Nestled at the foot of the Franklin Mountains in western Texas, El Paso has tons of activities for seniors and their families, including diverse cultural attractions, natural beauty, and authentic Tex-Mex food. The MonteVista at Coronado is a Stellar Senior Living Community conveniently located in West El Paso, near lots of entertainment and dining options. Here are some great things to do for seniors and their families in West El Paso, near The MonteVista at Coronado. We’ll explore accessible, senior-friendly outings that highlight the best of West El Paso.
Arts, Culture & History
West El Paso is full of history and culture. Here are just a few of many things to do for seniors who enjoy arts, culture, and history.
- Ysleta Mission, Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish, is the oldest mission in Texas. It was established in 1680 and has continued operating throughout the centuries. The building and grounds are beautiful and well-maintained, with educational signage. Make sure to visit for a mass or during office hours to view the interior of the building.
- El Paso Museum of History details 400 years of history through interactive exhibits in a bright, airy museum space. The second floor of the museum has self-guided activities and history books for those who want to delve a little deeper. The museum is free to the public (but donations are appreciated), but you may have to pay for parking.
- El Paso Museum of Art also offers free admission, plus breathtaking artworks from all over the world. They feature both modern and historic art in a wide variety of styles. Please note the museum is being remodeled at the time of this writing (June of 2025), so you may want to call before you go to see what their current status is.
- Learn more about the Chihuahuan Desert region, the largest desert in North America, at Centennial Museum and Chihuahuan Desert Gardens. The garden is small but lovely, and the museum features some unique exhibits. Go on a Wednesday or the first Saturday of the month to see the Lhakhang, a traditional Bhutanese building with some very special history.
- El Paso Holocaust Museum and Study Center is an important visit that should not be missed. While learning more about one of the most horrific genocides in human history is never fun, it is imperative that we remember what happened. El Paso Holocaust Museum is also the only bilingual Holocaust museum in the United States. You’ll leave moved and informed, and with renewed conviction to make sure this never happens again.
Nature & Outdoor Recreation Things to Do in West El Paso
While El Paso has a hot desert climate that might make indoor pursuits more appealing in the summer, there are still plenty of outdoor activities for the cooler months.
- Take a hike, drive, or stroll on one of many trails at Franklin Mountains State Park. We recommend Nature Walk, an easy ¾ mile loop at the Tom Mays unit. If you want to see the outdoors from the safety of your car, take a scenic drive on the aptly named Scenic Drive. It’s cut into the side of the mountain and offers amazing views of the city, as well as a small overlook area.
- El Paso Museum of Archaeology, within Wilderness Park, is an excellent small museum with both indoor and outdoor exhibits. Learn about more than 14,000 years of history without having to walk too far! As an added bonus, this museum is also free, though donations are accepted.
- The El Paso Municipal Rose Garden has over 4 acres of rose bushes, raised garden beds, walking paths, and waterfalls to enjoy. There are shady areas and benches to take a rest, and the garden is partially wheelchair accessible. We recommend visiting from late May to the end of June for the best experience. But the garden is peaceful and beautiful year-round!
- If you’re visiting with family (or if you’re just a dedicated animal lover), don’t miss the El Paso Zoo. There’s a splash pad for the younger set, and shows and experiences that everyone will enjoy. Go earlier in the day to beat the heat and the crowds.
- Fall and winter are great times to go bird watching in El Paso. Here are a few great bird watching spots, including the Franklin Mountains and Wilderness park.
Music & Theater
You’ll also have plenty of options in El Paso if you enjoy musical and theatrical performances. Here are just a few good venues.
- Plaza Theater is a legendary theater originally built in the 1930s, and recently renovated to provide modern comfort and convenience. They host many different types of shows and acts, from comedians to concerts to plays. The theater is also accessible, and provides a passenger elevator, seating for up to 21 wheelchairs, and an assistive-listening system. However, seating can be tight, so choose an aisle or balcony seat for a little extra legroom.
- Want to eat and watch a play at the same time? University of Texas El Paso (UTEP) has an incredible year-round Dinner Theater program. Current and upcoming shows include The Spongebob Musical and Beauty and the Beast, and previous shows included Grease, Titanic, and Into the Woods, among many others. Reserve early for the best seats (we recommend center tables towards the middle and back rows). It’s a great date night experience, but note that tables seat four. So if you don’t book four seats, you may find yourself on a double date!
As you can see, there’s plenty of things to do for seniors and their families in West El Paso, near the MonteVista at Coronado Assisted Living & Memory Care. From outdoor recreation, to music and theater, to museums, art, and culture, there’s sure to be something you’ll enjoy. There are also 40-50 activities every week within the MonteVista community, including excursions, so you’ll never be bored! Considering assisted living or memory care in West El Paso? Tour The Montevista at Coronado today.
