Magoffin Home State Historic Site El Paso Texas - an old building with two doors and a window
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Magoffin Home State Historic Site El Paso Texas

4.7
·409 reviews·El Paso, United States

Explore El Paso's past at the Magoffin Home, a beautifully preserved 1875 adobe Territorial home with original furnishings.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more intimate tour

CrowdLow
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Magoffin Home State Historic Site El Paso Texas - an old building with two doors and a window

Magoffin Home State Historic Site El Paso Texas

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more intimate tour

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore El Paso's past at the Magoffin Home, a beautifully preserved 1875 adobe Territorial home with original furnishings.

4.7
(409 reviews)

"Martin, in particular, is a phenomenal storyteller, bringing the Magoffin family's 'rags to riches' story to life."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Photo Ops Galore

The gardens and exterior offer stunning backdrops for photos, even for special events like weddings! :camerawithflash:

🗣️ Engage with Staff

Docents like Martin are phenomenal storytellers; ask questions to truly bring the family's history to life. :bustsinsilhouette:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Adobe Architecture

The Adobe Architecture

Exterior

Marvel at one of the oldest surviving adobe structures in the Southwest, a prime example of Territorial style architecture.

TikTokInstagram
Original Furnishings

Original Furnishings

Interior

Step back in time with nearly all original family furnishings, offering an authentic glimpse into 19th-century life.

TikTokInstagram
The Lush Gardens

The Lush Gardens

Exterior

Explore the beautifully maintained gardens, offering a serene escape and picturesque backdrops for photos.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Book Your Tour in Advance

While walk-ins are often accommodated, booking your tour ahead of time, especially for group visits or during peak seasons, ensures a smoother experience. Check their official website for tour times and availability to avoid disappointment. Reddit

Embrace the History

This adobe Territorial home offers a glimpse into the lives of a prominent, multicultural family. Come ready to learn about El Paso's past and the family's significant role in its development. TikTokInstagram

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more intimate tour
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Staff are very knowledgeable
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The Magoffin home in El Paso, TX is a must see! This 1800’s home has the coziest vibe 🖤 #historichome #elpasotx #915 #chucotown #spookytok #antique #vintage #cozyaesthetic #travel #adventure #1800s #magoffinhome
@cozyghoulcilla
222 likes • 4.8K views

📸 Photo Ops Galore

The gardens and exterior offer stunning backdrops for photos, even for special events like weddings! Reddit :camerawithflash:

🗣️ Engage with Staff

Docents like Martin are phenomenal storytellers; ask questions to truly bring the family's history to life. Reddit :bustsinsilhouette:

Magoffin State Historic site: one of the oldest surviving adobe structures in the Southwest #elpaso #tx #texas #travel #adventures #roadtrips #texas #tx
@dollarstorejohnnydepp
246 likes • 5.8K views
⚜️The Magoffin Home State Historic Site.⚜️ • Visitors enjoy touring the interior of this historic adobe building and learning about the history and heritage of the Southwest borderlands, through the lives and experiences of a prominent El Paso family. • Authentic art and antique furnishings are on display and help transport visitors back in time. • • • • • • • #magoffin #historical #historicalpla...
yuridelrivero
6 likes • 570 views

📅 Check for Events

Follow their Instagram for family reading events, camps, and special activities. Reddit :calendar:

🚶‍♀️ Explore the District

The site is part of the Magoffin Historic District, perfect for a walking tour. TikTok :walking:

Y’all… check out the AMAZING VIDEO my precious friend @paaullyk captured at the Muñekita Sun City Doll Competition, Photog Meetup and Fashion Show put on by @epccfashion at the Magoffin Home State Historic Site @txhistcomm . So many models were from @bazaarmodelmanagement and we killed it if I may say so myself. 😇✨✨ Shout out to the director @injunij who put together a fantastic concept and show! ...
cb4medialiteracy
129 likes • 3.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Photo Ops Galore

The gardens and exterior offer stunning backdrops for photos, even for special events like weddings! Reddit :camerawithflash:

🗣️ Engage with Staff

Docents like Martin are phenomenal storytellers; ask questions to truly bring the family's history to life. Reddit :bustsinsilhouette:

📅 Check for Events

Follow their Instagram for family reading events, camps, and special activities. Reddit :calendar:

🚶‍♀️ Explore the District

The site is part of the Magoffin Historic District, perfect for a walking tour. TikTok :walking:

👻 Haunted History?

Some visitors speculate about the home's haunted past; ask staff for stories! TikTok+1 :ghost:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(409 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Magoffin Home State Historic Site for its authentic preservation and the exceptional knowledge of its staff. The tours are described as engaging, bringing the history of the Magoffin family and El Paso to life. While the site is appreciated for its historical significance, some may find the pace of tours or the focus on domestic life less engaging than other types of attractions.

"We requested permission to take photos here for my son’s wedding, even though we did not have a professional photographer. The staff kindly allowed us to do so with just a $25 donation. They were incredibly welcoming and attentive throughout our visit, making us feel comfortable and cared for. We were given access to the outside of the building as well as the garden, which provided beautiful backdrops. The photos turned out wonderfully!"

1721jazmin

"A visit to the historic Magoffin Home in El Paso is a must, enhanced by the knowledgeable staff and docents. Martin, in particular, is a phenomenal storyteller, bringing the Magoffin family's "rags to riches" story to life through an interactive tour. Discover the pivotal role the Magoffin family played in El Paso's incorporation into Texas. This is a must-see attraction for both residents and visitors. My photos do not give this tour the justice it deserves."

Karla Perez

"It is truly incredible to see and hear about how the Magoffin family lived through generations in this home. The staff is very knowledgeable about several aspects of the house and as well as the family’s personal lives. I had the opportunity to bring my son to a family reading event that included an activity and snacks. I found out about this on their instagram page where they often post about camps and events for kids and families to bring notice to this beautiful historical site."

Marissa Mendoza

What People Like

Knowledgeable and engaging staff
Authentic original furnishings
Beautiful historic architecture

What People Dislike

Pace of tours can be slow for some

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Magoffin Home is located in downtown El Paso, making it accessible by car and within walking distance of other museums. Parking is available nearby. TikTok+1

Yes, it's part of the Magoffin Historic District and within walking distance of the El Paso History Museum, El Paso Museum of Art, and the El Paso Holocaust Museum. TikTokReddit

Information on specific bus routes is best checked with local El Paso transit authorities, but its downtown location suggests potential accessibility. TikTok

While specific details vary, street parking or nearby lots are generally available for visitors exploring the downtown area. TikTok

Accessibility details for wheelchairs should be confirmed directly with the site, but historic homes can sometimes have limitations. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission fees are typically modest, with donations also accepted. For special events like wedding photos, a small donation was requested. Reddit

Operating hours can vary, so it's recommended to check the official Magoffin Home State Historic Site website or their social media for the most current information. TikTok

While walk-ins are often possible, booking tours in advance is recommended, especially for groups, to ensure availability. Reddit

Yes, guided tours are a highlight, with knowledgeable docents like Martin bringing the family's history to life. TikTokReddit

Photography policies can vary; it's best to inquire with staff upon arrival or check their guidelines. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can tour the historic adobe home with original furnishings, explore the gardens, and learn about the Magoffin family's impact on El Paso. TikTokInstagram

Yes, they host family reading events and activities, making it engaging for younger visitors. Reddit

It's a prime example of Territorial style architecture, one of the oldest adobe structures in the Southwest. TikTok+1

The site occasionally hosts events like doll competitions and fashion shows, so check their social media for updates. Instagram

Some visitors and locals speculate about the home's haunted history, adding an element of intrigue. TikTok+1

📸 📸 Photography

The exterior of the adobe home and the surrounding gardens provide beautiful and historic backdrops for photography. InstagramReddit

Permission for professional photography, even for personal events like weddings, can often be arranged with a donation. Reddit

Photography rules inside historic homes can vary; it's advisable to confirm with the site staff upon arrival. TikTok

Visitors enjoy capturing the unique adobe architecture, the vintage furnishings, and the charming garden settings. TikTokInstagram

Drone usage is typically restricted at historic sites and parks; check with the site for their specific regulations. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Magoffin Home State Historic Site is a great spot for families looking to connect with local history. The site frequently hosts family reading events that include activities and snacks, making learning fun and interactive. Reddit The knowledgeable staff can engage children with stories about the Magoffin family, bringing the past to life in an accessible way. Reddit While exploring the historic home, encourage kids to look for interesting artifacts and imagine what life was like for children in the 1800s. The gardens also offer a pleasant space for younger visitors to explore. TikTok

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Magoffin Home offers a unique blend of historic architecture and charming gardens. The adobe Territorial style of the house provides a distinctive backdrop, especially during the golden hours. TikTokInstagram The lush gardens are perfect for capturing serene shots or even staging portraits. Reddit While interior photography might have restrictions, the exterior and grounds are incredibly photogenic. Consider inquiring about permissions for special events like engagement or wedding photos, as the site has accommodated such requests with a donation. Reddit

📚 History Buffs

History enthusiasts will find Magoffin Home State Historic Site a treasure trove of information about El Paso's past. The site boasts nearly all original family furnishings, offering an unparalleled look into 19th-century domestic life. TikTokReddit The guided tours, led by exceptionally knowledgeable docents, delve deep into the Magoffin family's significant contributions to the region's development and its incorporation into Texas. Reddit As one of the oldest adobe structures in the Southwest and El Paso's only historic house museum, it provides crucial context for understanding the area's multicultural heritage. TikTok+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Magoffin Family Legacy

The Magoffin Home State Historic Site preserves the legacy of one of El Paso's most influential pioneering families. Built in 1875 by Joseph Magoffin, a prominent politician and civic leader, the nineteen-room adobe house served as the family's residence for generations. TikTok Joseph Magoffin was born in Chihuahua, Mexico, and his family's story is deeply intertwined with the multicultural history of the Southwest borderlands. TikTok The home itself is a testament to their prosperity and standing in the community, showcasing Territorial style architecture, a blend of Anglo and Mexican influences common in the region during that era. TikTok

Visitors can learn about the family's pivotal role in El Paso's development, including its incorporation into Texas. Reddit The tours emphasize not just the historical facts but also the personal lives and experiences of the Magoffins, making the history relatable and engaging. Reddit The site is a crucial piece of El Paso's heritage, offering a tangible connection to the past and the people who shaped the city. Instagram

The Magoffin Home is El Paso's only historic house museum, making it a unique destination for history enthusiasts. TikTok The preservation of original furnishings is a key aspect of the site, allowing visitors to see exactly how the family lived. Reddit This dedication to authenticity provides an immersive experience, transporting guests back in time to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Instagram

Exploring the Historic Site

The Magoffin Home State Historic Site offers more than just a house tour; it's an experience that immerses you in the history and atmosphere of El Paso. The adobe Territorial home itself is a marvel, showcasing architectural styles that reflect the region's unique cultural fusion. TikTok+1 Inside, you'll find a remarkable collection of original family furnishings, providing an authentic glimpse into the daily lives of the Magoffin family. InstagramReddit

Beyond the house, the beautifully maintained gardens offer a tranquil escape and are a popular spot for photography. Reddit Visitors can stroll through the grounds, imagining life in the late 1800s. The site is also part of the Magoffin Historic District, making it an excellent starting point for a broader exploration of El Paso's historical neighborhoods. TikTok Some visitors even share tales and curiosities about the home's potential haunted history, adding an intriguing layer to the visit. TikTok+1

Experiencing the Site



Knowledgeable staff and docents, such as Martin Lopez, are a significant asset, bringing the family's story to life with engaging narratives. Reddit They are often happy to share details about the family's personal lives and the home's historical significance. Reddit The site also hosts various family-friendly events, including reading sessions and activities, making it a destination for all ages. Reddit This community engagement helps to highlight the importance of this beautiful historical site. Reddit

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