August in El Paso is full of sunshine, flavor, and fun for the whole family—especially kids. In addition to the concerts, outdoor adventures, and cultural events, there are some great family-friendly activities to keep little ones (and parents) smiling through the summer heat before it’s time to go back to school.

We asked our families at Cantera apartments to lease or rent in El Paso for their personal advice; and here’s what they said:

1. El Paso Zoo & Botanical Gardens

This is a family favorite year-round, but summer brings special programs like keeper chats, animal feedings, and splash pad play zones. Kids can explore zones like Asia, Africa, and the Americas, meet giraffes up close, and cool off at the Hunt Family Desert Spring water playground.

2. Wet ‘N’ Wild Waterworld

Located just north of the city in Anthony, this playful adventure world is perfect for families seeking relief from the Texas sun. Toddlers can splash safely in the Little Rio Grande while older kids race down the Tornado and Kamikaze slides. You can even grill your own food in shaded picnic areas.

3. Insights El Paso Science Center

For curious minds, the Science Center offers hands-on exhibits focusing on science, technology, engineering, and math. Summer camps and workshops let kids build robots, explore fossils, and understand desert ecosystems—all while having fun indoors – all with air conditioning and tons of fun for the little ones.

4. Adventure Zone

The Zone in the Upper Valley is classic family entertainment: go-karts, bumper boats, mini golf, batting cages, and an arcade. It’s affordable, open late, and a hit for birthdays, day trips or just for getting the kids out and about.

5. El Paso Museum of History

Don’t overlook El Paso museums to cool off and have fun; many cater specifically to children. Here are some of our favorites that have worked well for us with the kids in tow.

Exhibit Diary – Grab a free Exhibit Diary at the front desk and become an explorer! Answer fun prompts about what you discover, then finish your diary upstairs in the Escuelita.

Scavenger Hunt – Pick up a scavenger hunt at the front desk and search for hidden treasures throughout the museum. Snap a photo (no flash, please!) of each item and show your pictures at the front desk to earn a special sticker!

DIGIE – Become part of El Paso's story! Search DIGIE for your street, school, family name, or favorite local spot. Can't find it? Add your own family's story and help preserve the history of our community for future generations.

Between its water parks, educational experiences, and outdoor beauty, El Paso’s end-of-summer adventures are made for kids to cool off, explore, laugh and learn.