EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — The El Paso Downtown Arts District has garnered some serious national praise.
The El Paso arts district was named one of the top arts districts in the nation in USA Today’s 2025 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards.
It earned the No. 5 spot in the nation in USA Today’s readers’ poll, the City announced on Saturday, March 1.
“The prestigious annual ranking, determined by public voting following nominations from a panel of experts and editors, recognizes urban spaces that enrich their communities through cultural and artistic experiences, the City said in its news release.
“We are excited to see national recognition for El Paso’s Downtown Arts District, which is the backdrop of countless meaningful arts and cultural experiences every day,” Museum and Cultural Affairs Director Ben Fyffe said. “As the District continues to grow with exceptional new offerings like La Nube, Star Ceiling, and the soon-to-open Mexican American Cultural Center, this award celebrates the impact of El Paso’s thriving arts and tourism scene.”
Designated by the Texas Commission on the Arts in 2011, the El Paso Downtown Arts District welcomes 2.2 million visitors annually, generating an estimated $7 million in hotel/motel revenue and $28.2 million in local restaurant and bar revenue, the City said.
Beyond its year-round offerings — including museums, theaters, cultural spaces, parks, restaurants, and hotels — the district is home to some of El Paso’s top annual events, such as Chalk the Block, Día de los Muertos, and WinterFest, the City said.
Later this month, the Downtown Arts District will welcome its newest attraction with the grand opening on Saturday, March 22 of the Mexican American Cultural Center and dedication of Cleveland Square Park, the City said.
For more information about the El Paso Downtown Arts District, visit epmcad.org/experience-art/arts-district
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