El Paso Museum of Art
1 Arts Festival Plaza, El Paso, TX, 79901
The El Paso Museum of Art, right in downtown El Paso, showcases a diverse collection of some 7,000 pieces, including European, American, and Mexican art. Most notable for its Renaissance and baroque masterpieces, it also features modern works and regional artists. Rotating exhibitions, workshops, and events keep the museum a popping hub for art enthusiasts.
The basics
Established in 1959, the El Paso Museum of Art began with a significant donation of European baroque and Renaissance works from the Samuel Kress Foundation. The collection, still on display today, includes paintings by Botticelli, Canaletto, Van Dyck, Zurbarán, and Artemisia Gentileschi. Having greatly expanded its collection since then, the museum, which now anchors El Paso’s Downtown Arts District, remains dedicated to preserving and showcasing American, European, and Mexican art.
Things to know before you go
EPMA is fully accessible and welcomes all service animals.
Flash photography is not allowed, but taking photos without flash is welcome.
The closest parking garages are the JPMorgan Chase Garage, Mills Parking Garage, and the One Civic Center Plaza Garage.
How to get there
The El Paso Museum of Art, in the Downtown Arts District, is easy to reach. From I-10, take the downtown exit and follow signs to the museum, near San Jacinto Plaza. Parking is available in nearby garages. Otherwise, hop on the Sun Metro bus, nab a rideshare, bike, or walk over from downtown.
When to get there
EPMA is open Wednesday through Saturday from morning to early evening, and Sunday from late morning to mid-afternoon; plan to spend at least two hours there. Admission is always free.
“Scavenging” downtown
Downtown El Paso offers a fabulous mix of history, art, and culture. After exploring the El Paso Museum of Art, visit the Plaza Theatre for live performances, stroll through San Jacinto Plaza—noting its famed alligator sculpture—and enjoy local Tex-Mex flavors at eateries and cafés. Or, for extra fun, use an app-led scavenger hunt to see the sights.
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