimated Cost
Driving/flying hours from Nashville
spring (March-May) and fall (October)
$124.58
9-10 hours
10. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina:
It is not the closest beach to Nashville if you have a packed itinerary. It will take you about nine hours to drive to Myrtle Beach, but it’s so worth the drive.
We say keep at least three to four days in hand while going to Myrtle Beach in South Carolina!
From cheering the baseball team and Pelicans, riding the gigantic Ferris wheel, visiting New South Brewing MicroBrewery, or even having a night out at some local dinner theater, there’s so much to do here.
Myrtle Beach has a subtropical climate, with 86 golf courses and 1800 restaurants to visit. The Myrtle Beach Area Fact Sheet states that around 17 million people visit Myrtle Beach annually. If you plan to visit the beach, you can take your family to the Kingdom amusement park.
If you love adventure, the SkyWheel is the way to go, considering it is one of the tallest Ferris Wheels in the world.
Best Time To Visit
Estimated Cost
Driving/flying hours from Nashville
June through August
$129
9 hrs 26 min
In 2024, Myrtle Beach was the top trending destination for the Memorial Day weekend in the USA, according to Booking.com reports.
TripAdvisor also featured it as the second-most coveted destination for the Memorial Day weekend 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Check out the most frequently asked questions related to the closest beach to Nashville, mentioned below.
1. What is the closest beach to Nashville by car?
The beach that would be closest to Nashville would be Panama City Beach, Florida, and would take about 450 miles. A car ride would take around 7-8 hours, and this beach would be the most preferred by people from Nashville.
2. Are there any ocean beaches within driving distance from Nashville?
Yes. Even Nashville, which is a mainland city, has some Gulf Coast Beaches within a day’s drive. These places include Panama City Beach, Destin, Gulf Shores, and Orange Beach, and can be reached within a time frame of 7-9 hours.
3. Why is Panama City Beach the best option from Nashville?
What’s also distinct about Panama City Beach is that it offers: • Shorter transport time to the beaches •White sand beaches and warm Gulf waters • Numerous options of places to visit, as well as accommodations, that are suitable for families • Easy access by major highways All these features make this a most preferable spot for people in Nashville who love to visit beaches.
4. What is the closest beach to Nashville that one could go to over a weekend?
Concerning a weekend getaway, Panama City Beach is the most accessible destination in terms of the drive. Furthermore, others prefer the Gulf Shores in Alabama because of its longer drive to the destination.
5. Are there any beaches in Nashville that are not close to an ocean?
Yes. If you like lake beaches, then you find that you are in the Nashville area, so you do have some options, such as Percy Priest Lake and Old Hickory Lake. There are sandy beaches and swimming areas. Dawkins
6. How far is Destin, Florida, from Nashville?
Destin is about 470-480 miles from Nashville. It will take about 8 hours to drive there. Destin is well-known for its “emerald-green waters.” It also has a lot of activities for families.
7. What is the best beach for families in the Nashville area?
Panama City Beach and Destin: These are also ideal destinations to consider when traveling with family. The destinations are famous for their calm waters, amusement parks, dolphin tours, and the availability of resorts and vacation homes.
8. Is there a less crowded beach near Nashville?
Yes. Alabama: Gulf Shores and Orange Beach offer fewer visitors than some popular beaches in Florida, especially during the regular year. This would be an awakening for visitors looking for an uninhabited vacation spot.
9. Do you have the option of flying from Nashville to a beach location as opposed to driving?
Absolutely. The Nashville International Airport (BNA) offers flights to neighboring beach resorts, these being Pensacola, Destin-Fort Walton Beach, and Panama City. It takes a considerably shorter time compared to traveling by road.
10. What is the best time to come and enjoy the beaches in and around Nashville?
The period that is considered the best time to visit the Gulf Coast Beaches in Alabama is late spring, which comprises April and May, and early autumn, which comprises September and October.
11. Gulf Coast beaches – safe for swimming?
In general, yes. Most of the Gulf Coast beaches have quiet waters; they’re ideal locations for swimming. Also, it must be remembered at all times that ‘flag warnings’ as well as weather be disregarded.
12. Why do people in Nashville like the beaches of Florida or Alabama instead?
The beaches of Florida and Alabama are preferred because of the following reasons: • Reasonable Driving Distance • Warm tropical water, beautiful white sandy beaches. • World-class tourist facilities • Top class packages for family & group holidays
Meet Sibashree Bhattacharya, a travel enthusiast who has a decade-long experience in transcending virtual barriers with her words! Her deep love for travel is apparent from her travel escapades to the mountain, often taking her readers on a journey, her words acting as Portkey! Fun fact: Sibashree loves to dive deep into the history of the places she is about to visit, making her travels even more wholesome. If you were wondering how her articles are not short of time travel, this answers it!
For parents, the opportunity to explore the world with their children is invaluable. Not only does it open the door to new experiences for the kids, but it also offers a chance for the family to grow closer together.
Family-friendly destinations like Pigeon Forge, TN, are perfect examples of places that cater to the interests and needs of both children and adults. These locations provide a diverse range of activities and experiences that can enrich a family vacation, making every moment memorable.
In this article, we will delve into six reasons why parents should consider traveling the world with their kids.
Diverse Experiences
When speaking of diverse experiences, Pigeon Forge is definitely going to top the list. Pigeon Forge, TN, is home to The Island, an entertainment complex that epitomizes the kind of diverse experience ideal for family travel.
This location is more than an entertainment center; it's the ultimate attraction offering fun and learning. With an array of shops, restaurants, and attractions like The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, The Island offers something for everyone in the family.
The variety of experiences available at The Island means that parents and children can enjoy a range of activities together. From exploring unique shops to dining at family-friendly restaurants, and from enjoying the spectacular views from the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel to staying at the on-site hotel, the experiences are tailored to create lasting memories.
The Island’s mix of attractions ensures that every family member’s interests are catered to, making it an enjoyable part of any visit to Pigeon Forge.
Such destinations showcase how travel can be both entertaining and educational for children as they learn through engaging and interactive experiences. Given the popularity of family-friendly attractions like The Island Pigeon Forge sees an influx of vacationers every year.
Educational Opportunities
Traveling provides children with invaluable educational opportunities that extend far beyond the classroom. As families explore new places, children are exposed to different cultures, languages, and historical contexts. This exposure is not only educational but also eye-opening, providing real-life context to lessons learned in school.
For instance, visiting historical sites offers a tangible connection to history, making it more relatable and interesting for kids. Encountering different cultures fosters a sense of global awareness and understanding, teaching children about diversity and tolerance.
Participating in language exchanges or trying new foods can also be fun, interactive ways to learn. These experiences contribute to a well-rounded education, where children learn about the world in an immersive and interactive way.
Building Stronger Family Bonds
Traveling together as a family is an excellent way to strengthen family bonds. Shared experiences, whether the excitement of exploring new destinations or overcoming the challenges of travel, bring families closer together. These shared memories become a foundation for stronger relationships.
Activities that encourage teamwork, like hiking or navigating a new city, enhance family bonds. Children and parents learn to rely on and support each other in different situations. Involving children in travel planning also increases their sense of involvement and investment in the trip.
They feel valued and heard, which is important for their self-esteem and the overall family dynamic. Family vacations are not only fun; they are an opportunity for deeper connection and understanding among family members.
Developing Adaptability And Resilience In Kids
Traveling is an excellent way for children to develop adaptability and resilience. When families explore new environments, children learn to adapt to different situations, whether it's navigating a new city, trying unfamiliar foods, or interacting with people from diverse backgrounds.
These experiences teach kids flexibility and problem-solving skills as they learn to handle unexpected challenges and changes in plans.
The ability to adapt and bounce back from difficult situations is a crucial life skill. Travel exposes children to minor setbacks or changes, like delayed flights or weather changes, in a safe and controlled environment.
Handling these situations helps children build resilience, equipping them with the ability to cope with bigger challenges in life. Moreover, overcoming these obstacles can boost their confidence and self-esteem, making them more willing to take on new challenges in the future.
Encouraging Curiosity And Creativity
Traveling with kids can significantly boost their curiosity and creativity. Being in a new place with different sights, sounds, and smells stimulates children’s senses and piques their curiosity. This natural curiosity can lead to a deeper interest in learning about the world around them.
Different travel experiences, whether visiting museums or exploring natural landscapes, provide opportunities for creative thinking. Children are inspired to think outside the box and view the world from different perspectives.
This exposure can lead to creative problem-solving and innovation. Additionally, these experiences can ignite a passion for new hobbies or interests, such as photography, art, or history, further enriching their lives.
Promoting Physical Activity And Health
Travel often involves a variety of physical activities that can be beneficial for both children and adults. Activities like hiking, swimming, or simply exploring a city on foot encourage physical movement, which is essential for maintaining good health.
For children, engaging in physical activities while traveling can instill a lifelong appreciation for exercise and an active lifestyle.
Outdoor activities, in particular, have numerous health benefits. They provide fresh air, help in vitamin D absorption, and reduce stress and anxiety. These activities also present an opportunity for families to spend quality time together, away from the distractions of technology and daily routines.
Encouraging an active lifestyle through travel not only promotes physical health but also contributes to mental well-being.
Conclusion
It's time to explore the world with your kids, as it offers far more than just a break from the routine. It's an enriching experience that contributes significantly to their development and strengthens family bonds.
From developing adaptability and resilience to fostering curiosity and creativity and promoting physical activity and health, the benefits of traveling with children are immense.
These experiences not only create lasting memories but also lay a strong foundation for a well-rounded, healthy, and fulfilling life. As parents, taking the opportunity to travel with your kids is one of the greatest gifts you can give them – a world of learning, discovery, and togetherness.
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Traveling alone can be a liberating and transformative experience. It allows you to explore the world on your terms, embrace new cultures, and discover your inner self.
However, some essential preparations are necessary to make the most of your solo adventure. In this article, we will present some crucial tips for solo globetrotters to ensure a safe, enjoyable, and enriching journey.
So, let's begin!
Relax With A Spa Day Or Wellness
Indulge in the ultimate self-care by treating yourself to a blissful spa day. Unwind with rejuvenating massages, facials, and pampering treatments that rejuvenate both body and mind. Embrace wellness activities like yoga or meditation to find inner peace and harmony during your solo journey.
Take a moment to cherish the serenity of your surroundings, and don't forget to bring along your favorite self-pleasure devices like real whizzinator XXX to enhance the relaxation experience. It's the perfect way to recharge and nurture yourself while creating lasting memories of tranquility.
Attend A Live Music Performance Or Theater Show
Immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture by attending a live music performance or captivating theater show. Whether it's a lively concert or an intimate theater production, the energy and creativity of the performers will leave you enthralled.
As you enjoy the artistic expressions, you'll also have the chance to connect with other attendees, fostering new friendships and shared experiences. Embrace the magic of the moment, relishing the independence of solo travel while being part of a more significant communal celebration of the arts.
Attend Cultural Events Or Festivals
Take part in cultural events and gatherings to get to know the soul of the place. Get involved in their cultural activities and celebrations that show who they are.
Talk to the friendly people who live there. They are often eager to tell tourists about their culture and traditions. These events give you a great chance to learn about the local way of life, making your trip more than just a viewing tour and a deep cultural exchange that opens your mind.
Wander Through Local Markets And Shops
Discover the authentic essence of the place by meandering through bustling local markets and charming shops. Stroll along colorful stalls, sampling exotic fruits, spices, and regional delicacies. Engage in friendly haggling with vendors to find unique souvenirs and handicrafts with special memories of your solo adventure.
The immersive experience of exploring these markets allows you to connect with the daily life of the locals, learning about their customs and traditions while finding joy in the simple pleasure of discovering hidden gems.
Take A Scenic Hike Or Nature Walk
Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and venture into the tranquil beauty of nature. Embark on a scenic hike or leisurely nature walk, immersing yourself in the breathtaking landscapes, diverse flora, and fauna.
The peacefulness of nature is perfect for self-reflection and meditation, letting you feel like you are one with your surroundings. On a soul-enriching solo trip, take pictures of the beautiful views, enjoy the quiet, and let the soothing sounds of nature be your music.
Share Your Travel Plan With Your Trusted Family
Share your travel plan with your trusted family. It is one of the things that you must do. Provide all the travel plan details to your family members and give them copies of essentials like ID and other important papers required for your tour and travel. It ensures taking safety measures on your side.
If you find yourself stuck in any problem, your family members can rescue you. If you find yourself in serious problems, then your family members can act to your rescue.
They can do it best only if you share your travel's nitty gritty with them. It is one of the most important requirements to put you in a safe place.
Avoid Reckless Behavior And Use Common Sense
You are going alone in different places. It means you will be encountering different cultures. You can learn from different cultures, transforming you as an individual. But working on your behavioral aspects as it is can ensure your safe travel there.
If your behavior is good, you can easily get help and cooperation from a diverse group of local people. Research on the behavioral traits and local culture of that particular place. It can help you adjust yourself to the new settings easily.
Do Your Safety Research
Also, conduct your research on your safety in the new place. It is a must in the new place. While traveling in a group or in sol, you must have all the safety measures depending on the location you visit. Research the safety measures properly, and you will easily prepare a list of things you do not have.
Add them this time. You might have needed a few safety measures in your previous travel. So get them while you are moving around this time. Also, procure adequate knowledge of the organizations that govern the place. Look at their safety guidelines; you can manage your solo tours less easily.
Get Travel Insurance
If you are a regular traveler, then you must have travel insurance. It has many benefits, so travelers buy such insurance to safeguard themselves from problems. Travel insurance aims to save your travel costs if you have a delay in travel or damage to your luggage.
If you face any severe accident, travel insurance can protect you by compensating against the expensive bills and treatment costs. Life is brimmed with uncertainties, so you must have insurance against any accidents and their consequences.
While selecting travel insurance, look for the benefits they offer against the insurance coverage. Try to find out the best only then select the ones that fulfill your needs best. It is one of the ways to be on the safer side.
Last Words
Solo travel is a remarkable way to learn about the world and yourself. With these must-do activities, your solo expedition is bound to be an extraordinary and transformative one.
So, on your next globetrotting adventure, embrace the joy of solo travel and create memories that will stay with you forever.
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Visiting El Paso? Curious about the things to do in El Paso?
El Paso, located in the foothills of the stunning Franklin Mountains, is a vibrant and diverse community with a wide range of attractions and year-round fun. El Paso's attractions include a historic theater, concert venues, Spanish Colonial missions, museums, and beautiful state parks.
Things To Do In El Paso
If you enjoy being outside and want to visit one of Texas' most interesting cities, you should visit El Paso. Continue reading to get a sense of what Sun City has to offer.
Also, click here to order a free travel guide to help you plan your next vacation. Here are some of the best things to do in El Paso:
El Paso Mission Trail
Explore El Paso’s early history by visiting the El Paso Mission Trail, which includes two 17th-century missions and a chapel built in the late 1800s. The oldest, which is the Ysleta Mission, was built in 1682. It is Texas’ oldest functioning parish. El Paso’s magic charm will sway you into the blue sky of romanticism and inspire you to move to Texas.
Admire the white adobe-walled structures along the trail, then visit museums such as the Tigua Indian Cultural Center and the Los Portales Museum and Information Center. The El Paso Mission Trail, in addition to its attractions, hosts cultural festivals throughout the year.
Ascarate Park
Escape to nature at the 400-acre Ascarate Park, El Paso County's largest recreational area. Play a round of golf on the 18-hole, par-71 Ascarate Golf Course, explore the 48-acre lake by canoe or pedal boat, or enjoy some of the best fishing in the Southwest. In addition to baseball and soccer fields, the park has basketball, handball, sand volleyball, and tennis courts.
Franklin Mountains
Are you looking for adventurous things to do in El Paso? Here is one exciting option.
The stunning Franklin Mountains frame El Paso, and the state park that encompasses the range is a breathtaking outdoor playground for adventure seekers. Hike and bike more than 100 miles of trails that wind through 27,000 acres of scenic desert terrain.
Or you can go rock climbing at McKelligon Canyon's designated area. If you want to stay overnight, tent and RV campsites can be reserved. There are plenty of outdoor activities for people of all ages at the nation's largest urban state park.
Hueco Tanks State Park and Historic Site
Admire the ancient rock paintings left by Native Americans who traversed the West Texas desert in search of rainwater collected in natural rock basins. Hike rugged trails while keeping an eye out for any of the 200 bird species that call the area home.
Explore world-class rock climbing and search for more than 1,000-year-old pictographs. Hueco Tanks State Park and Historic Site is open all year, with extended hours on weekends during the summer. This is one of the best things to do in El Paso for history buffs.
Hueco Tanks is a collection of thousands of year-old rock outcrops. Previous residents had access to food, shelter, and farmland in the area. Today, visitors come to see the images left by previous inhabitants on the rock faces. Among the drawings are animals, masks, handprints, horses, as well as humans.
Aside from viewing the pictographs and petroglyphs, visitors can go hiking, camping, bird watching, as well as rock climbing. However, certain areas of the park are only accessible via guided tour, and self-guided activities (such as hiking) may require reservations.
Also, only 70 people can enter the self-guided portion of the park at one time. To make the most of your time at the site, make your reservations well in advance.
Ysleta del Sur Pueblo Cultural Center
When you visit this museum, you will learn about more than 14,000 years of regional prehistory. The museum's permanent collection includes ancient and modern artifacts as well as art from Native American cultures in the Southwest and Mexico, such as wood carvings, textiles, as well as pottery.
After touring the museum, hike the nature trails that wind through 15 acres of gardens with 250 different types of native plants, all while enjoying breathtaking views of the Franklin Mountains.
El Paso Zoo
Explore the world's wildlife at the El Paso Zoo, a sprawling 35-acre green space near Downtown El Paso. The zoo is home to tigers, leopards, lions, giraffes, and other exotic animals from Africa, Asia, as well as the Americas.
See these incredible animals, then visit family-friendly attractions like the African Star Train and the Hunt Family Desert Spring water feature before enjoying a delicious burger at one of the onsite eateries.
Plaza Theatre
At the historic Plaza Theatre, you can see famous musicians, classic films, magic shows, Broadway musicals, and much more. The theatre has been a hub of entertainment in El Paso since it first opened its doors in 1930.
This is probably one of the best things to do in El Paso. It is now one of the city's top venues as well as the home of the Plaza Classic Film Festival, the world's largest classic film festival. More information about upcoming shows can be found on the theatre's website.
United States Border Patrol
This one-of-a-kind museum traces the history of the United States Border Patrol from the Old West to the present. The National Border Patrol Museum displays weapons, paintings, equipment, artifacts, photos, and even vehicles. Admission is free, and guided tours can be scheduled ahead of time.
El Paso Desert Botanical Gardens
The El Paso Desert Botanical Gardens are part of Keystone Heritage Park, which includes an archaeological site with a 4,500-year-old village, one of the oldest in the United States. The park includes wetlands that provide habitat for up to 200 different bird species, as well as a botanical garden that showcases the fauna of the Chihuahuan Desert.
Stop by the El Paso Municipal Rose Garden, an All-American Rose Selection-certified garden, and smell over 1,900 rosebushes. Stroll along the wide, wheelchair-accessible walkways to see more than 500 varieties of roses waterfalls, as well as a plaza area with a Koi pond. This is one of the best things to do in El Paso for people with a deep love of nature.
Wrapping Up
El Paso offers something for everyone, whether your preference is to explore the trails or immerse yourself in history. The El Paso Mission Trail as well as Hueco Tanks State Park & Historic Site, are two locations where you can learn more about the region's 5,000-year history.
Visit the Centennial Museum or the Magoffin Home State Historic Site to gain a deeper understanding of the area's past. Franklin Mountains State Park has some of the best trails for when the weather is right for outdoor activities. Enjoy the local arts scene at the Plaza Theatre or the El Paso Museum of Art to cap off your trip.
If you want to know all the cool things to do in El Paso, we hope this article helps. If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you!
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