If you’ve got a layover in El Paso, don’t let it go to waste sitting at ELP. The city, in United States, is within easy reach — roughly 75 minutes by Sun Metro Bus Route 33. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Three things to verify before you walk out of ELP:
- Can you legally enter United States? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 75-minute journey each way by Sun Metro Bus Route 33, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the USD. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
The Best Way Into El Paso from ELP
From ELP, the Sun Metro Bus Route 33 gets you to El Paso in around 75 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 95 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Sun Metro Bus Route 33 offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Money & Budget Tips
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into El Paso might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$8 USD
- A meal: ~$15 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$33 USD
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at ELP may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in El Paso’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
How to Spend Your Time in El Paso
If you head into El Paso, here are two things worth checking out:
Scenic Drive Overlook is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. On a clear day, the views alone justify the detour.
San Jacinto Plaza is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside ELP, you can spend time at USO Lounge ELP or try ELP Airport Art Program. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Best Bites Near ELP
For food in El Paso, local travelers recommend L & J Cafe. If you have time for a second stop, Leo’s Mexican Restaurant is another popular pick.
Back at ELP, Casa Jurado is the go-to. Starbucks rounds out your in-terminal options.
Rest Areas & Lounges
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at ELP.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Staying Connected
WiFi at ELP should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in United States and you’re good to go.
Final Thoughts
A layover in El Paso doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 75 minutes from ELP, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.