The Elegant Penguin

The Plaza Theatre Performing Arts Center is a National Historic Building of Significance built in 1930. It was restored in 2006 to its original atmospheric theatre splendor and is conveniently situated in downtown El Paso. The theatre showcases Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, featuring intricately painted ceilings, mosaic-tiled floors, decorative metal railings, and antique furniture. As one of the few remaining atmospheric theatres in the United States, The Plaza creates an illusion that viewers are seated outdoors in a Spanish courtyard. The stars on the ceiling reflect the Southwestern sky in June. Besides its rich decor, the Mighty Wurlitzer Blaban III Organ is one of only six made. The organ has 1,071 pipes and can simulate 15 different instruments. The Plaza Theatre comprises the 2,050-seat Kendall Kidd Performance Hall, the 200-seat Philanthropy Theatre, and the Alcantar Sky Garden. The latter is an enchanting rental venue for private receptions, business parties, and family gatherings.

Discover one of our nation's best-kept secrets at the National Border Patrol Museum & Gift Shop. Here, you can embark on an exciting journey through the rich history of the U.S. Border Patrol, from its inception in the Old West to its evolution through Prohibition, World War II, and into the high-tech Patrol of today. You can explore exhibits featuring uniforms, vehicles, and weaponry that showcase the progress made by the Border Patrol over the years. Your visit to the Museum will be a fulfilling experience that will inspire you and leave you with pride and understanding. You can also visit their illustrious Gift Shop, which is available online, to purchase exclusive U.S. Border Patrol products not found anywhere else. All proceeds from the Gift Shop go towards supporting the maintenance of the Museum, which helps keep its doors open to the public 100% free of charge.