El Paso, Texas, has an interestingly unique history. Spanish explorers named it El Paso del Norte in 1598, and it became a U.S. territory in 1848. The city has a strong Spanish influence with many old Mexican adobe buildings still standing throughout the area. From old saloons to jails to period homes, El Paso has plenty of historical sites to see and experience. Check websites to confirm availability, then plan a day of historic immersion!
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Magoffin Home
The Magoffin Home is the only house museum in El Paso. It was the home of pioneer and civic leader Joseph Magoffin and his family for more than 100 years. It has 19 rooms and offers insight into the decor and design styles of the Southwest in the late 1800s. You can take a guided tour of the home or explore it on your own!
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Billy the Kid Jail
The Billy the Kid Jail is famous not because the legendary outlaw was incarcerated there but because it is the only jail that Billy the Kid broke into instead of out of. He posed as a Texas Ranger and tricked the guard into opening the door. As soon as the door opened, Billy met the guard with his revolver. Billy then helped himself to the guard’s guns, got his friend Melquiades Segura out of the jail, and left the guard behind in the locked cell. Visitors can see the jail, enter the original cells, and take pictures.
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El Paso Historic Mission Trail
Located in the Lower Valley, the El Paso Historic Mission Trail is a guided path past historic sites and buildings that date back 400 years. Along the way, you’ll see three adobe churches that stand as reminders of the faith and influence of El Paso’s Spanish and indigenous ancestors. The Ysleta Mission, Socorro Mission, and San Elizario Chapel each have a story to tell and reflect the architecture and culture of the city’s past. Take a trip along the Mission Trail to learn about the history of El Paso and the people who lived here.
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El Paso Union Passenger Station
Visit the El Paso Union Passenger Station to step foot inside the first International Train Station in the United States. This station supported trade between the U.S. and Mexico, with trains from the Southern Pacific, Galveston, San Antonio, and Mexico Central Railroads moving supplies in and out of the city.
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Tigua Indian Cultural Center
Celebrate El Paso’s tribal history at the Tigua Indian Cultural Center. This attraction includes a museum, the Cacique Cafe, Native American social dance performances, and gift shops. Visitors to the cultural center can also experience authentic bread baking with tribal members who use the same techniques and equipment their ancestors used more than 300 years ago. Demonstrations take place every other Saturday, and the bread is available for purchase afterward.
El Paso has a fascinating history with plenty of places to visit if you want to learn about this vibrant city’s past. From tribes and outlaws to historic missions, the area has a bit of everything!
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