Our Favorite Road Trips from El Paso, Texas
Discover the best road trips from El Paso, Texas! Explore family-friendly getaways in Texas, New Mexico & Arizona — from scenic mountain drives to hidden small-town gems — all within a few hours’ drive. Perfect for day trips, weekend adventures, and family travel inspiration.
Texas
Big Bend National Park
(5 Hours from El Paso!)
A bucket-list road trip for families, Big Bend National Park offers epic desert landscapes, scenic drives, and hikes for all ages. From the Rio Grande canyons to star-filled night skies, it’s the ultimate Texas adventure for anyone who loves wide-open spaces and natural beauty.
Weekend Getaway Guide: Big Bend National Park with Kids
Guadalupe Mountains National Park
(1.5 Hours from El Paso!)
Less than two hours from El Paso, Guadalupe Mountains National Park is home to Texas’s highest peak and some of the best hiking trails in the Southwest. Families can explore fossilized reefs, hidden canyons, and peaceful desert trails while taking in breathtaking mountain views.
1 Day at Guadalupe National Park with Kids
Hueco Tanks State Park
(1 Hour from El Paso!)
A true El Paso gem, Hueco Tanks State Park is known for its ancient rock art, world-class bouldering, and scenic hiking trails. This historic desert park offers a unique mix of culture, adventure, and outdoor fun for families looking to explore close to home.
Check out this Glamping Spot!
Socorro, Texas
(30 Minutes from El Paso!)
Just outside El Paso, Socorro is a charming stop along the Mission Trail filled with history, local wineries, and authentic Southwest flavor. Families can explore historic missions, enjoy live music at local breweries, and experience the culture and charm of one of Texas’s oldest towns.
The Perfect Day Trip to Socorro!
Be sure to Get your National Parks Pass!
If you plan on more than 2 parks in a year, it pays for itself!!
New Mexico
White Sands National Park
(1 Hour from El Paso!)
At White Sands National Park, sunsets turn the shimmering dunes into a sea of pastel pinks, purples, and golds. It's one of the most surreal sunset experiences near El Paso, perfect for an evening stroll or a family adventure. We have loved it at Sunrise as well!
10 Things to Do at White Sands National Park with Kids!
Las Cruces
(1 Hour from El Paso!)
Only an hour from El Paso, Las Cruces is a foodie favorite with stunning views of the Organ Mountains. Explore local farmers markets, sip wine at nearby vineyards, and enjoy plenty of kid-friendly stops, from hiking trails to interactive museums.
Las Cruces Family-Friendly Weekend Guide
Gila National Forest/Silver City
(2 Hours from El Paso!)
Tucked away in southwestern New Mexico, Gila National Forest is a paradise for outdoor families who love camping, hiking, and hot springs. From the ancient Gila Cliff Dwellings to peaceful riverside campsites, this area offers adventure and solitude just a few hours from El Paso.
Gila National Forest Family-Friendly Weekend Guide
Cloudcroft, New Mexico
(2 Hours from El Paso!)
This mountain getaway is one of the easiest and most magical escapes from El Paso, offering cool pine forests, cozy cabins, and scenic hiking trails. In summer or winter, Cloudcroft is perfect for families looking to slow down and reconnect in the great outdoors.
Cloudcroft Family-Friendly Weekend Guide
Ruidoso, New Mexico
(2.5 Hours from El Paso!)
Nestled in the Sierra Blanca Mountains, Ruidoso is a year-round favorite for El Paso families seeking cool weather, pine trees, and small-town charm. Whether you’re hiking, skiing, or strolling through local shops and breweries, Ruidoso offers the perfect mix of outdoor adventure and cozy mountain relaxation — all just a short drive from home.
Ruidoso Family-Friendly Weekend Guide
Santa Fe/Taos/Bandelier
(4.5-6 Hours from El Paso!)
Rich in art, culture, and mountain beauty, Santa Fe and Taos are two of New Mexico’s most magical destinations. Families can explore vibrant plazas, local markets, and historic adobe architecture, then venture into the mountains for scenic hikes, hot springs, and incredible Southwest cuisine. It’s the perfect blend of creativity, history, and outdoor adventure — all within a few hours of El Paso.
Santa Fe & Taos Family-Friendly Weekend Guide
Truth or Consequences & Elephant Butte Lake
(1.5 Hours from El Paso!)
Located along the Rio Grande, Truth or Consequences is a quirky spa town famous for its natural hot springs and relaxed desert vibe. It’s a great weekend getaway for families or couples looking to unwind and enjoy a slower pace just 90 minutes from El Paso.
Weekend Guide Coming Soon!
Albuquerque, New Mexico
(4 Hours from El Paso!)
Known for its vibrant culture, mountain views, and the famous Balloon Fiesta, Albuquerque is a fun-filled city for families and adventure lovers alike. From scenic tram rides to local breweries and historic Old Town, there’s something for everyone to explore year-round.
5 Things to do in Albuquerque with Kids
Can you believe there are 5 National Parks within 5 hours of El Paso?
Southwest National Parks Ultimate Road Trip Guide
Custom Route Ideas: Suggested routes with maps and tips on how much time to spend at each destination.
Where to Stay: Recommendations for family-friendly accommodations near each park and along the route.
Where to Eat: Top dining options to refuel during your journey.
Things to Do: Must-see attractions and activities at each National Park (White Sands, Carlsbad Caverns, Guadalupe Mountains, Big Bend, and Saguaro).
Road Trip Stops: Unique and hidden gems to explore along the way.
Must-See Towns: Charming towns you shouldn’t miss.
Weekend Travel Guides: Perfect for short trips, with focused itineraries for each park.
Insider Tips: Expert advice to make the most of your visit, from avoiding crowds to navigating park trails.
With this guide, you’ll save hours of planning and make lasting family memories!
USE CODE: BBNP to make it just $5!
Arizona
Tempe/Phoenix & Scottsdale
(6 Hours from El Paso!)
This vibrant trio of desert cities blends outdoor adventure with incredible food, art, and family attractions. Whether you’re hiking in Papago Park, exploring kid-friendly museums, or enjoying patio dining in Scottsdale, it’s the perfect year-round road trip from El Paso
Guide Coming Soon!
Tucson & Saguaro National Park
(4 Hours from El Paso!)
Surrounded by stunning mountain ranges and desert scenery, Tucson is a true Southwest gem. Families will love exploring Saguaro National Park, visiting interactive museums, and tasting incredible local cuisine—making it one of the best weekend destinations from El Paso.
Things to do in Tucson, Arizona with Kids: A Family-Friendly Weekend Travel Guide
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Hi, I’m Alex
I’m El Paso’s go-to Travel Mom, here to inspire Epic Southwest Adventures! I love helping families discover Kid-Friendly Activities in El Paso, Plan Nearby Road Trips & Weekend Getaways, and Curate the Best Family-Friendly Travel Itineraries to make every adventure with your family unforgettable!
Check us out @elpasotravelfamily for more adventures, tips for travel with kids & parenting humor!
