The Plaza Theatre has been in operation since 1930 and is one of the largest venues to catch a show in the entire Southwest. It hosts stage shows and also screens movies, but most people that come are awestruck by the grandiose Spanish Colonial architecture and design. The Plaza was nearly demolished in 1986, however a benevolent community association stepped in to save it. Today, guests can see many diverse shows on stage, from popular musicals and stand-up acts to concerts.
The Tigua people are the last remaining tribe that carries on Puebloan culture in the state of Texas. Puebloan culture includes all tribes that live in similar ways and have similar cultural practices albeit they speak mutually unintelligible languages. In fact the binding nature of their name also derives from the houses they build, Pueblos. Here at the center inside the Ysleta del Sur Pueblo, visitors can learn more about these native peoples with the wealth of education the tribe provides, such as bread baking, social dancing and even a museum with ancient artifacts.
The El Paso Holocaust Museum and Study Center was established in 1994 by Henry Kellen, a Holocaust survivor. It is an ode to the millions of people who died and to those who endured. This museum presents the atrocities committed during the end of World War II as a grim reminder of hatred and prejudice. Visitors can get a glimpse of that time with the multi-media presentations that cover life before the Third Reich, the subsequent rise of the regime, the concentration camps and more. Admission is free though donations are welcome.
The historic Magoffin Home today houses a vast collection of Magoffin family artifacts used at the end of the 19th Century. On display guests will find furniture, decorative art and other interesting historical resources from this important El Pasoan clan. Built in 1875, the site still retains an old Texas charm with its period furniture and paintings. The site has become an integral part of the city's rich history as well as a landmark listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Currently, the Texas Historical Commission manages the site and owns the belongings inside.
The EPMA has been going strong since 1959, providing the city and surrounding area with countless aesthetic delights. About 100,000 visitors come through the doors of the museum annually, to see some of the many temporary exhibits in the well-designed halls and galleries, as well as more than 5,000 permanent artworks. The majority of art focuses on Native American, Mexican and European pieces. The museum offers numerous education programs to enhance one's knowledge and even has it's own art school.
This museum focuses on the more than 400 years of history in this part of what is now known as Western Texas. It is one of the three city-operated museums, the other two include the Museum of Art and the Museum of Archaeology. The permanent exhibits include artifacts and documents that present the past as well as the city's present development. The exhibits are spread over more than 44,000-sq. ft. of space and since the admission is free, it provides a cheap, interesting education on how this part of the Southwest was settled.
A prominent square in the city, the Arts Festival Plaza is located in the center of the city, surrounded by prominent buildings. A community gathering space, the plaza plays host to important city events, including concerts, festivals, the Downtown Street Festival and Chalk the Block. Call to know more.
Paso del Norte Cultural Center is the place to go to enjoy the culture and heritage of Ciudad Juárez and Mexico in general. From plays, operas, concerts and more, you can enjoy it all in this expansive arena with great acoustics. Moreover, the center also hosts community events and exhibitions from time to time.
The Tumbleweed Interactive Space also called La Rodadora in Chihuahua, Mexico is an interactive science museum for kids. The museum has many interactive displays and kids can explore various aspects of light and sound technology and learn about things from the past. The museum believes in the ideology of learning through fun and games and it is a perfect place to visit with kids.
The Wise Family Theatre, located on the 2nd Floor of UTEP 's Fox Fine Arts Center, puts on a well-rounded selection of shows each season. Productions have included A Christmas Carol, among others. Phone or visit website for current shows.
The Philanthropy Theatre, housed inside the Plaza Theatre, is a cozy yet beautiful venue. With 191 seats, patrons are treated to a broad variety of entertainment, such as intimate plays, recitals, and much more.