Things To Do Besides Drink In El Paso

El Paso is full of vibrant, creative, and downright cool spots that offer way more than a lukewarm beer and a loud DJ. If you’re over the usual bar crawl and ready to explore something fresh, we’ve got you covered. Here's a list of awesome local hangouts that prove you don't need alcohol to have a good time. If you still want a drink, a few of these places include that option too.

• The Falstaff: Coffee, Art, and Creativity Collide
  Nestled in the heart of the city, The Falstaff is quickly becoming El Paso’s go-to hub for creative minds. It’s more than just a coffee spot. It’s a full-blown art space. They serve incredible brews from local favorite Coffee Prty, who also host their own weekly Movie Prty nights. Think cult classics, indie gems, and new releases with a cozy, cinematic vibe. The Falstaff regularly features gallery shows from local artists, rotating installations, and a full schedule of workshops. Whether you’ve always wanted to try screen printing, get your hands dirty with clay, or just hang out somewhere that feeds your soul, this place delivers.

• La Nube: Not Just for Kids Anymore
  You might know La Nube as the interactive children's museum downtown, but their Adult Nights are where it’s at. These monthly events transform the space into a grown-up playground with cocktails, live music, tasty snacks, and activities you don’t usually get to try once you’ve grown up. It’s the perfect mix of nostalgia and nightlife.

• Barbed Wire Open Mic Nights: Where Everyone Gets a Mic
  Barbed Wire Open Mic isn’t just one event. It’s a movement. With shows happening almost every night at different venues across El Paso and even in Las Cruces, you can catch poets, musicians, comedians, and storytellers pouring their hearts out in intimate, electric spaces. They also offer creative workshops tailored for writers, songwriters, and performers. Whether you're looking to try your first open mic or just want to be part of a powerful and inclusive community, Barbed Wire has a stage for you.

• The MACC: El Paso’s New Creative Playground
  The Mexican American Cultural Center is one of the city’s newest gems. It’s not just a beautiful space. It’s a multifunctional resource for anyone with a creative spark. Want to learn to dance? Speak another language? Record your own podcast? They’ve got you covered. The MACC offers rental equipment, collaborative workspaces, performance stages, and classes. Whether you're chasing a hobby or launching a career, this place is packed with the tools to make it happen.

• Board Game Nights with BEEP/SWAG
  Bored of bars? Bring out your competitive side at regular board game meetups hosted by the Boardgame Enthusiasts of El Paso (BEEP) and SW Area Gamers. From casual card games to intense tabletop battles, they gather at local spots like Game Vault and Military Gamer Supply.

• Live Drawing Nights at Art Junction
  Hosted by the El Paso Art Association, these weekly Thursday night sessions let you sketch live models in a relaxed downtown setting. No matter your skill level, it's a creative and social way to spend an evening without the drinking scene.

• Hiking Franklin Mountains at Sunset
  Need a reset? Franklin Mountains State Park offers unbeatable views and peaceful trails. Whether you're climbing to the ridge or strolling Scenic Drive, sunset hikes give you the thrill of exploration without the noise.

• Goat Yoga at Rancho Los Rivas
  Yes, this is real, and yes, it’s adorable. Rancho Los Rivas near Sunland Park hosts gentle yoga classes where baby goats roam freely while you stretch. It’s low-pressure, high-fun, and a perfect weekend activity.

• Ghost Tours with El Paso Paranormal
  Led by Lost El Paso Paranormal, these immersive ghost walks take you deep into the city’s spooky past. Whether it's haunted cemeteries, downtown ghost stories, or paranormal pub crawls, it's a thrilling alternative to another bar night.

You don’t have to give up fun to skip the bar. El Paso is full of places that fuel your creativity, community, and curiosity. So next time someone says “Wanna grab a drink?” you can say, “How about something better?”