The history of El Paso can be traced to 1581, when Chamuscado and Rodriguez Expedition walked through the territory of the present-day El Paso. Francisco Sanchez, popularly known as "El Chamuscado," and Fray Agustin Rodriguez led the expedition. The territory was later recognized by Juan de Onate, the colonizer of New Mexico in 1598. He named the area El Paso del Norte, meaning "The Pass of the North" in English. Settlers in the area established the Mission Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe in 1659; the original church still stands in the Central Square of Juarez to this day. As of 1776, the area only comprised a string of farms and hamlets inhabited by 5,000 people. El Paso became a United States territory in 1859 when an army post was built in the city. Growth was stunted until the arrival of four railways in 1881. By 1890, the city's population had increased to 10,338. In 1909, the then U.S. President, William Howard Taft, and Mexico President Porfirio Diaz met in El Paso Texas. It was the first meeting between presidents of both countries and the first time a U.S. President crossed the border into Mexico.

Food and Drinks

El Paso's location right next to the border and its highly Hispanic population means it's a given that the city is a celebrated Tex-Mex destination. Cuisines in the city are usually prepared with the addition of Mexican flavors. The city offers residents the best Mexican food outside of Mexico. Heard about its famous Chico's Tacos? Chico's Tacos are a staple in the city and easily the best-rolled tacos known to man. A single Chico's Tacos order gives you three, while a double gives you six. Ordering two singles might be the wiser move as it helps you get the maximum amount of tomato sauce and cheese.

Prefer burritos and authentic Mexican beer? Head to L & J Cafe on Missouri Avenue. Andale Mexican Cuisine on gateway Blvd West serves some of the city's best omelets and shredded beef. Want seafood? Stop at Kiki's Mexican Kitchen in N. Piedras to enjoy spicy seafood.

Ever wondered about the origin of margaritas? Legend has it that the margarita was invented in 1942 in a bar known as Tommy's Place in El Paso's area. While there's no real evidence to back up this claim, it's impossible to deny that margarita is one of the greatest drinks to have ever been invented. When next you drink a margarita, be sure to keep the Sun City in mind. Food and drinks will be the least of your problems if you buy a house in this city.
Parks

Wondered what it would feel like to have 300+ days of sunshine annually? El Pasoans take advantage of the city's almost perfect weather by engaging in numerous outdoor activities. The city is home to the nation's largest urban park, Franklin Mountains State Park. The park has always been a major draw for tourists, with records showing that it has been receiving visitors for over 12,000 years. The park allows getting close and personal with animals such as black bears, mountain lions, mull dears, and golden eagles. Its landscape also allows for several activities such as mountain climbing, rock climbing, and hiking.

Another popular outdoor location in the city is the El Paso Zoo. The zoo is home to thousands of animals from Asia, Africa, and America. The zoo has zoo adventure programs for adults and children alongside animal encounters where visitors can get up close to eagles, monkeys, tortoises, sea lions, and other animals. The zoo also has a massive treehouse playground, an African Star Train, and a water play area.