Where to Stay in El Paso
Family-friendly areas, safe neighborhoods, and activities for all ages
Quick Answer
Stay in East El Paso
Provides more spacious and affordable accommodation options, with easy access to shopping and family-friendly amenities.
See full El Paso neighbourhood guideTop 3 Areas to Stay in El Paso
Family-friendly neighbourhoods that are safe and practical
West El Paso / Franklin Mountains
Upscale residential area bordering the Franklin Mountains, offering scenic views and access to outdoor recreation.
Our top picks in West El Paso / Franklin Mountains
Spacious suites and complimentary breakfast, convenient for airport access.
Book NowExtended-stay suites with full kitchens, ideal for longer visits.
Book NowHigh-end serviced apartments offering panoramic views of the city and mountains.
Book Now
East El Paso
A sprawling suburban area with a mix of residential neighborhoods, shopping centers, and family-friendly amenities.
Our top picks in East El Paso
Reliable chain hotel offering free breakfast and evening reception.
Book NowComfortable and clean rooms with amenities like a pool and free breakfast.
Book NowPet-friendly option with good value and convenient access to I-10.
Book Now
Mission Valley
A historic area known for its Spanish colonial missions and agricultural heritage, offering a glimpse into the region's past.
Our top picks in Mission Valley
We earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Neighbourhood Comparison for Families
| Neighbourhood | Budget | Vibe | Best For | Safety |
|---|---|---|---|---|
#1East El Paso | Budget | A sprawling suburban area with a mix of residential neighborhoods, shopping centers, and family-friendly amenities. | familiesbudget | Generally safe, as it's primarily reside... |
West El Paso / Franklin Mountains | Luxury | Upscale residential area bordering the Franklin Mountains, offering scenic views and access to outdoor recreation. | luxuryfamilies | Very safe due to its affluent residentia... |
Downtown El Paso | Mid-range | The historic heart with a growing arts and culture scene, featuring grand architecture and a lively downtown revival. | first-timersculture | Generally safe during the day, especiall... |
Mission Valley | Budget | A historic area known for its Spanish colonial missions and agricultural heritage, offering a glimpse into the region's past. | culturehistory buffs | Generally safe, particularly around the ... |
Find family-friendly hotels in El Paso
Hotels with family rooms and kid-friendly amenities
We earn a small commission if you book through this link, at no extra cost to you.
Tips for Families in El Paso
Plan Around Nap Times
Schedule big attractions for the morning when energy is highest. Keep afternoons flexible for downtime or playground visits.
Pack Snacks
Having familiar snacks on hand prevents meltdowns. Local supermarkets are cheaper than tourist-area shops for stocking up.
Consider Apartments
An apartment with a kitchen and washing machine can be more practical than a hotel in El Paso, especially for stays over 3 nights.
Keep Distances Short
Young children tire quickly. Choose accommodation near your top 2 to 3 must-see attractions rather than in the geographical centre.
Book a family activity in El Paso
Kid-friendly tours and fun experiences
Best Neighborhoods for Families
Ranked by relevance for families visiting El Paso
East El Paso
BudgetA sprawling suburban area with a mix of residential neighborhoods, shopping centers, and family-friendly amenities.
- +More affordable accommodation options
- +Plenty of chain restaurants and shopping
- +Quieter residential feel
- -Requires a car for most activities
- -Less cultural attractions within walking distance
🛡️ Generally safe, as it's primarily residential; standard precautions apply, especially when venturing into less populated commercial areas at night.
West El Paso / Franklin Mountains
LuxuryUpscale residential area bordering the Franklin Mountains, offering scenic views and access to outdoor recreation.
- +Stunning natural scenery and hiking
- +Quieter and more exclusive atmosphere
- +Proximity to upscale amenities
- -Limited public transport
- -Further from central attractions
- -Can be expensive
🛡️ Very safe due to its affluent residential nature; however, be aware of wildlife and stay on marked trails when hiking in the mountains.
Downtown El Paso
Mid-rangeThe historic heart with a growing arts and culture scene, featuring grand architecture and a lively downtown revival.
- +Central location for attractions
- +Good public transport links
- +Emerging dining and bar scene
- -Can feel quiet on weekends outside of events
- -Some areas still undergoing development
🛡️ Generally safe during the day, especially in well-trafficked areas; exercise standard caution at night, sticking to well-lit, populated streets.
Mission Valley
BudgetA historic area known for its Spanish colonial missions and agricultural heritage, offering a glimpse into the region's past.
- +Rich historical and cultural sites
- +Peaceful and scenic surroundings
- +Authentic local experience
- -Limited dining and entertainment options
- -Requires transportation to reach other parts of the city
🛡️ Generally safe, particularly around the mission sites during the day; exercise standard caution if exploring less developed areas at night.
Daily Budget (Mid-Range)
USD 175/day
Hidden Gems in El Paso
Lesser-known spots the locals love
San Jacinto Plaza
FREEThis downtown park, affectionately known as 'Alligator Park' for its former live alligator exhibit, is now a charming urban oasis with playful fountains and shaded benches, perfect for a relaxing break.
El Paso Museum of Archaeology
Discover the rich history of the Paso del Norte region through fascinating exhibits on ancient cultures and the geology of the Franklin Mountains. It offers a deeper understanding of the area's heritage.
Ascarate Park
FREEThis expansive county park offers a lake for fishing and boating, picnic areas, and a beautiful golf course. It's a favorite local escape for outdoor recreation and family gatherings.
Safety in El Paso
SafeSolo Female Travel
El Paso is generally safe for solo female travelers, especially in well-lit, populated areas like Downtown and popular shopping districts. Standard precautions like being aware of your surroundings and avoiding walking alone late at night in unfamiliar areas are advised.
At Night
Downtown can be lively with bars and restaurants, but some streets can become quiet after dark. Stick to main thoroughfares and areas with visible activity. West El Paso residential areas are generally quiet and safe.
Emergency
911
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1The 'pigeon drop' scam (where someone drops money and tries to involve you in splitting it) is rare but possible in tourist areas.
- 2Overcharging by unlicensed taxi drivers (ensure meters are used or agree on a fare beforehand).
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in El Paso
Hand-picked guided experiences you can book in advance on GetYourGuide.
El Paso Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover El Paso on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.
View Tour Details
El Paso Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through El Paso with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.
View Tour Details
Best of El Paso: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into El Paso's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.
View Tour Details
Day Trip from El Paso: Scenic Excursion
Escape El Paso for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
View Tour Details
El Paso Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with El Paso's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.
View Tour DetailsWe earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
2 areas to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for El Paso
Families in El Paso: FAQ
What is the best area in El Paso for families?
Is El Paso safe for families?
How much does it cost per day in El Paso for families?
When is the best time for families to visit El Paso?
Are there family-friendly activities in El Paso?
Found your hotel in El Paso?
We search 30+ sites including members-only platforms like Secret Escapes and Voyage Privé. Most people save 14-23%.
Plan Your Perfect El Paso Trip
Tell us what you love and we'll build a personalised day-by-day itinerary with the best spots, tours, and hotels. Completely free.