EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14/CBS4) — Two Borderland cities are getting national attention as affordable destinations offering travelers everything from mountain views and hiking trails to distinctive food, art and culture.
Travel website The Points Guy included both El Paso and Las Cruces on its newly published list of nine American “tertiary cities” that are both charming and affordable.
The article highlights smaller metropolitan areas that can offer visitors plenty to see and do without some of the costs associated with major tourist destinations.
The publication highlighted El Paso’s location along the U.S.-Mexico border and the city’s bicultural character, history and desert scenery.
The Franklin Mountains and the hiking opportunities they provide were among the attractions singled out, along with the sunsets that help define the Sun City’s landscape.
El Paso’s arts scene also received recognition. The Points Guy pointed travelers toward the El Paso Museum of Art, which offers free admission, as well as the Downtown Arts District and events including Chalk the Block and First Friday Art Walk.
For visitors looking to stay downtown, the publication highlighted the historic Hotel Paso Del Norte, which originally opened in 1912. The hotel was noted for its rooftop views and proximity to downtown dining, the article stated.
Just up Interstate 10, Las Cruces also made the national list.
The Points Guy described Las Cruces as an approachable Southwestern destination surrounded by dramatic scenery and offering relatively affordable lodging options.
The Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument was one of the area’s major draws, with its hiking trails and rugged landscape. The publication also noted Las Cruces’ proximity to White Sands National Park, making the city a potential base for travelers exploring southern New Mexico.
Food was another reason Las Cruces stood out. The article highlighted the region’s Hatch green chile and New Mexican cuisine, along with Old Mesilla and the city’s farmers and crafts markets.
El Paso and Las Cruces were the only two cities from Texas and New Mexico included on the nine-city list.
Other destinations selected by The Points Guy included
Bentonville, ArkansasSan Luis Obispo, CaliforniaCharlottesville, VirginiaColumbia, MissouriGreenville, South CarolinaFlagstaff, ArizonaGreen Bay, Wisconsin
Having two neighboring Borderland communities make the same national list puts a spotlight on what travelers can experience on both sides of the Texas-New Mexico state line — from the Franklin and Organ mountains to regional cuisine, historic neighborhoods and the distinctive culture of the Southwest.
The Points Guy said its selections focus on smaller destinations where travelers can find local experiences, attractions and greater value while venturing beyond America’s biggest tourist cities.
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