Memorial Park

by German Sanchez
March 8, 2010

This is the first entry of what will be a recurring blog about great local places to visit. This blog will feature entertainment spots and places that are culturally significant. The word around town is that there is nothing to do in El Paso, but I will prove otherwise. As a writer for the Regional Identity, I want share all the hidden gems that our region has to share.

I have lived in the border region for more than two decades and yet the region still surprises me with places I never knew existed. When I enrolled in college, I decided to find local fun and interesting places. There are fantastic places hidden around town. These places tell a rich story about the community and its culture, and they prove that there is more to do than go to the mall and the movies. I call these places “secret treasures” because most are unknown to the locals.

Memorial Park

Memorial Park, one of the largest parks in town, is conveniently located in a central location. The park is not a fully kept secret because most cities have their own version of a “Memorial Park.” However, only a few people I have talked to know where the park is.

Many large and old trees inhabits the park, which is an impressive sight in our desert region. It is a fantastic place to go to for a picnic, a photo shoot, or to walk pets. Nearby trains occasionally pass and break the park’s gentle silence with a brief exciting uproar. If somebody wishes to enjoy a childhood cliché, they can cautiously place quarters on the tracks and wait patiently for the next train to squash them (I have always wanted to do this). There are also two rock wall bridges. One bridge has an arch, a perfect place for kids to play and let their imaginations roam.
The park is perfect for dates (just think of romantic comedies). For those off the market, the park is also a great place to spark romance with their significant other.

Finally, the park is next to the public library, which is another great place to visit.

View Larger Map

Print

German Sanchez

Sanchez is a Junior Economics and Finance major at the University of Texas at El Paso. He plans to attend Harvard to acquire his PhD. He believes in the power of positive thinking. He intends to write articles that help students who are struggling through their education.