El Paso just scored big on a national travel list, and this one actually means something. HomeToGo, one of the largest vacation rental marketplaces in the world, has named El Paso the number four rising travel destination for 2026 in its newly released Travel Trends Forecast. That puts the Sun City squarely on the radar for travelers who are actively looking for exciting, affordable places they have not already overdone.
This recognition comes from real data, not hype. HomeToGo analyzed search trends, pricing, and traveler surveys to figure out where people are planning to go next. The results show that El Paso is having a moment, and the rest of the country is starting to notice.
Why Travelers Are Looking for Cities Like El Paso
According to HomeToGo’s survey, 76 percent of Americans plan to take a vacation in 2026, and more than half say they expect to spend more on travel than they did in 2025. At the same time, price still matters. Fifty-two percent of travelers say affordability is their top priority, and nearly one in three is actively searching for hidden gem destinations.
That is where El Paso shines. The city offers desert landscapes, rich culture, food, history, and major events without the massive price tag of more crowded tourist cities. HomeToGo reports that El Paso saw a 191 percent year-over-year increase in searches for 2026 stays, with a median nightly price of just $62.21 per person. For travelers who want something new without blowing their budget, that is a huge draw.
El Paso’s Big Year on the World Stage
El Paso’s rise is not just about travel trends. Over the past year, the city has repeatedly been recognized on a national and even global level for its culture, creativity, and community spaces.
One of the biggest moments came when El Paso WinterFest was named the best winter market in the country, beating out cities that are traditionally known for holiday tourism. That recognition put downtown El Paso in front of a national audience and showed that the city knows how to create large-scale events that draw visitors, support local vendors, and build real holiday magic in the desert.
Courtesy of The Plaza Theater
Courtesy of The Plaza Theater
The arts scene also made waves. The Plaza Theatre was named the top-grossing theater in Texas, an incredible achievement that speaks to how strong El Paso’s live performance scene has become. Night after night, people are filling seats for concerts, Broadway shows, comedy, and touring acts, proving that El Paso is a serious stop on major entertainment circuits.
Courtesy: La Nube
Courtesy: La Nube
El Paso’s innovation and family-focused attractions are also getting attention. La Nube, the city’s STEM children’s museum, received national recognition, highlighting El Paso as a place investing in education, creativity, and future generations. It is another example of how the city is building spaces that serve locals while also impressing visitors from outside the region.
Courtesy of Brian Wancho and CODA
Courtesy of Brian Wancho and CODA
On the global art stage, El Paso was honored in a deeply meaningful way. A public art piece created by local artist Tino Ortega, dedicated to the victims of the 2019 Walmart shooting, was recognized alongside public artworks from around the world. The piece stood out not just for its design, but for its message of remembrance, resilience, and community healing, placing El Paso in an international conversation about how cities honor tragedy through art.
Courtesy: Iris Lopez
Courtesy: Iris LopezThe Top 6 Rising Southwest Destinations for 2026
As part of its Neo-Western Revival trend, HomeToGo highlighted six Southwest destinations seeing major growth in interest:
Yucca Valley, California
Cañon City, Colorado
Bisbee, Arizona
El Paso, Texas
Queen Creek, Arizona
Marana, Arizona
All six cities saw search growth of over 100 percent and offer median nightly prices under $100 per person, making them attractive options for travelers who want something fresh and affordable.
Courtesy of Christian Churches Photography
Courtesy of Christian Churches PhotographyWhat This Means for El Paso
El Paso landing at number four is more than a fun ranking. It is proof that the city’s culture, energy, and authenticity are resonating far beyond West Texas. With music, film, food, and community all colliding at the right time, El Paso is no longer a secret. For 2026 travelers, it is quickly becoming a destination.
Special Olympics Bowling Tournament 2025
Nearly 200 athletes from El Paso stepped up to compete at The El Paso Special Olympics Bowling Tournament!
Gallery Credit: Grizz
Guns Down, Gloves Up: RT Fades Fighting Gun Violence With Boxing In El Paso
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Gallery Credit: Grizz
The IMPOSTERS Vol. 3 Selection Party
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Gallery Credit: Grizz
LOOK: An Inside Look at La Nube Children’s Museum
Gallery Credit: Iris Lopez
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Gallery Credit: Grizz
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Gallery Credit: Courtesy: UnSplash
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Gallery Credit: Grizz