Fodor's Expert Review Presidio Chapel San Elizario

This 1789 Spanish fortress provided settlers protection from raiding Comanches and Apaches. It was near this site that the expedition of Spanish explorer Don Juan de Oñate stopped to conduct a thanksgiving celebration in 1598. It's located in the San Elizario Historical District, 17 mi southeast of downtown El Paso. Tours are conducted on-site by friendly volunteers but feature only the museum, and not the church. The El Paso Mission Trail Association (P915/534–0677) offers more extensive tours. Call ahead if you're planning to visit the church. The father might be able to leave it open a bit later than 11.