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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate tour
Magoffin Home State Historic Site El Paso Texas
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate tour

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore El Paso's past at the Magoffin Home, a beautifully preserved 1875 adobe Territorial home with original furnishings.
"Martin, in particular, is a phenomenal storyteller, bringing the Magoffin family's 'rags to riches' story to life."
📸 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:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

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

The Lush Gardens
Exterior
Explore the beautifully maintained gardens, offering a serene escape and picturesque backdrops for photos.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tour in Advance
Embrace the History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 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:📅 Check for Events
Follow their Instagram for family reading events, camps, and special activities.
:calendar:🚶♀️ Explore the District
The site is part of the Magoffin Historic District, perfect for a walking tour.
:walking:Tips
from all over the internet
📸 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:📅 Check for Events
Follow their Instagram for family reading events, camps, and special activities.
:calendar:🚶♀️ Explore the District
The site is part of the Magoffin Historic District, perfect for a walking tour.
:walking:👻 Haunted History?
Some visitors speculate about the home's haunted past; ask staff for stories!
:ghost:What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
Information on specific bus routes is best checked with local El Paso transit authorities, but its downtown location suggests potential accessibility.
While specific details vary, street parking or nearby lots are generally available for visitors exploring the downtown area.
Accessibility details for wheelchairs should be confirmed directly with the site, but historic homes can sometimes have limitations.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees are typically modest, with donations also accepted. For special events like wedding photos, a small donation was requested.
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.
While walk-ins are often possible, booking tours in advance is recommended, especially for groups, to ensure availability.
Yes, guided tours are a highlight, with knowledgeable docents like Martin bringing the family's history to life.
Photography policies can vary; it's best to inquire with staff upon arrival or check their guidelines.
🎫 🧭 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.
Yes, they host family reading events and activities, making it engaging for younger visitors.
It's a prime example of Territorial style architecture, one of the oldest adobe structures in the Southwest.
The site occasionally hosts events like doll competitions and fashion shows, so check their social media for updates.
Some visitors and locals speculate about the home's haunted history, adding an element of intrigue.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior of the adobe home and the surrounding gardens provide beautiful and historic backdrops for photography.
Permission for professional photography, even for personal events like weddings, can often be arranged with a donation.
Photography rules inside historic homes can vary; it's advisable to confirm with the site staff upon arrival.
Visitors enjoy capturing the unique adobe architecture, the vintage furnishings, and the charming garden settings.
Drone usage is typically restricted at historic sites and parks; check with the site for their specific regulations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
📚 History Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magoffin Family Legacy
Visitors can learn about the family's pivotal role in El Paso's development, including its incorporation into Texas. The tours emphasize not just the historical facts but also the personal lives and experiences of the Magoffins, making the history relatable and engaging. 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.
The Magoffin Home is El Paso's only historic house museum, making it a unique destination for history enthusiasts. The preservation of original furnishings is a key aspect of the site, allowing visitors to see exactly how the family lived. This dedication to authenticity provides an immersive experience, transporting guests back in time to the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Exploring the Historic Site
Beyond the house, the beautifully maintained gardens offer a tranquil escape and are a popular spot for photography. 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. Some visitors even share tales and curiosities about the home's potential haunted history, adding an intriguing layer to the visit.
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. They are often happy to share details about the family's personal lives and the home's historical significance. The site also hosts various family-friendly events, including reading sessions and activities, making it a destination for all ages. This community engagement helps to highlight the importance of this beautiful historical site.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit