In 2012, the El Paso City Council adopted a fresh vision for its community. Plan El Paso outlined an ambitious vision for land use, urban design, historic preservation and infrastructure. Since then, El Paso’s downtown has witnessed a flurry of revitalization, including a handful of hip hotels housed in the city’s most historic buildings.
The Plaza Hotel Pioneer Park
The Plaza Hotel Pioneer Park
Opening January 2020
Rooms: 130
About: The Plaza Hotel Pioneer Park has shaped the El Paso skyline since its debut in the 1930s as the tallest hotel in the city and Conrad Hilton’s first high-rise hotel. It’s a culmination of a glamourous past and a modern future.
Cool factor: The former penthouse (soon-to-be the rooftop bar, La Perla) was once used by Elizabeth Taylor while she was married to Conrad “Nicky” Hilton.
Special touches: Upon check-in, sip agua fresca del dia, then sink into Matouk linens, plumped and readied thanks to turndown service. On the rooftop, enjoy expansive views of Mexico, New Mexico and Texas as the desert sun sinks beyond the horizon.
Hotel Paso Del Norte
Hotel Paso Del Norte
Opening Summer 2020
Rooms: 350
About: This spring, El Paso will celebrate the return of an icon. Located at the intersection of states and nations, this almost 108-year-old property will blend together Mexican, Texan and North American stylings to create an experience that truly represents the “soul of El Paso.”
Cool factor: The hotel originally opened on Thanksgiving Day in 1912 and has welcomed the biggest names in history including U.S. presidents, countless celebrities and distinguished guests. (And now, you!)
Special touches: Guests should make a point to look overhead to admire Hotel El Paso Del Norte's signature seven-and-a-halfmetre diameter stained glass dome. No surprise here, the property is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Stanton House
Stanton House
Rooms: 42
About: This one-year-old boutique hotel is housed in a handsome, 100-year-old building, which has been described as a city heirloom. The on-site Blush Spa boasts float tanks, an essential oil steam shower and a Vichy shower.
Stanton House
Cool factor: At the heart of Stanton House is a four-storey “light well” featuring “Shylights,” a moving light sculpture which illuminates the restaurant at night. Also, a collection of art featuring works from both accomplished and up-and-coming Mexican, European and local artists, is a must-see.
Special touches: Malin + Goetz bath products, mini bars stocked with mezcal and a mezzanine art gallery.
Aloft El Paso Downtown
Aloft
Rooms: 89
About: Old meets new at the historic 90-year-old O.T. Bassett Tower where contemporary Aloft branding and design lives alongside gold-leaf detailing. Aloft touts itself as music-obsessed and tech-loving.
Cool factor: An incredible multi-year, multi-million-dollar renovation saw a team of preservationists polish the iconic tower’s brass fixtures by hand. It’s a celebration of 1920s elegance from the marble floors to brass elevator doors and mail chutes.
Special touches: The signature Aloft Live Presents series brings music and entertainment to its WXYZ Bar. There are games and a pool table, too.
