Fort Bliss
,Fort Bliss is a United States Army installation located in El Paso, Texas. It is one of the largest military bases in the country, covering over 1,700 square miles. The base serves as a training ground for air defense artillery and missile defense systems.
Fort Bliss is also home to the 1st Armored Division, making it a key military asset in the region.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Explore Fort Bliss
morning
:Start your day with a visit to the Fort Bliss Museum. Discover the rich history of the military through various exhibits and artifacts.
afternoon
:Head to the nearby Scenic Drive to enjoy breathtaking views of El Paso and the Franklin Mountains. Pack a picnic and relax at one of the scenic spots.
evening
:Conclude your day by dining at a local restaurant featuring Southwestern cuisine. Try out the local favorite dishes and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
Nature Hike at Franklin Mountains
morning
:Begin with an invigorating hike in Franklin Mountains State Park. Choose a trail that suits your fitness level and take in the stunning natural beauty.
afternoon
:After your hike, stop by the visitor center to learn more about the park's flora and fauna. Consider a short drive to enjoy the scenic overlooks.
evening
:Make your way to a nearby outdoor café for dinner. Enjoy the sunset views while savoring a delicious meal outdoors.
Highlights
Good
- Strategic military location with extensive training facilities
- Strong community support for soldiers and families
- Rich history and traditions associated with the military
- Access to a variety of outdoor recreational activities, including hiking and biking
- Proximity to El Paso, Texas, offering a variety of cultural and entertainment options
Bad
- Extreme weather conditions, including hot summers and cold winters
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities
- Isolation from other major urban areas, potentially leading to a sense of separateness
- Challenges related to base housing and availability
- Potential for restricted access due to military regulations and security measures
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking in Frankling Mountains State Park
Explore the numerous trails in Franklin Mountains State Park, offering stunning views of the surrounding desert and mountains, perfect for both novice and experienced hikers.
Biking along the Rio Grande
Enjoy cycling on the scenic paths along the Rio Grande, with opportunities for both leisurely rides and more challenging routes.
Birdwatching at the Wetlands Park
Visit the Wetlands Park to observe a variety of bird species, making it a great spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
Picnicking at Ascarate Park
Spend a relaxing day with family or friends at Ascarate Park, which features picnic areas, a lake, and various recreational facilities.
Outdoor Sports at Fort Bliss Athletic Complex
Participate in various outdoor sports such as soccer, softball, and tennis at the Fort Bliss Athletic Complex, equipped with multiple fields and courts.
Camping at the Franklin Mountains
Set up a tent and enjoy a night under the stars in the Franklin Mountains, with designated camping areas available for an adventurous outdoor experience.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Fort Bliss with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
McKelligon Canyon
A scenic canyon offering panoramic views of El Paso and the surrounding desert landscape, ideal for sunset photography.
Tom Lea Park
Features beautiful walking trails and a high vantage point for capturing the beauty of the surrounding mountains and Fort Bliss.
Franklin Mountains State Park
Home to various trails leading to stunning overlook points, perfect for dramatic landscapes and wildflower photography in season.
Chamizal National Memorial
Offers lush, green areas with a backdrop of cultural monuments, providing a unique setting for photography in Fort Bliss.
El Paso Mission Trail
A historic trail that includes several missions with picturesque views of the architecture and the surrounding scenery.
Cielo Vista Mall Rooftop Parking
Provides an unobstructed view of the city skyline, especially during golden hour, making it a great spot for urban photography.
Fort Bliss Museum and Historical Park
Offers various military exhibits and outdoor settings that are rich in history and perfect for unique photographic opportunities.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Chile con Queso
A creamy and spiced cheese dip often served with tortilla chips. Try it at Julio's Mexican Food, a popular local spot known for its authentic Tex-Mex cuisine.
Must-Try!
Barbacoa Tacos
Tender, slow-cooked meat often served in a taco. Visit El Cometa for mouthwatering barbacoa tacos that are a local favorite.
Green Chile Enchiladas
Enchiladas smothered in a savory and slightly spicy green chile sauce. Head to L&J Cafe, a beloved eatery renowned for its New Mexican cuisine, to savor this dish.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Fort Bliss better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Pershing Indoor Flea Market
Explore a variety of food vendors offering local treats and international flavors. Don't miss the chance to sample the diverse street food options available here.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Understand Military Culture
Fort Bliss is a military installation, so it's important to be respectful of the military culture. This includes understanding the significance of rank, discipline, and camaraderie. Showing appreciation for the service members and listening to their experiences can be a great way to connect.
Be Mindful of Diversity
Fort Bliss is home to a diverse population, including military personnel from various backgrounds. Being open-minded and respectful towards different cultures and traditions fosters a positive environment. Celebrate and learn about different customs, and avoid making assumptions based on stereotypes.
Maintain Professionalism
Especially in professional settings, it’s essential to maintain a level of professionalism. Use appropriate language, be punctual, and show respect during interactions. Personal space and boundaries are also important; always maintain a respectful distance unless familiarity has been established.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Fort Bliss with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
Tipping in Fort Bliss, like in many parts of the United States, is customary in service industries such as restaurants, bars, and taxis. A typical tip ranges from 15% to 20% of the total bill, depending on the quality of service. In military communities like Fort Bliss, it's also common for personnel to tip service members in hospitality roles, recognizing their efforts and service.
Payment
Payment methods in Fort Bliss generally align with broader American practices. Cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile payment options are widely accepted. Many establishments do not accept checks due to the convenience and preference towards electronic payments. The military community also has access to specific payment services offered on base, including exchanges and commissaries, where personnel can utilize their military IDs to make purchases.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Fort Bliss.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring
Spring (March to May) is one of the best times to visit Fort Bliss, as temperatures are mild and pleasant, ranging from the 60s to 80s°F. The desert landscape blooms with wildflowers, making it a beautiful time for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring the nearby Franklin Mountains.
Summer
Summer (June to August) in Fort Bliss can be extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 100°F. While outdoor activities are still possible early in the morning or later in the evening, it's important to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun. This season sees the least amount of rain, so expect a dry heat.
Fall
Fall (September to November) offers cooler temperatures, ranging from the 70s to 80s°F during the day and cooler evenings. This is another great time for outdoor activities and events in the area, as the weather is generally pleasant and the landscape begins to change colors with the autumn foliage.
Winter
Winter (December to February) in Fort Bliss is mild compared to many other regions, with daytime temperatures ranging from the 50s to 60s°F. Night temperatures can drop significantly, sometimes to the 30s°F. While snowfall is rare, the surrounding mountains may receive some, offering opportunities for winter sports nearby.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Franklin Mountains State Park
A large state park offering numerous hiking trails with stunning views of the Franklin Mountains and the surrounding desert landscape.
Guadalupe Mountains National Park
Located a bit further out, this national park features challenging hikes with impressive landscapes, including the highest peak in Texas.
Hungry Horse Trail
A scenic hiking trail offering a moderate hike with beautiful views and a chance to see local wildlife.
McKelligon Canyon
A popular hiking spot with various trails and a beautiful canyon landscape, perfect for both short walks and extended hikes.
Butterfield Trail
A well-marked trail in the Franklin Mountains offering a mix of terrain, ideal for hiking enthusiasts looking to explore diverse landscapes.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Fort Bliss by plane.
El Paso International Airport (ELP)
The primary airport serving El Paso, Texas, which is located approximately 20 miles from Fort Bliss.
Ciudad Juarez International Airport (CJS)
An international airport in Ciudad Juárez, Mexico, located about 10 miles from Fort Bliss, primarily serving flights to Mexico and the United States.
Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ)
Located approximately 220 miles north of Fort Bliss, this airport serves as a major hub for flights throughout the United States.
Midland International Air and Space Port (MAF)
Located about 300 miles east of Fort Bliss, serves both domestic and some international flights.
Odessa Airport (ODE)
Located approximately 320 miles east of Fort Bliss, it serves regional and some national flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Hispanic or Latino
A significant portion of the population identifies as Hispanic or Latino, reflecting the cultural diversity of the area.
White (Non-Hispanic)
Non-Hispanic whites make up a large demographic group within Fort Bliss.
Black or African American
The African American community is represented in Fort Bliss, contributing to the local culture.
Asian
A smaller percentage of the population identifies as Asian, including various ethnic backgrounds.
Two or More Races
This group includes individuals who identify with more than one racial category.
American Indian and Alaska Native
A smaller representation of the population identifies as American Indian or Alaska Native.
Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander
This demographic group represents a small percentage of the population in Fort Bliss.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football
A popular sport in Fort Bliss, football is widely played at various levels, including recreational leagues and military tournaments.
Basketball
Basketball is a favorite among soldiers and families at Fort Bliss, with many courts available for both casual pick-up games and organized leagues.
Soccer
Soccer enjoys a strong following in Fort Bliss, with players of all ages participating in local leagues and friendly matches.
Volleyball
Beach and indoor volleyball are popular recreational activities, often enjoyed by service members and their families.
Running
Running is a common fitness activity at Fort Bliss, with many trails and tracks available for military personnel and civilians.
Swimming
There are several swimming facilities available, making this a popular recreational sport for those at Fort Bliss.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Fort Bliss caters well to vegetarians and vegans, with many restaurants offering creative plant-based dishes. Check out Eloise for a variety of delicious vegetarian and vegan options.
Gluten-Free Options
Those with gluten sensitivities can find suitable options at several eateries. Visit Sun City Craft Beer for a selection of gluten-free beers and ciders, along with gluten-free menu items.