Embark on an unforgettable Dallas to El Paso road trip and discover the beauty of Texas as you journey through diverse landscapes and charming towns. This scenic route offers road trippers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, with plenty of top stops along the way to enhance your travel experience.
Covering a distance of approximately 650 miles, the road trip from Dallas to El Paso can be completed in around 9 to 10 hours, depending on traffic and route options. One of the popular routes is to take I-20 West from Dallas, passing through cities like Fort Worth, Abilene, and Midland before reaching El Paso. Another option is to take US-287 South, which offers a more scenic drive through smaller towns and countryside.
Top stops for road trippers include Fort Worth, known for its vibrant cultural scene and historic Stockyards District; Abilene, home to the Frontier Texas! museum and stunning outdoor spaces like Abilene State Park; and Midland, where you can explore the Permian Basin Petroleum Museum and enjoy outdoor activities at the nearby Big Spring State Park.
While traffic can vary along the route, especially in urban areas and during peak travel times, planning your trip ahead and using navigation apps can help you navigate any congestion smoothly. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready for an exciting Dallas to El Paso road trip filled with adventure and discovery.
Fort Worth Stockyards
Essential Information
– Route options: Easily accessible from Dallas to El Paso via I-30 W and I-20 W.
– Opening hours: Varies by attraction, generally 10 am to 6 pm.
– Fee: Free to explore, some attractions may have admission fees.
– Visit duration: Half a day to a full day.
– Ideal for: History buffs, families, and anyone interested in the Old West.
Why is it a must stop
Fort Worth Stockyards is a must-stop on your road trip for a taste of authentic Western heritage. Start your visit by witnessing the thrilling Fort Worth Herd Cattle Drive, where longhorn cattle are driven through the historic district twice daily. Explore the Stockyards Museum to learn about the area’s rich cowboy history and see artifacts from the cattle-driving era.
For a true cowboy experience, head to the Stockyards Championship Rodeo, where you can watch bull riding, barrel racing, and more. Don’t miss the opportunity to shop for Western gear at the numerous boutiques and souvenir shops lining the streets.
Indulge in some Texas barbecue at one of the many eateries in the area, offering mouthwatering brisket and ribs. For a unique experience, visit the White Elephant Saloon, a historic bar where you can enjoy live music and a cold beer.
Round off your visit with a stroll down Exchange Avenue, lined with charming old buildings that transport you back in time. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply looking for a taste of the Wild West, Fort Worth Stockyards offers a memorable stop on your road trip through Texas.
Waco – Magnolia Market at the Silos
Essential Information
– Route Options: Easily accessible from I-35
– Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday 9am-6pm, Sunday closed
– Fee: Free entry, prices vary for shopping and activities
– Visit Duration: 2-3 hours
– Ideal For: Families, couples, and solo travelers
Why is it a must stop
Waco’s Magnolia Market at the Silos is a must-stop on your road trip for a blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment. Start your visit by exploring the market’s quaint shops offering unique home decor, gifts, and artisanal goods. Don’t miss the chance to browse through the curated selection of Joanna Gaines’ signature designs.
After shopping, head to the Silos Baking Co. for freshly baked treats and coffee to recharge. The on-site food trucks offer a variety of tasty bites, perfect for a quick snack or a leisurely lunch. Enjoy your meal at the picnic tables under the shade of the silos.
For those seeking a bit of relaxation, the Magnolia Seed + Supply is a serene spot to wander through the garden and pick up some gardening essentials. The outdoor lawn games provide a fun way to unwind and enjoy the Texas sunshine.
Wrap up your visit with a stroll around the Silos grounds, where you can capture Instagram-worthy photos of the iconic silos and rustic charm. Whether you’re a fan of the Gaines family or simply looking for a charming stop on your road trip, Magnolia Market at the Silos offers a delightful mix of shopping, dining, and leisure activities that make it a must-visit destination in Waco.
Austin – State Capitol
Essential Information
– Route Options: From Dallas to El Paso
– Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
– Fee: Free
– Visit Duration: 1-2 hours
– Ideal for: History buffs, architecture enthusiasts
Why is it a must stop
The Austin State Capitol is a must-stop on your road trip for its historical significance and impressive architecture. Take a guided tour to learn about the state’s legislative process and explore the stunning interior of the Capitol building. Don’t miss the opportunity to admire the beautiful dome and intricate details of the structure. After your tour, stroll around the Capitol grounds and enjoy a picnic while taking in the scenic views of downtown Austin. Capture memorable photos with the iconic building as your backdrop. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or simply want to stretch your legs, the Austin State Capitol is a worthwhile stop on your road trip itinerary.
San Antonio – River Walk
Essential Information
– Route options: Easily accessible from major highways like I-35
– Opening hours: Open 24/7, but best experienced during daylight and evening hours
– Fee: Free to walk along the river, optional fees for boat tours
– Visit duration: 2-3 hours
– Ideal for: Families, couples, solo travelers
Why is it a must stop
San Antonio’s River Walk is a must-stop destination on your road trip for its charming ambiance and array of activities. Stroll along the scenic riverbanks lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes offering a mix of local and international cuisines. Take a relaxing boat tour to learn about the history and architecture of the area while enjoying the peaceful waters.
For a cultural experience, visit the historic missions nearby or catch a live music performance at one of the outdoor venues. The River Walk is also perfect for shopping enthusiasts, with unique boutiques and artisan shops to explore. Don’t miss the opportunity to snap photos of the picturesque bridges and lush greenery that frame this urban oasis.
Whether you’re looking to unwind with a leisurely walk, indulge in delicious food, or simply soak in the vibrant atmosphere, San Antonio’s River Walk offers something for every traveler passing through on a road trip adventure.
Big Bend National Park
Essential Information
– Route options: Take I-20 W from Dallas to US-385 S to reach the park.
– Opening hours: Open year-round, 24 hours a day.
– Fee: $30 per vehicle for a 7-day pass.
– Visit duration: Ideal for a day trip or a weekend getaway.
– Ideal for: Nature lovers, hikers, photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts.
Why is it a must stop
Big Bend National Park is a must-stop on your road trip for its stunning landscapes and diverse outdoor activities. Hiking enthusiasts can explore over 150 miles of trails, from easy strolls to challenging treks offering breathtaking views of canyons, desert landscapes, and the Rio Grande River. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the park’s rich avian diversity, with opportunities to spot rare species like the Colima Warbler.
For a unique experience, take a scenic drive along the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive, offering panoramic vistas of the Chisos Mountains and the Chihuahuan Desert. Don’t miss the chance to stargaze at one of the darkest night skies in the country, perfect for astrophotography or simply marveling at the Milky Way.
If you’re seeking adventure, embark on a river trip down the Rio Grande, where you can paddle through canyons and witness the park’s rugged beauty from a different perspective. Wildlife enthusiasts will have the opportunity to spot desert wildlife such as javelinas, roadrunners, and even the elusive mountain lion.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat in nature or an adrenaline-pumping outdoor adventure, Big Bend National Park offers something for every road trip traveler. Plan your visit to this hidden gem in West Texas and discover the beauty of the desert wilderness.
Marfa – Prada Marfa
Essential Information
– Route options: Take US-90 W from Dallas towards El Paso
– Opening hours: 24/7, visible from the roadside
– Fee: Free to visit
– Visit duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour
– Ideal for: Art enthusiasts and road trippers
Why is it a must stop
Marfa’s Prada Marfa installation is a unique and iconic roadside attraction that draws in travelers from all over. This art installation, resembling a high-end boutique with luxury goods on display, stands alone in the West Texas desert landscape, creating a striking contrast that is perfect for memorable road trip photo opportunities. Visitors can marvel at the art piece, ponder its meaning, and capture Instagram-worthy shots against the backdrop of the vast desert sky. The quirky and unexpected nature of Prada Marfa makes it a must-stop destination for those seeking a one-of-a-kind experience on their journey through Texas.
Guadalupe Mountains National Park
Essential Information
– Route Options: Take I-20 W from Dallas towards El Paso.
– Opening Hours: Park is open 24 hours a day, year-round.
– Fee: $10 per person for a 7-day pass.
– Visit Duration: Ideal for a day trip or overnight stay.
– Ideal For: Nature lovers, hikers, and road trippers.
Why is it a must stop
Guadalupe Mountains National Park is a must-stop on your road trip from Dallas to El Paso for its stunning hiking trails, rugged landscapes, and unique desert flora and fauna. The park offers a variety of activities that cater to all types of travelers.
Hiking enthusiasts will be thrilled by the challenging trails leading to the highest peak in Texas, Guadalupe Peak. The views from the summit are breathtaking, offering a panoramic vista of the surrounding desert plains. For those looking for a more leisurely stroll, the McKittrick Canyon Trail is a picturesque option, especially during the fall when the foliage turns vibrant shades of red and gold.
Birdwatchers will delight in the diverse avian species that call the park home, including golden eagles and peregrine falcons. Keep your binoculars handy as you explore the park’s varied habitats.
Photographers will find endless opportunities to capture the stark beauty of the desert landscape, from the towering limestone cliffs to the vast expanses of desert scrub. The changing light throughout the day creates a dynamic canvas for your shots.
Camping under the starlit sky is a magical experience in Guadalupe Mountains National Park. Set up your tent at one of the campgrounds and fall asleep to the sounds of the desert night.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, tranquility, or simply a scenic stop on your road trip, Guadalupe Mountains National Park offers a unique and memorable experience for all travelers passing through West Texas.
Carlsbad Caverns National Park
Essential Information
– Route Options: Take US-62 W from Dallas towards El Paso.
– Opening Hours: Open daily from 8 am to 5 pm.
– Fee: Entrance fee of $15 for adults.
– Visit Duration: Plan for at least 3-4 hours.
– Ideal For: Nature lovers, families, and adventure seekers.
Why is it a must stop
Carlsbad Caverns National Park is a must-stop on your road trip for its stunning underground formations and unique experiences. Explore the vast network of limestone caves, including the famous Big Room, one of the largest cave chambers in North America. Marvel at the intricate stalactites and stalagmites that have formed over thousands of years, creating a mesmerizing underground landscape.
For the adventurous souls, embark on a guided cave tour to delve deeper into the caverns and learn about the geology and history of this natural wonder. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the enchanting Bat Flight Program, where thousands of bats emerge from the cave at dusk in search of food, creating a spectacular sight against the evening sky.
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the diverse flora and fauna found within the park, from desert plants to wildlife such as mule deer and rock squirrels. Take a leisurely hike on the park’s trails to soak in the beauty of the Chihuahuan Desert landscape and spot unique species along the way.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, natural beauty, or a glimpse into the Earth’s ancient past, Carlsbad Caverns National Park offers a memorable stop on your road trip that will leave you in awe of the wonders that lie beneath the surface.
White Sands National Park
Essential Information
– Route options: Take US-62 W from Dallas towards El Paso
– Opening hours: 7:00 am to 9:00 pm daily
– Fee: $25 per vehicle
– Visit duration: 2-4 hours
– Ideal for: Families, nature lovers, photographers
Why is it a must stop
White Sands National Park is a must-stop on your road trip for its unique landscape of shimmering white gypsum sand dunes that stretch as far as the eye can see. The park offers a range of activities perfect for road-trippers looking to experience the beauty of the desert.
One of the main attractions is sledding down the dunes on specially designed sand sleds, providing a thrilling and unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. The park also offers hiking trails that lead through the dunes, allowing you to explore this otherworldly landscape up close.
For those interested in photography, White Sands National Park provides endless opportunities to capture stunning shots of the stark white dunes against the clear blue sky. The changing light throughout the day creates a dynamic and mesmerizing backdrop for your road trip memories.
Additionally, stargazing at White Sands is a must-do activity, as the park is designated as an International Dark Sky Park, offering unparalleled views of the night sky free from light pollution. Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or just looking to marvel at the beauty of the cosmos, the night sky at White Sands will leave you in awe.
Overall, White Sands National Park is a unique and captivating destination that offers a variety of activities perfect for road trippers seeking adventure, natural beauty, and unforgettable experiences.
El Paso – Franklin Mountains State Park
Essential Information
– Route Options: Take I-10 W from Dallas towards El Paso.
– Opening Hours: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm daily.
– Fee: $5 per person for day use.
– Visit Duration: Half-day to full-day.
– Ideal for: Hiking enthusiasts, nature lovers, and outdoor adventurers.
Why is it a must stop
El Paso – Franklin Mountains State Park is a must-stop on your road trip for its stunning hiking trails that offer panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscape. The park boasts over 100 miles of trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes, catering to all levels of outdoor enthusiasts.
One of the top attractions in the park is the Wyler Aerial Tramway, where visitors can enjoy a scenic ride to Ranger Peak and marvel at the breathtaking vistas of El Paso and beyond. For those seeking a more active adventure, the Aztec Caves Trail provides a thrilling hike through rocky terrain to ancient rock formations.
Wildlife spotting is another highlight of the park, with opportunities to see desert flora and fauna such as cacti, lizards, and birds. Birdwatchers will especially appreciate the diverse avian species that call the park home.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging trek, El Paso – Franklin Mountains State Park offers a variety of outdoor activities that showcase the natural beauty of the region. Don’t miss the chance to explore this hidden gem on your road trip through Texas.
