Dollar Car Rental
El Paso

Upon arriving at El Paso International Airport, simply follow the overhead signs for Ground Transportation and Rental Car Center. The rental counters, including Dollar, are conveniently located in a consolidated area that is easy to navigate, even after a long flight. Once you complete your paperwork at the counter, you will be directed to the adjacent garage where the vehicles are staged. The entire process is designed to be straightforward, with clear signage guiding you from the baggage claim to your rental car.

While the process is generally efficient, timing can vary based on flight arrivals and the season. During peak travel periods like holidays or spring break, it's wise to budget a little extra time for baggage claim and the rental counter. To help expedite the process, have your driver's license and reservation information ready when you approach the counter. A good travel practice is to allow for some flexibility in your schedule, ensuring a relaxed start to your El Paso visit without feeling rushed.

For a straightforward drive to Downtown, the most direct route is to take Airway Boulevard from the airport area south to Interstate 10. Once on I-10 West, you can simply follow the signs for Downtown El Paso. This route primarily uses the main interstate, which is well-marked and helps you avoid complex surface streets immediately after picking up your car. Staying in the middle lanes until you see your exit signs will help prevent any last-minute, stressful lane changes.

After leaving the airport rental facility, you'll find several shopping centers with large, open parking lots along Airway Boulevard and Montana Avenue. These plazas offer a safe and low-traffic environment to pull over for a few minutes. Here, you can comfortably adjust your mirrors, input your destination into your GPS, and make sure any luggage is secure. Taking this short break allows you to get situated before merging onto the busier interstates for your journey.

The most direct path to the UTEP campus area is via Interstate 10 West. From the airport, you will follow signs to get on I-10 West and continue for several miles. Look for the Schuster Avenue / Sun Bowl Drive exit, which is specifically signed for the university. This exit leads you directly to the edge of campus, making it an easy-to-navigate route that avoids the more intricate parts of downtown.

If you find yourself in a lane heading toward an international bridge, stay calm and look for signs that say “Last U.S. Exit” or “Return to USA.” These exits are specifically designed for drivers who have made a wrong turn. Taking this designated exit will loop you back onto U.S. roadways safely. It is crucial not to proceed into the dedicated customs lanes, as turning around becomes much more complicated at that point.

On days with major events at the Sun Bowl or UTEP, expect significant traffic congestion on I-10, particularly around the Schuster Avenue and Mesa Street exits. Local streets near the university also become very busy before and after the event. If you plan to drive through this area on a game day, it's best to check the event schedule in advance. Allow for considerable extra travel time or map out an alternate route to bypass the campus vicinity altogether.

To reach the downtown arts district, take I-10 to the Downtown exit and follow the signs for the Convention Center and Arts District. This area is home to both the museum and the Plaza Theatre. For parking, the most convenient option is often the large parking garage connected to the Convention Center. There are also numerous surface lots and metered street parking spots throughout the downtown area, all within a short walking distance of these popular attractions.

For the best experience, plan to arrive at the El Paso Zoo shortly after it opens in the morning. This typically allows you to find a prime parking spot close to the entrance and enjoy the exhibits before the largest crowds arrive. To avoid afternoon traffic, aim to leave by 2:30 or 3:00 PM, which gets you on the road before the local school and work commutes begin to build. This timing strategy helps ensure a smooth drive both to and from the zoo.

Scenic Drive is extremely popular around sunset, and traffic can become slow-moving as people look for the best views of the city and the Franklin Mountains. To enjoy the experience safely, use the designated scenic overlooks that are built along the route. These pull-offs provide ample parking space for you to get out, take photos, and enjoy the view without obstructing the flow of traffic. Arriving a little before sunset will give you a better chance of securing a spot.

The roads leading to the main trailheads in Franklin Mountains State Park are paved and well-maintained, making them accessible for any standard rental vehicle. For first-time visitors, the Tom Mays Unit entrance off Woodrow Bean Transmountain Drive is one of the most straightforward access points. It is clearly signed and leads directly to the park's main visitor area and popular hiking trails. The drive itself offers beautiful desert mountain scenery as you ascend toward the park.

A trip to Hueco Tanks requires advance planning, as the park limits the number of daily visitors to protect its cultural and natural resources. It is highly recommended to make a reservation online or by phone well before your visit. The drive to the park is on paved rural roads that are easy to navigate. Be sure to arrive at your scheduled time to ensure a smooth entry process with the park rangers at the gate.

A day trip to White Sands is very feasible, with a drive time of about 90 minutes each way. A good plan is to leave El Paso in the morning to maximize your time in the park. Although you are crossing into New Mexico, you will remain in the Mountain Time Zone, so no time adjustment is needed. The route is straightforward, but services are sparse near the park, so it's a good idea to pack water and snacks for your visit.

Crossing the state line from Texas into New Mexico is a seamless process for drivers. Major routes like I-10 West toward Las Cruces or US-54 North toward Alamogordo have no checkpoints or stops at the border. You will see a welcome sign, and the only notable change might be a difference in the speed limit, so be sure to watch for new signage. It's an easy and common drive for anyone looking to explore the attractions of southern New Mexico.

This is a popular but long day trip, with a drive of about 2.5 to 3 hours each way. The most critical detail is to start your day very early from El Paso to allow enough time to explore the caverns without rushing. The route via US-62/180 is remote with very few services, so be sure to start with a full tank of gas. Packing your own lunch, snacks, and plenty of water is also highly recommended for the journey.

The most direct route is to take US-62/180 East from El Paso. This highway will lead you directly to the park's Pine Springs Visitor Center entrance in about two hours. The drive is primarily on a two-lane highway through open desert terrain, and it is generally a low-traffic and easy drive. Signage for the national park is clear, making it simple for first-time visitors to find their destination.

To comfortably visit both the main park area and McKittrick Canyon, an early start from El Paso is essential, preferably leaving before sunrise. The entrance to McKittrick Canyon is separate from the main visitor center and has specific gate hours that you should confirm on the park's website beforehand. Planning your itinerary to arrive at one of the locations right at its opening time will help you make the most of your day and fit in multiple hikes.

As a civilian visitor, you will need to enter Fort Bliss through a designated Visitor Control Center (VCC) to obtain a pass. When using your GPS, it's best to navigate directly to one of the VCCs, such as the one at the Buffalo Soldier Gate. Once you have your pass, you can proceed onto the base. Always follow the instructions of the gate guards and be prepared to navigate using the base's street names and building numbers.

Cielo Vista Mall is conveniently located very close to the airport. The simplest route is to take Airway Boulevard north from the airport rental area. From there, you can make a left turn onto Montana Avenue and then a right onto Hawkins Boulevard, which leads directly to the mall. This path uses major surface streets and allows you to completely avoid the interstate, making for a quick and low-stress trip.

The most complex interchange for newcomers is the 'Spaghetti Bowl,' where I-10, US-54, and Loop 375 converge near downtown. To navigate it successfully, review your route on the map before you start driving. While on the road, listen to your GPS prompts and pay close attention to the large overhead signs, which often list the next one or two exits. Getting into your required lane well in advance is the best way to avoid sudden, stressful maneuvers.

Weekday rush hour on I-10 can be heavy, typically lasting from about 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM and again from 4:00 PM to 6:30 PM. During these periods, traffic through the central part of the city can slow down considerably. For a more relaxed drive to or from the airport, plan your travel during the late morning, early afternoon, or after 7:00 PM. Weekend traffic is generally lighter, except during major city events.

The most direct and simple plan is to take Interstate 10 West from the airport. You will stay on I-10 for the majority of your journey, traveling for approximately 15 to 20 minutes. The exits for the west side and the outlet mall area, such as Artcraft Road or Redd Road, are very clearly marked. This route is almost entirely on the highway, making it an easy drive even for those unfamiliar with the city.

Transmountain Road is a modern, multi-lane highway that offers a scenic and efficient way to cross the Franklin Mountains. The road is well-engineered with gentle curves and grades, making it a comfortable drive. At night, the route is well-lit through most of its length and provides spectacular views of the city lights on both sides of the mountain. It is a safe and popular route for locals and visitors alike.

The trailhead for Mount Cristo Rey is located just across the state line in Sunland Park, New Mexico. The final approach is through a residential neighborhood where the roads can be narrower than the main city streets. The designated parking area at the base of the trail is a large, unpaved lot. Using a GPS to navigate directly to the trailhead is recommended, and it's wise to drive slowly and cautiously as you get close.

Yes, during windy conditions, blowing dust can reduce visibility, particularly on the open desert stretches of I-10 east and west of the city, as well as on US-54 north toward New Mexico. These areas lack the buildings and structures that can block the wind. If you encounter a dust storm, it is safest to slow down, turn on your headlights, and if visibility becomes severely limited, pull as far off the road as possible and wait for it to pass.

During a summer heat wave, the interior of a car can get extremely hot very quickly. It's important to use a sunshade when parked and to run the air conditioning for a few minutes before starting your drive. For longer trips or outdoor excursions, plan your driving for the cooler parts of the day, such as the early morning or after sunset. Always keep a supply of water in your vehicle to stay hydrated.

One common mistake is underestimating the long distances between towns and services, especially when heading to remote parks. Always start a long drive with a full tank of gas. Another is not carrying enough water for both yourself and your vehicle. On mountain roads like Transmountain, some drivers may not anticipate the grade, so it's important to use lower gears on descents to avoid overusing your brakes. Finally, be aware that wildlife can appear on roadways, especially at dawn and dusk.

The area immediately surrounding the airport offers many convenient options. Along Airway Boulevard and Montana Avenue, you will find numerous gas stations equipped with vacuums and car wash facilities. These locations are perfect for a quick interior tidy-up. The large parking lots of nearby fast-food restaurants or convenience stores also provide a good space to do a final luggage check and organization before you proceed to the rental car return facility.

For a stress-free early morning return, prepare the night before by refueling the car and packing it so your luggage is easily accessible. In the morning, drive directly to the airport and follow the prominent signs for “Rental Car Return.” These signs will guide you to a dedicated facility separate from the main terminal traffic. Having everything ready will make the vehicle check-in process quick, leaving you plenty of time to catch the shuttle to your departure terminal.

During peak travel times like a holiday weekend, it is a smart strategy to add at least 30 to 45 minutes to your usual airport arrival schedule. This extra buffer accounts for potential lines at the rental car return counter, increased traffic on airport roads, and potentially longer waits for the terminal shuttle. Arriving earlier than you think you need to is the best way to ensure a calm and unhurried start to your journey home.

An easy and efficient plan is for the driver to proceed alone to the rental car return facility. While they are completing the return process, the other person can wait with the luggage in the airport's cell phone lot. Once the car is returned, the driver can take the shuttle to the departures terminal and call their friend, who can then drive from the cell phone lot to the curbside pickup area to meet them.

Visiting the historic missions by car is very convenient, as each site provides ample and easily accessible parking. The Ysleta Mission, Socorro Mission, and the San Elizario Presidio Chapel all have their own dedicated parking lots, which are typically located right next to the historic buildings. These lots are free of charge, allowing you to park with ease and take your time exploring each stop along the beautiful Mission Trail.

A logical route to minimize backtracking is to visit the Chamizal National Memorial first. It is located near the Bridge of the Americas international crossing. After your visit, you can take Paisano Drive (U.S. Route 62) heading west. This major thoroughfare will lead you directly into the heart of Downtown El Paso, providing a seamless transition from the memorial to attractions like San Jacinto Plaza and the Museum of Art.

Even if your destination is in the U.S., the surface streets immediately surrounding the Paso del Norte bridge can experience significant congestion, especially during morning and evening commute times. This is caused by vehicles queuing for the border crossing. If you are navigating downtown but not crossing into Mexico, it is often faster to use I-10 to bypass the streets closest to the bridge, such as Santa Fe Street and El Paso Street.

A simple and convenient meetup spot is the baggage claim area for the airline of the last person to arrive. This keeps everyone indoors and provides a clear landmark. Alternatively, once all parties have collected their luggage, you can designate a specific numbered pillar outside at the passenger pickup curb. For a more relaxed option, the driver who picks up the rental car can wait at the nearby cell phone lot until the entire group is ready to be picked up.

For the most part, nighttime driving in El Paso is straightforward. Major highways like I-10 and Loop 375 are well-lit and well-maintained through the populated areas of the city. However, as these roads extend into more rural or mountainous terrain, the lighting becomes less frequent. It's advisable to drive cautiously, use your high beams when appropriate on unlit sections, and always be alert for wildlife that may be near the roadway.

The drive to Marfa is approximately three hours and consists of long, straight stretches of highway through the desert. To combat driver fatigue, plan a stop in Van Horn, which is located at about the halfway point. This gives you a chance to get out, stretch your legs, and grab a drink or a snack. If you are traveling with others, sharing the driving duties is also an excellent way to stay fresh and alert.

Given that the drive from El Paso to Big Bend National Park can take nearly five hours, the most practical approach is to break up the journey. A great plan is to drive from El Paso to a town closer to the park, such as Alpine or Marathon, and spend the night there. This allows you to arrive at the park entrance early the next morning, feeling rested and ready to explore, rather than being tired from a long drive.

A classic scenic loop is to take Transmountain Road (Loop 375) from West El Paso over the Franklin Mountains to the east side. The drive provides stunning views from the summit. Once on the east side, you can take US-54 South toward the city center, which offers a different perspective of the mountains and downtown skyline. Finally, connect with I-10 West to travel through the heart of the city and return to the west side, completing a comprehensive tour of El Paso's diverse landscapes.